Things To Do
in Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a Caribbean island that blends Dutch hospitality with French elegance, offering sun-kissed beaches, lively towns, and a vibrant water-sports scene. The Dutch side and the French side create a bilingual, bi-cultural island experience where casinos, markets, and beaches sit side by side. Visitors enjoy duty-free shopping in Philipsburg, snorkeling around Creole Rock, and a culinary scene that ranges from Creole to French to Caribbean-forward dishes.
The island's friendly locals, festive atmosphere, and year-round warmth make it a reliable tropical getaway with plenty to explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in the capital of Sint Maarten, Phillipsburg. Stroll along the picturesque Great Bay beach and enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café. Visit the historical Fort Amsterdam for a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Head to the bustling Front Street, where you can shop for duty-free goods and local crafts. Enjoy lunch at one of the seaside restaurants while overlooking the turquoise waters. Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk and feel the vibrant atmosphere of this port city.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the beachfront bars. Savor tropical cocktails while listening to live music that often fills the air. Marvel at the stunning views of the bay illuminated by the evening lights.
Travel to the quaint village of Sandy Ground known for its beautiful beach and fishing harbor. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, tasting fresh seafood delicacies. Experience the charm of the fishing boats lining the shore.
Make your way to Grand Case, renowned for its gourmet dining. Explore the local boutiques and art galleries, immersing yourself in the island's culture. Treat yourself to a midday meal at one of the iconic beachside restaurants.
Indulge in fine dining in Grand Case, often referred to as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. After dinner, stroll through the village where the vibrant nightlife comes alive. Enjoy the sounds of the waves and perhaps catch a local festival or live performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Combo meal at mid-range cafe | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🛶Snorkel tour or water activity | $40-100 |
| 🛍️Souvenir/jewelry item | $5-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters
- Two cultural sides with distinct vibes
- Excellent snorkeling, sailing, and water sports
- Diverse cuisine blending French, Dutch, and Caribbean flavors
- Hurricane risk during the season
- Can be pricey in peak season
- Some areas congested with traffic and crowds
- "Hello" - Hello/Hi
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sint Maarten
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture planes landing over the turquoise water as jets skim the beach.
Historic fort with sweeping views of Philipsburg and Great Bay.
Colorful storefronts, harbor views, and lively street scenes.
Sunsets, boats, and charming bougainvillea-lined lanes.
Clear-water reef and vibrant marine life just off the north coast.
Food in Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fried bread served plain or with fillings, a staple at beach shacks and markets.
Must-Try!
A fragrant Creole fish or seafood soup often served with hard dough bread.
Crispy fritters made from conch meat, a popular street food and bar snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
French-side market with fresh produce, spices, seafood, and local snacks.
Vibrant street market near the harbor offering fruits, spices, and tastings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say hello with a friendly 'bonjour' on the French side or 'hallo' on the Dutch side; English is widely understood.
Beachwear for the beach, casual smart for dining; cover-ups when not on the beach; modest dress for churches.
Safety
Tipping in Sint Maarten
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15–20% at restaurants; check if a service charge is included; tip bartenders and hotel staff with small amounts.
Credit/debit cards common; US dollars widely used on both sides; ATMs available; some vendors prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sea breezes; frequent short showers; beaches lively with families and water sports.
Pleasant temperatures around 75–85°F (24–29°C); peak tourist season with busy beaches and higher prices.
Risk of tropical storms; plan with flexible itineraries and travel insurance; monitor local advisories.
Sint Maarten at Night
Hiking in Sint Maarten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highest point on the island with trails and sweeping views; moderate hike.
Forest canopy trails and nature paths near the center of the island; accessible for most hikers.
Airports
How to reach Sint Maarten by plane.
Main international gateway on the Dutch side; frequent connections from North America and Europe; cross-border access to the French side via car or ferry.
Small regional airport on the French side offering regional flights; convenient for quick splits between sides.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents from Dutch and French sides; a mix of Afro-Caribbean and European ancestry.
Seasonal and long-term expatriates from North America and Europe; English widely spoken.
Visitors drawn to beaches, nightlife, and cuisine; diverse nationalities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and sailing are popular year-round.
Casual games on busy beaches like Orient Bay and Maho.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie plates, salads, and sides; on the French side, specify 'sans viande' (no meat) and 'fromage' for cheese-based dishes.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sint Maarten.