Planning a trip to Saint Martin and wondering where to go? Saint Martin, located in the northeast Caribbean Sea, is well-known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, rum-based drinks, and tasty French and Indian Caribbean cuisine. The island has both Dutch and French governance, so be sure to explore both sides!
If you’re excited about your trip, here are some top spots to check out for inspiration:
Maho Beach is a must-visit on the Dutch side of Saint Martin. It’s uniquely positioned near the end of a runway, making it an exhilarating spot for plane-watching. Planes fly just 30 meters above the ground here, giving you an unforgettable experience and perfect photo opportunities.
Mullet Bay Beach and Cupecoy Beach are other great spots on the Dutch side. Mullet Bay is calmer than Maho Beach but can get crowded during peak season. Cupecoy Beach, located just 1.6 km away, is quieter and surrounded by limestone cliffs, making it ideal for sunset views. It’s also the last beach on the Dutch side.
Pic Paradis, or Pic du Paradis, is the highest point on the island and offers fantastic views. Located on the French side, it’s a 424-meter mountain with forested slopes recognized as an Important Bird Area. On your hike, you might spot monkeys and iguanas. Don’t miss Loterie Farm at the base, where you can explore various walking trails and take a forest canopy tour with zip lines and elevated bridges for a bird’s-eye view.
Orient Bay on the French side is another popular beach with soft white sand and clear water. Though it was heavily damaged by a hurricane, it remains a beautiful spot to soak up the sun. Note that part of the beach is a nude section and swimming can be risky due to strong waves.
Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side, is a great starting point for your trip. This colorful town has a lot to offer, including St. Maarten Zoo, a rum distillery, and historical Fort Amsterdam from the 17th century. For stunning views, walk up Cole Bay Hill to see the town and nearby islands.
Rainforest Adventures is an eco-adventure park set in the hills, offering exciting activities like zip lines, tubing, and chair lift rides. The park features the world’s steepest zip line, the Flying Dutchman. Located just a few kilometers from Philipsburg, it’s a popular and often busy destination.
Marigot, the capital of the French side, is a charming town with brightly colored houses and a picturesque harbor. Explore Fort St. Louis, the most notable building, and visit Marigot Market for shopping. You’ll find everything from fish and fruits to spices and souvenirs.
By visiting these highlighted spots, you’ll get a true taste of what Saint Martin has to offer!