Lush Landscapes on St. Maarten/St. Martin
Explore the land-based treasures of St. Maarten/St. Martin
For those eager to explore the land-based treasures of St. Maarten/St. Martin, there’s no shortage of exciting adventures. For a journey off the beaten path, explore the island with Tri-Sport’s bicycle and kayak tours. Paddle through the wetlands around Simpson Bay Lagoon, where the mangroves serve as a rich sanctuary for marine life. Alternatively, hop on a historical bike tour through Philipsburg or embark on a unique cross-border cycling excursion that takes you through both the Dutch and French sides of the island—or just rent a bike and head out to explore the island on your own!
If you prefer motorized adventures, Solid ATV Scooter Rental offers an adrenaline-pumping island tour, complete with stops at the most Instagrammable spots. Imagine driving an ATV, quad, or buggy across border points, over lush green hills, and pastbeautiful beaches—it’s an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Exploring St. Maarten/St. Martin’s rich history adds another layer to your island adventure. The Sint Maarten Museum, tucked away in a vibrant alley in colorful Philipsburg, provides a compact but insightful look into the island’s evolution, from its geological formation to its modern-day culture. For a deeper dive into the island’s natural heritage, head to Amuseum Naturalis on the French side, where you can explore exhibits on native plants and wildlife while taking in picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Exploring Philipsburg offers more than just a glimpse into its history and vibrant culture—it offers a unique way to explore the capital through a self-guided art walk. The ColorMeSXM project has transformed the town’s walls into canvases for colorful murals by local artists. As you search for the 21 murals, each with its own story and style, you’ll also pass shops, restaurants, and historical sites, making it an engaging cultural adventure.
For a truly immersive experience, Seagrape Tours brings together elements of St. Maarten’s culture, heritage, and environment. Whether bird-watching, meeting local artists, or tasting the island’s flavors, Seagrape’s curated tours offer something for everyone, and they are designed for people of all abilities.
The Mullet Bay Golf Course is the island’s 18-hole, par-70 course, offering a rewarding challenge for golfers. Set amid vivid green landscapes, the course boasts stunning views, with the sparkling Mullet Bay Beach on one side and a serene lagoon on the other. Though the once-famed Mullet Bay Beach Resort is gone, the golf course remains a favorite for visitors, blending natural beauty with a thoughtfully designed layout.
For the athletic adventurer, the island boasts over 20 miles of hiking trails that cater to all levels of explorers. From gentle coastal strolls to more challenging hikes through hilly terrain, these paths lead to untouched beaches and breathtaking viewpoints. A top recommendation is the hike up Pic Paradis, the island’s highest point, where you’ll trek through lush rain forest and be rewarded with panoramic views of the island and beyond. For a more unique experience, try the Natural Pools Hike in Point Blanche, where you’ll discover the secluded natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Discovering the historical forts on St. Maarten/St. Martin provides a glimpse into the island’s past while offering breathtaking views. On the Dutch side, near Philipsburg, Fort Amsterdam sits perched on a peninsula between Great Bay and Little Bay. Built by the Dutch in 1631 and later overtaken by the Spanish, this fort offers stunning vistas. Located in Marigot, Fort Louis was built in 1789 to protect the port’s warehouses from British and Dutch pirates and is a popular spot for its panoramic 360-degreeviews of the island and surrounding waters.
For a taste of the island’s famous rum, Topper’s Rhum Distillery provides an interactive tour where you can sample various flavors, enjoy a cocktail (or two), and pick up a few bottles as souvenirs. Local breweries Caribbean Brewing Company, Pelican Beer, and SXM Beer invite visitors to sample locally crafted beers and get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. If you’re in the mood for a challenge before enjoying a local beer, Dutch Blonde Beach Bar offers themed escape rooms that put your problem-solving skills to the test.