Get ready to be transported to the enchanting world of St. Maarten, where sun-kissed beaches, exhilarating water activities, and a gastronomic voyage await. Below are the top 10 activities that will help you experience the best of the island, whilst soaking up the famous ‘Friendly Island’ warmth and stunning panoramas. 

1. Be a Night Owl: 

St. Maarten is known for its exciting nightlife scene and once the sun goes down, music spills out onto the streets, the lights turn on and the island comes alive. Simpson Bay is the area to be if you are looking to go bar-hopping or to dance the night away to salsa, dancehall, or EDM at the many clubs and beach bars. Downtown Philipsburg offers a more relaxing night, where you can find the chilled vibes of local bars and lounges.

2. An Amazing Race: 

Tri-Sport SXM offers a lively and amazing race through PhilIpsburg, the capital town of St. Maarten. With a map in hand you’ll solve clues which lead your team to its next destination, direct you to perform a task, or complete a challenge for bonus points. Each challenge is different, and can range from building a sand castle, to sampling a traditional food, to a jump in the ocean.

3. Paddle Out into Blue Waters:

Head out on a 90-minute Jet Ski Guided Tour with Blue Bubbles SXM, cruising through the picturesque Simpson Bay Lagoon and marvelling at mega-yachts and hidden coves that showcase the island's true maritime charm. Alternatively, explore St. Maarten’s stunning bays and lagoons by renting a Kayak or SUP for the day. Adventure on your own, or join a guided kayaking tour to discover some of the best spots of the island from the ocean side.

4. Feel The Power: 

Always at the top of any must see list for St. Maarten is Maho, home to the famous Airport Beach, given its a nickname that embodies an experience like no other. Feel the adrenaline rush as planes glide over Maho Bay for landings so spectacular that you feel like you can touch the belly of a 747. Maho is filled with many beach bars and lounges which offer a perfect view of planes coming from over the horizon, giving you front row seats to impressive sights.

5. Discover Marine Magic: 

Embark on a diving expedition with Dive St.Maarten, and discover an underwater wonderland of wrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and playful marine life such as tropical fish, turtles, rays and sharks in their natural habitat.

6. Have a Blissful Beach Day: 

No visit to St.Maarten would be complete without a sojourn to the french side of the island, St. Martin. Pinel Island is a picturesque, remote island part of the French National Reserve - accessible only by a shuttle boat, kayak or SUP. It is home to white-sand beaches, and crystal blue, shallow waters. Grab lunch at the only restaurant, choosing your dining spot on the beach, restaurant patio or even at one of their high-top tables located in the water.

7. Set Sail on a Sunset Soiree: 

A great way to end a beautiful day in paradise, the sunset cruise aboard the Lambada Catamaran with Aqua Mania Adventure offers an open bar, a selection of snacks and Caribbean rhythms. Unforgettable colours ablaze across the sky as the sun dips below the horizon, whilst you coast around 12 miles of coastline and crystal clear water.

8. Get Active Outdoors: 

Discover the many hills and valleys of the island at your own pace and on your transportation of choice. Take in the island’s picturesque beaches and lush hills on horseback at Seaside Nature Park or explore the island on Jeep and ATV tours where you can reach every corner of the island. For cycling enthusiasts, there are bike-guided tours available that will give you a unique perspective of the landscape.

9. See the Island’s History: 

Across both the Dutch and French sides of the island, there are abundant coastal parks and reserves perfect for day trips, picnics, hikes and taking lots of photos. Emilio Wilson Park offers an escape into St Maarten’s hillside, and is a historical landmark and cultural museum offering a glimpse into Dutch St Maarten’s rich legacy. Follow your visit to Emilio’s with a trip on the chair lift up to the peak of Sentry Hill, which offers panoramic views of St. Maarten and our neighbours of Saba, St. Barths, Anguilla, and St Kitts. Also at the top, Rainforest Adventures provides thrilling fun for adventure-seekers with the legendary Flying Dutchman - the steepest zipline in the world. After thrilling adventures, dine at Emilio’s restaurant which offers a unique combination of contemporary high-end dining in a beautiful historic setting.

10. Shop Til You Drop In Philipsburg: 

Delight in shopping for unique souvenirs at Front Street in Philipsburg, where duty-free boutiques abound. Find everything from luxury goods, the best perfumes and local handicrafts to commemorate your St. Maarten journey. Follow up a shopping spree with a delicious dinner and cocktails at the Holland House Beach Hotel, a notable landmark on the capital’s lively beach front. Take part in the Philipsburg Art Walk, a self-guided route showcasing plenty of shops, restaurants, historical sites, and picture-perfect murals along the way. Enjoy artwork by local artists and take creative pictures with your family, friends, or partner. Help promote our artists and island by sharing your pictures and tagging: @colormesxm #stmaarten #sxm.

St. Maarten beckons with a magnetic allure and these top 10 activities will help you experience the best of the island, whilst soaking up the famous ‘Friendly Island’ warmth and stunning panoramas.