After many years visiting St Maarten we finally went to Le Gallion. I didn't know if we would like it because I'm told it can get crowded with many locals. As it turned out, it was lovely. We were there in February and it was a pleasant surprise. We have been to almost all the beaches in SXM but haven't gone here. It is perfect for young children because like Pinel the water is pretty shallow and calm. They rent chairs and umbrellas (thou we have our own) and have a small restaurant. It was peaceful without crazy, loud music.
Next time I return to SXM with my grandchildren...this is where we will be!

The next time you return, the restaurant and perhaps the whole area, will probably look different. As far as I know, Pat's restaurant will still be required to leave at the end of this high season and it's unclear what will replace it.

According to all the items and local chatter I've seen and heard you are correct, Carol. I fear for what the area will become - and I'm relatively certain, given the opportunity, the government may find a way to mess up the character of this out of the way spot.

Pat's restaurant, we originally knew it as Chez Pat's back in the day, has been there about forever and will be sorely missed if they go ahead with their plans for 'bettering' the area. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

Is it possible to walk from Orient to Gallion?

At the far end there was a cow path a few years ago. Not sure if it's still there. It was at the point. We actually walked it when we stayed at the hotel that was at Le Gallion. If you're at Le Gallion it's to the left toward the breakwater. At the end of the path Club Orient would be to your right.

Yes, its an easy walk. Just walk all the way past Papagayos at Club Orient. Near the Dolphin Watersports hut (just past the kayaks and paddle boards), you will see a footpath to the right heading toward Le Galion. It's maybe a five minute walk from there. Don't do it barefoot though!

Thanks for the directions. How is the food?

I don't know - I've walked there, but I've never stayed for lunch! Someone else on the board can probably help you out on that question though.

Thanks. I was thinking we may walk over one day from Orient and check it out.

We haven't been there in years to eat but it's the same owners/management so I'd be willing to bet the food is still very good. When we were there it was basically typical beach fare which may or may not have changed over the years. If you go please let us know what was offered and how you found it to be.....and TY in advance if you do.

I'll report back if we make it over that way. We usually get hit with sand gravity our 1st day. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Wink.gif" alt="" />

I'd pretty much rather walking over from Orient rather than driving in. We've had several parking lot issues at Le Galion where folks were "leaning" on our car and not letting us get into it, potholes, one year, we went in to the parking lot and when we were getting ready to leave, someone had moved boulders into the dirt road almost making it impassable. If you walk over and feel safe in a group of 2 or more, I would personally feel safer doing that than trying to drive. The food there is very good.

We went there today for the first time in 5 years. It was full by noon and a mixture of cruise people and families. Prices are reasonable. We brought our own sandwiches and purchased some drinks. The attendant was very friendly but did tell us June may be the end for them. So sad because it is so beautiful and peaceful and on windy, high surf days you can actually get in the water. We would go back!

One of the great things about LeGalion is that when the wind is sand-blasting you on orient, a 10-minute walk to LeGalion will get you to a place where the wind is cut by, maybe, half. A respite. Drinks are cheaper than on Orient (particularly compared to Club O which is getting $10.25 for a frozen drink now), and the food is good and reasonable. Limited menu, and the specials prove to be the best in my opinion.

The food at galion is excellent. Amazing what they pump out if that place

The food is wonderful. You could have something simple ,like a burger, or a full meal. Their wine selection is decent for a small beach bar, too.I'm thinking they have desserts, too, but we've never had them.