1. Maho Beach – The Ultimate Aviation Spectacle
Few beaches in the world offer the kind of adrenaline rush that Maho Beach provides. Located on the Dutch side of St. Martin, right next to Princess Juliana International Airport, this stretch of sand has become world-famous for its unique feature: airplanes land just meters above beachgoers’ heads. Watching a massive jet glide in low over the turquoise Caribbean waters is both thrilling and surreal. Tourists often time their visits with the flight schedules to catch the largest planes making their descent, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Beyond the thrill of plane spotting, Maho Beach also offers the classic pleasures of a Caribbean shoreline: soft sand, clear waters, and a lively beach atmosphere. Bars like Sunset Bar & Grill cater to visitors with tropical cocktails, food, and front-row seats to the action. Safety is a concern here, as jet blasts can be strong enough to knock people off their feet—warning signs are placed along the beach to remind visitors to keep a safe distance.
Still, the appeal of Maho Beach lies in its rare mix of natural beauty and human engineering. Where else can you swim in turquoise waters while a Boeing 747 roars overhead? It’s this marriage of aviation and paradise that makes Maho Beach a must-visit destination.
2. Orient Bay – Beach Playground
On the French side of the island lies Orient Bay, a stunning two-mile stretch often called the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” This lively destination is the island’s most famous beach, offering everything from water sports to trendy beach clubs. Its powdery sand and clear blue waters attract sunseekers, while parasailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing keep the adventurous entertained.
Orient Bay is also known for its vibrant atmosphere. Beach bars line the shore, serving everything from champagne and fresh seafood to casual island fare. One section of the beach is clothing-optional, adding a liberating European vibe to the experience. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find something to enjoy here, whether it’s relaxing on a lounger or sipping cocktails with live music.
What sets Orient Bay apart is its balance of beauty and activity. It’s not just a place to sunbathe; it’s a place to socialize, celebrate, and experience French-Caribbean culture in full swing. For travelers looking for both relaxation and excitement, Orient Bay is the perfect blend.
3. Grand Case – Foodie Paradise
Grand Case, a charming fishing village on the French side, is considered the culinary capital of the Caribbean. The main boulevard is lined with gourmet restaurants, casual beach shacks known as lolos, and stylish bars. Food is the heart of this community, and visitors flock here to taste everything from fresh lobster and grilled snapper to fine French cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs.
Beyond its food scene, Grand Case offers a relaxed beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The town retains a cozy, small-village feel, with colorful Creole houses and a welcoming atmosphere. Evenings here are magical—diners enjoy candlelit meals while waves lap gently against the shore.
For culture lovers, Grand Case also offers art galleries, boutique shops, and music festivals. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience of French-Caribbean hospitality. To visit St. Martin and not stop in Grand Case is to miss one of the island’s most authentic and memorable experiences.
4. Fort Louis – Panoramic History
Perched above the French capital of Marigot, Fort Louis is both a historical landmark and a panoramic viewpoint. Built in the 18th century to protect the harbor from British pirates, its stone ruins are a reminder of St. Martin’s colonial past. Today, visitors hike a short trail to the top, rewarded with sweeping views over Marigot Bay, the turquoise waters beyond, and on clear days, even neighboring Anguilla.
The fort itself is simple but atmospheric. Its old cannons and crumbling walls invite visitors to imagine life during the island’s battles for control. For photographers, the location is a dream—sunsets from Fort Louis are breathtaking, with the harbor lights flickering below.
As one of the island’s best spots for panoramic views, Fort Louis combines history and beauty in a way that resonates with travelers. A trip to Marigot feels incomplete without climbing up to this fort, where the island’s past and present meet in spectacular fashion.
5. Pic Paradis – Hike to the Sky
For nature lovers, Pic Paradis is the crown jewel of St. Martin. Standing at 424 meters (1,391 feet), it is the highest point on the island and offers unrivaled views of both the French and Dutch sides. Hiking trails wind through lush tropical forests, alive with birds, monkeys, and exotic plants.
Reaching the summit rewards you with a 360-degree panorama of St. Martin, its surrounding islands, and the shimmering Caribbean Sea. The hike itself can range from easy walks to more challenging climbs, depending on the route chosen. Many visitors combine their trip with nearby attractions like Loterie Farm, where zip-lining and treetop dining add extra adventure.
Pic Paradis is a refreshing escape from the beaches, offering cool mountain breezes and a glimpse of the island’s natural interior. For those seeking a balance of relaxation and exploration, this “Paradise Peak” delivers unforgettable experiences and some of the island’s most spectacular photo opportunities.
6. Philipsburg & Front Street – Shopping & Culture
On the Dutch side of St. Martin lies Philipsburg, the vibrant capital of Sint Maarten. Known for its pastel-colored buildings, lively boardwalk, and palm-lined Front Street, Philipsburg is the heart of commerce and culture on the island. For many cruise visitors, this is their first stop, and it immediately captivates with its blend of Caribbean charm and Dutch heritage.
Front Street is especially famous for duty-free shopping. Here, visitors can find luxury goods like jewelry, watches, electronics, and designer fashion at competitive prices. The area is dotted with boutiques, open-air markets, and souvenir shops, making it a shopping haven. The boardwalk along Great Bay Beach adds to the experience, offering ocean views, restaurants, and cafés where one can pause between browsing.
Beyond retail therapy, Philipsburg has cultural treasures. The St. Maarten Museum explores the island’s history, from indigenous peoples to colonial influences, while the Courthouse on Front Street stands as an iconic historical landmark. For families, the city’s beaches offer calm waters perfect for swimming, while nightlife lovers will enjoy the casinos, clubs, and lively bars that define Sint Maarten’s after-dark scene.
Philipsburg is not just a shopping hub; it’s a cultural showcase of the Dutch Caribbean. Its colorful streets, bustling energy, and seafront charm make it one of the island’s essential destinations.
7. Creole Rock – Snorkeling Hotspot
A short boat ride from the French side of St. Martin brings you to Creole Rock, a small rocky islet rising dramatically from the turquoise sea. It is part of the St. Martin Nature Reserve and is renowned as one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean.
The shallow waters surrounding Creole Rock are teeming with life—schools of tropical fish, stingrays, and occasionally sea turtles glide through the clear depths. Coral reefs provide vibrant underwater scenery, making it a paradise for snorkelers. Because the waters are relatively calm and shallow, it’s an excellent spot for beginners as well as seasoned divers.
The islet itself is uninhabited, adding to its sense of tranquility. Visitors often combine a snorkeling trip here with boat tours that include nearby beaches or other islets. Photography lovers will appreciate the rugged beauty of Creole Rock rising from the sea, framed by the vast Caribbean horizon.
Creole Rock’s blend of marine biodiversity and natural serenity makes it a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience St. Martin beneath the surface. It is a reminder of the island’s ecological richness and its appeal to adventurers.
8. Secluded Beach Gems – Friar’s Bay & Pinel Island
Not every beach in St. Martin is lively and crowded. For those seeking peace and hidden beauty, Friar’s Bay and Pinel Island are the crown jewels of seclusion.
Friar’s Bay, located on the French side, is a quiet escape with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its crescent-shaped shoreline and family-friendly vibe make it a popular spot for those who want a beach day without the hustle of Orient Bay. Two small beach bars serve food and drinks, adding to its laid-back charm.
Just offshore lies Pinel Island, a tiny islet accessible by a short ferry ride from Cul-de-Sac. Pinel feels like a world apart, with powdery sand, shallow lagoons, and rustic beach restaurants serving fresh seafood. Snorkeling here is spectacular, with coral reefs and vibrant marine life. The island also has a clothing-optional side, catering to those who want privacy and freedom.
Together, Friar’s Bay and Pinel Island offer the quieter side of St. Martin. They showcase the island’s ability to balance excitement with serenity, making them perfect for travelers who want to disconnect and embrace nature.
9. Sailing & Island Tours
St. Martin’s location in the Caribbean Sea makes it an ideal hub for sailing and boat tours. Whether you’re chartering a private yacht, joining a catamaran cruise, or hopping on a speedboat, the waters around the island are an endless playground.
Popular tours often include stops at Tintamarre Island, a pristine uninhabited isle where visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters or enjoy natural mud baths. Some tours stop at Creole Rock for snorkeling, while others circle the island, offering views of cliffs, bays, and hidden coves. Along the way, travelers might encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and schools of colorful fish.
For those seeking luxury, sunset cruises provide a romantic way to experience the island. Champagne in hand, guests watch the sun dip into the sea, painting the sky in brilliant hues. Families, meanwhile, enjoy half-day excursions with opportunities to snorkel, swim, and relax.
Sailing is not just a tourist activity in St. Martin—it is part of its culture and lifestyle. With its perfect winds, turquoise waters, and endless horizon, exploring the island by sea is an essential experience for every visitor.
10. Culinary Romance & Culture
Beyond beaches and adventures, St. Martin is often called the culinary capital of the Caribbean. This title is most evident on the French side, where towns like Grand Case and Marigot host an exceptional mix of fine dining and casual local eateries. French culinary techniques blend seamlessly with Caribbean flavors, creating dishes that are as innovative as they are delicious.
Dining in St. Martin can be a romantic affair. Beachfront restaurants serve meals under the stars, while luxury resorts like La Samanna offer wine tastings and gourmet experiences. Cooking classes allow visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s food culture, learning to prepare Creole dishes with local spices.
Street food also plays a role in the island’s culinary identity. The lolos of Grand Case offer grilled lobster, ribs, and johnnycakes cooked over open flames, providing an authentic taste of local life. Food festivals and weekly cultural nights add to the celebration of flavors.
For couples, food is often paired with romance in St. Martin. From sunset dinners at Indigo Beach to candlelit meals on Pinel Island, every dining experience becomes a memory. Here, cuisine is more than nourishment—it is the soul of the island, a reflection of its French sophistication and Caribbean heart.