St. Maarten, also known as St. Martin, is a Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and friendly locals. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, St. Maarten has something for everyone.
Here are some of the best things to do on the island:
1. Visit Maho Beach
Maho Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. What makes this beach unique is its close proximity to the Princess Juliana International Airport, which has a runway that is only a few feet away from the shoreline. As planes take off and land, they fly right over the beach, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience for beachgoers. Maho Beach has become a popular spot for plane spotters and aviation enthusiasts, who flock to the beach to witness the spectacle of low-flying planes passing overhead. However, it’s important to note that the noise and wind generated by the planes can be quite intense, so visitors are advised to take caution and follow safety guidelines while enjoying this one-of-a-kind attraction.
2. Take a Day Trip to Anguilla
A day trip to Anguilla can be a perfect way to experience the beauty and serenity of this Caribbean island. Here is a possible itinerary for a day trip to Anguilla:
- Morning departure: Start your day early with a ferry ride from St. Maarten to Anguilla. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Beach time: Upon arrival in Anguilla, head straight to one of the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Shoal Bay or Meads Bay. Spend some time lounging on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the sun.
- Lunch: When hunger strikes, head to one of Anguilla’s beachfront restaurants for lunch. Many of them offer fresh seafood and other local delicacies, along with stunning ocean views.
- Island tour: After lunch, take a tour of the island to explore its rich culture and history. You can visit historical sites like the Wallblake House or take a walk through the Valley, the island’s main town.
- Sunset: As the day comes to an end, head to one of Anguilla’s beach bars to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
- Return trip: In the evening, take the ferry back to St. Maarten, enjoying the peaceful night views of the sea.
Overall, a day trip to Anguilla can be a relaxing and unforgettable experience, filled with beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.
3. Explore the French Side
Exploring the French Side of St. Maarten is an adventure that will leave you enchanted and captivated by the island’s culture and natural beauty. This half-day tour will take you on a journey through picturesque villages, scenic hillsides, and pristine beaches. You’ll start with a visit to the charming capital, Marigot, where you’ll experience the rich French-Caribbean culture that permeates the town. Admire the colorful architecture, browse the local market for souvenirs, and indulge in some delicious French pastries.
Next, you’ll head up to the hillsides, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. The tranquil setting is the perfect spot for a photo-op and to take in the stunning scenery. Afterward, you’ll make your way down to the idyllic Orient Bay, one of the most picturesque beaches on the island. Sink your toes into the soft sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear water, or relax under the shade of a palm tree.
The French Side is also famous for its delicious cuisine, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample some of the local delicacies. Whether it’s a freshly baked baguette, a savory crepe, or a succulent seafood dish, your taste buds will be in heaven.
With comfortable transportation provided, this guided tour is the perfect way to explore the French Side of St. Maarten. You’ll be immersed in the island’s culture and natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after your trip has ended.
4. Snorkeling and Diving
St. Maarten boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
If you’re a fan of snorkeling, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the numerous snorkeling spots available around the island. Snorkelers can venture out to popular sites like Creole Rock, Tintamarre Island, and Pinel Island, where they’ll encounter schools of colorful fish, octopuses, eels, and sea turtles. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some larger creatures like stingrays, nurse sharks, or barracudas. The shallow and calm waters make it easy for snorkelers of all skill levels to enjoy the experience.
For those looking to take their underwater adventure to the next level, St. Maarten offers fantastic diving opportunities. With a variety of dive sites available, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater caves, there’s something for every diver. One of the most famous dive sites is the wreck of the HMS Proselyte, a British warship that sank in 1801 and now serves as a home to a plethora of sea creatures. Other popular sites include the Carib Cargo wreck, the Maze, and the Coral Reef.
No matter if you choose snorkeling or diving, the warm, clear waters and abundance of marine life in St. Maarten will leave you in awe. So strap on your fins, grab your mask, and get ready for an unforgettable underwater adventure in St. Maarten!
5. Visit Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm is a breathtaking nature reserve tucked away in the lush, mountainous terrain of St. Maarten. The Farm offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, with a wide range of exciting activities and serene spots to unwind.
For those seeking adventure, Loterie Farm has an adrenaline-pumping zip line course that offers sweeping views of the stunning landscape. The course takes you soaring through the treetops, and offers an unforgettable experience that is perfect for thrill-seekers.
For those looking for something more relaxing, there are tranquil swimming pools where you can soak up the sun, enjoy refreshing drinks, and indulge in delicious food. The Farm also offers hiking trails through the lush forest, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area and get in touch with nature.
Loterie Farm is also home to a number of enchanting events throughout the year, including Full Moon Parties and Yoga in the Park. These events offer a unique blend of entertainment and relaxation, and are the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
Overall, Loterie Farm is a hidden gem in St. Maarten, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, this stunning nature reserve is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.
6. Philipsburg Boardwalk
The Philipsburg Boardwalk in St. Maarten is a picturesque and lively promenade that stretches along the beachfront, offering visitors an array of activities and attractions to enjoy. As you stroll along the wooden planks, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the azure Caribbean Sea and the powdery sand of Great Bay Beach.
The boardwalk is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. You can peruse the shops for souvenirs and local crafts, dine on delicious seafood while taking in the ocean view, or sip on a tropical cocktail at a beachside bar.
In addition to the shops and eateries, the boardwalk is also a hub of activity. You can watch cruise ships as they come and go from the nearby port, or catch a live musical performance from one of the many street performers. The boardwalk is also a great place to people-watch, with locals and tourists alike strolling by in their colorful Caribbean attire.
Overall, the Philipsburg Boardwalk is a must-visit destination in St. Maarten, providing visitors with a vibrant and memorable experience that perfectly captures the spirit of this Caribbean paradise.
7. Take a Boat Tour
Joining a boat tour in St. Lucia is a breathtaking experience that you won’t want to miss. As you climb aboard the vessel, you’ll feel the sun on your skin and the wind in your hair. The crystal-clear waters below will reflect the vivid blue sky, inviting you to embark on your journey.
As the boat sets off, you’ll feel a sense of anticipation build within you as you head toward the magnificent Pitons, two stunning mountains that jut dramatically out of the ocean. The boat will pause here, allowing you to take in the awe-inspiring scenery and snap some photos to capture the moment.
As you continue on your journey, you’ll be greeted by the warm Caribbean breeze and the salty sea spray. The boat will take you to a variety of scenic spots, including hidden coves and secluded beaches that you can only access by boat.
If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins or majestic whales that call these waters home. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide you with fascinating information about the island’s history and culture, as well as the abundant marine life that surrounds you.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the water and snorkel to discover the vibrant and colorful sea life that inhabits the area. After a day of adventure and exploration, you’ll return to shore feeling rejuvenated and with memories to last a lifetime.
8. Paddle a kayak in Simpson Bay
One of the most thrilling aspects of this kayaking trip is the opportunity to get up close and personal with the vibrant sealife and majestic yachts. As you leisurely paddle along the water, you’ll pass by picturesque mangroves, massive yachts, and countless scurrying crabs. The kayaking itself is a breeze, with only 40 minutes of paddling required. Afterward, you can cool off with a refreshing dip and take in the stunning coral reef and rocky caverns while snorkeling. The entire kayaking and snorkeling excursion takes less than three hours, making it a must-see experience in St. Maarten. TriSport leads this unforgettable tour multiple times a day, but it’s best to book your spot in the morning to beat the intense midday sun.
9. Enjoy a St. Martin to St. Barts day trip
The chichi French island of St. Barts is a popular day trip from St. Maarten. There are many options for St. Maarten day trips. But hopping on the Edge Ferry and spending the day on the glam island of St. Barts takes the cake. It’s the playground of celebs and elites the world over, and you can visit on a day trip. It’s only a 45-minute ferry ride, so you’ll spend most of the day feeling like a high roller on the island. There are a zillion things to do in St. Barts, but no one would blame you for spending your entire day trip lazing on the beach.
10. Hike in St. Maarten
One of the most popular hikes on the island is the Sentry Hill Trail. This trail starts in the village of Colombier and takes hikers up to the highest point on the island, Sentry Hill. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby island of Anguilla. The trail is well-marked and offers a moderate level of difficulty.
Another popular hike is the Pic du Paradis Trail. This trail takes hikers to the top of Pic du Paradis, which is the highest point on the French side of the island. The trail offers breathtaking views of the island’s lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters. The trail is considered challenging, so hikers should be prepared for steep inclines and rocky terrain.
For a more relaxed hike, visitors can explore the trails in the Loterie Farm Nature Reserve. The reserve offers several hiking trails, including a popular trail that takes hikers to the top of Pic Paradis. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the island’s tropical forests and sparkling waters.
No matter which hike you choose in St. Maarten, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Additionally, it’s recommended that hikers wear comfortable shoes with good grip and bring a small backpack to carry any necessary supplies.
11. Guana Bay to Point Blanche hike
This is a wonderful journey for newbie hikers because it’s not too difficult. It’s only two hours one-way along the rugged coastline.At the end, you can cool off in some natural pools. You’ll likely see more goats than humans on this hike. And if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wild horses as you climb too. On a sunny day, you can see all the way to St. Barts. Find excellent route details on the Seagrape Tours website for a DIY hike. (Or you can book a guided hike with them.)
12. Fort Willem Hill trail
This is another moderate hike for newbie hikers (about two hours round-trip). You’ll get panoramic views of neighboring islands, the cruise ship harbor, Fort Amsterdam and Oyster Bay. You’ll also stroll by the coastal area of Little Bay, an important birding area.