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Photoshoot in progress - St. Maarten
Photoshoot in progress - St. Maarten - Photo by Robin Canfield

Explore the Caribbean Paradise of Sint Maarten: Photos, Tips and

About Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten, Sint Maarten: A beautiful Caribbean island split between French and Dutch territories, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the best of both worlds in this tropical paradise with a rich cultural heritage. Book your trip now and escape to this idyllic destination.

Sint Maarten is a small island in the Caribbean Sea that offers an unforgettable travel experience. This tropical paradise is home to stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant culture that blends Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences.

One of the main draws of Sint Maarten is its beaches. The island is home to 37 beaches, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular beaches include Maho Beach, which is famous for its close proximity to the airport and the thrilling experience of watching planes take off and land overhead, and Orient Bay, which is known for its white sand and turquoise waters.

In addition to its beaches, Sint Maarten is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The island has a rich history and heritage, and visitors can explore this through its museums, galleries, and historic sites. Some of the most popular cultural attractions include the St. Maarten Museum, the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, and the Fort Amsterdam.

Visitors to Sint Maarten can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities. The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, with a number of reefs and wrecks to explore. Other popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, and zip lining.

Foodies will also love Sint Maarten, which offers a diverse range of cuisine that reflects the island's cultural influences. Visitors can sample local specialties such as conch fritters, goat stew, and johnnycakes, as well as more familiar dishes such as pizza and burgers.

Overall, Sint Maarten is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a tropical getaway. With its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and range of activities, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

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Things to do in Sint Maarten

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Sint Maarten

You can rent a buggy and adventure the island on your own time, we provide you with a map and explain you exactly how and where to go. St. Maarten is basically the smallest land mass in the whole world to be shared by two different countries. During the adventure you will cover both sides of the island both French and Dutch. You see absolutely everything the island has to offer and do it on your time. We give you recommendations based on your interests and make sure you see all the popular hot-spots. One road takes you right around the island making it a easy to find your way around. Price is per vehicle which comfortably seats 2 passengers, unlike other ATV's helmets are not compulsory and you have a roof to help with protection from the sun!
With the itinerary stretching over both Dutch & French territory, you'll be introduced to the pick-of-the-day highlights of "The Friendly Island". There'll be multiple 15-20 minute stops for photo opportunities. This is a guided excursion at a "sightseeing pace", accessible to beginners.  You'll ride mostly on-road, with a small portion off-road. All individuals interested in steering the ATV must bring a valid driver's license.  Includes 2 beverages per person (bottled water & soda's).
Are you ready to go Sailing? TRUE sailing on board of No1Sxm Trimaran: stable, smooth, comfortable. The 2 hour Sailing Experience is pure bliss, with a cocktail and snacks, meeting the sunset, sailing along the St.Maarten Coast. It all starts already on the dock at 4:30pm in winter, 5pm in summer & we take you with a dinghy to the boat in Simpson Bay and welcome you aboard. Settle in with a drink while we hoist the sails for an awesome experience, sailing along the coast of St.Maarten. The actual sailing time is 1 1/2 hour during this sail. Upon our return to the dock, you will feel completely relaxed & want to do it again! With only 16 passengers max. it is personable, intimate and fun. The wind in the sails and water against the hull are your musical companion. Captain/Owner Pieter is a sailing expert with over 42 years experience on various sailing boats and ships.
Are you ready to go Sailing? True sailing on board of No1Sxm Trimaran: stable, smooth, fast. The 5 hour experience takes you along the south west coast of St.Maarten/Saint Martin & up Anguilla Channel. Included are a stop in a calm bay for swimming/snorkeling, drinks, snacks & a sandwich lunch on board. Your private sail it is personable, intimate and fun. The group size has a maximum of 14 persons. The wind in the sails and water against the hull are your musical companion. Captain/Owner Pieter is a sailing expert with 42 years experience on various sailing boats and ships.
Our Island Tour starts from the EDC Parking Lot. First stop a location overlooking Oyster Bay; then a stop at Locus Bay View Point for some panoramic photos. Off to visit one of our tropical friendly inhabitants, the Soualiga Iguana’s. To Orient Beach we go for 2 hours of sunshine, sand, and sea; the French capital Marigot for a hour of shopping, then to Sunset Beach Bar and Grill to see some of the largest commercial aircraft come in for a landing, the planes will be just feet over your head!. Excited, off to Cole Bay Hill overlooking Simpson Beach and Indigo Bay we head, an opportunity for a beautiful family photo; then to The Hill where you will find great views of Phillipsburg. With a wonderful day on the Island behind, you have a final choice to be dropped off in Phillipsburg or on to the cruise dock for departure, thank you.
This Private Island Tour is for any amount of Persons and set for the first 5 persons with any additional being added accordingly, if there are any additional persons, please contact us via email for further instructions,  This tour is your special moment, to come celebrate anniversary, Birthday, Graduations, Honeymoon, Get-together, friendship, romance, etc. and includes your choice of locations and attractions on the island that you would like to spend time at. This tour is customized to your choice, you choose where to go, what to see, what to do accordingly.  The tour is 5-6 hours and includes complimentary drinks on the house, which will be an open bar (you may help yourself), hope to see you soon!
Enjoy great views of Dutch St Maarten all on your way to the FAMOUS MAHO BAY Beach at the Princess Juliana International Airport.  With comfortable seats guaranteed, this tour features informative history from your guide as you drive to Maho Beach. Due to the unique proximity of low flying airliners, the location is very popular with plane spotters. This is one of the few places in the world where aircraft can be viewed in their flight path just outside the end of the runway.  Also included is a brief stop on Cole Bay hill for photo opportunity and a little history of the famous man called Harold Jack. Your tour also includes a free WiFi and AC vehicle.
Make your jet ski experience a unique one : discover the amazing landscapes of St. Maarten Dutch and French Sides and their breathtaking Caribbean waters. Professional service, friendly team and unforgettable memories guaranteed ! As you will have a guide, no boat licence is required.

Why People Love Sint Maarten

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Sint Maarten

M
muirheaj
5
Jun 2023
Our experience with Electric Adventures in Saint Maarten surpassed expectations. Getting to their location was a breeze as a shuttle took us around the corner from the entrance of the port. Electric Adventures is a well-known establishment to the port workers- if you ask, they'll help you get to ...
C
Cruiser50702043740
5
Jul 2023
The best way to see the island. Best service from Arun! The best thing is that you are on your own. No guid and you can do whatever you want.
D
davidrC7442NE
5
Jul 2023
This was absolutely my favorite part about our cruise. Everything was so easy from booking to pickup to drop off. The owner drew a detailed map and showed us where all the breathtaking views were. We were able to see the entire island in 4 hours. We stopped and hung out at the beach and enjoyed a...

Explore all things to do in Sint Maarten

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Frequently Asked Questions about Sint Maarten

What are the must-visit attractions in Sint Maarten?

Sint Maarten has something for everyone. If you're interested in history, you should visit Fort Amsterdam, which is a historic fort that dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Sint Maarten Museum, which has a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the island. If you're interested in nature, you should visit Loterie Farm, which is a nature reserve that offers hiking trails, zipline tours, and a treetop obstacle course. And of course, you can't visit Sint Maarten without spending some time at the beach. Some of the best beaches on the island include Maho Beach, Mullet Bay Beach, and Orient Bay Beach.

What are some fun activities to do in Sint Maarten?

Sint Maarten has plenty of fun activities to keep you busy. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, or take a boat tour to explore the island from the water. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. If you're looking for something more relaxing, you can book a spa treatment or take a yoga class. And of course, there's always shopping and dining to enjoy in the island's many towns and villages.

Where are the best places to stay in Sint Maarten?

There are plenty of great places to stay in Sint Maarten, depending on your preferences. If you're looking for a luxurious experience, you might consider staying at one of the island's many high-end resorts, such as the Sonesta Ocean Point Resort or the Belmond La Samanna. If you're looking for something more low-key, there are plenty of smaller hotels and guesthouses to choose from, such as the Holland House Beach Hotel in Philipsburg or the Alamanda Resort in Orient Bay.

What are some of the best restaurants in Sint Maarten?

Sint Maarten is known for its diverse cuisine, thanks to its mix of French, Dutch, and Caribbean influences. Some of the best restaurants on the island include Le Pressoir in Grand Case, which serves French cuisine with a Caribbean twist, and The Palms at Pelican Cove, which is known for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. Other popular options include The Greenhouse in Philipsburg, which is a casual spot for burgers and sandwiches, and Topper's at the Oasis in Simpson Bay, which serves Caribbean-inspired dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

What's the best time of year to visit Sint Maarten?

The best time to visit Sint Maarten depends on your preferences. The high season runs from December through April, when the weather is mild and dry, but prices are higher and the island can be more crowded. If you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded time to visit, you might consider traveling in the shoulder season, which runs from May through August. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June through November, so you'll want to keep an eye on the weather forecast if you're traveling during that time.

Is Sint Maarten safe for tourists?

Sint Maarten is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take common sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas, and avoid walking alone at night. You should also be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable in a particular situation.

What's the best way to get around Sint Maarten?

The best way to get around Sint Maarten is by car. There are plenty of car rental companies on the island, and having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you're not comfortable driving, you can also take a taxi or use the island's public transportation system, which consists of buses and minibuses called 'vans.'

What's the local currency in Sint Maarten?

The local currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted on the island. Many businesses also accept major credit cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially for small purchases and tips.

What's the weather like in Sint Maarten?

Sint Maarten has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average high temperature is around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season runs from May through November, but even during this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine and warm weather.

What's the nightlife like in Sint Maarten?

Sint Maarten is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include the Sunset Bar and Grill on Maho Beach, which is known for its live music and beachside setting, and Tantra Nightclub in Simpson Bay, which is a popular spot for dancing and socializing. You can also try your luck at one of the island's many casinos, such as Casino Royale in Maho or Diamond Casino in Philipsburg.

What's the best way to experience Sint Maarten's beaches?

Sint Maarten is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and the best way to experience them is to spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm water. Some of the best beaches on the island include Maho Beach, which is known for its proximity to the airport and its stunning sunsets, Mullet Bay Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, and Orient Bay Beach, which is known for its white sand and turquoise water. You can also try your hand at water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, and parasailing, or take a boat tour to explore the island from the water.