The dual-nation island of St Maarten and St Martin has long been one of the Caribbean’s most compelling destinations, pairing Dutch and French cultures with calm bays, powder-soft beaches, and a surprisingly vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Whether you arrive by cruise ship or on a dramatic plane landing over Maho Beach, you will find a compact island packed with beaches, tours, and activities that feel far larger than its 37 square miles.

Iconic Beaches You Should Not Miss

St Maarten is ringed by nearly 40 beaches, and several of them consistently rank among the best in the Caribbean. Each beach has a distinct personality, from family-friendly stretches lined with cafes to wild surf spots and clothing-optional coves. With recent awards from major travel outlets and steady investment in visitor facilities, the island’s beaches are more appealing than ever for day visitors and longer-stay travelers alike.

Maho Beach

Maho Beach, on the Dutch side near Princess Juliana International Airport, is arguably the most famous stretch of sand in the Caribbean. The small cove frames startlingly clear water, but the main attraction is the spectacle of commercial jets gliding just overhead as they land or depart from the runway behind the beach.

Visitors typically spend an hour or two watching arrivals, snapping photos, and timing their swims and drinks with the overhead roars of engines. Beach bars and restaurants line the shore, often posting daily flight times and turning landings into a kind of island theater. The beach itself is narrow and can be windy from jet blast, so it is better suited to a quick visit than a full-day lounge.

  • Check flight arrival boards before you go so you catch the larger widebody aircraft.
  • Stand well back from the fence and heed warning signs when aircraft are taking off.
  • Bring a secure strap for phones or cameras since jet wash can be surprisingly strong.

Orient Bay Beach

On the French side, Orient Bay Beach enjoys a reputation as one of the Caribbean’s premier beaches, combining a broad crescent of white sand with a lively beachfront promenade. The bay draws a mix of families, couples, and water sports enthusiasts, and its offshore reef helps keep the water relatively calm for swimming and paddling.

Rows of beach clubs and restaurants rent loungers and umbrellas, serve long lunches, and provide easy access to showers and facilities. The south end of the beach has long been known for its clothing-optional section, while the central and northern portions remain firmly family-friendly. Kite surfers and windsurfers flock here when trade winds pick up, creating a colorful scene of sails and boards skimming across the bay.

Great Bay Beach

Great Bay Beach stretches in a wide arc in front of Philipsburg, the capital on the Dutch side, and is one of the first beaches cruise passengers encounter. In early 2025 it was singled out among the top beaches in the Caribbean by a major U.S. travel media outlet, underscoring its strong appeal for visitors who want convenience paired with postcard views.

The beach runs parallel to a pedestrian boardwalk lined with bars, shops, and casual restaurants where you can step directly from sand to shaded terrace. The water here is typically calm and shallow for a good distance, making it popular with families and day visitors who want to combine shopping and sightseeing with an easy swim. Beach chairs and umbrellas are widely available for rent, and the proximity to the cruise pier keeps the atmosphere lively on ship days.

Mullet Bay Beach

Mullet Bay Beach, just west of Maho, offers a more relaxed feel while still being close to several of the island’s main resort areas. The wide, gently curving bay combines clear turquoise water with soft sand and pockets of shade under sea grape trees. Local families and residents favor Mullet on weekends, lending it an authentic island atmosphere.

Simple beach shacks serve grilled fish, ribs, and cold drinks, and there are usually chairs and umbrellas for rent. The right-hand side of the bay can see moderate surf and small body-surfing waves, particularly in winter, while the central section often stays calm enough for swimming. Snorkeling near the rocky edges of the bay reveals small reef fish and sea fans.

Water Adventures and Boat Excursions

Surrounded by deep-blue Caribbean water and dotted with bays, reefs, and neighboring islands, St Maarten is a natural hub for boat trips and water-based activities. From half-day snorkeling sails to full-day powerboat tours that circle the island, the range of excursions continues to expand, with operators updating fleets and itineraries to meet current demand. Snorkelers, divers, and casual swimmers all have options that depart conveniently from both Dutch and French sides.

Snorkeling and Catamaran Cruises

Catamaran cruises are one of the most popular ways to explore the island’s coastline and offshore reefs. These trips typically depart from Simpson Bay, Philipsburg, or Oyster Pond and combine scenic sailing with stops at sheltered coves for swimming and snorkeling.

Itineraries may include well-known spots such as Tintamarre Island, Creole Rock off the French side, or quieter bays like Little Bay near Philipsburg. Calm conditions often allow beginners to snorkel comfortably, while more confident swimmers can venture further from the boat to search for turtles, rays, and schools of reef fish. Many operators wrap the day in an open-bar policy and barbecue lunches served on board or at a beachside grill.

  • Choose morning departures for the best light and typically calmer seas.
  • Look for operators that limit group sizes to maintain a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Bring a reef-safe sunscreen to help protect coral and marine life.

Powerboat Island Hopping

Faster powerboat tours draw travelers who want to see as much as possible in a single day. These excursions often circumnavigate St Maarten and cross briefly into French waters, stopping at a mix of beaches, snorkeling sites, and waterfront restaurants.

Typical routes include speedy runs past the mega-yachts of Simpson Bay Lagoon, beach stops at Mullet Bay or Friar’s Bay, and snorkeling sessions around small rocky islets. The pace is more active than a catamaran cruise, and the smaller passenger loads create a slightly more intimate experience. Seating is usually on cushioned benches along the sides of open-deck boats, so expect sun exposure and the occasional splash.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

For travelers who prefer to move at their own pace, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are readily available on several beaches and in protected lagoons. The calm waters of Simpson Bay Lagoon, in particular, are well suited to paddle sports and allow for close-up views of mangroves and marine life in the shallows.

Several outfitters offer guided eco-tours that explain the lagoon’s role as a nursery for juvenile reef fish and highlight the ongoing efforts to protect its remaining mangrove stands. Guided trips from other launch points along the coast may explore small caves, rocky headlands, and quieter coves that are difficult to reach by land. Rental shops typically provide life jackets and basic instruction, making these activities accessible even to beginners.

On-Land Adventures and Scenic Views

Beyond its beaches, St Maarten offers a surprisingly varied interior, with steep hills, viewpoints, and remnants of colonial forts. In the years since major hurricanes damaged much of the island’s infrastructure, investments in attractions such as zip lines and chairlifts have created new reasons to explore beyond the shoreline. Active travelers can easily fill a day or more hiking, zip lining, or visiting historical sites that overlook bays and harbors.

Rainforest Adventures and the Flying Dutchman Zip Line

Rockland Estate, above Philipsburg, is home to a multi-attraction adventure park operated under the Rainforest Adventures brand. The signature draw is the Flying Dutchman, a harness-style zip line that drops riders from the summit station down one of the steepest commercial zip line courses in the world.

Visitors first ascend the mountain via the Sky Explorer chairlift, which offers wide-open views over Great Bay, Philipsburg, and neighboring islands on clear days. At the top, riders are secured into chair-like harnesses and launched on a rapid descent that can reach highway speeds. The ride is short but intense, appealing to adrenaline-seekers and families with older children.

For those who prefer gentler experiences, the same complex offers a slower-paced chairlift-only ticket and additional attractions, such as a museum exhibit that presents the estate’s history and its connections to the island’s plantation era.

Fort Amsterdam

Fort Amsterdam occupies a rocky peninsula between Great Bay and Little Bay, not far from Philipsburg. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century and contested for control during the colonial era, the fort now stands as a quiet historical site with sweeping views of the bay and cruise harbor.

Visitors can follow a short path from the lower parking area up to the fort’s low stone walls and crumbling foundations. A handful of old cannons still point toward the sea, and informational signs detail the site’s role in regional conflicts. Brown pelicans nest on cliffs below the fort, adding a wildlife component to the visit.

The walk is relatively short but can be hot in midday sun, so it is best attempted in the morning or late afternoon. Sturdy sandals or walking shoes and drinking water will make the climb more comfortable.

Hiking to Pic Paradis

Pic Paradis, or Paradise Peak, is the highest point on the island and offers some of the best panoramic views of both the French and Dutch sides. The summit area is accessible by a rough road and several trail options, some of which start near the village of Rambaud on the French side.

Guided hikes typically wind through tropical vegetation, past occasional viewpoints that reveal coastal bays and offshore islands. Trails can be steep and muddy after rain, and some sections are not well marked, so many visitors opt for a local guide who knows the routes and current conditions.

On clear days the summit views stretch to Anguilla, St Barths, and Saba. Birdlife is abundant in the forested upper slopes, making Pic Paradis a worthwhile outing for those interested in the island’s natural side as well as its beaches.

Cultural Experiences, Towns, and Nightlife

St Maarten’s culture reflects its blended Dutch and French heritage along with Caribbean, African, and Latin American influences. That mix comes through most clearly in its small towns, local markets, and food. Spending time off the beach in Philipsburg and Marigot, and seeking out local restaurants and music venues, reveals a more nuanced portrait of the island than resort enclaves alone can provide.

Exploring Philipsburg

Philipsburg, on the Dutch side, serves as the main commercial center and cruise hub. Two primary streets run behind the beachfront boardwalk, lined with duty-free shops, jewelry stores, electronics retailers, and clothing boutiques. On cruise days the town can feel busy, but side streets and alleyways still reveal quieter corners.

The pastel-colored courthouse in the center of town stands as one of Philipsburg’s most recognizable landmarks, and small museums and galleries showcase local history and contemporary art. Cafes and bars open onto the waterfront, giving visitors a place to pause between shopping and beach time at Great Bay. After dark, some venues feature live music or DJs, extending the town’s energy into the evening for those not staying far from the center.

Marigot and the French Side Markets

Across the border on the French side, Marigot offers a distinctly different atmosphere. The waterfront area mixes French-style cafes and patisseries with Creole restaurants, while boutiques carry European brands and local artisans’ work. The town is smaller than Philipsburg but feels more relaxed and residential.

The open-air market near the ferry dock is especially active on certain weekdays, with stalls selling spices, hot sauces, local liqueurs, crafts, and fresh produce. Visitors can pick up picnic supplies before heading to nearby beaches or simply wander the stalls sampling local specialties. Above the town, the ruins of Fort Louis provide a short but steep walk to another set of wide harbor views.

Dining and Nightlife Across the Island

St Maarten’s dining scene reflects its long-standing reputation as a culinary hub in the northern Caribbean. On the French side, Grand Case has historically been known for its gourmet restaurants and casual “lolos,” or open-air grills that serve barbecued ribs, chicken, and seafood. On the Dutch side, Simpson Bay and Maho offer a broad mix of international cuisines, from casual pizza and burgers to upscale seafood and fusion menus.

Nightlife tends to concentrate in these same areas, with sports bars, lounges, and open-air clubs drawing both locals and visitors. Live music is common on weekends, and many venues stay open late in peak season. Casino gaming is legal on the Dutch side, and several resort casinos add another option for after-dark entertainment.

  • Book restaurant reservations in high season, particularly in Grand Case and popular Simpson Bay spots.
  • Plan transportation ahead if staying in quieter areas, since taxis can become scarce late at night.
  • Carry some cash in addition to cards, as smaller eateries and lolos may not accept all payment types.

Easy Day Trips to Neighboring Islands

St Maarten sits at the center of a cluster of smaller islands, making it an excellent base for day trips by ferry or powerboat. Several of these neighboring destinations have recently attracted attention for their safety, tranquility, or distinctive natural environments. Organized excursions handle logistics and border formalities, allowing visitors to sample a second or even third island without changing hotels.

Anguilla Day Trips

Low-lying Anguilla, just to the north of St Maarten, has become widely known for its quiet, uncrowded beaches and understated luxury resorts. In 2025 it was highlighted in international media as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, adding another layer of appeal for travelers focused on peace of mind.

Day trips from St Maarten typically combine a fast ferry or private boat transfer with several hours of beach time at one or more of Anguilla’s coves. Shoal Bay East and Meads Bay are among the most commonly visited, thanks to their long, walkable stretches of sand and beach bars where visitors can linger over lunch. Snorkeling near offshore reefs and lounging under umbrellas round out the relaxed pace.

Travelers should carry passports and account for immigration procedures on both sides, but tour operators streamline the process and can advise on current schedules and requirements.

Saba: The Unspoiled Queen

To the southwest, the tiny volcanic island of Saba rises steeply from the sea and markets itself as the “Unspoiled Queen.” Its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and cooler, cloud-wreathed summit stand in sharp contrast to the flatter, more beach-centered profile of St Maarten and Anguilla.

Day trips usually involve a morning ferry crossing or short flight, followed by guided hikes, village walks, or dives. Saba is famed among divers for its pinnacles and underwater rock formations, while hikers can tackle well-maintained trails that climb through rainforest to Mount Scenery’s summit. Small villages with gingerbread-style houses and tidy gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for lunch before returning to St Maarten in the afternoon.

St Barths Getaways

St Barths, or Saint-Barthélemy, lies to the southeast and attracts a steady flow of visitors interested in its polished, high-end ambiance. From St Maarten, regular ferries and small-plane flights make it one of the most accessible side trips for travelers willing to budget for a more expensive outing.

Once on St Barths, day-trippers typically stroll the harbor town of Gustavia, visit one or two beaches such as St Jean or Shell Beach, and linger over lunch at a waterside restaurant. Boutique shopping and people-watching are major parts of the appeal, and the island’s hilly terrain delivers frequent glimpses of yachts and turquoise bays.

Practical Tips for Tours and Activities

With so many beaches, tours, and activities on offer, a small amount of planning goes a long way toward making the most of time in St Maarten. Recent shifts in airline routes and cruise schedules, as well as ongoing infrastructure upgrades, mean that conditions can change from season to season. Paying attention to timing, local regulations, and transportation will help ensure a smooth visit.

Choosing the Right Season

High season in St Maarten generally runs from December through April, when weather is usually dry and warm and trade winds keep humidity in check. This period brings the busiest cruise days, highest hotel rates, and most active nightlife. Beaches and popular attractions like Maho Beach and Rainforest Adventures are at their liveliest, and advance reservations are strongly recommended for tours and dining.

Shoulder months, such as May and early June, can offer a balance of lower crowds and favorable weather. From late summer into the heart of the Atlantic hurricane season, travelers should monitor forecasts and consider flexible booking policies. Many operators continue to run excursions in off-peak months, but daily schedules may be adjusted based on demand and conditions.

Getting Around the Island

St Maarten’s compact size makes it relatively easy to navigate, but road congestion can be significant around the Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Philipsburg areas, especially during rush hours and when multiple cruise ships are in port. Visitors can choose from rental cars, taxis, and organized tours, each with trade-offs.

Rental cars offer the most freedom and are popular with travelers who want to explore both the Dutch and French sides at their own pace. Roads are generally paved but can be narrow and winding in hilly areas. Taxis are widely available at the airport, cruise terminal, and major hotels, typically charging set or zone-based fares. Organized excursions bundle transportation, guides, and activity costs, simplifying logistics for those who prefer not to drive.

Booking Tours and Activities

Many visitors now book excursions before arriving, using tour operators, cruise line partners, or local agencies. This approach is particularly useful for high-demand activities such as the Flying Dutchman zip line, full-day catamaran cruises, and day trips to Anguilla or Saba.

Travelers who prefer to wait until they are on island can still find options at hotel tour desks, waterfront kiosks in Philipsburg or Simpson Bay, and independent operators recommended by local tourism offices. When booking, ask about group sizes, what is included in the price, cancellation policies related to weather, and any age or fitness restrictions.

  • Carry a photo ID and sometimes a passport for cross-border excursions.
  • Confirm pickup times the day before, especially for early departures.
  • Keep some flexibility in your schedule in case of weather-related shifts.

Staying Informed on Air Travel

Princess Juliana International Airport continues to serve as the island’s main international gateway and a tourism icon in its own right. Airlines periodically announce new routes to Sint Maarten, broadening nonstop access from North American and European cities. Travel news outlets have recently highlighted additional nonstop service scheduled from major U.S. hubs in upcoming seasons, reflecting renewed demand for the island.

Before travel, check with airlines for the latest route maps and schedules, as these can change from year to year. Arriving passengers can often step from the terminal to nearby resort areas within minutes, while departing travelers might schedule time for one last beach visit at Maho or Simpson Bay before heading to the airport.

The Takeaway

St Maarten condenses much of what travelers seek in the Caribbean into a single, manageable island: award-winning beaches, clear water ripe for snorkeling and sailing, dramatic viewpoints, appetizing food, and easy links to quieter neighboring islands.

From watching jumbo jets skim low over Maho Beach to racing down one of the region’s steepest zip lines, and from savoring grilled fish at a seaside lolo to sailing past uninhabited islets, the island offers experiences that suit laid-back beachgoers and energetic explorers alike.

With thoughtful planning around when to visit, how to get around, and which tours align with your interests, it is straightforward to craft an itinerary that balances relaxation with discovery.

FAQ

Q1. Do I need a passport to visit both the Dutch and French sides of St Maarten?
In most cases visitors can move freely between the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin) without passing through formal border controls, but you should still carry a valid passport or government-issued ID, and you will need a passport for international arrivals and for most day trips to neighboring islands.

Q2. What is the best time of year to visit St Maarten for beach and water activities?
The most popular period is from December through April, when weather is typically warm, relatively dry, and favorable for beach days, sailing, and snorkeling, though shoulder months like May and early June can offer fewer crowds and slightly lower prices with generally good conditions.

Q3. Is Maho Beach safe for watching airplanes land?
Maho Beach is safe for viewing landings if visitors follow posted warnings, stay well back from the airport fence, and avoid standing directly in the path of departing jet blasts; common sense and keeping a reasonable distance from powerful engines are essential.

Q4. Can beginners enjoy snorkeling in St Maarten?
Yes, many sheltered bays and boat-access snorkeling sites around St Maarten offer calm water and shallow reefs that are suitable for beginners, especially on organized catamaran or powerboat tours that provide flotation vests, basic instruction, and guide support.

Q5. Is it worth renting a car, or should I rely on taxis and tours?
Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring multiple beaches and crossing between the Dutch and French sides, but visitors who prefer not to drive can rely on taxis and organized excursions, which work particularly well for shorter stays and cruise passengers.

Q6. Are credit cards widely accepted on the island?
Major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and many tour operators on both sides of the island, though it is still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments, beach vendors, and tips.

Q7. What should I wear when visiting churches, forts, and town centers?
Casual resort clothing is generally acceptable, but when visiting churches or more traditional neighborhoods it is respectful to wear modest attire such as shirts or cover-ups over swimwear and avoid entering religious sites in beachwear alone.

Q8. Are there family-friendly activities beyond the beach?
Families will find plenty of options beyond swimming, including the Sky Explorer chairlift and milder attractions at Rainforest Adventures, easy hikes to historical forts, catamaran cruises with snorkeling, horseback riding along the shore, and casual dining at beachside grills.

Q9. How long do I need to see the main highlights of St Maarten?
A two to three day stay allows enough time to sample several top beaches, take one organized excursion, and explore at least one town, while a full week gives visitors the flexibility to add a neighboring island day trip and some relaxed downtime.

Q10. Is St Maarten suitable for travelers who do not want nightlife?
Yes, although the Dutch side offers an active nightlife scene in spots like Simpson Bay and Maho, there are many quieter areas, small guesthouses, and villas where evenings are peaceful, particularly on the French side and in more residential or remote bays.