St. Martin - St. Maarten: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever thought about the adventures on St. Martin and Sint Maarten? This dual-island paradise mixes French and Dutch delights. It's the perfect Caribbean escape with its beautiful beaches, lush forests, great food, and lively nightlife. Let's discover the magic of "The Friendly Island" and find out its top activities.

Key Takeaways

• St. Martin and Sint Maarten offer a unique blend of French and Dutch influences in one Caribbean destination.
• Explore a diverse range of activities, from beachgoing and tropical hiking to duty-free shopping and lively nightlife.
• Discover the vibrant capitals of Philipsburg and Marigot, each with their own distinct cultural and historical charm.
• Indulge in the island's exceptional culinary scene, from French cuisine to local Caribbean specialties.
• Venture out on day trips to nearby islands like Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba for even more Caribbean adventures.

What's on your St. Martin - Sint Maarten wish list? Let's get into the fun of this amazing island spot!

Explore the Vibrant Capitals: Philipsburg and Marigot

Step into Philipsburg and Marigot, rich in charm and culture. Philipsburg is the Dutch side's energetic capital. You can walk its beautiful boardwalk beside the blue sea. Enjoy local Caribbean food and visit high-end jewelry boutiques.

Marigot is Saint Martin's French side capital. It boasts amazing historic buildings and architecture. Try a French croissant before diving into the city center and West Indies Shopping Mall. You'll find European clothes, perfumes, and souvenirs. Make sure to see Fort Louis and its stunning views.

Duty-Free Shopping Destinations

Both places have duty-free shopping for luxurious items and designer wear. Walk the streets and find unique treasures in the lively shopping areas.

Dining and Nightlife Scenes

At dusk, enjoy the bustle of dining and nightlife in these cities. Philipsburg offers Caribbean delights, while Marigot boasts authentic French dishes. They have bars and lounges to fit any mood.

Beach Hopping: From Maho to Orient Bay

St. Martin has a range of beaches, each charming in its way. You can visit the famous Maho Beach, the beautiful Orient Bay, and the quiet Happy Bay. Your beach adventure is ready to begin.

Maho Beach: Plane Spotting and Watersports

Maho Beach is known as one of the world's wildest beaches. It has great views of planes landing and taking off at Princess Juliana International Airport. Many come to see these planes fly right above the sand. Apart from that, Maho Beach is perfect for watersports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling.

Orient Bay: Longest Beach with Watersports

Orient Bay is on the French side and is St. Martin's longest beach, spanning over two miles. This beach is a paradise for water lovers. You can do a lot here, like rent a jet-ski, go parasailing, or try snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, and kitesurfing. Whatever you like, Orient Bay has something for you.

Happy Bay: Secluded and Laidback

Happy Bay Beach is at Saint Martin's northwest, a secret spot with peace and quiet. This beach is hidden among palms and other plants, offering cool shade and a chill atmosphere. It's ideal for anyone looking to relax and recharge.

St. Martin - St. Maarten: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Headed to St. Martin, be it a private villa or an all-inclusive resort? Or maybe it's just one stop on your bigger Caribbean journey? This island has so much to enjoy. From relaxing on sandy beaches and walking through lush forests to dining in spots mixing European and Creole flavors, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, St. Martin offers a diverse range of things to do. This guide will highlight the top attractions and activities, offering recommendations for SXM's best things to do for all – families, couples, and friends.

Loved by many as "The Friendly Island," stunning Saint Martin is unique. It's split into two by borders, featuring Dutch Sint Maarten in the south and French Saint-Martin in the north. As partners, they blend cultural and historical flavors into a warmly welcoming gem. Known for its beaches, St. Martin is easy to get to, making it a top choice among the Caribbean islands for those traveling from North America.

Culinary Delights: From French to Caribbean Flavors

St. Martin is a mix of food traditions. You should try local dishes at food trucks or rib shacks. These places show the heart of the island's food. Enjoy Caribbean BBQ with barbequed chicken, lobster, or ribs and a side of fried Johnny Cake.

French Cuisine at L'Atelier and Le Cottage

Looking for top-notch French food on the island? L'Atelier and Le Cottage are the places to go. They serve amazing French dishes that show the island's love of French cooking.

Caribbean Barbecue and Local Specialties

Enjoy the Caribbean's lively flavors with local favorites like BBQ chicken, lobster, and ribs. Don't forget to have fried Johnny Cake with your meal. It's a true taste of St. Martin.

Rum Tasting and Distilleries

At La Part des Anges, rum lovers will be in paradise. Explore 100 different rums from the Caribbean. Take part in a rum tasting to learn about this important island drink.

Outdoor Adventures: Ziplining, Hiking, and Snorkeling

Visit St. Martin and Sint Maarten for a thrilling outdoor experience. You can dive into the lush forest canopy or climb the island's highest peak. Adventure is everywhere here, ready for you to explore.

Loterie Farm: Ziplining and Nature Trails

Loterie Farm is an adventure park hidden in a private nature reserve. It's a paradise for those seeking outdoor fun. The park offers lush forest ziplining and hiking trails through the tropical forest. After all the excitement, take a dip in the refreshing pool and have a great meal at the Jungle Room.

Hiking to Pic Paradis Summit

Join a challenging hike up to Pic Paradis, which is the highest point on St. Martin. This 3.1-mile hike will test your endurance, but the stunning expansive island views are your reward.

Snorkeling at Tintamarre Island

Tintamarre Island (Île Tintamarre) is just a short boat ride from Saint Martin's northeastern coast. It's a top spot for snorkeling and offers an ocean full of life. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and meet sea turtles and more beautiful marine creatures.

Island Hopping: Day Trips to Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba

Taking a day trip from Sint Maarten to nearby places like Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba is simple. Anguilla is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches. St. Barts is known as a top spot for shopping and dining. Saba, a volcanic island, offers some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean.

Each of these islands is unique. Day trips let you see more than just St. Martin and Sint Maarten.

Here's how to enjoy your island hopping:

These trips open a new world beyond St. Martin and Sint Maarten. They help you find the special beauty of each nearby island.

Cultural Immersion: Museums, Art, and Workshops

Explore St. Martin and Sint Maarten's cultures through fun activities and art. You can make your own perfume and see beautiful street art. This is a great way to feel the local creativity.

Perfume-Making at Tijon Parfumerie

At Tijon Parfumerie in Grand Case, you can make your own perfume. Expert perfumologists will guide you through creating a scent that's just yours. It's a perfect, unique gift or souvenir to take home.

Street Art and Murals

After Hurricane Irma, local artists painted beautiful street art. These colorful pieces show the island's strength. They make the streets look amazing and tell a powerful story.

Culinary Workshops and Experiences

The Flavor Academy is in a cozy, local home. They teach you how to cook Caribbean food and make special drinks. It's a deep dive into St. Martin and Sint Maarten's flavors and traditions.

Nightlife and Entertainment: From Beach Bars to Casinos

The Simpson Bay and Maho Village area in Sint Maarten offer lots of fun at night. It's like the "Las Vegas of the Caribbean." You can find everything here, from fun sailor bars and exciting karaoke places to fancy rooftop bars and casinos. This place is perfect for those who love the excitement of the night.

Simpson Bay and Maho Village Nightlife

In the Simpson Bay and Maho Village areas, the party never stops. You can visit laid-back beach bars or go to elegant casinos. Enjoy local hangouts, sing your heart out at karaoke, or relax with a cocktail and beautiful views.

Beach Parties and DJ Events

Sint Maarten is known for its lively beach parties and DJ events, especially near Maho Beach. These events are full of energy, with music, dancing, and lots of fun. They are a great chance to enjoy the night sky and the island's beauty.

Casinos and Gaming

If you love high-stakes games, Sint Maarten's Dutch side is the place for you. It has many casinos where you can test your luck. These places are great for both newbies and experienced players. They add even more excitement to the island's busy nightlife.

Family-Friendly Fun: Parks, Attractions, and Activities

St. Martin - St. Maarten is packed with fun for families. You can meet tropical birds and zip through the rainforest. These adventures will make great memories with your family.

Parotte Ville Bird Park

On the Dutch side is Parotte Ville, a top pick for families. It's home to about 170 tropical birds. You can walk around the aviaries, feed the birds by hand, and enjoy the bright tropical colors. It's a place where everyone, no matter their age, can have a great time.

Rainforest Adventures Park

For a thrilling time, visit Rainforest Adventures on the French side. This eco-park has fun activities like ziplining, tubing, and hiking. It's perfect for an exciting family day out or a calm nature walk. Everyone will find something they love at this rainforest haven.

Water Sports and Beach Activities

Don't miss St. Martin - St. Maarten's beautiful beaches and water sports. Families can kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, and more. Or, you can just relax on the sandy shores under the sun. With family-friendly beaches on both sides, you can dive into the clear Caribbean and share fun moments together.

Conclusion

St. Martin and Sint Maarten offer great experiences. You can find sun, adventure, culture, and food. There's a lot to do in places like Philipsburg and Marigot. The island mixes French and Dutch flavors, making it stand out in the Caribbean.

This island duo is the perfect spot in the Caribbean. It has beautiful beaches and a mix of cultures. It's a hidden gem worth exploring.

Don't wait to visit St. Martin and Sint Maarten. Plan your trip now for unforgettable memories. You'll find relaxation, adventure, and culture, all in one place.