Top 15 Activities in St. Martin for Unforgettable Experiences

At once a blend of French and Dutch cultures, vibrant yet relaxed, adorned with picturesque beaches and ascending to palm-fringed hilltops, renowned for its shopping and exquisite guavaberry rums, as well as its lively seaside bars and casino-driven nightlife, St. Martin boasts a myriad of attractions.

It is unsurprising that numerous cruise ships choose to dock in the harbors of Marigot and Philipsburg as they navigate through this enchanting region.

This offers travelers an extensive array of experiences, ranging from elevated viewpoints providing panoramic vistas towards Anguilla, to the stunning shores of Orient Bay.

Visitors can also engage in thrilling activities such as jet skiing, observe vibrant butterflies, sail to remote islands, delve into the historical conflicts between the Netherlands and Spanish explorers, interact with macaws and observe bearded monkeys, concluding with an assortment of delectable rums and gourmet cuisine influenced by French culinary traditions.

Here are the most recommended activities in St. Martin:

1. Enjoy the views from Fort Louis

Although little remains of the historic fortifications and structures once occupied by French colonists who controlled the ports and waterways of Marigot Bay, the ascent along the winding paths beginning at the end of Rue du Fort Saint Louis remains worthwhile to explore this crumbling historic site.

Once among the largest forts on the island, Fort Louis was a battleground for armed confrontations between the significant European powers in the Caribbean, with some rusted cannons still visible at the lookout points.

However, it is the breathtaking panoramas that truly attract visitors, offering a 180-degree vista of Marigot Harbor and the hills above Bellevue, with the deep-blue ocean and the silhouette of Anguilla Island visible in the distance when the weather permits.

2. Macaws and iguanas at the St. Maarten Zoo

A remarkable introduction to the diverse array of endemic species native to St. Martin and the Caribbean tropics can be experienced at the island’s zoological gardens.

Situated on the northern boundary of the Great Salt Pond encompassing Philipsburg in the Dutch territory, these gardens are patrolled by peacocks and filled with the sounds of lurking ocelots and swinging green vervet monkeys.

Among the most captivating creatures here are the cotton-topped tamarin, marmosets, and the intriguing, albeit large, capybara—the world’s largest rodent!

3. Hike to the summit of Pic Paradis

Overlooking the whitewashed homes and sparkling beaches of Orient Bay, as well as the charming French Quarter of Orleans and the languid lagoons surrounding Philipsburg, Pic Paradis offers some of the most breathtaking vistas on the island.

This location also serves as the destination for many scenic hikes through the natural landscapes of St. Martin.

Some ideal trails leading to the summit navigate through the Careta Ravine and the banks of the picturesque Hope Lake, while others traverse the Northeast Ridges towards the ghost village of Petit-Fond.

Do not forget to carry your camera!

4. Conquer the ziplines of Loterie Farm

Established on the grounds of a historic plantation, Loterie Farm has transformed into a versatile resort that embraces the lush surroundings of Pic Paradis hill.

Featuring shimmering pools and treehouse-style cabanas sprinkled throughout its meticulously maintained gardens, it also hosts various on-site dining options, from the earthy Bamboo Room to the Hidden Forest Café.

Nevertheless, most visitors come here to experience exhilarating adventures; to tackle a series of Tarzan-like ziplines and swinging rope bridges configured through the jungle canopies.

Simply arrive at the entrance to the aptly named Fly Zone!

5. Watch KLM fly in on Maho Beach

While there are certainly more picturesque beaches along the coast of St. Martin, both on the Dutch and French sides of the island, visitors flock to Maho Beach not primarily for sunbathing (despite its appealing conditions!).

Most come to gaze skyward as the impressive KLM aircraft and others initiate their descent.

This phenomenon occurs because the runways of Princess Juliana International Airport are situated just a few meters behind, allowing landings to bring these formidable planes within arm’s reach of beachgoers, creating a captivating spectacle!

6. Sample potent drinks at the Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company

The local interpretation of the Caribbean’s favored spirit (rum, for clarity) found here is a powerful concoction of sugarcane and the unique guavaberries that flourish in the central hills of the island.

There is arguably no better venue for sampling this intriguing beverage than at the Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company, where shelves brim with bottles of this schnapps-like drink manned by friendly local staff.

Expect an abundance of complimentary samples of guava berry colada and straight shots, so prepare for an unforgettable experience!

7. Enjoy the tropical beauty of Mullet Bay

After observing the impressive planes at Maho Beach, make sure to visit the breathtaking stretch of Mullet Bay.

Situated in its own secluded cove just around the bend from Princess Juliana Airport, this beach offers everything: glittering white sands, lapping Caribbean waves shimmering in a spectrum of blue hues, and splashing waves for bodyboard enthusiasts.

Despite experiencing the devastation of a hurricane in the 90s, remnants of infrastructure endure here, including lively beach bars nestled among swaying palms at the rear of the shore.

8. Meet the local fliers at The Butterfly Farm

The St. Martin branch of The Butterfly Farm provides visitors with a splendid opportunity to observe some of the Caribbean’s most awe-inspiring airborne creatures up close.

The facility is nestled within picturesque gardens blooming with ferns and vibrant tropical plants, accented with delicately flowing water features.

The butterflies here present a magnificent display, featuring species such as mimic-whites and stunning checkered swallowtails.

Additionally, visitors can participate in workshops related to butterfly-friendly gardening techniques and horticulture.

9. Orient Bay Beach: one of the world’s best

Numerous factors contribute to travelers lauding the golden-yellow sands and turquoise waters of Orient Bay, which curves elegantly along the northeastern coast of the island, as one of the premier beach destinations worldwide.

Popular among naturists and others alike, this stretch boasts comprehensive facilities, with numerous deck chairs and loungers available.

For those preferring an active experience over lazing about watching clouds drift by over the verdant mountains, a variety of options is available: jet skiing, beach volleyball, and inflatable water activities.

10. Stroll the Philipsburg Boardwalk

Stretching alongside Great Bay Beach, where the city of Philipsburg meets the Caribbean Sea, the Boardwalk is lively and exciting.

Concession stands serving hot dogs and local eateries waft enticing aromas of Jamaican jerk and other delights along the pathway.

Shoppers will appreciate the vast bazaar located at one end of the promenade, filled with arts, crafts, and brightly colored accessories.

Additionally, numerous establishments offer refreshing beverages just steps from the sand, providing delightful opportunities for people-watching!

11. Sail across to Tintamarre Island

Located just across the Caribbean straits from the well-known beaches of Cul-de-Sac and Orient lies the small island of Tintamarre.

This dry land, featuring scrub vegetation uplifted from the waves by a rugged expanse of sandy cliffs, remains undeveloped and untouched, apart from the remnants of a historic cotton plantation dating back centuries.

Visitors to this tranquil haven relish the privacy found here, which is unmatched on St. Martin, with attractions such as the inlet of Blanche Bay offering shallow swimming areas and the coral gardens of the Saint Martin Nature Reserve teeming with diverse sea life and parrotfish.

12. Hit the craps at Casino Royale

Brightly colored and strategically positioned overlooking the runways of Princess Juliana Airport and the beaches of Maho Bay, Casino Royale is among the largest and most frequented venues for poker and craps in St. Martin, known as the Las Vegas of the Caribbean.

This reputation is well-earned, as this expansive gaming facility within the Maho Village Resort spans an impressive 21,000 square feet, featuring rows of slot machines and betting devices, complemented by over 20 card gaming tables.

Moreover, lively entertainment occurs regularly, including Caribbean samba bands and magnificent cocktail soirées hosted at the Dejavu Lounge!

13. Enjoy refined regional cuisine at Bistrot Caraibes

Upholding the standards of haute French cuisine far from its homeland is a commendable challenge.

Nevertheless, phenomenally rated Bistrot Caraibes consistently excels in this endeavor.

The menu features a wonderful selection, including lobster thermidor, braised red snapper, honey-glazed duck breast, mushroom risotto, veal gratin with blue cheese, fresh sea scallops, and duck liver with mango ceviche—truly a delight for culinary enthusiasts—while the cozy setting, with whitewashed walls and intimate tables, provides one of the most romantic dining experiences in Grand Case.

14. See historic coins and cannons atop Fort Amsterdam

Fort Amsterdam signifies the location where the initial Dutch settlers of St. Martin (the first Europeans to arrive on the island) established their territory.

The ancient walls and cannon turrets, which date back to the mid-17th century, are still visible, jutting into the waters between Great Bay and Little Bay on the southern edge of Philipsburg.

This site is wrapped in a rich history that began with the Spanish-Dutch conflicts of the 1600s, which prompted the first transfer of control of Fort Amsterdam, ultimately culminating in the complete Iberian conquest of the island’s southern region.

15. Hit the shops of Old Street

Adorned with charming rows of 19th-century townhouses painted in pastel colors, Old Street has evolved into one of the premier retail centers in this shopping-centric Caribbean enclave.

Much of its length offers duty-free shopping, presenting enticing prospects for souvenirs and unique finds.

Apart from the grand shopping plazas in Marigot, this stretch features some of the finest craft stores on the island, where local fabrics and bespoke garments are displayed alongside handmade jewelry, as well as delightful platters of Caribbean cuisine available from nearby eateries (including Back Street, known for its delectable offerings).