Are you ready for an exciting adventure? Island hopping from Sint Maarten to nearby Anguilla and Saba offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Each island boasts its charm, stunning views, and vibrant culture. This blog will guide you through the best things to see and do in both destinations. Plus, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time in Sint Maarten, ensuring a smooth start to your island-hopping adventure.
Island hopping is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean. With its strategic location, Sint Maarten serves as a great starting point, providing quick access to the neighbouring islands of Anguilla and Saba. Whether looking for pristine beaches, unique local food, or breathtaking landscapes, these islands offer something for everyone. You can fill your days with thrilling activities, cultural experiences, and the chance to relax on some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Getting to Anguilla from Sint Maarten is a breeze. The ferry ride is around 20 to 30 minutes, allowing you to transition from one paradise to another. Ferries operate regularly from the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, making it convenient for day trips or extended stays. As you step off the ferry, you'll be greeted by Anguilla's breathtaking scenery, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that invite you to relax and unwind.
Anguilla is famous for its beautiful beaches, and you'll want to visit some of the most iconic ones during your stay. Shoal Bay East is ranked as one of the world's best beaches. Its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters create an ideal setting for swimming and sunbathing. Here, you can rent a beach chair, sip a refreshing drink, and soak up the sun. Meads Bay, known for its luxury resorts, offers a more tranquil setting. It’s ideal for a quiet day by the sea, and you can enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants, sampling local cuisine as you listen to the gentle lapping of the waves.
For families, Rendezvous Bay is perfect for a fun day out. The beach is spacious, with shallow waters that make it safe for children to play and explore. You can set up a picnic or enjoy a beach barbecue while appreciating the stunning surroundings. Don't forget to stroll along the shore and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
No visit to Anguilla would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The island is home to an array of delightful dishes that reflect its rich culture and heritage. Be sure to try Johnny Cakes, fried cornmeal cakes that make a delicious snack or side dish. For seafood lovers, grilled lobster is a must-try; many beach shacks serve this delicacy fresh from the ocean. You can also sample the island’s various tropical fruits, including mangoes, guavas, and passion fruits. Visiting the local markets is a great way to experience the vibrant culinary scene while chatting with locals who are always happy to share recommendations.
Anguilla offers a plethora of activities to keep you engaged. Snorkelling is a popular pastime, with the waters around the island home to vibrant marine life. Grab your snorkelling gear and dive into the warm, clear waters to explore coral reefs teeming with colourful fish. For those seeking a bit more adventure, kayaking is another fantastic option. Rent a kayak and paddle along the coast, enjoying the stunning scenery and perhaps spotting some sea turtles. If you want a more relaxed day, consider taking a boat tour to see the island from the water. Some tours even include lunch, allowing you to savour delicious local dishes while enjoying the views.
After exploring Anguilla, your next destination should be Saba, a small island known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Getting to Saba is easy, with flights or ferries available from Sint Maarten. The flight takes about 15 minutes, while the ferry lasts around an hour. Saba is often known as the Unspoiled Queen due to its lush greenery, rugged mountains, and charming villages that seem untouched by time.
One of the highlights of visiting Saba is its incredible hiking opportunities. The island is renowned for its well-maintained trails that take you through its stunning natural beauty. Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands, is a must-hike. The trail to the summit is steep but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. On a clear day, you can see as far as Sint Maarten and Anguilla. The hike is invigorating, and as you ascend, you’ll pass through lush vegetation and perhaps even spot some native wildlife.
Another hiking adventure awaits you at The Ladder, a unique trail with 1,064 steps leading to the summit of a volcanic crater. This challenging hike offers a rewarding experience, as the view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. Along the way, you can enjoy the island's diverse flora and fauna, making it a nature lover's paradise. Saba has several other trails suitable for all skill levels, each offering different scenery, from lush forests to rugged coastlines.
The island’s culture and community are as vibrant as its landscapes. Visiting Windwardside, the main village on Saba, is a great way to immerse yourself in local life. Stroll through the charming streets, admire the traditional architecture, and visit local shops that showcase handmade crafts and souvenirs. The friendly locals are always willing to share stories and recommendations, enhancing your experience on the island. A visit to the Saba Heritage Centre is also worthwhile. Here, you can learn about the island's history, culture, and the challenges the community has faced over the years. The centre offers fascinating insights into the traditions and customs that shape daily life in Saba.
Saba’s culinary scene is another highlight of your visit. The island may be small, but it offers impressive dining options. One local delicacy you cannot miss is Saba Lobster. This fresh seafood dish is often grilled or in a rich stew, showcasing the island's abundant marine resources. You can also enjoy a variety of traditional Caribbean dishes that reflect the island’s unique blend of cultures. Pair your meal with some local rum, which is a great way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploration.
Consider renting a car to make the most of your time in Sint Maarten before you embark on your island-hopping adventure. Renting a car in Sint Maarten allows you to explore the island at your own pace and ensures you don’t miss any local attractions. With several car rental companies available, including Finalrentals, you can easily find a vehicle that suits your needs.
Having a rental car provides the freedom to visit various parts of the island without worrying about public transport schedules or taxi fares. You can take a scenic drive along the coast, stop at beautiful viewpoints, and visit attractions like Maho Beach, known for its thrilling plane landings. You can also explore the vibrant Philipsburg, where you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy delicious food, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
When renting a car, book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure you have the best selection of vehicles. Finalrentals offers a simple booking process and various options, from compact cars to larger vehicles suitable for families or groups. Furthermore, hiring a car with Finalrentals often includes perks like unlimited mileage and insurance coverage, making your experience even more hassle-free.
Driving in Sint Maarten is straightforward, with well-maintained roads that make it easy to navigate the island. Remember that in Sint Maarten, they drive on the right side of the road, so keep that in mind as you plan your excursions. You can create your itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss out on the island’s highlights before hopping to Anguilla and Saba with your rental car.
Island hopping from Sint Maarten to Anguilla and Saba provides an unforgettable adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With stunning beaches, delicious food, and exciting activities, both islands have something unique to offer. Renting a car in Sint Maarten allows you to explore the island before starting your journey, making your trip more enjoyable and convenient.
As you soak in the sun on Anguilla’s pristine beaches and hike to the breathtaking heights of Saba, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, savour the exquisite cuisine, and experience the natural beauty of these Caribbean islands. Start planning your island-hopping adventure today, and let the allure of the Caribbean guide you to Anguilla and Saba!
For more travel tips and guides, check out our other blogs on travelling in Sint Maarten.
