Welcome To Paradise

Known as the smallest landmass to consist of two nations and home to the “Friendly People”, St. Maarten invites you to experience the true magic of the island.

Are you looking for a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and sunny clear skies, as diverse as any cosmopolitan city yet as welcoming and familiar as your hometown? Are you looking for somewhere that laid-back island energy transforms into vibrant rhythms and finger-licking dining, and where European Culture blends so effortlessly with Caribbean Flair?

Well, think white-sand beaches, turquoise ocean waters and lovely boutique hotels offering the ultimate in R&R. The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB) is a department within the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication of the Government of St. Maarten. It is tasked with promoting the island and overseeing the vision and improvement of the island as a tourism product. STB also promotes tourist activities to the island’s own people that not only help the island economically but also enhances the well-being of St. Maarten’s population, and everyone reaps the benefits they have helped to create for themselves and families.

For an island with a big reputation for restaurants, hotels and energetic nightlife, planning a trip to St. Maarten can be a bit of a head-scratcher, thanks to its unique status as an island of two countries.

Get ready to be transported to the enchanting world of St. Maarten, where sun-kissed beaches, exhilarating water activities and gastronomic adventures await. Below are the top 10 activities that will help you experience the best of the island.

1. St. Maarten is known for its exciting nightlife scene. Simpson Bay is the area to be if you are looking to go barhopping or to dance the night away. Downtown Philipsburg offers a more relaxing night where you can find the chilled vibes of local bars and lounges.

2. Tri-Sport SXM offers an amazing race through Philipsburg, the capital town of St. Maarten. You will solve clues, perform different tasks or complete a challenge for bonus points. Each challenge is different and can range from building a sandcastle to sampling traditional food and a jump in the ocean.

3. Head out on a 90-minute Jet Ski Guided Tour with Blue Bubbles SXM, cruising through the picturesque Simpson Bay Lagoon and hidden coves. Alternatively, you can choose to adventure on your own, or join a guided tour to discover some of the best spots of the island from the oceanside.

4. Always at the top of any must see list for St. Maarten is Maho, home to the famous Airport Beach. Feel the adrenaline rush as planes glide over Maho Bay for spectacular landings. Beach bars and lounges offer a perfect view of planes, giving you front-row seats to impressive sights.

5. Embark on a diving expedition with Dive St. Maarten, and discover an underwater wonderland of wrecks, vibrant coral reefs and playful marine life, such as tropical fish, turtles, rays and sharks, in their natural habitat.

6. Pinel Island is a remote island part of the French National Reserve, accessible only by a shuttle boat, kayak or SUP. Grab lunch at the only restaurant, choosing your dining spot on the beach, restaurant patio or even at one of their high-top tables located in the water.

7. A great way to end a beautiful day in paradise, the sunset cruise aboard the Lambada Catamaran with Aqua Mania Adventure offers an open bar, a selection of snacks and Caribbean rhythms. You’ll get to see unforgettable colours across the sky as the sun dips below the horizon.

8. Take in the island’s beaches and lush hills on horseback at Seaside Nature Park or explore the island via Jeep and ATV tours. For cycling enthusiasts, there are bike-guided tours available that will give you a unique perspective of the landscape.

9. Emilio Wilson Park offers an escape into St. Maarten’s hillside and is a historical landmark and cultural museum offering a glimpse into Dutch St. Maarten’s rich legacy. Follow your visit to Emilio’s with a trip on the chairlift up to the peak of Sentry Hill, which offers panoramic views of St. Maarten and its neighbours. Rainforest Adventures provides thrilling fun for adventure-seekers with the legendary Flying Dutchman — the steepest zipline in the world. After your adventure, dine at Emilio’s restaurant, which offers a unique combination of contemporary high-end dining in a beautiful historic setting.

10. Delight in shopping for unique souvenirs at Front Street in Philipsburg, where duty-free boutiques abound. You can find everything from luxury goods, the best perfumes and local handicrafts to commemorate your St. Maarten journey. Follow up a shopping spree with a delicious dinner and cocktails at the Holland House Beach Hotel, a notable landmark on the capital’s lively beachfront. Take part in the Philipsburg Art Walk, a self-guided route showcasing plenty of shops, restaurants, historical sites and picture-perfect murals along the way.

If you are looking for a sun-soaked Caribbean island with a European flavour, you will be enamoured with St. Maarten. It has everything you could want from a Caribbean holiday: culture, nature, adventure, cuisine, nightlife and beautiful hotels and resorts. These top 10 activities will surely help you experience the best of the island.