Inland Adventures
Beyond St. Maarten/St. Martin’s captivating beaches lies a world waiting to be explored; step away from the shoreline and immerse yourself in the island’s inland allure.
Written by D.A. Robin
From island tours and crafty spirits to thrilling adventures and sporting events, delve into the diverse offerings awaiting explorers on terra firma.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is celebrated for its pristine beaches and sparkling waters, but beyond the shoreline and slightly inland, a world of activities and experiences awaits the eager, curious, and cultured traveler. From shopping trips and heart-racing zip line adventures to exhilarating land tours and leisurely rounds of golf, these 37 miles of sheer joy offer activities to satisfy any traveler’s appetite for adventure. Hop on an ATV or scooter for an adrenaline-pumping ride, or dive into the island’s rich history with rum and distillery tours. Journey beyond the sea and sand, and escape into the fullness of this Caribbean paradise.
Hikes and Delights
Tours of St. Maarten/St. Martin offer a remarkable exploration of the island’s natural and historical wonders. Climb hiking trails in and around Point Blanche, Back Bay, and elsewhere. Visit historic Fort Louis in French St. Martin or Fort Amsterdam in Dutch
St. Maarten, preserved landmarks where the echoes of the island’s distant colonial, war-torn past linger.
Discover the island’s ecological wonders, museums, historic sites, or attractions. A visit to the fantastic kaleidoscope of butterflies or an ecological tour with Seagrape Tours will showcase the islands rich biodiversity. With Seagrape Tours, you can embark on eco- and cultural excursions that showcase the island’s historical monuments, offer tastes of local beverages, and bring its rich heritage to life. Seagrape Tours is also accommodating to guests with special needs. Just let them know if you have any particular requirements, and they will ensure an accessible visit.
Step back in time to the era of swashbucklers at The Rusty Parrot. Here, an immersive experience awaits with a “scuttled ship,” like the vessels once commandeered by pirates. Learn about the legendary Caribbean buccaneers, such as Calico Jack, through dynamic special effects. Once you’ve had your fill of adventure, relax with a selection of drinks and tapas, all while savoring the panoramic vistas of Philipsburg and Great Bay.
The capital of Philipsburg is a retail haven, featuring high-end labels and tempting treats. AMAsterdam stands out as a distinctive destination for those seeking a taste of European indulgence amid the tropical allure of the Caribbean. This charming spot tempts with a refined array of Dutch beers, handcrafted cheeses, and select wines. AMAsterdam provides a delightful escape into the flavors of the Netherlands, from the richness of aged cheeses to the intricacies of fine wines and the refreshing notes of Dutch beers — all carefully curated to tantalize the taste buds.
What sets AMAsterdam apart is not just its culinary offerings but its exceptional service, providing direct-to-resort drop-offs, ensuring guests can indulge without worrying about transport logistics. Their on-call pickups add ease to the experience, allowing visitors to explore Philipsburg without concerns about returning to their accommodations.
Sip and Savor
No visit to St. Maarten/St. Martin is complete without a journey into the world of rum and craft beer. Splash into the island’s deep-rooted rum-making history with a guided tour at Topper’s Rhum Distillery. Experience the meticulous process of rum production and engage your senses with tastings of exquisite rums. Beer aficionados will relish Dutch Blonde Experiences’ brewery tours, offering a comprehensive view into the crafting of the award-winning Dutch Blonde Ale. The tour invites you to follow the beer-making process from start to finish, with opportunities to sample a variety of flavors. These tours are not just about indulging in the finest spirits; they are immersive experiences that allow you to savor the soul of St. Maarten/St. Martin, one glass (or bottle) at a time.
Serve and Swing
Padel, a sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, is surging in popularity on the island. The SXM Padel Club in Belair — a charming seaside district just moments away from the beach and close to Philipsburg — welcomes players of all abilities. With doors opening daily at 6 a.m., the club features three open-air courts, a pro shop for all your gear needs, and a snack bar that’s perfect for a quick bite between matches. Whether you’re there to play or just to watch, the club’s rental rackets and lively matches cater to everyone, from beginners to experienced players. SXM Padel Club has earned its place on the map by hosting several international padel events throughout the year. To reserve courts, download their SXM Padel Club app or call 721-580-0723 for additional details.
Tennis enthusiasts will find St. Maarten/St. Maarten an ideal destination, with a variety of pristine private courts. Tucked within the confines of luxury resorts and condominiums, these courts are available for guest play via day passes. The tennis facilities on the island cater to players at any level, offering a chance to hone their skills or engage in spirited matches.
Golfers can find their slice of heaven at Mullet Bay Golf Course, a premier golfing destination in St. Maarten/St. Martin known for its challenging holes and stunning Caribbean vistas. The course is a haven for those wishing to enjoy a round of golf in a tropical setting. Mullet Bay Golf Course is next to the scenic Mullet Bay Beach, offering an unparalleled golfing experience with views of the Caribbean Sea. Mullet Bay remains unrivaled for golfers seeking the epitome of island golfing luxury.
Spin and See
Experience the beauty of St. Maarten/St. Martin in a unique and invigorating way — through biking tours that offer a refreshing perspective on the island’s natural splendor. Pedal your way across steep hillsides, picturesque coastal roads, and the bustle of charming villages. These tours give you the freedom to venture at your leisure, pausing to relish breathtaking vistas or to sample the island’s culinary offerings. Tri-Sport in Simpson Bay, once a quaint fishing village, stands ready to take you on an incredible adventure. Their expert guides offer unrivaled knowledge of the island’s trails, ensuring a safe and memorable journey through bustling Philipsburg or the island’s coastal roads.
Jet across the hilly, winding roads of St. Maarten/St. Martin with ATV and scooter rentals that promise unforgettable off-road escapades. These rentals provide an unparalleled opportunity to navigate steep inclines and secluded areas off-limits to more conventional modes of transport. Feel the island’s air rush by as you control the pace and path of your journey.
Whether you want the versatility of an ATV or the freedom of a scooter, off-road adventures offer an intimate connection with the island’s natural wonders. Trust Solid ATV Scooter Rental with your experiences for unquestioned safety and excitement.
Glide and Gallop
For thrill seekers who crave an adrenaline rush, zip line tours in St. Maarten/St. Martin are an absolute must. Glide above the island’s hills, ponds, and lagoons, and enjoy the view from rare heights in Point Blanche and Cul-de-Sac. Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten, atop the island’s Sentry Hill, grants guests this experience while providing choices of delightful cuisine and other experiences.
If you prefer to stay grounded, picture yourself trotting along pristine seaside trails, feeling the matching rhythms of Caribbean splendor with the rhythm of a gentle gallop. Traverse hilly terrain on horseback and gaze at views of the island’s lush landscapes. Coastal trails lead you through hidden corners of the island and across rarely explored sections of the coast, where the Caribbean Sea stretches endlessly ahead of you.
Whether it’s soaring on a zip line, indulging in retail therapy, revving through off-road adventures, or soaking up the local culture, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers a journey like no other. Adventure awaits — are you ready to explore?
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