Must-Do Experiences
No matter what your preference is, there’s something for everyone in this Caribbean paradise.
You may not have time to take in all the sights this time around, but there are some attractions on this Dutch-French island you simply must experience before you head back home. Here are some that deserve a place on any visitor’s to-do list. Don’t worry if you can’t get around to all of them. After you’ve had a taste of St. Maarten/St. Martin, you’re sure to come back for more.
Water Works
This 37-square-mile island is surrounded by water, so it goes without saying that you’ll want to get wet at one or several gorgeous beaches. Try your hand at a water sport, then take time to soak up sun and relax on the sand. If you prefer no tan lines, opt for the clothing-optional Orient Bay or Cupecoy beaches.
That’s just one way to hit the blue on St. Maarten/St. Martin. Explore the outer isles with Aqua Mania Adventures or go beneath the water to discover a colorful world of sea creatures and coral reefs. Eagle Tours offers a leisurely and memorable sunset sail. Sip Champagne as you watch the sun journey to its nightly sleep. There are also options to sail to other islands or to just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Or you can nurture your competitive spirit at the St. Maarten 12 Metre Regatta. Join the crew of an authentic America’s Cup sailing yacht and race against waves, wind and, of course, other boats.
For Landlubbers
Do not leave the shores of this island paradise without experiencing what it’s like to have a large plane fly over your head. Maho Bay Beach is the place for this. Jetliners heading for Princess Juliana International Airport come in low for landing and let off a heavy stream of “jet blast” for takeoff. Hold on to your hat!
You’ll find thrills as well at Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten at Rockland Estate, which has the world’s steepest zip line: The Flying Dutchman. Zip from hilltop to hilltop and ride a doughnut to the bottom. After your bird’s-eye view, get a glimpse into the past at the park’s Emilio Wilson Museum.
History buffs also will want to spend some time at the St. Maarten Heritage Museum. In a cozy alley off bustling Front Street, the museum brings visitors face to face with facts and artifacts. Then walk over to Captain Hodge Wharf on Great Bay Beach to the World War II Monument to read the names of those brave souls from the Dutch Caribbean who gave their lives for freedom.
A great way to visit historic sites — and get in a bit of exercise — is to sign up for bicycle tour with Tri-Sport ecotours. Pedal your way along beaches and through Philipsburg for a tour that’s scenic and informative.
Cycling, of course, is just one way to see the sights. Maybe you can’t make a horse drink, but you can lead one to water at Seaside Nature Park. The park offers horseback riding on the beach and along a hillside for a different perspective of the island. Also here is a pet farm where children and grown-ups alike can make friends with furry farmyard creatures.
Perhaps you’d like to go on a one-of-a-kind treasure hunt by car or scooter to find all four border points on the island. The points are marked by flags, obelisks or signs. Upload a photo with one foot in France and another in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Can’t decide what to do first? SXM Deals offers a variety of tour options, on land and on water. The folks there will be happy to help you find the adventure that’s right for you.
Take It Home
Don’t just capture memories on your camera. Bottle them at Tijon Parfumerie. Craft your own fragrance with essences and extracts from around the world. Experts are on hand to guide you through the process.
Visiting Topper’s Rhum Distillery is another must-do experience you can cap and carry home. Tour the distillery and sample a variety of flavored spirits. Then take a bottle back with you to enjoy with family and friends.
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