Pinel Island is located on the French Side of the island. We drove from Simpson Bay towards Marigot and then North. Other reviews mention signs along the way but I didn't see any signs. We used the map that the rental car company gave us and were able to find the national park where the ferry dock is located to get to the island. It was confusing when we first arrived. There were no other waiting passengers and no signs indicating we were at the right spot, but there was a trailer set up selling snacks in the parking area and I confirmed we were in the right spot

The island itself is small but not overcrowded on the day we visited. We rented chairs and umbrellas for $10 for the two of us. This isn't a place for long strolls on the beach, but does offer a peaceful day and something different to do. Because the island is located on a sand bar you can walk in the water for almost a mile and still not be in over your head. This island would be good for children, because the water is calm and shallow. One thing guests should keep in mind - Pinel Island is a protected park with a "what's found on the island stays on the island" - so collecting shells is not allowed.

LUNCH .....

There are two restaurants located on the island. One serves classic grill items, such as hotdogs and hamburgers, and the other is a more expensive restaurant serving more classic Caribbean dishes. We ate at the latter restaurant. The meal was good but not memorable. I had a palm salad, my husband had chicken, which was very small. We completed our meal with tasty pineapple and the waiter brought us a complementary shot of their homemade rum. It had olives in it. I didn't try it but my husband did. It wasn't something he would buy.

When we were here the ferry returned to St. Martin every hour on the hour. It runs more frequently during the busy season. We took the last ferry (at 4pm) which was completely full, and ended our enjoyable, peaceful day on Pinel Island. In reflection, this trip is good to do near the end of your vacation, when you are tired of the more adventurous excursions, as there isn't a lot to do but relax in the sun.