11 Fun Things to Do in St. Maarten - The Best Activities & Experiences

There are so many wonderful things to do in St. Maarten for every type of traveler. Explore what to do in St. Martin and plan to experience some of these activities and excursions that you will love.

What to do in St Maarten Island

We love a trip to the Caribbean, and recently, we got the chance to visit the island of St. Maarten! My sister and I took a week away from day-to-day life to recharge and explore this beautiful destination.

St. Maarten has all of the gorgeous beaches, amazing weather, and island-style attractions we love, yet blends the culture and cuisine of the Caribbean with two different European nations.

Here’s what we love about this Caribbean island

If you’re searching for what to do in St. Maarten, you’re in for something special. This Caribbean island is uniquely split between two countries — the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint-Martin). That means double the culture, double the cuisine, and endless adventure packed into just 37 square miles.

We stayed on the Dutch side of the island (check out The Morgan Resort – fantastic!), where the airport and most of the lively activities are located. Whether you’re planning a cruise stop, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, here are the top St. Maarten activities and attractions you won’t want to miss.

11 of the best things to do in St. Maarten

The Dutch Side (Sint Maarten)

The Dutch side is lively, energetic, and packed with entertainment, shopping, and water adventures. This is generally the southern side of the island, and the airport is located here.

1. Experience the Thrill of Maho Beach

One of the most famous St. Maarten attractions is watching airplanes land just overhead at Maho Beach near
Princess Juliana International Airport. Jets fly low over the sand, creating unforgettable moments for photos. Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot and check arrival schedules before you go.

Learn more: https://www.sxm-airport.com/plane-spotting

2. Sail Around the Island on a Catamaran Cruise

If you’re narrowing down the best things to do in St. Maarten, put a sailing excursion at the top of your list. If you love to snorkel and spend a day on the water, there are several catamaran day trips available in St. Maarten. A full-day catamaran cruise typically includes:

Full-day and half-day options
Snorkeling stops
Open bar
Island lunch
Swimming in hidden coves

We did not get the chance to go out on a catamaran trip this time, but this company is popular and highly-rated: https://www.viator.com/St-Maarten-tours/Catamaran-Cruises/d728-g3-c32016

3. Ride the Sky Explorer at Rainforest Adventures

For panoramic island views, visit Rainforest Adventures St Maarten. Take the Sky Explorer chairlift to the top of Sentry Hill and enjoy sweeping views of both the French and Dutch sides. Adventure seekers can also try the zipline course.

Official site: https://www.rainforestadventure.com/st-maarten/

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4. Explore Philipsburg’s Boardwalk & Duty-Free Shopping

The capital of the Dutch side, Philipsburg, is perfect for strolling, souvenir shopping, and waterfront dining. You’ll find jewelry and electronics, Caribbean art and crafts, Beach bars along Great Bay, and more shopping and dining.

Learn more about visiting Philipsburg on the Dutch side: https://www.vacationstmaarten.com/our-island/philipsburg/

5. Relax at Mullet Bay Beach in St. Maarten

Looking for classic Caribbean beauty? Mullet Bay Beach offers soft sand, turquoise water, and fewer crowds than Maho.

It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding with a drink from a beach shack. We actually took a walk here from Maho Beach and spent some time enjoying the beach and watching the sunset while sipping cocktails at Da Waterhole.

6. Topper’s Rum Distillery Tour

If you are a rum fan, the Topper’s Distillery tour is a wonderful way to learn about the rum-making process and taste a few of the island’s varietals along the way! “This experience blends culture, craftsmanship, and indulgence, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how Topper’s creates award-winning rhums.” Multiple tour options are available.

Tour info: https://www.toppers.sx/

Maho Beach, Dutch side of St Maarten

Best Things to Do on the French Side (Saint Martin)

The French side feels more relaxed and European, known for gourmet dining, scenic beaches, and charming villages. While you’re here, don’t miss a meal at one of the lolo’s, a small, traditional restaurant serving up local Caribbean-style cuisine grilled right in front of your eyes (try Rosemary’s in Marigot, and Talk of the Town in Grand Case)!

7. Spend the Day at Orient Bay

Orient Bay Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is full of brightly-colored buildings, seaside French cuisine, laid-back locals and tourists, and parts of this beach area are clothing optional! Here you can:

Jet ski or parasail
Dine at beach clubs
Relax on soft white sand

9. Adventure at Loterie Farm

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Loterie Farm. This private nature reserve in the jungle offers so many wonderful activities in St. Martin, where you can zipline, hike, swim, or lounge in beautiful, lush surroundings:

Ziplining through a tropical forest
Hiking trails
A chic jungle pool area with cabanas available
A monthly pool party that is high-energy and exciting!

Reserve your adventure in St Martin here: https://www.loteriefarm.com/

10. Take a Day Trip to Pinel Island

Just offshore from the French side is Pinel Island. A short ferry ride brings you to a quiet island with shallow waters perfect for families and snorkeling.

Here is the Pinel Island ferry information: https://www.caribbeanpaddling.com/pinel-island/ferry

11. Hike to Pic Paradis

The highest point on the island, Pic Paradis, offers scenic hiking trails and sweeping Caribbean views. You can hike to the top (over 1,300 feet high) or drive up and see wildlife, lovely jungle flora and fauna, and a 360-degree view of the island. It’s one of the most underrated St. Martin excursions for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for Planning Your St. Maarten Trip

Try visiting both sides of the island – each offers unique culture, food, and experiences.
No passport required between sides — you can drive freely (but you do need a passport to arrive and depart the island).
The Dutch side uses USD; the French side uses Euro (but USD is widely accepted).
Renting a car makes it easy to explore both cultures.
Book water excursions in advance during high season – highly recommended!

How to get to St. Maarten island in the Caribbean

St. Maarten is located in the Caribbean, and there are plenty of flights from several international airports. To find flights to SXM airport (Princess Juliana International Airport), click here to search for flights to Sint Maarten from your location.

Enjoy your trip to the Caribbean

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