Like you, we are digging it out in Maine, and will be in SXM in a short while for our 14th trip. Anse Marcel is easy to get to. From Simpson's head to Grand Case. Keep going as if to Orient but take a left (270 turn) at the first rotary after GC. From there straight ahead and follow signs to Anse Marcel. The hill is steep, up and down but the view from the top is breath taking. Once at AM, you can explore the beach, dining places and marina. Enjoy. Of course the best places to dine are in Grand Case, take you pick. We always stay on the French side near Orient and really know nothing about the Dutch side. There is a special little place for dinner just off the road to Anse Marcel called Il Taitu, there is a sign for Mt. Vernon; you'll pass Il Taitu before getting to MV. It is run by the owner and has little pretention but nice food. It is always one of our musts.
Dave