A Traveler's Guide to St. Martin / Sint Maarten
Welcome to St. Martin, a unique island with two distinct personalities. The French side, St. Martin, is known for its quiet, romantic beaches and world-class gourmet cuisine. The Dutch side, Sint Maarten, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, lively casinos, and duty-free shopping. Together, they create a blend of European sophistication and Caribbean fun that is unlike anywhere else.
Here are five not-to-miss activities for your journey.
1. Watch the Planes at Maho Beach (Sint Maarten)
Experience a thrilling and iconic spectacle at Maho Beach, where huge commercial airplanes fly just a few feet overhead as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport. The rush of the jet engines and the unbelievable proximity of the planes make for a truly unique and memorable experience.
2. Indulge in Grand Case's Culinary Scene (St. Martin)
Known as the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," the small village of Grand Case on the French side is a food lover's paradise. Stroll along the main street lined with charming Creole "lolo" restaurants and elegant French eateries, offering a feast of fresh seafood and exquisite flavors.
3. Hike to Pic Paradis
For the best panoramic views of the entire island, take a hike to Pic Paradis. As the highest point on the island, the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the lush green hills, the vibrant blue ocean, and both sides of the island. It’s a rewarding trek for those seeking a little adventure away from the beach.
4. Explore Pinel Island (St. Martin)
Escape to this tiny, tranquil islet located just off the coast. A short ferry ride brings you to Pinel Island, a peaceful nature reserve where you can snorkel in the calm, clear waters of a protected bay and relax on a pristine beach with a casual, beachfront restaurant. It’s the perfect spot for a serene day trip.
5. Go Shopping in Philipsburg (Sint Maarten)
Visit the capital of the Dutch side, a bustling hub known for its duty-free shopping. Stroll along the picturesque boardwalk, which runs along the curve of Great Bay, and explore the hundreds of shops selling jewelry, electronics, local rum, and souvenirs at excellent prices.
Travel with Purpose: Sustainable Tips & Ways to Give Back
Making a positive impact on the places you visit enhances your travel experience and helps protect these beautiful destinations for generations to come.
Support Local Businesses: Enjoy the local "lolo" restaurants in Grand Case and shop for unique art and crafts from local vendors to ensure your travel dollars directly benefit the community.
Conserve Water and Energy: Water is a precious resource on an island. Be mindful of your consumption by taking shorter showers and turning off lights and air conditioning when you're not in your room.
Reduce Waste: Say no to single-use plastics and carry a reusable water bottle. Being conscious of your waste footprint helps the island's limited infrastructure.
Respect the Environment: Avoid walking on coral reefs while snorkeling and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in protected areas like Pinel Island.
Ready to book your next visit to St. Marteen? Contact Us today.