The 10 Best Things to Do in Sint Maarten: Your Ultimate Island Guide
- puravidasxm
- Dec 11, 2025
- 8 min read
Discover the beauty, adventure, and hidden magic of the Caribbean’s most vibrant island.
Sint Maarten is a rare gem — an island where two cultures meet, the beaches glow turquoise, and adventure waits around every corner. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a week, or arriving by cruise ship, the island offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
We’ve curated this guide to highlight the very best of Sint Maarten/ St. Martin, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Keep reading for our top recommendations and an FAQ section to help you plan your trip.
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Here are the top 10 things to do in Sint Maarten to make the most of your stay:
✧ 1. Explore the Island by Catamaran
There is truly no better way to experience Sint Maarten than from the sea.
A catamaran tour with Pura Vida SXM offers:
• pristine snorkeling spots
• hidden beaches and quiet coves
• views of the island you can’t get from land
• an open bar, music, and relaxed island vibes
• the chance to see turtles, colorful fish, and reefs
Whether you’re looking for a half-day adventure, a full-day sail, or a romantic sunset cruise, this is consistently ranked by travelers as one of the best activities in Sint Maarten.
👉 Book a Pura Vida SXM catamaran tour — the highlight of your trip.
✧ 2. Visit Maho Beach (Plane Watching)
One of the most iconic experiences in the world.
At Maho Beach, airplanes fly incredibly low as they approach the airport runway, only a few meters above the sand. Travelers gather daily to watch the jets land and take off. It’s thrilling, unique, and a must-see.
Want a quieter, more elevated view?
A Pura Vida SXM catamaran tour or private charter can bring you close to the shoreline, offering one of the best vantage points to watch the planes descend — all from the comfort of the water.
Tip: Visit late morning or early afternoon for the best action.
✧ Recommended Spots at Maho Beach
Sunset Beach Bar — A legendary front-row seat to the famous plane landings. Lively music, tropical drinks, and unbeatable photo opportunities. If you want the full Maho energy, this is the place.
Driftwood Boat Bar — A more relaxed, local-style beach bar with great food, cold drinks, and a calmer vibe. Perfect if you want to enjoy the planes without the crowds or the loud music.
Tortuga Beach Café — A more elevated, comfortable, and scenic option with beachfront seating. Enjoy cocktails, lunch, and panoramic ocean views while watching the planes fly overhead. Ideal for couples, families, and anyone wanting a calmer, stylish experience of Maho Beach.
✧ For a Unique Peaceful View
A Pura Vida SXM Catamaran Tour or Private Charter can anchor nearby, giving you one of the most breathtaking and unobstructed perspectives of the planes soaring overhead, all from the water.
✧ 3. Snorkel at Creole Rock
Located on the French side, Creole Rock is a protected marine reserve with calm waters perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Expect to see:
• sea turtles
• tropical fish
• vibrant coral formations
Many boat tours (including Pura Vida SXM) stop here for snorkeling.
✧ 4. Enjoy the Shops, Cafés, and Beaches of Philipsburg
Philipsburg, the Dutch capital, is known for:
• duty-free shopping
• lively boardwalk cafés
• pristine beaches minutes from downtown
• delicious Caribbean and international cuisine
It’s a great spot for cruise passengers and anyone wanting a relaxed day near the water.
✧ Recommended Places to Eat in Philipsburg
While exploring the boardwalk, stop at one of these favorites:
Ocean Lounge — Elegant beachfront dishes with gorgeous views.
The Dutch Blonde Beach Bar — Fun, casual, and great for drinks.
Greenhouse — A lively spot for seafood, burgers, and cocktails.
Gelateria Milano — Perfect for a sweet treat after the beach.
✧ 5. Spend the Day at Orient Bay
Often called the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean,” Orient Bay offers:
• white sand
• crystal-blue water
• beachfront restaurants
• water sports and parasailing
It’s one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the French side.
✧ Where to eat & relax at Orient Bay
Orient Bay is lined with stylish beach clubs and restaurants, each offering its own vibe — from relaxed island comfort to chic, Mediterranean-inspired menus. Here are some traveler favorites:
Bikini Beach — Vibrant, trendy, and perfect for cocktails and oceanfront lounging. A lively beach club with great music and service.
Kontiki Beach — Chic and modern with a beautiful menu, full-service loungers, and a relaxed-upscale atmosphere. Ideal for couples or groups wanting a polished beach day.
Coco Beach — Chic and refined with a Mediterranean-inspired feel. Excellent food, curated cocktails, and a luxurious setting that offers an elevated Orient Bay experience.
Kakao Beach — Friendly, welcoming, and great for families. Delicious food, comfortable loungers, and a more casual, laid-back vibe.
Wai Plage — A peaceful, charming option with beachfront dining and a quieter atmosphere, perfect if you want something more intimate.
✧ 6. Experience Grand Case — The Culinary Capital of the Caribbean
If you’re a foodie, Grand Case is a dream. This charming seaside village is famous for its French-Caribbean cuisine, stylish beachfront restaurants, and long, picturesque shoreline with crystal-clear blue water.
Stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets, the entire bay glows with warm colors, creating one of the most magical dining atmospheres on the island.
Here you’ll find:
• fine dining
• beachfront restaurants
• a long, scenic beachfront perfect for walking or enjoying sunset cocktails
• sunset views that feel like magic
Plan a dinner here — it’s unforgettable.
✧ Must-Try Restaurants in Grand Case
Known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Grand Case is filled with incredible dining options:
Rainbow Café — Trendy, stylish, and perfect for brunch or sunset.
La Villa — French-Caribbean cuisine in a charming setting.
Sunset Café — Stunning views and relaxed French dining.
Lolos (local BBQ stands) — A true island experience with fresh grilled favorites.
✧ 7. Explore Pinel Island
A quick boat ride from Cul-de-Sac brings you to this little paradise.
Pinel Island offers:
• shallow turquoise water
• calm beaches perfect for families
• vibrant marine life
• gentle hiking trails with stunning views
• iguanas roaming freely
It’s the ideal choice for a relaxing, slow-paced beach day where time seems to move differently.
✧ Recommended Spots on Pinel Island
Yellow Beach — A beloved beachfront restaurant with comfortable loungers, fresh seafood, cocktails, and soft Caribbean music. Perfect for spending the day in total relaxation with service brought right to your chair.
Karibuni — A more rustic, island-style restaurant known for its grilled dishes and laid-back charm. Great for guests who want a local, casual beach vibe with excellent food.
✧ 8. Visit Fort Louis for Stunning Views
Located above Marigot, Fort Louis offers a panoramic view of:
• the town
• the marina
• surrounding islands
• sapphire-blue waters
It’s a short hike and worth every step.
✧ 9. Relax at Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Sint Maarten, known for its crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and calm swimming conditions. Loved by both locals and visitors, it’s the perfect place to unwind, spend the day on the sand, or enjoy a peaceful Caribbean escape.
Whether you want a relaxing beach day or something a little more adventurous, Mullet Bay has it all.
• clear turquoise water
• soft white sand
• great swimming
• a laid-back, peaceful atmosphere
• beach clubs, snack bars and drinks nearby
It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, floating in calm water, or enjoying a slow, relaxing beach day.
✧ Enhance your beach day at Mullet Bay with Clear Water Vibez
Make your Mullet Bay experience effortless with Clearwater Vibez, the go-to provider for everything you need by the water:
Enjoy convenient access to:
umbrella & chair rentals
jet ski rentals
water toys
paddle boards
friendly local service
crystal-clear kayaks for exploring the coatline
stunning clear kayak photoshoots
crystal-water videography
social-media–ready photo sessions
Whether you want a relaxing beach day, thrilling water activities, or stunning content to take home, Clear Water Vibez elevates your entire Mullet Bay experience.
✧ Where to eat & lounge at Mullet Bay
Mullet Bay is also home to some of the island's best beachfront dining, from chic beach clubs to local BBQ favorites.
Kalatua— A stylish beachfront restaurant and lounge offering a refined menu, cozy seating, beautiful cocktails, and a relaxed upscale atmosphere. Ideal for a long, luxurious beach day.
Da Waterhole — A fun, casual spot right on the sand. Great for cold drinks, friendly vibes, and simple, satisfying beach bites.
Rosie's Snack Bar — A Mullet Bay classic. Famous for grilled BBQ chicken, fresh fish, and ribs. If you want a true island-style meal with your feet in the sand, Rosie’s is the place.
✧ Note:
Mullet Bay is also one of the most popular stops on our Pura Vida SXM catamaran tours and private charters, thanks to its calm turquoise water, perfect swim conditions, and incredible views. Guests love relaxing here, snorkeling, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere before continuing the adventure.
✧ 10. Take a Day Trip to Anguilla or St. Barth
From Sint Maarten/St. Martin, you can easily hop to nearby islands.
• Anguilla: powder-soft beaches, luxury resorts
• St. Barth: high-end shopping, French cafés, stunning coves
Most day trips to Anguilla and St. Barth depart from the Marigot Ferry Terminal, where travelers can easily buy or reserve ferry tickets in advance.
If you prefer a more private and customized experience, you can also explore nearby islands on a private boat charter, perfect for small groups, special celebrations, or those wanting a personalized day on the water.
Make Your Trip Unforgettable with a Pura Vida SXM Catamaran Tour
If you’re looking for the one experience that captures the beauty, peace, and adventure of the island — it’s a day on the water.
Choose from:
🌞 Day Tours
🌅 Sunset Cruises
🐠 Snorkeling Adventures
⚓ Private Charters
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, honeymoon, family trip, or simply escaping the ordinary — a Pura Vida SXM tour will be the highlight of your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sint Maarten
What makes Sint Maarten a unique Caribbean destination?
Sint Maarten is known for its dual French–Dutch culture, turquoise waters, incredible dining, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous beaches. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and island charm.
Is a catamaran tour worth it in Sint Maarten?
Absolutely. Sailing lets you experience secluded bays, marine life, snorkeling sites, and breathtaking coastal views that you can’t access from land. A Pura Vida SXM catamaran tour is considered one of the island’s top-rated activities.
Which beaches should I visit in Sint Maarten?
Mullet Bay, Orient Bay, Simpson Bay, Great Bay, and Happy Bay are among the most beautiful beaches. Each offers its own atmosphere — from lively beach bars to quiet, secluded shores.
Do I need a car to explore the island?
A car gives you the most flexibility, especially for beach hopping or dining across both the French and Dutch sides. That said, taxis and guided tours are widely available and convenient.
Is Sint Maarten safe for tourists?
Yes. The island is generally very safe for visitors, especially in well-traveled areas, beaches, and attractions. Standard travel awareness is recommended.
What is the best time of year to visit Sint Maarten?
December–April is peak season with beautiful weather. May–July is ideal for quieter beaches, warm waters, and excellent snorkeling visibility.
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