Top Things To Do
The active traveller will enjoy wandering around St Maarten and partake in the outdoors adventures available, such as climbing, horseback riding, or hiking one of the nature trails leading up to the island's highest point and dramatic panoramic views.
On its coastline, the island offers blood-pumping surfing, kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and windsurfing opportunities, making the most of the Caribbean Sea trade winds. Stunning diving and snorkelling sites are sometimes reachable directly from the beach, and the Sea Trek excursion makes the island's underwater life accessible to all.
To get closer to the island's heart, visit the various heritage sites such as the fortress and border monument, or head to the museum. Wander around the streets and meet the locals in Philipsburg and Marigot, or at the carnival celebrations, and visit the Loterie Farm for a closer look at the island's stunning flora and fauna.
FORT AMSTERDAM
Built in 1631 on a peninsula located between Great Bay and Little Bay, this fort was the first Dutch military outpost in the whole of the Caribbean, one that got taken by the Spanish, who made it their most important fortification east of Puerto Rico before abandoning it in 1648. The fort is now back in Dutch possession.
BORDER MONUMENT
Although the partition treaty between St Maarten and St Martin was signed as early as 1648, no clear indication of the frontier separating the Dutch from the French side of the island existed until late 1772. In 1948, this monument celebrating 300 years of coexistence was erected at the border between the two nations.
ORIENT BAY
Orient Bay is the most popular beach on St. Martin and is well developed for the visitors. There is 5 may beaches here, all next to one another which makes up the 2 mile bay; Kontiki, Kakao, Bikini Beach, Waikiki and Coco Beach, and on each, you will find a bar of the same name. Recognised as a marine reserve, Orient Bay is a fabulous spot for snorkelling- with plenty to see.
SEGWAY TOUR
With tours ranging from a short 30 minute-ride to a full day excursion, you'll find a few companies on the island offering an fun alternative to the usual walk around town.
ST MAARTEN PARK
Take a leisurely stroll around the park and learn about the species of plants and animals that were already present on St Maarten when the Arawak Indians first landed on the island.
ST MAARTEN ZOO
Boasting a fascinating selection of tropical animals, counting over 60 species of birds, reptiles and mammals, including some very rare ones, the zoo also features two walk-through aviaries.
WATCHING THE JUMBOS OVER MAHO BEACH
Not exactly a quiet experience… people head to Maho Beach to see the jumbo jets pass overhead. The busiest time is on a Sunday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm; it’s a thrilling experience, the planes are just a few yards above! The beach itself is also nice, with white powdery sand and snorkelling on offer. There are also several resorts, hotels, beach bars and restaurants within close proximity.
CASINO ROYALE
Casino Royale in St Maarten is the largest on the island and as well and lots of gaming, also has a theatre for events and shows. The games are all that you would expect; roulette (American and French), craps, baccarat, blackjack, poker (Three Card Poker, Let It Ride, Caribbean Poker and Texas Hold em) as well as 400 slot machines are all on offer in this huge gambling haven.
SEA TREK ST MAARTEN
If you're not a great fan of diving, and can't get comfortable with snorkelling, then this sea trek might be the ideal solution for you to still be able to get acquainted with the island's marine wildlife, as well as a submarine and cannon. Kids aged 8 and more are also able to join.
ST MAARTEN MUSEUM
Created and maintained by the St Maarten National Heritage Foundation, which was founded in 1993, this museum retraces the history, geology and culture of the island, from its Arawak origins to its colonial past, through a collection of documents, artefacts and other items salvaged from the wreck of a British ship sunk over two centuries ago. Located in Philipsburg.
CARNIVAL
If you’re on the island a few weeks before lent begins, you’ll find it hard to miss carnival… and why would you want to? Exotic costumes, colourful street parades, festive music, and lots of food is what Carnival celebrations in St. Martin's capital city of Marigot is all about! This is an ideal time to try lots of delicious Caribbean cuisine and experience St. Martin's unique culture.
LOTERIE FARM AND FLY ZONE (PARADISE PEAK)
Located near the foot of Paradise Peak, the private nature reserve at Loterie Farm offers loads of great, outdoors activities the whole family will enjoy including horseback riding, hiking, eco-tours, mountain climbing and much more.
COCONUT TREE'S GO KARTING
Located in St Martin, this Go Karting welcomes drivers as young as 7 years old. A fun activity to enjoy with the whole family, if you're looking for an entertaining break from the beach.
WATERSPORTS
If you're looking to add a dose of adrenaline to your day at the beach, you will find operators around the island offering exciting activities such as surfing, flyboarding, jet skis excursions, kite surfing, scuba diving (over 50 sites dotted around the country's beautiful coastline), snorkelling, windsurfing, as well as charter boats offering fishing trip, and glass bottom canoes.
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