Things To Do
in Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a unique island in the Caribbean, notable for being split into two distinct territories: Saint-Martin, a French overseas collectivity in the north, and Sint Maarten, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the south. The island boasts stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and a lively cultural mix that blends French, Dutch, and Caribbean influences.
Renowned for its year-round warm climate, friendly locals, and diverse gastronomy, Saint Martin offers a dual-nation experience with a rich blend of European and Caribbean cultures.
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "Au revoir (Goodbye)" - Goodbye
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Maho Beach where planes land spectacularly close. Enjoy the sun and warm sand as you sip a refreshing drink.
Head to Mullet Bay Beach for some snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Grab a beach lunch at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants.
Wind down with a sunset view from the beach. Try some local seafood at a seaside restaurant to end your day.
Join a guided tour to the marine reserve at Tintamarre Island. Experience the vibrant underwater life through snorkeling.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach after your snorkeling adventure. Relax under a palm tree and soak in the tropical atmosphere.
Return to Saint Martin and have dinner in Grand Case known for its gourmet restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach as the stars come out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with clear waters and white sand.
- Rich cultural diversity and vibrant local atmosphere.
- Wide range of outdoor activities like snorkeling, sailing, and hiking.
- Tax-free shopping and a variety of dining options.
- Year-round warm climate, making it a great destination at any time.
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the season.
- Higher cost of living and travel expenses compared to other Caribbean destinations.
- Limited accessibility due to fewer direct flights.
- Overcrowded during the peak tourist season.
- Some areas may show signs of economic disparity.
Best Activities in Saint Martin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the highest point on Saint Martin, offering breathtaking views and a variety of trails for all experience levels.
Discover vibrant marine life in the clear waters around Creole Rock, ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Relax on the beautiful sands of Orient Bay, with options for water sports, beach bars, and dining.
Paddle through clear waters and explore the coastline and mangroves of Simpson Bay, suitable for all skill levels.
Take a day trip to the nearby island of Anguilla for stunning beaches and a chance to snorkel or enjoy local cuisine.
Embark on an adventurous ATV tour to discover hidden gems and scenic spots across Saint Martin.
Enjoy the calm waters while paddleboarding in the bays, great for both relaxation and exercise.
Experience windsurfing in Mullet Bay, known for its ideal wind conditions and stunning scenery.
Rent a bike and explore the picturesque roads and scenic coastal areas of Saint Martin at your own pace.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint Martin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint Martin
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its close proximity to the airport runway, Maho Beach provides spectacular views of planes landing and taking off, making it a unique photography spot.
The highest point in Saint Martin offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters, ideal for breathtaking landscape photographs.
With its stunning sunsets and colorful beach shacks, Grand Case Bay is perfect for capturing vibrant and scenic photos, especially in the golden hour.
Known for its beautiful beach and lively atmosphere, Orient Bay is a great spot for both beach photography and capturing lively beach scenes.
This historic fort offers sweeping views of Marigot and the coastline, making it an excellent spot for history lovers and photographers alike.
A small island located off the coast of Saint Martin, Ilet Pinel is famous for its clear blue waters and beautiful beaches, perfect for picturesque beach shots.
This charming area features colorful boats and restaurants along the water, creating a vibrant setting for photos that capture local life.
The largest lagoon in the Caribbean, Simpson Bay Lagoon offers fantastic opportunities for marine photography, especially during sunset.
A quiet beach with calm waters and beautiful surroundings, Anse Marcel is great for capturing serene beach images away from the crowds.
Located on Maho Beach, this bar provides an incredible backdrop for sunset photos with planes flying overhead, combining beauty and excitement.
Food in Saint Martin
Saint Martin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A decadent dish featuring locally caught lobster, typically prepared with a creamy white wine sauce and served with a side of fried plantains.
Must-Try!
A beloved snack made with fried cornmeal dough, often enjoyed with a spread of butter or a side of saltfish.
A flavorful stew of leafy greens, often including taro or spinach, simmered with coconut milk and spices.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint Martin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, spices, and local crafts, as well as tempting street food stalls serving Creole delicacies such as accras (fish fritters) and bokit (a type of stuffed fried bread).
Known as the 'Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,' this lively street is lined with food stalls and diverse eateries, offering everything from barbecue ribs and conch fritters to gourmet French-Caribbean fusion cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint Martin, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir', depending on the time of day. Politeness is highly valued, so take a moment to acknowledge others, especially when entering shops or restaurants.
When visiting churches or other religious sites, it's important to dress modestly. This shows respect for the traditions and practices of the local community. Avoid wearing beachwear or overly revealing clothing in such places.
Saint Martin has a rich cultural heritage influenced by both French and Dutch traditions. Be aware of and respectful towards local festivals, cuisine, and cultural practices. Engaging with locals and showing interest in their customs can enhance your visit.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint Martin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Martin
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint Martin, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In bars and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is also a typical practice.
In Saint Martin, both the euro and the United States dollar are accepted forms of currency, although the euro is the official currency of the French side. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available, but fees may apply for international cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint Martin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is peak tourist season in Saint Martin, characterized by pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Expect bustling beaches and vibrant nightlife, along with numerous events and festivals. It's the best time for outdoor activities, but be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.
Spring is a transitional season with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. Crowds begin to thin out, making it a great time for travelers seeking a quieter experience. Expect lower prices and a relaxed atmosphere, along with lush landscapes due to the rain.
Summer in Saint Martin brings hot temperatures and higher humidity, with occasional tropical storms. It is considered a low season for tourism, so expect fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation. It’s perfect for travelers looking for deals, but prepare for rain and heat.
Fall is also part of the off-peak season, with warm weather and the possibility of hurricanes, especially in September. Tourists can experience lower rates and fewer people, but it’s essential to keep an eye on weather forecasts. October and November see a return to pleasant weather as the hurricane risk diminishes.
Saint Martin at Night
Hiking in Saint Martin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea. The trail leads to the highest point on the island.
A network of trails through beautiful landscapes, providing a mix of serene hiking paths and scenic coastal views.
Features several hiking routes that explore the diverse ecosystems and natural beauty of the reserve, including beaches and mangroves.
A moderate hike that takes you along the coastline with access to local eateries and breathtaking ocean vistas.
A trail that winds through the lush pine forests of Saint Martin, offering a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint Martin through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Saint Martin by plane.
The primary international airport serving Saint Martin, located near Maho Beach.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this is a major international airport accessible from Saint Martin.
Located in Guadeloupe, this airport serves various international flights and is relatively close to Saint Martin.
Located in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, this airport provides connections to numerous international destinations.
Situated in Barbados, this airport serves as a major hub for flights throughout the Caribbean and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominantly French population residing in the northern part of the island, often characterized by a mix of Caribbean and French cultures.
Inhabitants of the southern part of the island, with Dutch heritage and a diverse cultural background that includes influences from the Caribbean.
A demographic group that includes descendants of enslaved Africans, known for their unique cultural identity and contributions to the local culture.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent, many of whom have migrated to the island for work and contribute to its cultural diversity.
People from various countries who reside in Saint Martin for work or leisure, contributing to the multicultural atmosphere of the island.
The Soul of Saint Martin
Discover the essence of Saint Martin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Saint Martin, with local teams and leagues attracting many players and fans.
Cricket has a strong following in Saint Martin, with many residents participating in casual games and organized matches.
Basketball is widely played in Saint Martin, with various courts available for both recreational and competitive play.
Given its beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport among both locals and tourists.
Tennis is enjoyed by many residents, with several courts available for practice and competitions.
With access to the Caribbean Sea, sailing is a popular activity, both for sport and leisure.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Saint Martin's traditional cuisine often features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options, such as plantain-based dishes, hearty stews, and innovative vegetable preparations.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find accommodating choices at various dining establishments, including fresh seafood, tropical fruit platters, and gluten-free versions of local specialties.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint Martin with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Martin.