Top 9 Things To Do In Sunny And Tropical St. Maarten

1. Spend the afternoon at Maho Beach

Maho Beach is probably one of the most popular beaches on St. Maarten. Because it is directly adjacent to Princess Julianna Airport, incoming planes landing there often come down pretty close to the beach, making it a fun place for plane spotting! Plane spotting here is such a popular activity that there are boards posted around the beach that display incoming and outgoing times that the planes come and go. Because of its threshold to the runaway, Maho Beach is more of a place for thrills rather than relaxation, so keep that in mind if you were expecting something a little more low-key for your beach day.

Maho Beach

Address: End of SXM Airport Runway, Phillipsburg, St. Maarten

Website: Maho Beach Cam

2. Loterie Farm

After a day traveling why not reconnect with nature? Loterie Farm is one of the best spots in St. Martin for immersing yourself in the nature of the island. Loterie Farm is also a nature reserve so you’ll be sure to see some animals and plants that you won’t find back home. Another great thing about Loterie Farm is that is caters to adventurers and people looking to relax. Glide through the treetop canopy on a zip line or relax with a drink at the tree lounge, the choice is yours.

Loterie Farm

Address: 103 Rue de Pic Paradis, 97150, St. Martin

Website: Loterie Farm

3. Sea Trek Helmet Diving

A guided tour is a great way to learn about a new place you may be visiting. But what about a guided tour underwater? Sea Trek Helmet Diving is just that, a guided tour underwater. You put on a helmet, get underwater and explore the reefs with a tour guide. See the beautiful tropical fish and colorful coral reefs with a high tech helmet on, so you can see and breathe and take in all the wonders of ocean life.

Sea Trek Helmet Diving

Address: 24 C.A. Cannegieter St, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Website: Sea Trek Helmet Diving

4. Explore Fort Louis

Some people might consider this a different kind of hike. Fort Louis is an eighteenth century military fortress designed by the French to protect the island from an oncoming attack. Now a popular tourist spot, Fort Louis offers spectacular views of Marigold Bay so the hike is definitely worth the effort. Although some of the fort is blocked off, there are still many artifacts that can be viewed once inside.

Fort Louis

Address: Marigot 97150, St. Martin

Website: Fort Louis

5. St. Maarten Zoo

Boasting the title of “largest zoological park in the Caribbean” the St. Maarten Zoo is perfect for a nice afternoon out with the family. Explore the exotic fauna of the Caribbean as well as some other animals brought in from funky locations around the world. The zoo offers a park for children as well as private tours, fun for birthday parties and other events.

St. Maarten Zoo

Address: Arch Road # 7, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Website: St. Maarten Zoo

6. Climb Pic Paradis

“Paradise Peak” in English, is the highest point on the island. So if you’re not worn out from the hike up Fort Louis, this one might be a little more challenging. Besides, it’s definitely worth the walk up for the amazing views of the island as well the surrounding Caribbean, so make sure you bring your camera and take many pictures that’ll make your friends jealous.

Pic Paradis

Address: Marigot, St. Martin

Website: Pic Paradis

7. Happy Day Beach

This one is a little bit of a hidden gem! There’s no doubt that if you’re going to St. Martin, you’ll probably hit up a beach or two, but why not try to get around to one of the nicest and quietest beaches around? Happy Day Beach is a relatively small beach that’s quiet and off the beaten path. It has some of the clearest water on the island and is a short 10 minute hike.

Happy Day Beach

Address: Between Friars Bay and the Bay of Grand Case, St. Martin

Website: Happy Day Beach

8. Casino Royale

So maybe you’re not James Bond, but you can pretend you are! Its central location makes it easy to get to and a good way to spend an evening after hanging out in the sun all day. They also host poker tournaments so if you’re a pro or an amateur, there’s a game for you. Try your luck at one of St. Maarten’s best and most popular casinos while you drink your martini shaken, not stirred.

Casino Royale

Address: Rhine Rd, Maho Bay, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Website: Casino Royale

9. The Butterfly Farm

This small secluded butterfly farm on the French side, founded by two Englishmen, “La Ferme Des Papillons,” is nice spot for a family day out or a calm day excursion for anyone! Not only will guests marvel at the beautiful butterflies, but they can also learn a lot about butterflies and their ecosystems.

Butterfly Farm

Address: Le Galion Beach Rd, Quartier D'Orleans 97150, St. Martin

Website: Butterfly Farm

Tropical paradise

St. Martin, or St. Maarten, is not your typical island experience; there is so much to do, see and explore, whether you’re with family, friends or loved ones, there’s experiences to be had of all kinds. Whether you are looking for thrills or relaxation on a beach, St. Martin is a wonderful tourist spot in the Caribbean.