Saint Martin (or Sint Maarten as the Dutch spell it) a small, beautiful island in the Caribbean, measuring about 34 square miles (87 kilometers). It’s divided into two sides, the French side and the Dutch side and is the smallest inhabited island in the world divided between two nations.
This island has a lot of personality and, with each side having it’s own culture, there is a lot to do. The Dutch side is known for their casinos, nightlife, beaches and jewelry. The French side is known for their nude beaches, shopping and fashion, and the French and Indian cuisine. And with more than 140 different nationalities registered on the island, there are dozens of cuisines to choose from which makes it foodie heaven.
In 2017, the island was devastated by Hurricane Irma. The storm destroyed houses, demolished entire resorts, swept away beaches and ravaged boats. But instead of abandoning their home, residents took it as an opportunity to rebuild their island to be even better than it was before. The island underwent an enormous rebuild,that saw cruise ships able to return in just a few months. We had the opportunity to visit and put together a list of some of our favorite things to do while we’re in Saint Maarten.
1. The Views From Fort Louis
There’s not much left of the towers of the French colonists who once watched over Marigot Bay, but it’s still worth the trip. The fort is one of the largest forts on the island, and was once the site of armed battles between the major European powers of the Caribbean. But it’s the panoramic views that really draw the crowds here. You’ll see stunning 180 degree views of Marigot harbour and the hills above Bellevue, all alongside the ocean. On a clear day you can even see the silhouette of the island of Anguilla in the distance.
2. Orient Bay Beach
Located on the French side of the island, Orient Bay Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches in St. Marteen. Hurricaine Irma destroyed a lot of what was originally Orient Bay Beach in 2017, but as of 2020, the beach has almost returned to its former glorious state. The beach itself is free, however, there’s a charge to rent umbrellas or beach chairs. Here you’ll find several beach bars to choose from along the beach, including Kontiki, Wai Plage, and Bikini Beach. There are also several water sports at your disposal including kayaking, jet-ski’s and paraglyding. The main part of Orient Beach is nude until nine a.m., so early risers beware. The beach itself is gorgeous, and is a great way to pass the day.
3. The World’s Steepest Zip Line
The St. Maarten zip line is the world’s steepest, dropping more than one thousand feet in elevation along 2,800 feet of cable. Named the Flying Dutchman, you’ll see spectacular 360 views of the island on the way down. It’s located in the Rockland Estate eco-adventure park, operated by Rainforest Adventures.
4. Charter A Boat And Tour The Island
We chartered a boat for the day and visited some of the best beaches and reefs that Saint Martin has to offer. We used a company called Eagle Tours and spent the entire day cruising around the island. Our first stop was the French Marine reserves, Tintamarre and Pinel island where we relaxed on the beach and did some sunbathing. We also stopped in the middle of the ocean to do some snorkeling, which is amazing in the crystal clear waters. We ended ended the tour on the Leeward side of the island, exploring Long Bay and Mullet Bay beach. Our boat had an amazing crew, great vibes, and great food and drinks, which added to the experience. You can read more about our time with Eagle Tours here.
5. Relax at Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm is located on the French side of the island and is listed as a serene nature sanctuary. However, this can be very misleading. It’s more of a mix of eco-adventure and laid back luxury. The property sits on 135 acres and contains a beautiful pool, daybeds and cabanas and a chic bar area. There’s also a restaurant onsite and a tapas bar. When we arrived, there was a DJ spinning relaxing tunes. The property also contains hiking trails, an obstcle course, and zipline. It’s a place the whole family can come and enjoy.
6. The Food At Holland House Beach Hotel
The Holland House Beach Hotel is a Saint Martin landmark, located right on gorgeous Great Bay Beach in the capital city of Philipsburg, on the Dutch side of the island. In addition to being a great hotel, Holland House has an amazing restaurant. It’s actually considered one of the best restaurants on the island, and with the view, you can’t beat it. The menu options are unique, yet plentiful, and the ingredients are fresh. There are also vegetarian options available. You can read about our time Holland House here and find them on online at https://www.hhbh.com/.
7. Take A Trip To St. Barts
Neighboring Saint Barthelemy, or St Barts, is a nine square miles, French-speaking island, known for its white-sand beaches, luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and a handful of A-List celebrities. It’s only a 45 minute ferry ride from St. Marteen to to St. Barts. We used Aqua Mania Adventures to ferry us there and you can read about our experience here. Once you arrive on the island, there is a lot to do. St. Barts has a whopping 22 beaches, including Shell beach and St Jean Beach, home to the famous “Nikki Beach” Restaurant. There are several delicious bars, cafes and restaurants to satisfy your appetite as well. You can also hike, visit the fort, go snorkeling, kitesurfing, shop in Gustavia’s many chic boutiques and duty free shops, visit an art gallery, and much more!
8. Maho Beach
Maho Beach is world-famous for its unique location right at the business end of the Princess Juliana Airport runway. Crowds gather here to watch jumbo jets take off and land, flying right overhead. You can relax on a lounger or grab a seat at the neighbouring Sunset Beach Bar which posts flight arrival and departure times on a surfboard so you’ll know exactly when to get those cameras out.
9. Explore The Capital, Philipsburg
Colorful Philipsburg is the capital of Sint Maarten, located on the Dutch side of the island. You can take a stroll along the boardwalk, where you’ll find beachfront bars and restaurants to enjoy. Front Street is famous for its duty-free shopping, making it a great place to pick up gifts, watches, jewelrey, and liquor. You’ll also find casinos along Front Street as well. Philipsburg also hosts the St. Maarten Zoo, which is home to parrots, monkeys and a playground.
10. Great Bay Beach
Accessible from the boardwalk in Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach is a two mile long stretch of white sandy beach that is located at the heart of Philipsburg. The beach features everything you’ll need for your comfort including sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, clean bathrooms, and restaurants. You could literally spend your entire day here enjoying the calm, crystal clear waters, and if you need a bite to eat, there are several options at your disposal right along the boardwalk.
11. Wild Guava Berry Liquor Tasting
Guavaberry is the legendary folk liqueur of St. Maarten. It was first made here centuries ago in private homes from wild rare guava berries found on the island. It’s since become an integral part of local culture & tradition, making Guavaberry their national liqueur. Yon can learn more about the rum with a tour of the Guava Berry Liquor Emporium on the Dutch side of the island. After the tour of the emporium is done, you can sample various rum and guava berry liquors.
12. Boat Trips to Anguilla
Anguilla is another one of St. Maarten’s beautiful neighbor Islands. Located only 30 minutes away by boat, Anguilla offers white, powdery sand beaches that stretch for mile. Combined with the beautiful, pristine waters and the laid-back welcoming attitude of the Anguillan people, it’s a great place to visit. Anguilla also has many virgin beaches which have no shops, vendors, or restaurants, leaving only you, your thoughts and the ocean.
13. Soak up the sun at Mullet Bay
Thanks to its long stretch of soft white sand, brilliant blue water and protected coves, Mullet Bay is ranked as one of the top Saint Martin beaches which makes it the perfect place to spend a sunny day. Bordered by an 18-hole golf course and lined with groves of palm trees, it’s a treasured area for locals and a popular swimming spot thanks to its crystal-clear, calm waters. While there aren’t any restrooms on site, multiple vendors selling snacks and offering activities have set up shop on Mullet Bay beach.
14. Shop in Marigot
On the French side of the island you’ll find the capital city of Marigot town. It’s the busiest place on this side of the island, and it’s here where you’ll find chic French fashions and souvenirs. Marigot town has an open bazaar style market where you find whatever you’re looking for and also many European designer brands that are sold at a discount than in European retail outlets. After a full day of shopping, you can dine in one of the many restaurants and enjoy delicious French-Caribbean cuisine.
All in all, Saint Martin is a beautiful island and a great place to visit. There’s a lot to do and see and eat! If you haven’t been, it’s definitely worth checking out!
Geron is an avid traveler, entreprenuer and mens style aficionado. He love’s mac and cheese, getting discounts, his momma, and a good whiskey, not particularly in that order. It’s alleged he lives in Miami, but no one really knows anymore.
Follow him on instagram at @geronp
