Experience Two Cultures at Once! 12 Must-Visit Attractions in Saint Martin

Saint Martin is a well-known Caribbean destination, often visited as a port of call on cruises. This small island is divided into two territories: the northern half, Saint-Martin, belongs to France, while the southern half, Sint Maarten, is governed by the Netherlands. It is the world's smallest landmass shared by two different countries. Traveling between both sides is incredibly easy, with no passport checks required, allowing visitors to seamlessly enjoy the distinct atmospheres of each region.

Additionally, Saint Martin is entirely duty-free, making it a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. The island is also famous for its gourmet restaurants, making it a great destination for food lovers. If you’re looking for more than just beaches, the island offers lively nightlife, including casinos and entertainment spots, ensuring excitement both day and night.

In this guide, we introduce a selection of top attractions where you can fully experience the unique blend of two cultures in one remarkable island—Saint Martin!

1. Maho Beach

Saint Martin is home to 37 beaches within its 37 square miles, but one of the island’s most famous tourist attractions is watching airplanes land and take off from Maho Beach. This is a must-see spectacle for nearly every visitor to the island.

The jumbo jets land at Princess Juliana International Airport, which is located on the Dutch side of the island. However, Maho Beach sits directly beneath the flight path, allowing visitors to witness planes flying just overhead. The experience is exhilarating, but be mindful of the jet blast from departing planes to avoid any accidents.

If you’re wondering just how close and loud the planes get, think of the old Kai Tak Airport in Hong Kong before it moved to Lantau Island—where planes flew low over Kowloon City with a deafening roar. For those who prefer to sit back and watch in comfort, there’s a bar at the edge of the beach where you can enjoy a cocktail while taking in the dramatic landings.

2. Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of Saint Martin and is located about a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute water taxi ride from the cruise terminal.

The town has two main streets, Front Street and Back Street, both of which are lined with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafés. The city also features a beach, making it an ideal place for shopping and sightseeing while enjoying the boardwalk. The jewelry stores on Front Street are world-famous for their duty-free prices, high quality, and wide selection. Why not pick up a special piece as a souvenir from your trip to Saint Martin?

At the center of Front Street, you’ll find the beautiful Philipsburg Courthouse, one of the town’s iconic landmarks and a popular spot for tourists to take photos. Additionally, Fort Amsterdam offers a stunning panoramic view of Great Bay and the cruise ships, especially at sunset.

3. Marigot

The other main town on Saint Martin is Marigot, the capital of the French side. From Fort Louis, you can take in breathtaking views of the town, the Caribbean Sea, and even Anguilla, a British territory located nearby.

Along the waterfront, you’ll find stylish restaurants and cafés, making it a perfect place to enjoy a French-style vacation while watching the yachts pass by. Unlike Philipsburg, where supermarkets carry mainly American products, Marigot’s stores offer imported goods from France and the rest of Europe. Shopping here gives you the feeling of being in France while still enjoying the Caribbean vibe.

Don’t miss the colorful Marigot Market, where local artisans sell unique handmade goods. The surrounding area is also home to many independent shops, perfect for window shopping. While Philipsburg is lively and bustling, Marigot offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy shopping, dining, and sightseeing without the crowds. And for those who want to experience nightlife, Marigot offers a more refined and sophisticated alternative.

4. Grand Case

If you’re looking for the best dining experience on Saint Martin, head to Grand Case on the French side. Known as the "Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean", this charming village is lined with top-tier French restaurants offering high-quality cuisine at reasonable prices.

Grand Case is also known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, making it a picturesque spot to visit. The best time to go is from January to April when Harmony Night takes place every Tuesday evening. This special event features Caribbean jazz bands, orchestras, craft markets, parades, clowns, and fire dancers, creating a lively festival atmosphere.

February is also a great time to visit, as Saint Martin celebrates its Carnival season with vibrant festivities. If you love gourmet dining and cultural events, plan your trip to coincide with these celebrations.

5. Pic Paradis

Located on the French side, Pic Paradis is the highest point on Saint Martin and offers spectacular panoramic views. If you love photography, this is the perfect spot to capture the island’s stunning landscapes. The lush greenery provides a refreshing contrast to the beach scenery, showcasing a different side of Saint Martin’s natural beauty.

For those who love both the ocean and the mountains, Pic Paradis features several hiking trails. At the base of the mountain is Loterie Farm, a former sugar plantation that has been transformed into a nature retreat. This area is famous for its ziplining activities, but it also has several cafés where visitors can relax and enjoy food and drinks surrounded by nature.

One of the highlights of Loterie Farm is L’eaulounge, which features pools, jacuzzis, and private cabana rentals that come with champagne service. It’s the perfect place to unwind in luxury and enjoy a celebrity-style experience. If you're looking to recharge after a day of sightseeing, Pic Paradis is the ideal destination to immerse yourself in nature’s energy.

6. Orient Bay

Located on the northeastern coast of Saint Martin, Orient Bay (Baie Orientale in French) is one of the island’s most famous beaches. Known as the "Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean", it attracts celebrities and jet-setters from around the world. The beach boasts crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, making it one of the most beautiful spots on the island. With a wide range of restaurants and hotels nearby, it is a highly convenient location for tourists.

One unique aspect of Orient Bay is that its southernmost section is a nudist beach. This area is home to Club Orient, a naturist resort where guests can freely enjoy the entire facility without clothing. Even the restaurants and shops within the club allow nudity, making it a well-known destination among naturists. However, photography is strictly prohibited, so if you happen to wander into this area by accident, avoid taking pictures out of respect for the guests.

7. Long Bay

As you enter the French side of Saint Martin from the Dutch side on the western coast, the first beach you will encounter is Long Bay (Baie Longue in French). It is one of the longest and most tranquil beaches on the island.

With calm waves, this beach is ideal for families with small children who want to play safely by the shore. It offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for spending quality time with loved ones. The sunset here is breathtaking, and enjoying a cocktail at one of the beachfront bars makes for an unforgettable evening. While the lively beaches of Saint Martin have their own charm, Long Bay is highly recommended for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the crowds.

With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear emerald waters, and the soothing sounds of seabirds, Long Bay feels like a dream. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination, showcasing the diverse beauty of Saint Martin.

8. Plum Bay

Further west of Long Bay is Plum Bay (Baie aux Prunes in French), one of the most secluded beaches on Saint Martin. This hidden gem remains largely undiscovered by tourists, as most visitors prefer to stay in the famous resort beaches like Orient Bay or visit the bustling Philipsburg and Maho Beach.

Unlike Long Bay, the waves at Plum Bay can be stronger, so caution is needed when swimming. However, when the sea is calm, it becomes an excellent snorkeling spot. For surfers looking for an incredible experience in clear blue waters, this is the place to be! While the waves may be challenging for beginners, experienced surfers can enjoy riding the waves without worrying about crowded conditions.

If you're looking for a peaceful and romantic getaway with your partner away from tourist-filled beaches, Plum Bay offers a serene, almost private atmosphere, making it a perfect destination to create lasting memories.

9. Friars’ Bay Beach

Located in the northwestern part of Saint Martin, Friars’ Bay Beach (Anse des Pères in French) is a well-known family-friendly beach. However, it is especially popular among European and American visitors due to its beach cafés and bars.

As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively party destination, with rock and reggae music filling the air. One of the biggest events here is the Full Moon Party, attracting tourists eager to experience the island’s nightlife. While it may not be as massive as the legendary Full Moon Party in Koh Samui, Thailand, it is one of the largest and most well-known beach parties in the local area.

If you've traveled all the way to Saint Martin for a vacation, why not make the most of it by enjoying the nightlife? Beach parties are not very common in many countries, making this a unique experience where you can drink and dance under the stars with the ocean as your backdrop. It’s sure to become one of your most unforgettable memories of Saint Martin.

10. Tintamarre Island

Located northeast of the French side of Saint Martin, Tintamarre Island is a small, breathtakingly beautiful island within a nature reserve. It is a haven for snorkeling and swimming enthusiasts looking for an unspoiled paradise.

Since there are no shops on the island—not even places to buy water—those chartering a private boat should come well-prepared. However, for tourists, the best way to visit is through day tours organized by hotels or travel agencies, which include meals and drinks for a hassle-free experience.

The island features two beaches. The first, located near the dock on the eastern side, has a rocky shoreline, making it less ideal for swimming but perfect for snorkeling due to its abundant marine life. The second beach, just a short walk away, is the main beach known as Baie Blanche (White Beach). It is the preferred choice for visitors looking to relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Among all the beach trips available in Saint Martin, Tintamarre Island is one of the most beloved destinations, with many visitors returning multiple times. If you have time, this hidden gem is a must-visit!

11. Nettle Bay

Nettle Bay is another stunning beach on the French side of Saint Martin. It offers two distinct experiences: the Caribbean Sea side and the lagoon side, both lined with luxurious resorts.

On the Caribbean Sea side, the beach stretches with soft white sand, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat. However, due to strong currents, it is not the best place for swimming. Instead, it is ideal for those who want to unwind and enjoy a relaxing beachfront stay.

Meanwhile, the lagoon side is lined with palm trees, providing ample shade for those who prefer to avoid excessive sun exposure. This makes it a great spot for lounging in the shade while still enjoying the tropical ambiance.

12. Pinel Island

Located just east of Saint Martin’s French side, Pinel Island is a picturesque nature reserve that can be reached in just 10 minutes by boat. The island was named after Captain Pinel, a pirate who, along with his crew, attempted to take over Saba Island but was forced to flee after being attacked by the island's residents. He and his men sought refuge on this island, which was later named after him.

Pinel Island features two beaches. The first, facing Saint Martin, is a postcard-perfect paradise with shallow, calm waters, making it a safe and ideal beach for children. It is also a fantastic spot for shore-entry diving.

A short 10-minute walk leads to the second beach on the opposite side of the island. Unlike the first beach, this one is rugged and untouched, featuring rocky shorelines and a completely natural landscape. Both beaches offer unique experiences, making Pinel Island a wonderful place to explore if you have extra time during your trip.

◎ Summary

Many travelers may visit Saint Martin as part of a Caribbean cruise, but fewer people take the time to explore the island on its own. While flights from the U.S. are available, direct flights from Paris operate daily, just like other French territories in the Caribbean.

For those with an adventurous spirit, why not consider a world tour that includes Saint Martin? Start by visiting Paris, then fly to Saint Martin, take a quick 20-minute boat ride to the British territory of Anguilla, and perhaps even continue to the U.S. before heading home. Just thinking about it is exciting!

With its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and rich blend of cultures, Saint Martin is an island full of adventure and relaxation. If you're planning a Caribbean trip, make sure to include a stay in Saint Martin!

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Experience Two Cultures at Once! 12 Must-Visit Attractions in Saint Martin