Top 16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in St Martin/St Maarten

1. Marigot Bay Port – this cosmopolitan spot is one of the best places to visit in Saint Martin

The Marigot Bay Port is one of the most picturesque places on the island. Marigot is the capital of the French side of Saint Martin, built near the bay of the same name. The port is the center of life on the tiny island and one of the most exciting places for visitors.

Stop by the port to get pictures of the beautiful local houses, typical of the gingerbread-like architecture of the Caribbean.

You can also get excellent views of Fort St. Louis and go on an excursion up to the fort if you’re feeling adventurous.

The port is also home to bistros and a biweekly market for when you work up an appetite.

My must-do highlights in Marigot Bay Port

• For a relaxing activity after a day of exploring, visit the Le Spa Marigot for some wellness treatments.
• Discover the historical buildings located around the area, including the Old Prison, Catholic Church and Durat Bridge.
• Hop on a sightseeing tour where you can wander through the streets and enjoy complimentary drinks.

2. Maho Beach – the beach famous for its low-lying flights!

One of the great things to do in St Maarten is to explore its beautiful beaches. Saint Martin or St Maarten is split between the French side and the Dutch side.

Maho Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline on the Dutch side. Visitors can bask in the sandy shores and warm waters of the Caribbean.

However, Maho Beach’s main attraction is not in the sand or sea but the air. The beach is right next to Princess Juliana International Airport.

There are few other airports in the world where visitors can get right up to an aircraft’s final approach and see them land on the runway. Whether you’re a seasoned plane spotter or just in search of a unique beach experience, Maho Beach is the place to be!

My must-do highlights in Maho Beach

• Experience the unique wonder of overhead aircrafts taking off and landing on this famous beach.
• Go snorkelling through the crystal clear waters and discover the underwater world.
• Grab some delicious food and mouth watering drinks at the Sunset Bar and Grill overlooking the ocean.

3. Front Street and Old Street, Philipsburg – two must-see destinations on the island

Philipsburg is the main town on the Dutch side of the island (which is why the island is sometimes called Sint Maarten). The town is nestled between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond, offering great views of the water.

Front Street is the town’s main shopping district. Visitors can get excellent deals on jewelry, China, and even local liquor at the Guavaberry Emporium.

Front Street is also home to the Coliseum Princess Casino.

For a quainter, less bustling shopping experience, head to Old Street. Old Street is a picturesque district with historic buildings that hosts small shops, bistros, and plenty of photo opportunities including an iconic yellow car beloved by tourists.

My must-do highlights in Front Street and Old Street, Philipsburg

• Shop till you drop throughout the array of boutique store filled with interesting and unique items.
• Indulge in some food at one of the cute bistros dotted around.
• Stroll along the scenic beachside boardwalk.

4. Orient Bay Beach – the most famous and stunning beach in St Maarten

Orient Bay Beach is one of the nicest (and the busiest!) beaches on the French side of St. Martin.

It has excellent turquoise waters and sand, just like almost any other beach on St. Martin. However, what sets Orient Bay apart from other beaches is its lively nature.

Orient Bay has plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops lining the beach. Relax on the shore and enjoy the bohemian vibe.

My must-do highlights in Orient Bay Beach

• Embark on an adrenaline pumping experience with some parasailing over the ocean.
• Relax with some sunbathing along the golden sand shores.
• Check out the fun activities at Bikini Watersports.

5. Anse Marcel – one of the most beautiful beaches on Saint Martin

For a luxurious travel experience on St. Martin, head to Anse Marcel one of the most beautiful places to visit on the island. Anse Marcel is a secluded cove with calm swimming waters on the north of the island.

The bay protects the waters from the worst waves, so it is a choice destination for families.

Anse Marcel is also home to a luxury resort and hotels, making it the perfect getaway for travelers looking for a little rest and relaxation.

My must-do highlights in Anse Marcel

• Check out the surrounding walking trails and go for a hike.
• Have a go at paddleboarding across the picturesque waters.
• Play a game of volleyball on the beach underneath the glistening sunrays.

6. Grand Case Beach – a gorgeous and quiet beach on St. Martin

Many of the best places to visit in Saint Martin are beaches. Even among this wealth of sandy expanse, Grand Case Beach stands out from the competition.

The beach is a mile-long expanse of sand located on the French side of the island. Like Anse Marcel, it boasts calm waters with barely any waves, making it a popular destination for families.

Many hotels line Grand Case Beach, and they have lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests. However, many restaurants have their own lounge chairs that they are happy to rent out to day trippers as long as they also have a delicious lunch.

My must-do highlights in Grand Case Beach

• For those who enjoy nightlife, visit one of the vibrant bars after the sun has set.
• Hire a kayak and spend some time out on the ocean surround by a tranquil atmosphere.
• Play a round of golf in one of the most stunning settings.

7. Pinel Island – a stunning beauty spot located off St. Martin’s main island

This small island off of St. Martin’s northern coast is one of the most special gems in the Caribbean. The island is protected by the French Marine Reserve, so it is mostly undeveloped.

Visitors can hike, swim, snorkel, or go on kayaking excursions. The island is also home to almost tame iguanas that love to come up to humans for feeding – talk about a unique experience!

Besides unspoiled nature, Pinel Island also offers regular amenities you would expect from any beach destination. Have lunch at one of the restaurants or relax with a tiki cocktail. To get there, take a ferry from the town of Cul-de-Sac or go on a kayak or charter boat excursion.

My must-do highlights in Pinel Island

• Eat some fresh lobster whilst enjoying a breathtaking view.
• Adventure out on a kayaking excursion to explore around the off shore area.
• Charter a boat for an unforgettable experience.

8. Miguel’s Hot Beach Spot – a fun and stunning spot to spend the day

Miguel is a character that many visitors remember long after their trip to St. Martin. His beach, conveniently located right by the port, is a favorite among visitors.

Of course, the beautiful blue waters and sand are part of the draw, but what sets this beach apart from the others is the service.

The beach organizes drink services and food deliveries right on the beach, but for many people, the main draw is meeting Miguel, the friendly owner. Plus, the beach stands out from other private beach operators thanks to its vibrant orange umbrellas.

My must-do highlights in Miguel’s Hot Beach Spot

• Soak up the rays with some sunbathing along the gorgeous sandy shores.
• Make the most of the drink and food delivery services available whilst sunbathing.
• Grab an Insta-worthy shot in the fresh waters under the a blue, cloud free sky.

9. Tintamarre Island – a very scenic uninhabited island which is a must-see attraction

Tintamarre Island is a small isle less than a square mile large that is just off the coast of the St. Martin mainland. Tintamarre is so small that it has no permanent residents, particularly not since the Compagnie Aerienne Antillaise closed down shop.

However, Tintamarre is home to some very important winged residents.

The island is a designated Important Bird Area that supports species such as green-throated caribs, red-billed tropicbirds, and other species.

Visitors can also snorkel and see sea turtles in their natural habitat. The island is one of the best and unspoiled nature reserves in the Caribbean and an excellent opportunity to see animals as they are meant to be seen – in the wild.

My must-do highlights in Tintamarre Island

• Hop on a speed boat tour to have a thrilling ride, exploring out on the ocean.
• Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the uninhabited island setting.
• Soak all the gorgeous views throughout the scenic spot.

10. Great Bay Beach – a beautiful white-sand beach and boardwalk 

Great Bay Beach is one of the pearls in the crown of St. Martin’s Dutch side. It is conveniently located near Philipsburg for cruise ship tourists and visitors based in the main town.

Thanks to its location, the beach is very lively with plenty of bars, shops, and restaurants, to keep visitors busy and fulfill their every need.

That doesn’t mean that Great Bay Beach is lacking in natural attractions. The sandy expanse and calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and lounging about in the sun.

My must-do highlights in Great Bay Beach

• Take a stroll along the boardwalk to check out the array of boutiques and restaurants.
• Go for a dip in the bay to cool down on a hot day.
• Rent a jet ski for an exciting activity.

11. Paradise Peak – the highest point on the island offering great views

Paradise Peak, also known as Pic Paradis, is the highest point on the island of St. Martin. The peak is only 434 meters tall, so it is not exactly a challenging climb, even for amateurs.

The gentle climb is worth it to get spectacular views of all of St. Martin and even neighboring islands. Besides the panorama, visitors can also enjoy the lush flora lining the path and Loterie Farm, a historic sugar mill-turned-getaway located at the foot of the hill.

There are roads leading to Paradise Peak, so it is possible to get to the top by car. However, the hike is short enough that even beginner hikers can go up on foot.

Those who want a longer journey can use the peak as a starting point for some of the longer trails, including The Northeast Ridge and Eden Well.

My must-do highlights in Paradise Peak

• Discover the beautiful hiking trails leading up to the peak.
• Make sure to capture an Instagrammable shot with a breathtaking backdrop.

12. Little Bay Beach – sandy beach featuring palm trees, boating and snorkeling 

Little Bay Beach is on the Dutch side of the island, located right by the Divi resort and is a stunning destination to explore. Visitors get the best of both worlds – the beach is public, but it has amenities that compete with the best that resort beaches have to offer.

Unlike most of the island’s beaches, Little Bay Beach is rocky in some places for those looking for a different beach experience.

Visitors can swim and relax on the shore. Those looking for a little bit more adventure can go snorkeling. There are plenty of tropical fish and even coral.

It is popular among locals and visitors with families that are drawn to the calm waters.

My must-do highlights in Little Bay Beach

• Embark on a stunning sunset champagne cruise.
• Go on a sailing tour around the bay.
• Visit the Tiki Bar for a refreshing drink to cool down.

13. Mullet Beach – a beautiful white sand beach with calm crystal clear water

Mullet Beach, sometimes called Mullet Bay Beach, is a quieter getaway on the Dutch side of St. Martin.

It is only a 30-minute drive from the cruise terminal so it does get busy on cruise days, but the crowds are less intense than at Maho Bay or Orient Bay.

Mullet Beach’s primary draw is its natural beauty. Relax next to clear waters on pristine white sand, or go snorkeling in the calm waters.

My must-do highlights in Mullet Beach

• Enjoy a swim in the crystal clear waters.
• Spend some time relaxing along the sandy shores.
• Explore the underwater world with a few hours of snorkelling.

14. Fort Louis – a great historical attraction to visit in the country

When the French conquered St. Martin, they built Fort Louis on a hill overlooking the port of Marigot. Although the French are still in charge of the island, the fort has long since been abandoned.

Visitors can wander the historic fortifications and get excellent views of the island.

Visitors can drive to the base of the fort and complete the rest of the short walk on foot. The walk is steep, but you are rewarded with excellent views at the end.

My must-do highlights in Fort Louis

• Go on an e-bike tour to explore around the area.
• Gaze at the ruins of the fort whilst overlooking the bay.
• Climb up the 92 steps to the stop for impressive views.

15. Kim Sha Beach – a fun and gorgeous beach which plays host to some great events

Kim Sha Beach is near Simpson Bay on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten It offers beautiful sandy shores and clear waters for swimming.

One of Kim Sha Beach’s biggest draws is its proximity to Simpson Bay. Visitors can watch the boats coming in and out of the bay and take photos of the sunset over the docked boats.

The beach has plenty of amenities, including beach chairs and lively bars. It’s also famous for hosting the annual Heineken Regatta party and its beach bar offers beach movies.

There’s also jet skiing and other water activities on offer as well as plenty of restaurants and bars.

My must-do highlights in Kim Sha Beach

• Have a go at all of the water sport activities on offer.
• Go for a dance at one of the lively bars.
• Enjoy a moment of peace whilst watching the boats coming in.

16. Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit – one of the best museums to visit in St Maarten

If none of the above appeal to you (impossible not to!) and you don’t know what to do in St Maarten, why not explore the Yoda guy movie exhibit.

Since 2012, it has been ranked a number one activity to do St Maarten. Recommended for children and adults this museum has a private collection from Nick Maley who is an international make-up artist on special effects that has contributed to the creation of Yoda in the Star Wars series.

The visit will last an hour where you will be able to see the holograms from many movies, replicas and props. You will also learn a bit about the film industry and Nick Maley’s background.

One of the most amazing things available to you is that you can buy relics autographed by the stars or even speak to Nick Maley himself.

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