The Caribbean offers many beautiful destinations, but few are as unique as Saint Martin and Sint Maarten. These two islands share the same landmass, yet are split between two countries: Saint Martin is a French overseas region, while Sint Maarten is a Dutch territory. This unique division lets you immerse yourself in two distinct cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, offering several activities for nature lovers, adventurers, and wanderers alike.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best things to do on both sides of the island, from beautiful beaches to charming towns and thrilling outdoor activities. To make the most of your visit, we recommend renting a car in Sint Maarten to explore both sides of this fascinating island.
Before diving into the adventures, let’s take a moment to understand the uniqueness of this island. Saint Martin is a French territory, officially known as Saint-Martin in French, while Sint Maarten is a Dutch territory. The island is divided almost half, with the northern part being French and the southern part being Dutch. Despite the political division, both sides are connected by friendly locals and a shared passion for tourism.
Saint Martin is known for its laid-back, European charm, while Sint Maarten on the southern side is more commercial, offering a lively atmosphere with vibrant nightlife. Both sides have something special, and it's easy to travel between them, making it ideal for exploring both cultures in one visit.
Saint Martin is famous for its beautiful, pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities. Here are a few of the most popular beaches on the French side of the island:
Orient Bay is known as the French Riviera of the Caribbean. This long stretch of white sand beach offers crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and water sports. The beach is lined with charming cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the view.
Grand Case is a small village known for its fine dining and beautiful beaches. The beach here is perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming. If you’re a lover of good food, be sure to try local French Caribbean dishes at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Accessible by boat, Pinel Island is a small, secluded island off the coast of Saint Martin. It’s perfect for a peaceful day away from the crowds, with beautiful beaches and calm waters ideal for snorkelling.
Sint Maarten is equally well-known for its stunning beaches, with a more lively atmosphere. Here are some of the best beaches to check out on the Dutch side:
Maho Beach is known for its close proximity to a busy airport, where planes fly directly over the beach as they land. It’s a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts and those seeking a unique beach experience.
Simpson Bay Beach is a beautiful, quiet spot perfect for relaxing or swimming. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars, making it a great place to enjoy food and drinks after a relaxing swim.
Located near the heart of Sint Maarten, Kim Sha Beach is popular for its calm waters and easy access. It’s a great spot for families, offering water sports rentals and places to relax under the sun.
The French and Dutch sides of the island offer very different experiences, and both are worth exploring.
Marigot, the capital of the French side, is a beautiful town with a European feel. Wander through its streets lined with colourful colonial buildings, visit the local market for fresh produce, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon sipping coffee at one of the many cafés.
Grand Case, as mentioned earlier, is another gem on the French side. It’s famous for its top-tier restaurants, many of which serve gourmet dishes with a Caribbean twist. The village also has a laid-back, charming atmosphere that makes it perfect for an evening stroll by the sea.
Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of the island, and it’s known for its bustling shopping streets. You’ll find everything from duty-free shops to local boutiques selling unique souvenirs. The town also offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and casinos for a more lively atmosphere.
Simpson Bay is another lively area on the Dutch side. It’s filled with bars, restaurants, and casinos, making it a great place to enjoy some nightlife after exploring the beaches and attractions. The area also offers great views of the marina and is home to many yachts.
The natural beauty of Saint Martin and Sint Maarten provides a wide range of outdoor adventures for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. There’s something for everyone, from hiking and zip-lining to exploring the island’s waters.
Both sides of the island offer scenic hikes with breathtaking views. Here are a few trails to check out:
Pic Paradis is the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of both Saint Martin and Sint Maarten. The hike is moderate and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit, but the views are well worth the effort.
Loterie Farm is a private nature reserve offering a range of outdoor activities to enjoy. You can hike through the lush rainforest, zip-line through the trees, or enjoy a peaceful day at the nature reserve. The farm is located on the slopes of Pic Paradis and offers fantastic island views.
Mullet Bay Hill is a great spot to hike for amazing views of Mullet Bay and the surrounding provides an opportunity to experience the island from a unique vantage point.
Saint Martin and Sint Maarten are surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making them ideal for water sports. Here are some exciting activities you can try:
Creole Rock, located just off the coast of Grand Case, is one of the best spots for snorkelling in Saint Martin. The waters are filled with colourful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs, making it a must-visit for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Sint Maarten boasts several exciting dive sites, including the famous ‘Shipwreck’ dive site. Here, you can explore an old shipwreck on the ocean floor and discover the vibrant marine life surrounding it.
Saint Martin and Sint Maarten both offer great conditions for kite surfing and windsurfing, especially around Orient Bay and Maho Beach. Beginners and experienced surfers alike will find plenty of spots to enjoy these thrilling water activities.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore both sides of the island at your own pace. Whether you want to discover secluded beaches, explore local towns, or enjoy the island’s natural beauty, having your vehicle gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
You can easily rent a car in Sint Maarten and take a leisurely drive to visit all the best attractions. From the bustling streets of Philipsburg to the peaceful beaches of Saint Martin,a rental car makes it easy to experience both sides of this incredible island.
Flexibility: Explore at your own pace without the need for organised tours or waiting for public transport.
Access to Remote Areas: Reach less crowded beaches and hidden spots that are hard to access without a car.
Comfort: Enjoy convenience by picking up and dropping off your vehicle at different locations.
So, make the most of your visit to Saint Martin and Sint Maarten by renting a car and uncovering everything these two unique islands offer.
Saint Martin and Sint Maarten are two sides of the same island, offering a blend of French and Dutch cultures, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities. Whether visiting the gorgeous beaches, exploring the charming towns, hiking through lush hills, or enjoying water sports, there is always something to do on this incredible island.
For a truly unforgettable experience, rent a car in Sint Maarten to explore both sides of the island. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Saint Martin and Sint Maarten, from its beautiful beaches to its rich cultural heritage.
Safe travels, and enjoy your adventures on Saint Martin and Sint Maarten's border!
