Known for a laidback and lively natural setting, graced by secluded covers, beautiful shores, and palm-studded hilltops, and popular for its shopping and seaside food establishments, Saint Martin is an exotic getaway in the Caribbean Sea. It’s a part of Leeward Islands and comprises two different countries; the northern French region is famous as Saint-Martin, while the southern Dutch side is called Sint Maarten. This Caribbean island is home to amazing resort beaches which greet several tourists to help them spend a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. It is also known for its savory fusion cuisines. So, if you are looking forward to spending your coming holidays in this Caribbean vacation hotspot, knowing some best activities to enjoy will help make your sabbatical interesting and memorable. Read on to find out about some of the best things to do in St. Martin.
1. Explore St Maarten on a half-day speedboat and snorkeling tour (from USD 135.0)
Experience the thrill of a half-day speedboat excursion with an expert captain and a group of 16 people, when traveling to Saint Martin. Begin your journey from Philipsburg and explore uninhabited Tintamarre Island. Get into the magical waters and explore the best snorkeling spots on this Caribbean paradise. Experience the fun of snorkeling with sea turtles at magnificent Tintamarre Island. Tour the enchanting nature reserve of Creole Rock. Please your taste buds by having your lunch at the beachside on marvelous Pinel Island.
Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour Pinel & Tintamarre Islands for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS
Duration: 6 hours
2. Go on a motorboat cruise (from USD 125.0)
Have fun exploring magnificent island of St. Maarten by boarding a 39-foot (11.88-meter) fabulous custom-built motorboat. Jet out from Simpson Bay and explore various spots in the Caribbean during this 6.5-hour water excursion. Enjoy picnicking and eating savory delicacies in Grand Case, which is famous as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean. Discover the underwater world by snorkeling at Creole Rock. Do not miss swimming at Pinel and Tintamarre islands. Have a memorable excursion in the Caribbean to cherish for the lifetime.
St Maarten Islands, Bay Boat Cruise plus Snorkeling, Beverages
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
3. Go on a sightseeing tour from Philipsburg to Marigot (from USD 321.0)
Explore the Dutch and French sides of enchanting St. Maarten during your excursion in this Caribbean paradise. Tour Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side. Visit the fascinating Marigot in St, Martin by crossing the border. Capture scenic photos of picturesque viewpoints. Enjoy strolling through the streets of both these towns at your pace and buy your choice of items from the shops which outline these streets. Discover the culture and history of this divided Caribbean haven.
St Maarten Philipsburg to Marigot Sightseeing Shore Excursion
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
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4. Enjoy the views from Fort Louis
Plan to visit Fort Louis during your sabbatical in St. Martin. Constructed in 1789 on a hill on the orders of the governor of St. Martin & St. Barth, Fort Louis overlooks scenic Marigot Bay and the spectacular island of Anguilla. Its primary purpose was to safeguard the harbor warehouses, where various goods, such as sugarcane, salt, and coffee, were stored. Later, it was abandoned and ruined. It was restored in the 19th century. You can find here bi-lingual explanatory panels which help you learn precious historical information with regards to the fort and its surroundings. Do not miss the breathtaking views of Marigot, Simpson Bay, the Lowlands, Anguilla, Simpson Bay lagoon, and Nettle Bay from the highest point here.
Fort Louis
Address: Marigot 97150, St Martin / St Maarten
Website: Fort Louis
5. Go ziplining in Loterie Farm (from USD 44.0)
Do you wish to experience the thrill of zip-line adventure during your sabbatical in St. Martin? Then, head out to Fly Zone Treetop Adventure and Loterie Farm. Get to the top of the trees and venture at high speed in the canopy. Soar through the breathtaking treetops by enjoying a zip-line adventure. Overcome hurdles such as ladders, monkey bridges, and tightropes, as you move. Admire the magnificent verdant rainforests of this Caribbean paradise.
Loterie Farm: Fly Zone Treetop Zip-Line Adventure
Duration: 45 to 90 minutes
6. Shop at Sint Rose Shopping Mall
Are you a shopaholic planning to do some serious shopping during your holidays to Sint. Maarten? Then make sure you visit Sint Rose Shopping Mall in Philipsburg. It’s home to various luxury brands, art galleries, international chains, and boutiques. Cartier, Lalique, and Faconnable are some of the stores which you can find here. It’s the best venue for shopping for jewelry. After you are done with shopping and you feel hungry, explore the nearby boardwalk which is dotted with restaurants and gifts you scenic views of Great Bay.
Sint Rose Shopping Mall
Address: Front Street 35, Philipsburg Philipsburg SX, 35 Voorstraat, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
7. Watch airplanes fly in at Maho Beach (from USD 25.0)
Make your trip to Saint Martin more exciting by watching KLM aircraft fly just a few feet overhead. Visiting Maho Beach lets you experience the thrill of viewing low-flying jet planes which will be landing at Princess Juliana International Airport. Begin your drive from St. Maarten cruise port and travel along the Great Salt Pond. Capture spectacular aerial views of the mesmerizing island from Cole Bay Hill. Enjoy the fun of swimming in the waters of Maho Beach.
Philipsburg: Extreme Plane Spotting at Maho Beach
Duration: 5.0 hour
8. Hike to the summit of Pic Paradis
Are you fond of hiking? Then, do not miss the wonderful opportunity to hike the summit of towering Pic Paradis when in Saint Martin. This highest point on the island is at 424 meters (1391.08 feet). Gaze at the sweeping views of the entire scenic island and the surrounding islands from the summit. Pic Paradis is also famous as the beginning point for many walks and you can access it by car or on foot. If you are a nature-lover, the lush green tropical vegetation here will enchant you.
Pic Paradis
Address: Marigot, St Martin / St Maarten
Website: Pic Paradis
9. Sample local drinks at Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company
Guavaberry Coladas are a MUST try according to @kittykat_vision, do you agree?
Posted by Sint Maarten Guavaberry on Thursday, 1 August 2019
Sample the Caribbean’s famous local drinks in Sint Maarten by visiting Sint Maarteen Guavaberry Company. It is situated in a historic building dating back to the 18th century. The potent infusion of little guava berries, which grow in abundance in the central hills of this Caribbean island, and sugarcane, can be found here to taste. You can also have many free samples of guava berry colada.
Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company
Address: 8 Front St, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Website: Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Marvel at the tropical beauty of Mullet Bay
Your trip to Sint Maarten won’t be complete without visiting the enchanting Mullet Bay in this Caribbean paradise. Nestled in its little tranquil cove around the beautiful headland, this seaside area features magnificent tropical beauty. Lapping Caribbean waves shimmering in a Greek-blue eye-catching hue, white sandy shore, splashing rollers, and pleasant nature enhance the significance of Mullet Bay. Capture sweeping water and nature views with your camera. Do not miss enjoying the fun of beach activities such as surfing, swimming, and snorkeling, at Mullet Bay.
Mullet Bay
Address: Sint Maarten
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
11. Enjoy refined regional cuisines at Bistrot Caraibes
Please your taste buds by relishing scrumptious regional delicacies at Bistrot Caraibes when you are holidaying in St. Martin. This amazing restaurant was established by two brothers, namely Thibault and Amaury Meziere, in 1993 on Saint-Martin island. It is famous as one of the top five food establishments on this mesmerizing island. The relaxing and casual setting gifts you a fine-dining experience. Order your choice of food, such as soups, appetizers, and main course cuisines. After you finish your meal, try their lip-smacking desserts.
Bistrot Caraibes
Address: 81 Boulevard de Grand Case, Saint Martin 97150, St Martin
Website: Bistrot Caraibes
Opening hours: 6pm - 10pm (daily)
12. Visit The Butterfly Farm
Do butterflies fascinate you? If yes, make sure you visit the lovely Butterfly Farm during your excursion in St. Martin. You can find garden-style enclosures which let you walk amid colorful butterflies. Have a close-up glimpse of the most beautiful flying creatures of the Caribbean. The Butterfly Farm features a series of magnificent gardens adorned with ferns and tropical flora and graced by an occasional pleasant water feature. It also hosts tutorials on horticulture and butterfly-friendly gardening tips. You can also find a gift shop here to shop for related merchandise.
The Butterfly Farm
Address: Le Galion Beach Road, Quartier D'Orleans 97150, St Martin / St Maarten
Website: The Butterfly Farm
Opening hours: 9am - 3:30pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
13. Check out the historic cannons atop Fort Amsterdam
If you are a history buff, you should pay a visit to the historic Fort Amsterdam when you are traveling to Sint Maarten. A 2.5-kilometer (1.55-mile) spanning peninsula of land is present in St. Maarten’s southeast amid Little Bay and Great Bay. This marvelous site of the historic fort is situated atop this peninsula and it is famous for its ruins, such as a storage building, walls, and 19th-century remains of cannons. This fort was constructed in 1631 by the Dutch and it was their first military outpost. Today, even though it’s small and in a state of repair, it’s a prominent worth-visiting attraction. You get to see 19th-century cannons and many informational signs here.
Fort Amsterdam
Address: Great Bay | near Great Bay and Little Bay, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Website: Fort Amsterdam
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Relax and unwind at Orient Bay Beach (from USD 42.0)
The beautiful coastal community and beach present on the French side of Saint Martin island in the Caribbean is known as Orient Bay Beach. It’s one of the most popular beaches in St. Martin. Make your excursion on this Caribbean island more enjoyable by swimming at this gorgeous beach. It also lets you enjoy thrilling activities such as paragliding and jet skiing. Sail on the waters at the amazing beach.
St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient, Maho Beach Half-Day Tour
Duration: 5 hours
15. Wander around Old Street
Stroll in the fascinating Old Street in Sint Maarten. It is lined with rows of beautiful 19th-century townhouses which are painted with eye-catching ice-cream hues. Over the years, this pretty Old Street has turned into a retail center. You can find various stores to shop for your choice of souvenirs. Old Street is home to some of the best craft stores of Sint. Maarten. Buy local fabrics and handmade jewelry here. Also, satisfy your appetite by eating savory Caribbean delicacies.
Old Street
Address: Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
16. Take a tour of Marigot
Explore the bustling Marigot, the capital and prominent town in the French collectivity of St. Martin. It boasts a big outdoor market where you will find a lot of outstanding displays every morning. If you are planning to spend an entire day touring Marigot, pay a visit to Grand Case which is the nearest beach from here. It is also popular for its restaurants. Have a great time shopping and exploring this French capital in the Caribbean. Capture sweeping views of the sunset.
Marigot
Address: Saint Martin
17. Try your luck at Casino Royale
Visit the biggest gaming emporium on this exquisite Caribbean island of Sint Maarten by paying a visit to Casino Royale. It boasts more than 21,000 square feet (1950.96 square meters) of vibrant, neon-lit gaming space. You can find a variety of games, such as poker, craps, and many more, here. Besides these, this enormous casino is home to the largest theater in the sector. You can enjoy great entertainment, gaming, fine dining, and shopping experience in its lively setting.
Casino Royale
Address: 1 Rhine Road Maho Village Maho Beach, Sint Maarten
Website: Casino Royale
Opening hours: 1pm - 4am (daily)
18. Check out the interesting exhibits at Sint Maarten Museum
Explore this heritage museum and learn about the history of this island by paying a visit to Sint Maarten Museum when holidaying in this Caribbean country. Learn when the first human population arrived on this island, in 3200 BC. View beautiful ceramics which were found at Hope Estate. You get to watch unique objects which date back to the period from 500 BC to 600 AD. See polished stone tools, shaped figurines, photos, Arawak pottery, and shell ornaments. The burials here will give you an insight into the neo-Indian culture which originated from the Orinoco basin and migrated to this Caribbean island.
Sint Maarten Museum
Address: 7 Front St, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Website: Sint Maarten Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 1 USD per adult; free for students and children
19. Explore the Natural Reserve of St. Martin
Situated in the northeast of Saint Martin, Saint Martin Nature Reserve is a sprawling marine protected area which preserved five prominent ecosystems. Dry coastal forest, coral reefs, ponds, seagrass beds, and mangroves are the preserved ecosystems. The onshore region of this reserve comprises rocky shores, cliffs, and beaches which are home to amazing seabirds such as brown pelicans, terns, frigate birds, and many more. You can watch several herons who create their nests in the mangroves. Sea turtles visit extensive beaches here and lay eggs. You may get an opportunity to view iguanas on the rocks of the shore. Ponds and mangroves offer a haven to the fishes and young crustaceans. So, plan to visit this natural attraction.
Natural Reserve of St. Martin
Address: Residence les Acacias, Anse Marcel, 97150 Saint Martin
Website: Natural Reserve of St. Martin
20. Visit the parrots at Parotte Ville
Are you fond of parrots and birds? Then, do not miss the wonderful opportunity to visit Parotte Ville Bird Park during your excursion in Sint Maarten. Tucked away in the interior of the island, this secret gem is home to beautiful tropical birds. You can find here a variety of parrots such as Ring Neck Parakeet, Black Headed Caique, Sun Conure, Brown Throated Conure, and many more. Tour this magnificent bird park at your own pace. You can get the unique opportunity to hold the parrots and view these birds closely. Have a great time with these chirpy birds around you in this beautiful green space.
Parotte Ville
Address: Bishop Hill Road | Belvedere, St Martin / St Maarten
Website: Parotte Ville
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD per adult; 5 USD per child
21. Go on a ferry ride to Pinel Island
Popular as the best-kept secret of St. Martin, Pinel Island is a fabulous destination to explore when touring this Caribbean country. This island is located in Orient Bay and you can access it via boats. A ferry ride to this fascinating island is sure to delight you. Explore the elegant sandy beaches which adorn this island. Get into your hiking shoes and hike to the two deserted shores on the opposite side. You can also experience the thrill of snorkeling here.
Pinel Island
Address: Saint Martin
Website: Pinel Island
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
22. Relish Caribbean cuisine at La Villa Restaurant
Located in the heart of splendid Grand Case, popular as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean, La Villa Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a fine-dining experience. Its pleasant setting greets you to settle back and eat savory delicacies leisurely. It offers you scrumptious appetizers, tasty soups, great seafood delicacies, delicious pasta, and many other cuisines. If you are a vegetarian, you won’t be disappointed as this restaurant also provides vegetarian dishes. Have lip-smacking desserts once you are done with your meal.
La Villa Restaurant
Address: La Villa Restaurant, 93 Boulevard de Grande Case Saint-Martin, 97150, St. Martin
Website: La Villa Restaurant
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 5pm - 10pm (closed on Wed)
23. Go sailing with 12 Metre Regatta
Planning a refreshing shore excursion in the Caribbean when vacationing in St. Martin? If yes, count on 12 Metre Regatta, which is one of the most unique and legendary boating charters on the globe. Its outstanding 12 Metre Class race boats are the yacht racing world’s thoroughbreds. Each yacht is developed after expensive and persistent R&D efforts and after carrying out years of testing to ensure maximum speed and agility. Participate in a head-to-head, competitive race and have a mesmerizing Caribbean shore excursion.
12 Metre Regatta
Address: 12 Metre Regatta, Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Website: 12 Metre Regatta
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm; Sun: 9am - 5pm
Price: 90 USD per adult; 65 USD per child (6-7 years of age)
24. Have drinks at Sunset Bar and Grill
Located on the gorgeous white sandy Maho Beach at the end of Princess Juliana International Airport runway, Sunset Bar and Grill is a small yet amazing food establishment and bar where you can have savory refreshments. It’s a famous hangout for plane spotters, as you get to watch departing and arriving planes soar over your head. Order delicious sandwiches, local fresh fish, Caribbean inspired salads, the best burger on the island, and many other delicacies. Also, watch local bands and DJs performing here.
Sunset Bar and Grill
Address: 2 Beacon Hill Road, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten
Website: Sunset Bar and Grill
Opening hours: 7:30am - 11pm (daily)
25. Enjoy romantic time with your partner at Lover's Beach
Tiny and secluded Lover's Beach makes for the perfect adventure destination with a special someone. Getting there is half the fun! #FrenchSide http://goo.gl/hbIsj5 Photo by: donosxm
Posted by Vacation St. Maarten on Saturday, 28 May 2016
If you are traveling to St. Martin with your spouse, plan to visit Lover’s Beach to spend some romantic time. This enchanting beach in the Caribbean can be accessed by boat or by walking the trail of Froussards. Even though it’s the smallest beach on the island, it’s a jewel of choice for many couples. Experience the serenity of the shore and nature with your beloved one by planning an excursion here.
Lover's Beach
Address: Saint Martin
26. Play golf at Minigolf the Green
Posted by Mini-Golf de St-Martin de Ré on Friday, 7 April 2017
You don’t have to miss the fun of playing golf when holidaying in Saint Martin, with Minigolf the Green available for you. Located in this magnificent Caribbean island, Minigolf the Green is an amazing miniature golf course comprising 18 fun and original holes. Located at the edge of a lagoon, this miniature golf course is open to all in a tranquil setting. So, visit it with your family and enjoy a game of golf beside a serene lagoon.
Minigolf the Green
Address: 21 rue des Grisèles, Saint Martin 97150, St. Martin
Website: Minigolf the Green
Opening hours: Mon: 4:30pm - 9pm; Wed - Fri: 4:30pm - 9pm; Sat: 2pm - 9pm; Sun: 2pm - 11pm (closed on Tue)
Price: Depends on your quote
27. Check out the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit (from USD 25.0)
Does Star Wars fascinate you? If yes, make sure you visit Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit when vacationing in Saint Martin. It features a private collection from Nick Marley, a special-effects designer, with Star Wars costumes and props. You can also find here amazing replicas, holograms, and figurines from the Star Wars movies and other films Nick Marley worked on. If you are a big fan of Star Wars, visiting this attraction will make you step into the incredible world of Star Wars. Click pictures with the Star Wars costumes and props.
Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit (Hologram Tour) and Star Wars Celebrity
Duration: 1 hour
28. Watch a movie at the Caribbean Cinemas
Wondering where to watch a hit movie when touring through Sint Maarten? Count on Caribbean Cinemas, an outstanding theater in Sint Maarten that enables you to enjoy watching a hit film. Choose your convenient slot of time and book your tickets online with a few clicks. This theater also features children’s movies. So, your kids too can have fun watching their favorite children’s movie when vacationing in this Caribbean country.
Caribbean Cinemas
Address: Megaplex 7 at Cole Bay, 69 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten
Website: Caribbean Cinemas
Price: 8.5 USD
29. Explore the area on an ATV (from USD 350.0)
Are you longing to ride an ATV when holidaying in Saint Maarten? If yes, explore the sandy coast of Mullet Bay Beach, Orient Beach, and Frais Bay with an adventurous ride on an ATV. Discover the French and Dutch sides of the island in a half-day by riding an ATV under the supervision of a skilled guide. Cruise the enchanting tropical shore at your pace. Spot the planes as they fly overhead. Have fun swimming in the magical seawaters.
ATV Sea & Sun & Snorkeling Adventure
Duration: 3 hours
30. Take a stroll on Philipsburg Boardwalk (from USD 52.73)
Stroll on the fascinating Philipsburg Boardwalk when holidaying in Saint Martin. Explore this shopping and cultural paradise at your own pace. Watch the centuries-old courthouse which functions even today. Learn about the rich history of the island. You can find here a local cheese shop, a local jewelry store, and many other shops. Go for the great deals when you shop in this capital city.
St. Maarten: Philipsburg Walking Tour
Duration: 3 hour
Have a wonderful break in the Caribbean
St. Martin is a marvelous destination in the Caribbean and you’ll definitely have a memorable vacation. All these exciting activities will drive away your stress and refresh you to return home rejuvenated. So, make sure you enjoy all these things to do in St. Martin during your sabbatical here. Waste no time, plan your trip, make your bookings with a few clicks online, and get started for a fun-filled excursion. St. Martin awaits you.
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