8 Day Trip Island Hopping Destinations From St. Maarten / St. Martin
St. Maarten / St. Martin is a hub for various islands in the northeastern Caribbean. Many surrounding islands connect by ferry to the ports of either Philipsburg or Marigot or are connected by national carrier Winair from Princess Juliana International Airport and allow for excellent day trip options. In addition, boat rides to various fascinating uninhabited islands are available for your beach and snorkeling days. Some suggestions for those that want to set foot on another island for a day:
1. Saba
Saba is the smallest island in the Dutch Caribbean and contrary to Dutch side St. Maarten part of the European Netherlands. In general, its impressive volcano is the highest point of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Its volcanic history over time nurtured lush rainforest. Saba is also known for its special white cottage building style and the worlds shortest runway. You can reach Saba amongst others via Sabas high speed Ferry the Edge or a Winair flight from St. Maarten airport (SXM).
2. Anguilla
The beaches of calm Anguilla are world famous. For island hopping, doing a sailing trip here is highly recommended as you will also see uninhabited islands alongside many beaches and snorkel spots. Ferries to Anguilla depart frequently from Marigot harbor, and planes from Dutch side Princess Juliana International Airport.
3. St. Eustatius / Statia
“Statia” as it is known in the region is both worth a day trip for fans of nature because of its lush Quill volcano and history buffs. “The Historic Gem”, once an important marketplace and gateway for the Dutch trading empire to the Caribbean, has amongst others fortresses and ruins of the former trade quay, church and synagogue from its heydays. For travel purposes it is relevant that Statia is a (European) Dutch municipality.
4. Tintamarre
Scenic Tintamarre, 10 minutes off the coast of Pinel by boat from French Cul de Sac, used to be inhabited. Some ruins of farms and a small airport can still be found. The biggest attraction however is its beautiful beach and its snorkeling options, with occasional sea turtles passing by. As there are no amenities here, please make sure you bring your own water and lunch and return your waste to the mainland – Tintamarre is a nature reserve.
5. St. Barths
Small St. Barths is home to the rich and famous and has some beautiful beaches. Port town Gustavia is a scenic natural harbor frequented by yachts and has a landmark museum on its quay. Ships from and to Philipsburg depart from here. The island is part of France.
6. Dog Island
Included in the Anguilla tour of Eagle Tours is a visit to Dog Island. This tiny picture perfect island has beaches, palm trees and a former restaurant.
7. St. Kitts and Nevis
The (double) island state of St. Kitts and Nevis is known for its fortresses and nature. Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fort Brimstone is the biggest fortress ever constructed in the Eastern Caribbean. Ferries to St. Kitts depart from Philipsburg, Winair flights from Princess Juliana Airport.
8. Pinel Island
As small as Pinel Island might be (roughly a square mile), it yields two pristine beaches, two restaurants, hiking paths and amazing views. Pinel is uninhabited and at the narrowest point not even 100 meters off the French side St. Martin seashore. To get to this popular day trip hideaway, just take a 5 minute boat ride from French Cul de Sac. Many sailing tours also pay visits to the island.
Back to Visit St Maarten / St Martin Main Page
Back to Visit St Maarten / St Martin Blog Main Page