Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, Sint Maarten is today part of the Netherlands Antilles and the island continues to retain much of its Dutch culture. Once a popular conquest for warring European nations, the “friendly island” of Sint Maarten has now become one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. Like its neighbors, Sint Maarten boasts beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters. While water activities and sunbathing are certainly great options, one can enjoy doing a variety of things during his or her visit to the fun and exciting island of Sint Maarten.
Let’s start with the beaches. In all, Sint Maarten consists of 37 beaches, but a small handful definitely stand out. Mullet Bay may have the most beautiful water, while hotel ruins and a golf course add to Mullet’s charming landscape. Surrounded by a coral reef, Dawn Beach distinguishes itself with its white sand and peaceful waters. Come here for a serene atmosphere. Orient Beach might be the most popular beach in Sint Maarten. Water sports galore make this the place to be for visitors who enjoy physical activity and who want to do more than just get a suntan. The really daring may want to venture to the east end of the beach. Be prepared to see lots of skin; people tend to do fully nude here.
For some more out-of-the-way places, try Baie Longue. This is the longest beach on the island, and every step is more stunning than the one before. Not many people frequent this beach, however, which makes for a wonderfully relaxing break from the hustle and bustle. Another such spot is Happy Bay. Drive to Friar’s Bay and take a five-minute walk down the pathway to Happy. Gaze across the water and you will see the neighboring island of Anguilla. Visit Maho Beach for an up close and personal view of all incoming and outgoing aircraft. The planes fly so low that you feel like they graze the top of your head. Exhilarating.
Sint Maarten’s close proximity to other islands makes day trips to its neighbors quite possible and highly recommended. Anguilla, with its flat, dry land, can be reached in 20 minutes by boat. Celebrities flock to Anguilla because of the seclusion, so you never know who you might see. Pinel Island is another short boatride from Sint Maarten and must be visited. A natural reserve, the primary objectives while here should be relaxation and amazement at the magnificent array of colors beaming from all around.
Water sports certainly are not lacking on the island of Sint Maarten. Along with snorkeling and scuba diving, is a whole host of other activities you may not have attempted before. Horseback riding along with beach, while not necessarily a water sport, is a very entertaining experience and is quite popular in the Caribbean and Mexico as well. Try kitesurfing for an unusual but fun way to experience floating over the water. Wakeboarding, another unique activity, entertains guests for hours in Sint Maarten, especially at Grand Case and Nettle Bays. For the traditionalists, activities such as sailing, skiing and fishing can all be done in Sint Maarten as well.
When, or if, you tire of the water, be sure and visit three places in particular. The Sint Maarten Park attracts kids of all ages. Over 80 species of mammals, birds and reptiles make Sint Maarten Park the largest zoo in the Caribbean. A tropical garden setting, the park also boasts the biggest collection of exotic parrots in the region. Another neat spot is the Guavaberry Emporium. The entire museum is devoted to the guavaberry and patrons can go in and sample products made from the berry. And the best part is it’s free! Finally, be sure and check out the esteemed Butterfly Farm. Try and get there early in the morning to view the butterflies emerge from their cocoons. Hundreds of exotic butterflies reside here. Guided tours inform visitors about everything you’d ever want to know about the fluttery creatures. If you wear bright colors and spray on some perfume, the chances are great a butterfly will land right on you. Kids big and small will enjoy all three of these hot spots.
Shoppers and diners alike should definitely venture down to either Marigot or Front Street. Both locations feature a great variety of stores and restaurants. If you can’t find enough at these, Old and Back Streets provide plenty of options as well. When the sun goes down, casinos and nightclubs abound as well. Diamond Casino is a good place to start, although you will find a variety of options. The 8-Ball Pool Room and The Gizmo Overlounge offer exciting, unique nightlife experiences.
The island of Sint Maarten, like most of its Caribbean counterparts, is known for its array of beautiful beaches and gorgeous waters. Any activities relating to sun, sand and surf are therefore the most popular options for visitors traveling to Sint Maarten. However, the island offers a variety of other places to explore besides the beaches. Whatever your interests and whatever your age, the beautiful Sint Maarten provides plenty for everyone.
