7 Things You Need to Do in Saint Martin
The Caribbean island of Saint Martin encompasses two countries: the French Saint Martin in the north and the Dutch Sint Maarten in the south. Traveling between them is easy, and with both countries unique culturally, tourists can experience two distinct vacations for the price of one.
As with most Caribbean destinations, Saint Martin is popular among beachgoers. There’s much else to do too, from bucolic nature and French cuisine on the less-developed north side to rich history and vibrant Caribbean influences in Sint Maarten.
Daily flights to the “The Friendly Island” from North America make getting here simple. Start planning your trip by learning about these seven top Saint Martin activities:
Stroll Down Front Street
Saint Martin’s duty-free status makes shopping here highly appealing, especially for those who enjoy souvenirs or prefer to travel light. One of the best places to pick up some new items is Front Street.
Stretching through Philipsburg, the Dutch side’s capital, Front Street is where travelers can find bargains on electronics, jewelry, china, and many other items. Check out the myriad of shops, then recharge with food and refreshments at any of the street’s restaurants and bars.
A boardwalk that offers scenic views of the picturesque Caribbean waters runs parallel to Front Street, and no visit to Philipsburg would be complete without also taking a stroll on it.
Relax on Beaches
Befitting a Caribbean island, Saint Martin is home to many beaches. A total of 37 line its coast, from Cay Bay in the south to Petites Cayes in the north. Orient Bay is a favorite, particularly among watersport enthusiasts, while Dawn Beach attracts travelers with the beautiful sunrises viewable there.
Several of Saint Martin’s top-rated beaches are on the island’s southwestern coast. Enjoy the clear waters and tranquil atmosphere of Mullet Bay Beach and marvel at the limestone cliffs at Cupecoy Beach, located just south of the French border. Visitors should note that clothing is optional at all beaches on the French side, though some, such as Friar’s Bay, are known to be more family friendly.
Experience Maho Beach
If a day of quiet relaxation on soft sand isn’t your idea of a good time, then Maho Beach might be your place. Nicknamed the world’s most extreme beach, this destination on the island’s southwestern coast is located so close to Princess Juliana International Airport that approaching planes pass overhead by a mere few hundred feet.
Take pictures of the planes from Maho’s white sand. If you’re a thrill seeker, cling to the fence that separates the airport from the beach while the planes pass overhead. The vibrating blast from the jet engines will be a feeling you won’t easily forget.
Get Out on the Water
As much as you can on your trip to Saint Martin, leave the dry land behind. Hopping the ferry to Pinel Island, taking a boat tour to nearby islands like St. Barts, or learning to sail are just a few of the many options for getting out on the picturesque Caribbean waters. You can also windsurf, kayak, and partake in just about any other watersport there is.
Climb Pic Paradis
Saint Martin’s highest peak is nearly 1,500 feet tall, and hiking to and from it can take a strenuous three hours in the Caribbean heat. Visitors should be sure they’re equipped to handle the 3.1-mile hike, both in terms of their conditioning and their footwear. Ample amounts of water and bug spray are also necessities if you want to make it safely to the top.
If you’re not looking to strain yourself, then you can get within 10 to 15 minutes of the summit via private vehicle, then walk the remainder of the way. However you get there, the summit offers unforgettable views of Saint Martin and several of the surrounding Caribbean islands.
Go Scuba Diving
From coral reefs and shark coves to shipwrecks, scuba divers can explore numerous marine environments at 20 diverse sites off the island’s coast. New to diving? Not a problem, as Saint Martin’s shallow waters mean that many of these sites are suitable for beginners.
Among the beginner-friendly sites is Big Mama’s Reef. Located off the Dutch side of the island, the reef offers the opportunity for up-close sightings of Caribbean reef sharks. Those looking to make scuba diving the centerpiece of their vacation can also choose to make the short trip to nearby islands like Anguilla, where even more diving sites await.
Eat and Drink
If you’re a foodie, set aside time to visit Grand Case. The island’s culinary capital, Grand Case sits on the French north, and its main street is lined with quality restaurants serving fresh island fare. Enjoy fish caught from the nearby waters or sample delicious French-Caribbean cuisine.
Those looking for a more immersive culinary experience should head to the Flavor Academy. Here, they’ll learn to cook, as well as have the opportunity to dine on, the island’s distinct fare. Similarly immersive is a visit to Topper’s Rhum Distillery, a 6,000-foot facility in the Dutch south. After learning how each bottle of rum is blended, guests can sample the flavored spirits themselves.