La Samanna vs. Cap Juluca: Which Belmond Caribbean Resort Is Right for You?
- Oct 15, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Two islands. Two completely different moods. One decision that defines your entire Caribbean vacation.
St. Martin and Anguilla sit just 30 minutes apart by boat — but they couldn't feel more different. One is lively, cosmopolitan, and dripping in French-Caribbean glamour. The other is serene, unhurried, and home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. At Elli Travel Group, we've stayed at both — and we're here to tell you exactly which one is right for you, why many of our clients choose both, and how booking through us unlocks exclusive Belmond Bellini benefits at either property that you simply cannot get on your own.
La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel: French Elegance Meets Caribbean Charm
A crown jewel among luxury hotels in St. Martin, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel is a blend of French sophistication and island serenity. First opened in the 1950s, this storied hideaway remains the benchmark for refined Caribbean luxury.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Set on the French side of St. Martin, Belmond La Samanna feels like the French Riviera reborn in the tropics. Guests wake to sweeping views over Baie Longue. They sip rare vintages in the Caribbean’s only wine cave. Additionally, they explore the island’s chic beach clubs and vibrant dining scene. It’s perfect for travelers seeking activity, culture, and refined leisure.
“La Samanna has the heart of the Caribbean—it was the place to go in the 50s and 60s, and it still has that French-Caribbean glamour today.”
Rooms & Villas
The resort’s collection of rooms and villas has been thoughtfully redesigned in breezy Caribbean tones. Options range from elegant ocean-view suites to three- and four-bedroom cliffside villas with private pools. Families can opt for beachfront accommodations with direct access to the sand—ideal for easy island living.
Dining
Food lovers will adore La Samanna’s dining experiences. From the refined French-Caribbean menu at Laplaj to the lobster roll beach cart serving fresh bites to your lounger, there’s something for everyone. The Lacan wine cave—the only one in the Caribbean—offers private tastings and dinners for up to ten guests.
Wellness & Activities
Relax at the tropical spa with chakra healing and meditation. Alternatively, stay active with tennis, pickleball, paddleboard yoga, and island excursions. Guests can also discover St. Martin’s cultural treasures—from gourmet French bistros to scenic hiking and zip-lining.
For a full review complete with more pictures and videos, visit Luxury Hotels: Pristine Beach & Old World Charm on this French Island.
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel: Barefoot Luxury in Anguilla
“At Cap Juluca, every single room is oceanfront—30 seconds from feet in the sand to your room.”
For those seeking tranquility, Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel is the epitome of luxury Caribbean style. Nestled on Anguilla’s most celebrated beach, this Belmond Hotels & Resorts icon combines Moorish architecture with effortless barefoot elegance.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Every moment at Belmond Cap Juluca is infused with serenity. Every room is oceanfront—just 30 seconds from sand to suite. Days flow from yoga sessions and sea swims to champagne sabering at sunset.
Rooms & Villas
Each accommodation is designed for panoramic sea views and open-air living. The Jonquil Suite—Cap Juluca’s signature villa—features a private pool and multiple dining terraces, perfect for families or special celebrations.
Dining
As one of Anguilla’s top luxury hotels, Cap Juluca delights food enthusiasts. Dine over the waves at Pimm’s, savor Peruvian flavors at Uchu, or unwind at the reimagined Cap Shack for live music, seafood, and sunset cocktails.
Wellness & Activities
The Guerlain Spa—the only one of its kind in the Caribbean—is a destination in itself. It features eight treatment rooms, a sea-view infinity pool, and a new nature trail. Activities include horseback riding on the beach, yoga, biking, fishing, and family-friendly programs.
“Cap Juluca now has the only Guerlain Spa in the Caribbean. When I say heaven, I mean, it truly is one of the most incredible spa destinations.”
Getting There
Travel to Anguilla is easier than ever. Seasonal direct flights from Newark, Boston, and Baltimore/DC (via Bermuda Air/Anguilla Air) operate from December through May. Alternatively, guests can fly into St. Martin and take a short 30–40-minute boat ride across the turquoise waters to Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel. A third route is also available via San Juan, Puerto Rico. Book your favorite air carrier and connect to Anguilla via Tradewinds. The advantage with the San Juan route is that upon the return, you go through US Customs in Puerto Rico, a smaller hub, versus a larger hub like JFK or Newark.
Choosing Your Belmond Caribbean Escape
La Samanna (St. Martin): Perfect for travelers seeking French-Caribbean elegance, fine dining, and adventure.
Cap Juluca (Anguilla): Best for relaxation, wellness, and pristine beachfront luxury.
"Many travelers combine both for the ultimate luxury Caribbean getaway—start with the lively sophistication of La Samanna and unwind at the tranquil Cap Juluca."
Why Book with Elli Travel Group | Belmond Bellini Member
Whether St. Martin's French-Caribbean sophistication calls to you, or you're drawn to the barefoot serenity of Anguilla — or you simply can't choose and want both — Elli Travel Group is ready to make it happen.
As a proud member of the Belmond Bellini Club — Belmond's invitation-only program for top luxury travel advisors — our clients receive exclusive benefits at both La Samanna and Cap Juluca that aren't available anywhere else:
Daily breakfast for two
Resort credits
VIP recognition upon arrival
Access to special experiences arranged behind the scenes
All at the same published rates you'd find online.
The Caribbean is waiting. Let's plan your escape.
Submit a Travel Request or email us via book@ellitravel.com
FAQ: Belmond Caribbean Travel
Q: Are beachfront villas available at La Samanna during the festive season?
A: Yes. Both beachfront and cliffside villas are available with flexible minimum stay requirements.
Q: When do the new direct flights to Anguilla operate?
A: Flights from Newark, Boston, and Baltimore/DC operate mid-December through May.
Q: Is private boat check-in from St. Martin to Anguilla available?
A: Not currently, though Belmond is exploring streamlined customs solutions.
Q: What makes Cap Juluca unique among Anguilla’s luxury hotels?
A: Its mile-long private beach, Moorish design, and long-serving staff create a truly authentic Belmond Hotels & Resorts experience.
Whether you crave French-Caribbean sophistication or barefoot Anguillian serenity, Belmond’s La Samanna and Cap Juluca promise two unforgettable ways to experience the very best of Caribbean luxury.
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