Things To Do in St Martin & St Maarten

Looking for the most unforgettable things to do in St Martin? Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, a family beach holiday, or a spontaneous solo adventure, this one-of-a-kind Caribbean island offers endless activities, culture, and scenic wonders.

Unlike most destinations, St Martin / Sint Maarten is split between two nations — the French and Dutch sides — creating a rich mix of language, flavor, and atmosphere. This curated guide is your go-to resource for discovering the top St Martin island activities, iconic sights, and must-do experiences across both sides of the island.

🌴 Why Choose St Martin? A Two-Nation Island Full of Adventure

Where else can you watch jumbo jets land overhead on a beach, feast on French pastries, sail to deserted cays, and dance at a Caribbean street parade — all in one day? Things to do in St Martin go far beyond sun and sand. It’s about discovering the stories, tastes, and rhythms that make the island pulse.

From lush hills and coral reefs to art galleries and seaside markets, activities in St Maarten span nature, culture, and everyday joy. With both French charm and Dutch dynamism, every corner of this island offers new discoveries.

🏖️ Beaches, Views & Outdoor Activities in St Martin

If you’re chasing the sun, you’ll find more than 30 beaches to choose from — each with its own vibe.

Some of the most beloved Sint Maarten things to do are simply about being outside:

• Hike to Fort Louis for panoramic views of Marigot

• Snorkel the reef at Creole Rock

• Explore hidden coves via kayak

• Chase the breeze atop Pic Paradis

Things to do in Sint Maarten for the nature lover often cost nothing but offer rich rewards.

Looking for something more active? Zipline down the Flying Dutchman, ride a Jet Ski around the island, or hike the Sentier des Froussards trail on the French side.

🆓 Free & Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Sint Maarten

Yes, there are plenty of unforgettable moments that cost nothing at all:

• Watch planes fly overhead at Maho Beach

• Picnic at Coralita Lookout with a sea view

• Join locals for sunset walks along the Philipsburg boardwalk or Grand Case promenade

• Stroll through colorful open-air markets

These St Martin island activities connect you with the landscape, the community, and the rhythms of local life — all without spending a cent.

🧭 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Don’t miss:

• Boat tours to uninhabited islets like Tintamarre

• Guided hikes through dry forest reserves

• Self-drive Rhino boat safaris

These are the kinds of things to do in St Martin that turn into lifelong memories.

For adrenaline lovers, skydiving over Grand Case or surfing at Le Galion will raise your pulse. These activities in St Maarten show off the wilder side of paradise.

🥁 Culture, Art & Island Traditions

True Caribbean charm reveals itself in daily life:

• Visit historic sites like Fort Louis or the Courthouse in Philipsburg

• Explore the Amuseum Naturalis for stories of nature and people

• Walk the border monument that splits the island between nations

• Discover street art and live performances during Harmony Nights

From Creole cuisine to cultural celebrations, Sint Maarten things to do always reflect its vibrant blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences.

🍽️ Taste the Island: Local Food & Drinks

You’ll taste the island’s soul in its food. Sample:

• BBQ ribs and johnny cakes at Lolos

• Guavaberry liqueur and tamarind sweets at markets

• Rum punches, tropical fruit juices, and locally made hot sauces

Whether you’re on a tight budget or exploring fine dining fusion, things to do in St Martin always include something delicious.

🎶 After Dark: Nightlife, Music & Casinos

As the sun sets, a different vibe takes over. Enjoy:

• Beach bars with bonfires and steel pan music

• Clubs with DJs spinning reggae, soca, and EDM

• Casinos with Caribbean flair (especially on the Dutch side)

• Local dance events, karaoke, or jazz nights

The nightlife is both diverse and inclusive, offering plenty of activities in St Maarten for all styles and energy levels.

🎉 Festival Season: Celebrate with Locals

The island celebrates year-round, and there’s always something to join in:

• Carnival parades (Dutch & French sides)

• The Heineken Regatta with live music and boat watching

• SXM Music Festival for electronic beats by the beach

• Emancipation Day, Bastille Day, and St. Maarten Day

These aren’t just events. They’re full-on St Martin island activities — colorful, participatory, and unforgettable.

🗺️ Plan with explr.sx Tools: Island Map + Trip Planner

Finding your ideal mix of things to do in St Martin just got easier:

• Use the Interactive Island Map to locate beaches, trails, viewpoints, and towns

• Try the Trip Planner Tool to save favorites, build an itinerary, and explore the island at your own pace

These tools make it easy to personalize your activities in St Maarten, whatever your style.

🧳 Types of Travelers, Infinite Possibilities

Whether you’re:

• A family with kids looking for safe beach days and nature parks

• A romantic couple seeking sunset views and Creole dinners

• A solo traveler craving art, music, and new people

• A group of friends looking to explore nightlife and snorkeling tours

There are Sint Maarten things to do for every kind of explorer.

💬 Final Island Travel Tips

• Visit both sides — French and Dutch — for the full island experience

• Wake up early for hikes and quiet beaches

• Shop at local markets for handmade goods

• Stay for sunset — every day feels different

Come back to this page whenever you’re wondering what to do next. Bookmark it, plan your route, and embrace the island one experience at a time.

Your journey starts with this guide — and the best things to do in St Martin are still waiting to be discovered.