Things to do in St Maarten – St Martin (Excursion 2025)

“All the best things to do in Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint Martin – Romantic Beaches, Unique Sightseeing, Kid Friendly, Outdoor, and Free activities.”

Welcome to the wonderfully wild island called Sint Maarten/Saint Martin. No matter what you seek, you will find it here. Find everything from majestic Top spots, best beaches, vibrant parties (Nightlife), world-class fine dining, potentially lucrative gambling, duty-free shopping, epic watersports, waterfalls and space to just rest. All of this and more are at your fingertips. You are guaranteed to create uniquely divine experiences with each and every visit you make to this one-of-a-kind island.

If this is your first time visiting us then allow us to guide you through our tiny slice of paradise. If you are coming back for more then allow us to take you on a deeper dive into what we have to offer on our little rock. We will include beach destinations, kid-friendly activities, outdoor activities, and anything else that is fun. Please know that we (We Are SXM) haven’t included absolutely everything there is to do on this island. If you notice something you’d like to see included here then please let us know and we may do just that!

Also don’t skip (2025’s updated) FAQs

Best places to visit in St Maarten - St Martin _ Things to do - Beaches, Sightseeing, Kids Activities, Outdoor Activities

Click on the buttons below to instantly visit the category you are interested in: Island beaches, kids & outdoor activities Dutch Side and French Side, Adult activities, or neighboring islands.

Table of content:

1. Island Beaches | The best beaches in St Maarten and St Martin

Below we describe to you the best island beaches, the ones that you just have to visit in Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint Martin. First, we are going to cover our beaches and we’ve got to start with our most popular, Maho Beach. From there we go all around the island covering every beach you would encounter when sailing clockwise along the coast of SXM, from West to Nord, to East and South.

This beach is truly one of a kind. It has over 1 million visitors yearly! Yes, it has crystal clear waters and soft white sand but that’s not all. This beach is special because of its proximity to Princess Juliana Airport. There is only a two-lane road in between the airport and this beach. Here you can watch planes of all sizes landing and taking off throughout the day.

Maho Beach - Planespotting paradise - Picture with plane

If you’re feeling adventurous you can stand on the beach behind the jet stream where you will feel the power of jet propulsion, be aware that you will be sand sprayed. If that’s not for you, you can watch the planes, take in the good vibes, and catch the sunset all from restaurants on either end of the beach.

Please DO NOT hang on the fence, this has led to a deadly accident in the past!

Tucked away behind the only golf course we have on St. Maarten is Mullet Bay. It is lined with sea grape trees and tropical palms, stretching far enough to provide several different experiences on the same beach. Eat, drink, party, play, and relax. Some days you can find surfers racing along the rocky edges on the far left of the beach, you can find people playing volleyball in the middle, or you can have yourself a more relaxing experience on the far right.

Sint Maarten Mullet Bay Beach - White sand of Mullet Bay Beach

Regardless of what makes you happy, every day is a great day to visit Mullet Bay.
On Saturdays a local crew plays beach volleyball on Mullet Bay Beach, everyone is free to join them to play some ball.

This next beach is magnificent if you are looking for something a little quieter. At Cupecoy Beach, you will find rocky cliffs surrounding the white sandy shore. The orange-tan rock walls add to the seclusion you feel while on this beach. You can still see the airplanes coming into the airport but you are now out of earshot of them. Visit the Caribbean beach bar on the right side of the cliff to rent some beach chairs or for a refreshment.

Sint Maarten Cupecoy Bay Beach, Caribbean - Inbetween the Cliffs

If you are in the Cupecoy area then this beach is the most convenient to go for a quick morning dip or to catch the daily breathtaking sunsets.
Cupecoy Beach also has a famous cave that you can find walking around the cliff, be aware that the left side of the beach is also known as a meeting spot for men around sunset.

1.4 Baie Longue or Long Bay:

Baie Longue translated into English is Long Bay and let me tell you, this is no exaggeration! How long exactly? We invite you to find out yourselves. The waters get so calm here that some people refer to it as the blue lagoon.

Long Bay - Baie Longue with La Samanna and lots of luxury villa beach rentals

Baie Longue and Plum bay are accessible via the security gate at Low Lands, beaches are always public so when you mention you are going to the beach access is allowed. Just be aware you are not allowed to take any pictures from the villas.

Long Bay is also where La Samanna is located, one of the island’s most exclusive luxury resorts.

1.5 Baie aux Prunes or Plum Bay:

Baie aux Prunes, also known as Plum Bay, is located at the western end of the island. Here, the chances are fairly high that you find surfers catching some waves. The rest of us enjoy slowly strolling across the sand while taking in the sunset.

Baie aux Prunes - Plum Bay and the Trump Villa in Lowlands - Terres Basses

Plum Bay is also where the trump villa and many other impressive beach villas are located. Plum bay is accessible via the security gate at Low Lands, beaches are always public so when you mention you are going to the beach, access is allowed. Just be aware you are not allowed to take any pictures from the villas.
If interested to rent a villa in lowlands check out our stay section!

1.6 Baie Rouge or Red Bay:

Baie Rouge translates to Red Bay. It has a large rock wall with a red hue to it which contributes to the name of this beach. Something else that stands out here is that the sand is tremendously soft. It may be the softest sand on the island. When visiting this beach it’s just you and nature.

Baie Rouge - Red Bay in Lowlands - Terres Basses, the softest sand in St Martin

If you’ve got the energy to spare, you should snorkel around the corner and you will find a hidden beach and even a natural cave to explore.

1.7 Lover’s Beach:

Of the 37 beaches on this island, Lover’s Beach is definitely the smallest one with only enough space for two people. It is a deeply romantic location simply because of how secluded this magical beach is. Surrounded only by rock walls, forgetting the rest of the world exists is easy here.

Lovers Beach - The smallest beach in St Martin - Romantic Beach for two

How to find Lovers Beach: drive towards Friars Bay but turn left towards Ruby Bute’s Art gallery, park your car alongside the street and from here walk via the gate to lovers beach. Be cautious for the cows.

1.8 Friar’s Bay Beach:

Tucked away behind some rolling hills is Friar’s Bay Beach. As you approach the beach you will experience minor off-roading and you have a high chance of seeing happy cows. Once at the beach, you get a great view of one of our neighboring islands, Anguilla.

You can also enjoy some food at 978 Beach Lounge or at Friar’s Bay Beach Cafe while catching those rays.

Friars Bay St Martin - 978 Beach Lounge - Gorgeous Beach in Saint Martin

Make sure to take that one-of-a-kind selfie at the famous beach door!

Home of the SXM Music Festival here on the island, this beach is truly a happy place. There should be no surprise that it’s called Happy Bay Beach.

When festival-goers aren’t parading around in mid-March this beach is a sweet escape from society. It isn’t the easiest place to access which makes it quite appealing to those people who are willing to put in the effort to make it there.

Happy Bay Beach - Gorgeous secluded beach in St Martin

To get to Happy Bay you park your vehicle at Friars Bay and from the far end of the beach follow the path towards Happy Bay, make sure to enjoy the gorgeous views. The hike takes approximately 20 min.

1.10 Grand Case Beach:

Grand Case is not only known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean in the evening but also has a gorgeous white sand beach to enjoy. With several docks making a real tourism attraction for a one-of-a-kind vacation picture.

Grand Case Beach - Wooden Dock - White sandy beach, Rainbow Cafe, Le Temps, Captain Frenchy

When visiting Grand Case you can rent a beach chair and have a beach lunch at Rainbow Cafe, Le Temps des Cerises or Captain Frenchy’s. Or have a more local experience with a BBQ lunch at Lolo’s. Also, make sure to check out the beautiful murals from Mashinart and Jimmy Sheik!

1.11 Petite Plage or Little Bay Beach:

Located just north of the Grand Case Beach Club is Petite Plage. Enjoy yourselves the view of Creole Rock in the distance and of Anguilla behind it. Grab some food from the wide selection of restaurants that you have around you.

Petite Plage - Little Bay Beach - Close to Grand Case Beach - Swim to Creole Rock

There are two gorgeous luxury villas for rent right on Petite Plage, check out our stay section.

1.12 Wilderness Beach:

This next beach is located at the most northern point of the island and is very rarely visited by people because of the trek required to get there. That is why we call this Wilderness Beach.

Wilderness Beach - Secluded Beach reachable by a 2 hour sporty hike from Anse Marcel to the French side dump

The easiest way to get here is with two cars, one you park at the dump of the French side, and with the second car you drive down to Anse Marcel and right before entering Anse Marcel at the bottom of the hill you turn right onto a sandbox parking. This is also the beginning of this sporty hike which takes approximately 45 min to 1 hour to get to Wilderness Beach and 45 min to 1 hour to get back to the dump.

1.13 Cul de Sac Bay – Pinel Ferry parking

Cul-de-Sac Bay, located just north of the famous Orient Bay, is more so a calm area of the island ideal for hiking than it is a beach. It is also the location where you can catch a ferry over to Ilet de Pinel.

1.14 Pinel Island – Ilet de Pinel:

Want to leave the mainland for a little bit? We have three tiny islands off of the French side of the island called Ilet de Pinel, Creole Rock, and Tintamarre. Each of them is a unique experience in themselves so we urge you to check them all out if you can.

Pinel Island - Secluded Island in Saint Martin - French Nature Reserve

Ilet de Pinel is accessible by ferry from Cul-de-Sac Bay and has several restaurants on it where you can eat your fill as you enjoy the view of St. Martin in the near distance.

1.15 Orient Bay:

Orient Bay is another really long beach on Saint Martin. Go parasailing, jet-skiing, or even sky-diving at this beach. Discover an endless variety of beach bars serving fine cuisine. With 16 different locations each boasting incredible food you have a lot to choose from.

Orient Bay - beautiful white sand and lots of beach bars

Across from Orient Bay there is also the small rock called Green Cay, which is great for snorkeling. Inbetween the seagrass where the waves break there are turtles most of the time. Be cautious crossing there or rent a kayak.
This beach is also perfect for foil boarding and kite surfing, for lessons contact SXM Kiteschool, see our Watersports section for more information.

If you’re feeling extra free then venture to the nude section on the far right where it is okay to be naked!

1.16 Le Galion:

Around the corner from Orient Bay there is Le Galion, known as the most child-friendly beach in Saint Martin because it is extremely shallow for at least 50 meters in.

Le gallion is also known to be the best place for surfing, as when you go further out where the waves come in they keep rolling due to the shallow waters.

All you need to know about this beach is in its name: Dawn Beach. This is the ideal beach to experience the sunrise. This beach is dominated by the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa but is still open to the public, when you mention visiting the beach, access has to be granted!
Dawn Beach, Guana Bay, and other beaches within the southeast area of the island are known for turtles nesting here. So please be cautious and do not enter areas with signs about nesting turtles.

1.18 Duck’s Beach:

This beach is mentioned on Google, but you’re going to have to get creative finding a way to this beach because we won’t disclose all of the secrets here but if you’re an adventurist then we recommend you find your way to Duck’s Beach.

1.19 Guana Bay:

Located south of Dawn Beach is Guana Bay facing the Atlantic side of the island. This beach is typically rougher than the rest of the island so please be careful if you decide to go swimming. The rolling waves do make it a great spot for surfers, and many locals go surfing in this area.

Guana Bay Sint Maarten - Villa Amalia

Dawn beach has no beach bars or restaurants so bring your friends or loved one, a cooler of ice with drinks, and a picnic basket to have a good time on this calm beach.

If you venture here, please be sure to keep a lookout for signs as this is a popular site for turtles during their nesting season.

1.20 Natural Pool:

Near Guana Bay is Geneve Bay, more commonly known as the Natural Pool. To get here you will have to take a short 20-30 min hike along the rocky mountainside. The Natural Pool is named that way because of the pool of ocean water that is closed off from the rest of the Atlantic because of large rocks.

The Natural Pool is found between Back Bay and Guana Bay, reachable by a 20 - 30 min hike.

The easiest way to get here is by parking your car at the old basketball court in Back Bay, from here you hike alongside the rocky coast. Once you see a large rock formation on your right-hand side facing St Barths there’s a path down to the natural pool. Make sure to bring water shoes if you like to enter the natural pool without having sea urchin spikes in your feet.

Great Bay Beach is located in Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, and it will be the greatest first impression that cruise ship passengers get when disembarking onto the island. It is lined with duty-free shops, fresh food, cold drinks, and live entertainment.

Great Bay Beach in Philipsburg Sint Maarten, the largest Bay in the Caribbean

Great Bay is the largest bay in Sint Maarten and probably even in the Caribbean, this mesmerizing bay has a boardwalk running all the way from Port Sint Maarten alongside the entire stretch of beach.
On the boardwalk, you’ll find an endless variety of beach bars, restaurants, and coffee lounges. There will also be live music on cruise ship days. But if you like to enjoy a calm day, visit on a day without cruise ships, rent a beach chair and soak up the sun on this gorgeous beach.

1.22 Little Bay Beach:

Little Bay Beach is typically quite calm making it ideal for snorkeling and other water activities. This is a site where a lot of scuba divers begin their open-water training. You can even see a helicopter, a submarine, and the remains of an airplane underwater!

1.23 Lay Bay:

Located along the coast of Pelican Key (residential area) is Lay Bay. This beach is popular for the residents and guests who are staying in this area. You are almost guaranteed to see people taking in the lovely colors of the sunset as they stroll the beach.

Pelican Key is one of St. Maarten’s smallest beaches mainly dominated by resorts. This is a very cool beach to watch large mega-yachts and sailboats cross through the Simpson Bay bridge. Unfortunately, no pelicans.
Pelican Key Beach is accessible via the Simpson Bay Beach resort, have a drink at the resort beach bar to enjoy a sunset at this beautiful small beach.

Pelican Beach - Pelican Key - Beach access via the Simpson Bay Beach Resort Pelican Beach Bar

1.25 Kim Sha Beach:

Kim Sha beach is lined with restaurants, bars, lounges, and water sports facilities. Located near one of the centers of action on the Dutch side, you can find this beach just off of the main road. This is an ideal beach for anyone in the area who is looking for a quick retreat to the water’s edge for some lunch or even happy hour.
Kim Sha is home to Buccaneer Beach Bar, Cocky Turtle, and Roxxy Beach. You also find lots of local snack shacks on the Kim Sha parking lot, such as the famous Captain’s Rib Shack!

Beach Chairs at Buccaneer Beach Bar on Kimsha Beach

1.26 Simpson Bay Beach:

Walk, run, swim along this long stretch of coastline. Simpson Bay beach runs along the south side of the airport providing people with a unique vantage point. This beach stretches from Beacon Hill all the way to the Simpson Bay bridge.

Simpson Bay Beach - Long stretch of beach from Beacon Hill to Simpson Bay Bridge

Simpson Bay beach is also home to several hotspots on the island such as Mary’s Boon and Karakter, they both have beach chairs and a lunchroom overlooking the ocean. Or if you are looking for a solid beach party visit them during the weekends.

1.27 Burgeaux Bay:

Burgeaux Bay is a rocky beach. It is exciting to take a hike-like walk along the water’s edge. In the distance, you can watch wildlife at play or you can jump in and join the surfers who occasionally hang out here.

1.28 Creole Rock and Tintamarre:

Creole Rock is fantastic for snorkeling fun, you can either swim across from Little bay beach or visit by boat. Just be cautious for boats if crossing, or take the safest option to visit with a boat charter or ask the ferry in Grand Case to bring you over. Several island tours will take you here for a couple of hours of open sea fun.

Tintamarre Beach - Turtle Beach on this uninhabited island - nature reserve

Tintamarre is a little bit further than the other two mini islands but because of this, it is less busy. Catch a day charter to make your way over to this remote island and see St. Martin from an angle you’ve never seen before.

Best things to do for Kids | Kid-Friendly Outdoor Activities – The best things to do with children

Now we will introduce you to several mostly outdoor and kid-friendly activities across the island. Some are great for younger kids, others for the big kids, but we definitely have a lot to do on the island. If you do not have kids, do not worry, many of these places are also lots of fun for adults!

We start with the Dutch Side and then we mention all on the French side.

2. Best things to do with Kids | Outdoor Activities on the Dutch side

2.1 Seaside Nature Park:

Seaside Nature Park - Horseback riding, Animal farm, kids activity

At the Seaside Nature Park, their focus is the importance of education about nature. They have preserved 30 acres of untouched land that you can explore accompanied by many animals. This is very kid-friendly.

2.2 Cole Bay Hill – Bell’s look-out point:

Bell Lookout point - Cole Bay Hill - Wonderful views over Simpson Bay, Indigo and our neighboring islands Saba, Statia, St Kitts and Anguilla

Take in the gorgeous views of Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, and more of the island from the Bell’s look-out point on Cole Bay Hill. On clearer days you can even see the neighboring islands Saba, Statia, and St, Kitts & Nevis from this point.

2.3 Simpson Bay Lagoon:

Simpson Bay Lagoon - Most Extravagant Mega and Super Yachts from up close!

The Simpson Bay Lagoon is a spectacle in itself. It is home to hundreds of boats of all sizes, constantly zooming around. The only way to access this lagoon on a boat is through the Simpson Bay bridge or the French side bridge. Care to watch the spectacle? Grab a seat at one of the many restaurants/bars and feast your eyes!

And to see them from really up close, visit the Sint Maarten Yacht Club when the bridge opens. During high season this allows you to see the most extravagant yachts passing right in front of you!

2.4 Rhino Safari – Rhino Riders:

Rhino Riders - Rhino Safari drive your own boat / watercraft in Sint Maarten, St Martin, SXM

This is the ultimate wild water adventure. Bring the family along on a ride in your own dinghy (mini motorized boat). Led by a tour guide, they may take you to Happy Bay or to Creole Rock for some stellar snorkeling.

2.5 Rainforest Adventures – Centry Hill:

Rainforest Adventures - Peak view over Simpson Bay, Philipsburg, 360 degree Island views

Curious to get a bird’s eye view of the island? Catch a 25-minute chairlift up to the top of the Centry hill as you take in the sights at Rainforest Adventures. At the top, take in the island and our surrounding islands in a truly unique way. Prefer to zipline back down instead of taking the chair lift? Do it on the steepest zipline in the world, The Flying Dutchman!

Rainforest adventure also has 3 other ziplines at the top and a tubing ride down, book the BIG three if you like to enjoy all of this in one day!

2.6 The Flying Dutchman:

The Flying Dutchman Zipline - Steepest zipline in the world in Caribbean St Martin

Sentry Hill is the home of The Flying Dutchman, which is the steepest zipline in the World. It stands at 341 meters or 1118.77 feet. This hill is also the site of a 17th-century plantation house where you can learn about the island’s history and culture.
At Rainforest Adventures you can enjoy a chairlift up, tubing down, three ziplines on the top, and the large zipline down.

You can book all of this either separate or at a very interesting package price, book your day now!

2.7 Emilio Wilson Park:

Emilio Wilson Park Statue - Emilio Wilson died at age 90 - Historical and Cultural Foundation

Emilio Wilson was highly respected and loved in the St. Maarten community specifically for his work at the Emilio Wilson Historical and Cultural Foundation. A week before the park officially opened, Emilio passed away at the age of 90.

2.8 Causeway Bridge:

Causeway Bridge between Simpson Bay and Cole Bay - Overlooking the Airport of Sint Maarten and Sunsets

An always impressive sight driving, passing by boat, running, or cycling over the causeway bridge in Simpson Bay. On one side are the beautiful green hills, and on the other side planes taking off from Princess Juliana International airport.
Furthermore, you can see a mesmerizing sunset as it goes down on the other side of the airport.

Locations in Philipsburg – Capital of Dutch Sint Maarten

Out in Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side, the adventure continues. These next locations are all in this area. As you’re strolling through the town, make sure to stop at the Sint Maarten Museum. It showcases a brief overview of the history, geology, marine biology, and anthropology of the island.

2.8 Sint Maarten Heritage Museum in Philipsburg:

Established in 1993, the Heritage Collection Museum is a non-profit organization that aims to promote, protect, and study all aspects of the history, culture, and natural environments of St. Maarten.

A very interesting museum for young and old where you can learn everything about Dutch Sint Maarten.

2.9 The Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit:

Yoda Guy - Nick Maley at the Yoda Movie Exhibit

The Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit is a must-see if you are a Star Wars fan. Meet Nick Maley, the inventor of Yoda and many other movie creatures. Just imagine all of the wisdom you could receive by being in Yoda’s presence even for a brief moment.

2.10 Fort Amsterdam:

Fort Amsterdam in Philipsburg - Overlooking Divi Little Bay

Located near Great Bay Beach is Fort Amsterdam. It was built in 1631 as a post to defend the island which didn’t pan out in the Dutch’s favor – at least not in the short term. Definitely look into the history of this Fort.

2.11 Port St. Maarten – Cruise Ship dock in Philipsburg:

With during usual times over 2 million Cruise-Ship passengers per year Port Sint Maarten is the busiest dock in the Caribbean. Several cruise lines traveling the Caribbean have Sint Maarten within their itinerary, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, Aida, MSC, Club Med, Norwegian, Costa, and many more.

Aerial view of two giant cruise ships docked in Port Sint Maarten - Philipsburg

Some of the largest cruise ships in the world such as Harmony of the Seas visit Port Sint Maarten giving great sights from the boardwalk in Philipsburg. Ships like Harmony of the Seas take approximately 2800 people staff and 6000 passengers on board.

The cruise port is not accessible for outsiders, but when cruising definitely impressive to see. A great way to see the cruises is by visiting The Rusty Parrot which is another great kids activity!

2.12 The Rusty Parrot in Philipsburg:

The Rusty Parrot Pirate Experience - Location Dock Maarten Philipsburg St. Maarten - Best Family and Kids Activity L

This Rusty Parrot in Philipsburg St Maarten is an immersive walk-through special effects attraction that will make you feel like a true Pirate for one day! Fun for young and old, Arrrrr…..
With a shop for all your pirate attributes and a rooftop bar overlooking Great Bay and the Cruise Ship dock you enjoy wonderful views on top of this rusty pirate ship deck.

2.12 Sea Trek Helmet Diving:

As Sea Trek likes to say, take a walk on the wet side! At Sea Trek, they take you helmet diving which is an easy, safe, and tremendously fun way to experience life below the surface.

Below a bunch of the best things to do with kids on the French side of our island. Lots of these activities are also fun for adults!

3.1 Parotte Ville – Bird Park:

Birdpark - Parotte Ville St Martin - A Bird paradise, great activity for children!

If you have a love for birds then you must check out Parotte Ville. This bird sanctuary is sure to brighten your day. Learn about the different species of birds we have locally as they sit on your shoulder snacking out of your hands.
And don’t forget to check out the small heritage museum owner George built directly next to his bird park, he will passionately explain everything!

3.2 Amuseum Naturalis:

Amuseum Naturalis - History, Heritage, Flora and Fauna of Sint Maarten, Saint Martin

So long as there is daylight then Amuseum Naturalis park is open for self-guided visits. Make sure to bring your own water as you stroll through the heritage displays, the bush tea garden, and poetry exhibits.

Loterie Farm in Pic Paradis - Spring Fed Swimmingpool

Located near the top of Pic Paradise is the Loterie Farm. This is an isolated restaurant/lounge accompanied by an immensely gorgeous spring-fed swimming pool surrounded by luscious greens in all directions. You can visit Loterie Farm for lunch, or stay for the day by reserving a beach bed or cabana.

Furthermore, Loterie Farm has a kiddies swim park especially made for the young ones and a fly zone for kids, in which you submerge through the treetops via ropes, ziplines, and bridges.

Flyzone Extreme with gorgeous view while zipping over the valley!

For the adults, there’s the fly zone extreme in which you start on the top of the mountain and go down via high ropes and ziplines all across the valley.

3.4 Pic Paradis:

Monkeys at Pic Paradis stealing a sunglasses

Pic Paradis is the highest point on the entire island. It has an elevation of 424 m or 1391.08 feet. The hiking in this part of the island is fantastic and you will see lots of wildlife such as birds, iguanas, lizards, and even monkeys. Beware of the monkeys! They have an interesting sense of humor.

3.5 National Nature reserve of Saint Martin:

The Brown Pelican - French side nature reserve

The National Nature Reserve of St. Martin is a marine park situated at the northeast end of the island. Their focuses are on preserving coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, ponds, and coastal dry forests.

3.6 Marigot – Capital of French Saint Martin:

Arial view of Marigot, the main town and capital in the French Saint Martin, sharing the same island with dutch Sint Maarten. Fort St. Louis on a hill, yachts and a circular breakwaters of the marina.

Feel the vibrant energy here as you peruse the many shops in this market. The amount of good food condensed into this little area is unbelievable. Admire the beautiful boats in the marina as you walk around discovering all of the art displayed in the capital of the French Side.

3.7 Fort Saint Louis:

Fort St Louis Marigot

Fort St. Louis is one of the historic sites on the island. It was built in 1789 and has partly endured the testing of time. Located in Marigot, the fort overlooks the market, the marina, Anguilla, and the deep blue horizon.
You can either walk all the way from the Marina parking up via the staircase that’s located 50 meters to the right of West Indies Mall (20 min). Or you can drive up and park right under the last staircase and walk the stairs from here (10 min).

3.8 St. Martin Catamaran Charters:

Catamaran Charter, private or group boat tour St Maarten - St Martin - SXM

Take a spin around the island or stop at various locations as you take the adventure to the water with St. Martin Catamaran Charters. A highly-skilled crew takes you out to sea while you enjoy the ride and the sea breeze sprays saltwater onto your skin.

4. Fun outdoor activities for Adults and the big kids ;)

Below a selection of great things to do for our big kids (adults), you’re never too old for some fun in your life! See here a bunch of our recommendations.

4.1 Port de Plaisance:

Port de Plaisance is located near the end of the Causeway bridge. It is a gorgeous Activity Center including a hotel, a selection of restaurants, a marina, boasts the largest Casino on the island, and has contributed to the public throughout its history on the island.

4.2 Topper’s Rhum Distillery:

Toppers Rhum - Rum Tour Handmade, Rum cake, distillery tour

Located in Cole Bay is Topper’s Rhum Distillery. Get a tour of how the rum is made here on the island. Smell the rum, taste the rum, feel the rum. So many flavors, is there enough time?

4.3 The Hollywood Casino:

Hollywood Casino in Pelican - Table games, Poker, Roulette, Slot machines

The Hollywood Casino is a boutique casino that offers all table games, bingo, poker, slot machines, and more. Enjoy yourself a couple of beverages and laughs with friends at the casino.

4.4 Mullet Bay Golf Course:

You may have a golf itch that you’re trying to satisfy. If this is you or someone on your crew then the solution is the Mullet Bay Golf Course. Play a full round of golf out in the Caribbean sun.

4.5 American Tennis Academy:

If tennis is your game then be sure to check out the American Tennis Academy. This facility has 2 lighted tennis courts and a Pro Shop. Their goal is to make tennis easy, simple, and fun!

4.6 SXM Padel Club:

First Padel Tennis Club in Sint Maarten, right in Belair. The Padel club is open to all members, tourists, first-time players. Racquets are available for rent, and they also have a Petanque/Bocci court and a bar with Snack Bar at the location.

5. Our Friendly Neighbors:

Next, we briefly explore our neighbors. Are you possibly looking for a little escape from St. Maarten at one of our friendly surrounding islands? The adventure continues in Aguilla, Saba, and St. Barts, all of which are a short ferry ride away. Each of these destinations has more than enough reasons for you to fall in love with them. Due to word length restrictions, we can’t dive into detail about each of the different sites on each island but we will introduce you to the names of several key locations in each of our neighboring islands.

5.1 Anguilla – the whitest beaches on earth:

Anguilla - Shoal Bay - Probably the whitest beach on the planet!

First up we have Anguilla. This island has a lot of special beaches to choose from including Rendezvous Bay, Maundays Bay, Barnes Bay, Shoal Bay Beach, Crocus Bay, Scilly Cay, Cove Bay, Shoal Bay West, Sandy Hill Bay, Katouche Bay, Savannah Bay, Merrywing Bay, Little Harbour, Captain’s Bay, LockRum Bay, Black Garden Bay, and Corito Bay. Anguilla has several tiny islands surrounding it which make for great day trips. These are Sandy Island, Prickly Pear Cays, Scrub Island, and Dog Island. Other locations that we’d like to mention are Meads Bay Pond and Wallblake House.

5.2 Saint Barths – ultimate luxury:

St Barths island - Ultimate luxury Island, rich and famous

St. Barts is a magical island and it can be reached by taking a ridiculously short flight or by taking a 60-minute ferry ride. Some of the locations we’d like to mention include Grand Cul-de-Sac, Anse des Cayes, Shell Beach, Petit Cul-de-Sac, Anse de Grande Saline, Baie de Saint Jean, Corossol, Anse de Grand Fond, Anse de Lorient, Ile Fourchue, Plage des Flamands, Anse Toiny, Plage de Saline, Anse de Grand Cul-de-Sac, Colombier, and Fort Karl.

5.3 Saba – “The unspoiled queen”:

View from Saba - Mas'Cohones Hill

Saba is a volcanic island located less than 15 minutes from St. Maarten. The island is the top of the dormant Mount Scenery volcano whose latest eruption was around 1640. For you adventurists, the hiking and scuba diving out here are both truly spectacular. For those who feel like lounging, find your beach hideaway at Well’s Bay.

5.4 Statia – “The Historical Gem”:

View from Saba - Mas'Cohones Hill

Sint Eustatius, or Statia, is a small island in the Dutch Caribbean, known for its rich history and natural beauty. Covering just 21 square kilometers, Statia was once a major trading hub in the 18th century, earning the nickname “The Golden Rock.” It played a key role during the American Revolution by being one of the first places to recognize U.S. independence in 1776.

Today, Statia is a peaceful, unspoiled destination, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and tranquility. The island’s dormant volcano, The Quill, offers stunning hiking opportunities, while its protected coral reefs are ideal for diving and snorkeling. With a small population of around 3,000, Statia maintains a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, making it a unique Caribbean destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, we know that you will have a phenomenal time here on The Friendly Island. You’ve got to admit, especially now, we can all use a good friend. The fact of the matter is, if you’ve made it this far into this post, the logical next step would be to book your flight to St. Maarten.

We are ready for you. We Are SXM.

Need help finding any of the places above, download the We Are SXM Application for GPS service (Android or Iphone)

We Are! SXM
Average rating:  
 0 reviews