{"id":5950,"date":"2022-11-10T20:06:20","date_gmt":"2022-11-10T20:06:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/?p=5950"},"modified":"2026-02-20T12:02:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T12:02:40","slug":"things-to-do-st-maarten","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/things-to-do-st-maarten\/","title":{"rendered":"Unmissable Things to Do in St. Maarten \/ St. Martin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\nIt turns out that heaven on earth may actually exist \u2014 although you may not know it until you pay a visit to St. Maarten<\/a> or St. Martin<\/a>. No matter which side of the double-sided island you choose to visit, you can be certain that you\u2019ll leave a more fulfilled and exhilarated version of your previous self. There are beautiful beaches galore, and that\u2019s just for starters.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe duality of the Caribbean island alone sets it apart, but there is so much more to both sides than its obvious beauty. It\u2019s a natural tourist destination known for its vibrant blue skies, shimmering waters, and plush sand. That it\u2019s a draw for beach lovers is no surprise, but if you are looking for other things to do in St. Maarten or St. Martin, you won\u2019t be disappointed.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThere\u2019s simply no dearth of activities here, whether you\u2019re headed towards the French St. Martin side or the Dutch side of the island (Sint Maarten). Both sides of the island are unequivocally beautiful, memorable, and captivating in their own rights.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nAs a tourist, the only real difference you\u2019ll notice is that since one side is associated with France and the other with the Netherlands, the official language and currency is different on both sides. On both sides though, the US Dollar is accepted and English is widely spoken.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIn this travel guide, we\u2019ll share a few of our favorite activities you may want to add to your itinerary on your Caribbean getaway.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to Do in St. Martin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Visit Orient Bay<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Orient Bay Beach<\/em><\/strong> (Photo Credit: Zina Seletskaya<\/a>) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nThere\u2019s simply no way to avoid the wonders of Orient Bay Beach<\/a> if you venture to wondrous St. Martin. It\u2019s often referred to as Baie Orientale<\/em> by the French, and it\u2019s easily among the largest and most popular beaches on the island. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIn fact, some refer to it as the Caribbean\u2019s very own Saint-Tropez. It\u2019s an ideal spot for surfing, lounging on the white sand, or simply escaping from the chaos of the world for a while.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hop on a Kayak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: JananiUS<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIndulge your adventurous side with a wonderful experience on the water. While you might make time for swimming or surfing, save some additional time for kayaking, too. Specifically, you may want to make your way to beautiful Pinel Island<\/a>. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIt\u2019s simply exquisite, offering postcard-perfect views and such placid surroundings that you may never want to leave. Dreamy turquoise and golden hues await, and though you could drive or take a shuttle boat, a kayak offers a fun alternative to really enjoy the clear water that you\u2019ll want to lock in your memories. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nOtherwise, there\u2019s a five-minute shuttle boat \u2014 but no matter how you choose to get there, you can feel comfortable on the calm waters.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dine on Pinel Island<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nOf course, while you\u2019re there you may want to stop for a bite to eat and a sip to drink \u2014 you don\u2019t want to travel hungry. The island is home to a couple of stunning beaches, and several wonderfully vibrant beachside restaurants. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nAmong them is Le Karibuni, which specializes in authentic Caribbean cuisine that is so mouthwatering, you may just want to enjoy several meals there before you return home. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThere\u2019s also the Yellow Beach restaurant, fittingly equipped with bright yellow beach chairs that sit perched on the sand overlooking the pristine waters. Here, you can feast on fresh fish or barbecue, then sip a cocktail as you relax under the sun. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grab Some Baked Goods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: NATTAKUN1234<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nSt. Maarten happens to be a great place to indulge in some baked goods, especially if you find yourself in Marigot. The village is home to Chez Fernand la French Bakery, a chic little spot known for its mouth watering pastries, croissants, baguettes, and other area favorites. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nBe sure to try the locally made items with guavaberry- yum! You can also stop here for lunch, as they offer an array of pizzas and sandwiches (and even ice cream).\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n35 Boulevard de France Front de Mer, Saint Martin<\/em>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take Part in Water Sports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Zina Seletskaya<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you\u2019re a water sports enthusiast, there\u2019s so much to do in St. Martin that you may not be able to fit it all into your schedule. Do your best, though, because Orient Bay is an especially outstanding spot to enjoy windsurfing, flyboarding, scuba diving, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, parasailing, surfing, and jet-skiing. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nOf course, you don\u2019t need to be a world-class athlete of any kind to enjoy shore excursions here \u2014 even a swim in the ocean or an exploration of one of the many coves under the beauty of the blazing sun is a wonderful idea at any time.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Go on a Snorkeling Adventure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Anchored to go snorkeling near the island of Pinel off the coast of St. Martin.<\/em><\/strong> (Photo Credit: bcampbell65<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nThere are many places to go snorkeling on both the French and Dutch sides, but among the most appealing to enthusiasts is Pinel Island. During your explorations, you venture into photo-worthy territories that may seem like something out of a dream. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIn the ocean waters, expect to come across humbling and truly beautiful marine animals. There are turtles and eye-catching fish and conch snails galore \u2014 and at no deeper than 30 feet, they\u2019re easy for even relative novices to spot. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Head to Bikini Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Miro Vrlik Photography<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nBikini Beach is a hip and lively eatery set \u2014 where else? \u2014 on the beach. It\u2019s cozy, it\u2019s fun, and it\u2019s highly atmospheric, so there\u2019s little doubt you\u2019ll leave feeling like a true St. Martin-er. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nTake a seat on a couch on the sand or enjoy a perch on the deck. You\u2019ll want to dig right into the establishment\u2019s VIP dishes, like the beloved Bikini Salad featuring fresh shrimp and half lobster tail with tropical fruits. There are also fantastic cocktails and mouth watering appetizers on the menu \u2014 and if you\u2019re there at the right time, you may even catch some live music.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nOrient Bay, Saint Martin<\/em>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take Flight in a Gyrocopter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Even if you\u2019ve never thought of yourself as the highly adventurous type, you might find that some mysterious force overtakes you when you arrive in the Caribbean. Your senses are heightened, you\u2019re inspired by your surroundings, and your curiosity may be just piqued enough to hop aboard a gyrocopter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nWhat\u2019s this, you might wonder? Make your way to Grand Case Airport and you\u2019ll spot the interesting glider that features two seats \u2014 and not a single window. Don\u2019t be alarmed by the open nature of the design: you\u2019ll appreciate it far more when you\u2019re up above St. Martin, exploring the island and taking in its awe-inspiring beauty from a fresh vantage point.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThis journey is worth every minute for the panoramic views alone. You\u2019ll see Orient Bay, Gallon Reserve, and the coastline \u2014 and you\u2019ll feel it all, from the wind as it whips at your hair to the sun as it grazes your skin. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nExpect to see other fantastic Caribbean hotspots, too, like Loterie Farm, Paradise Peak, Anse Marcel bay, Green Cay, Pinel Island, and Tintamarre Island. As your pilot lands, you\u2019ll glimpse Grand Case bay and Creole Rock. You can be certain you\u2019ll land a changed person after this unforgettable experience.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Go Parachuting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Sergey Ginak<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like the idea of experiencing St. Martin from up above but don\u2019t necessarily want to board an aircraft, try the next best thing: a parachute! This is undoubtedly a fun experience for anyone with a thirst for adventure \u2014 and if you consider yourself something of a thrill-seeker, you will be delighted by what you experience. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThis activity is best experienced anytime from November through April, when the skies are pleasantly warm and you have an unfiltered view of the Caribbean\u2019s expansive beauty. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nYou\u2019ll enjoy your tandem skydiving experience in the company of a skilled instructor, who will provide you with everything you need to know before your safe and exciting experience. You\u2019ll see St. Martin in all its glory, alongside Pinel Island, Tintamarre Island, and St. Barts.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spend the Day at Happy Bay<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Steve Heap<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIf it\u2019s solitude and isolation you crave, you may well find it at Happy Bay<\/a>. This placid beach takes peace and quiet to an entirely new level \u2014 and you may well develop a new appreciation for Mother Nature while you\u2019re there. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIt\u2019s a study in sheer beauty, what with its winding hiking trails, its crisp blue waters, its vast cliffs, its immense hills, and its impressive coastal grounds. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThere\u2019s so much here to admire that you may be tempted to spend the rest of your time simply sitting and gazing around \u2014 and who could blame you for it? If you\u2019re a nature enthusiast, this is the place to be. If you love to surf, this is a good spot to bring your board and catch the waves in solitude. If you\u2019re ready to get down to the business of meditating, you can definitely do that here \u2014 that\u2019s how quiet and out-of-the-way Happy Bay happens to be.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to Do in St. Maarten<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Get Busy Shopping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Philipsburg<\/em><\/strong> (Photo Credit: starryvoyage<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Caribbean island is renowned for its duty-free shopping, but there\u2019s something extra special about what you\u2019ll find when you visit the island of St. Maarten. Head straight for Philipsburg<\/a>, the capital, and find an array of boutiques overlooking the water. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nYou\u2019ll find a wide assortment of gift-worthy items and special items you\u2019ll want to purchase on the spot \u2014 like iconic Caribbean crafts and artwork. Wander Front Street and bask in the shadows of the sublime palm fronds that wave above as you wander the busy sidewalks. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you\u2019re searching for something specific, chances are you\u2019ll find it here. The boutiques are packed with everything from jewelry to home goods, along with many regional items that make fantastic souvenirs for those on your list.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore the Architecture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: FredP<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you admire old-world architecture or simply have an interest in history, you\u2019ll appreciate the beauty of Philipsburg. Take your time walking down Old Street, where you\u2019ll bask in Creole-style structures and classic West Indian architecture. Look for distinctive details, like pastel tones that color the homes and striking verandas offering views of the bustling roads below.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soak Up Local History<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Courthouse<\/strong><\/em> (Photo Credit: Naeblys<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nAmong the most interesting features found on Front Street in Sint Maarten is the Courthouse. Dating from the late 18th century, the structure is made with white wood and spells \u201ccourthouse\u201d in distinctive lettering across its old-world fa\u00e7ade. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nDon\u2019t miss the museum, also on Front Street, where you can take a step back in time and view ancient artifacts. Among the most noteworthy is the cargo that was rescued from a ship that sank on the coast in the early 19th century. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIt\u2019s also worth learning about Fort Amsterdam, which dates from the early 1630s and served as a Caribbean military outpost for the Dutch. While the Spanish captured it shortly after its construction, it was eventually returned to Dutch hands. The other fort in St. Maarten is Fort Willem, which is distinctive because it has a transmission tower that casts a shadow over it.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Charter a Boat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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A chartered private luxury yacht leaving Isle de Sol through the Simpson Bay Drawbridge <\/em><\/strong>(Photo Credit: jessica.kirsh<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nIt\u2019s not a true visit to St. Maarten without at least some time spent on the water. You don\u2019t need to be a water sports enthusiast to board a vessel and take in the magnificence of your surroundings from this vantage point. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nOf course, you could also rent a boat and explore some of the area\u2019s more secluded beaches. If you\u2019re feeling adventurous, bring your snorkeling gear or hop aboard a yacht and speed on the water for an experience you won\u2019t forget.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make Time for Simpson Bay<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Simpson Bay<\/em><\/strong> (Photo Credit: jessica.kirsh<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nThe longest beach in St. Maarten is Simpson Bay<\/a>. If you\u2019re hoping to soak up the true Caribbean experience, you simply won\u2019t find a better place for it. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe sands here are plush, white, and thick. The waters are calm, with that alluring turquoise hue and glassy glint you may have only seen in your dreams. The palm trees sway gently in the light breeze, fanning you just right as you sink your toes into the sand and gaze at the water. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIt\u2019s situated relatively near the Princess Juliana International Airport, but don\u2019t expect to be disturbed by any noises \u2014 the beach is quiet, peaceful, and fairly free of crowds even during busier times of the year.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit a Beach Bar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Chris Allan<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\nThere are beach bars galore to explore if your primary goal is simply to relax, unwind, breathe in the fresh ocean air, listen to the waves crash against the shoreline, and experience the meaning of pure bliss. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nAmong the most popular on the island are the:\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n