St Martin

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St Martin

Sun-drenched and palm-fringed, the island of Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten is one of the most beautiful in the eastern Caribbean. It also has a dual personality: the north of the island is a little outpost of France, and the south side oozes the warmth of the Dutch. The border between them is basically non-existent, and visitors are free to enjoy everything from water sports and cultural festivals to shopping.

The Island Beach Life

The Island

Hundreds of islands form the Caribbean, but none are quite so enigmatic as St. Martin and St. Maarten. The island is one of the smallest to ever be divided, with residents of both the French and Dutch sides working together in mutual friendship and respect. Culturally, St. Martin and St. Maarten, which caught the eye of the Dutch and the French after Columbus discovered the island in the 15th century, are quite different. St. Martin has some of the most chic fashion shops and restaurants in the Caribbean and beaches elegant enough to rival those in Cannes and Saint-Tropez, while St. Maarten has the serious work and play ethics of its fellow countrymen. For the visitor, this means there’s lots to do, such as dining out on French à la carte cuisine and wines one day and sampling fresh pastries inspired by the finest Dutch chefs the next. Enjoying activities like horseback riding and water sports and exploring breathtaking beaches and scenery are other options to fill your day.

Beach Life

Ranging from long stretches of sand fringed by palm trees to coves to dunes that attract families and sun worshipers, the beaches on St. Martin and St. Maarten are white, sandy and inviting. The largest are on the French side, and many are naturist, while St. Maarten has many pretty coves.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

St. Martin has a rich and interesting history, which can be seen today in its unique cultural heritage. Visit St. Maarten Museum and some of the many historical sites to learn more about the island's history and its impact on modern life. However, do not forget to take some time to relax while you enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the island's many beaches.

Fort St. Louis

Fort St. Louis is the largest historical monument in St. Martin and is named after King Louis XVI of France, who built a settlement to protect Marigot during his reign.

Saint Martin Carnival

Saint Martin Carnival is one of the island's cultural highlights, where locals and tourists get together in the streets to sing, dance, make music, throw confetti and have a good time watching the colorful and lively parade.

Octopus Diving and Snorkeling

Swim with turtles, lionfish, lizardfish and other colorful sea creatures. You will be provided with top notch diving equipment; professional underwater cameras can be rented in order to capture this unique experience.

Philipsburg

The capital of St. Maarten is the central point for shopping and the local cultural scene. Tucked in the southeastern part of the island between Great Bay and Great Salt Pond, the city has been a major commercial hub for the island since the 17th century.

Marigot

The capital of Saint Martin has rows of patisseries and smart bistros that sit side by side with luxury fashion houses and colonial architecture. Take a stroll on Rue de la République with its 19th-century traditional facades and visit one of the many historical buildings like Marigot Church, the Old Prison or Durat Bridge.

Quartier-d'Orleans

Quartier-d'Orleans is a little piece of 17th-century France. Also known as the French Quarter, this fishing village is located on the east coast and is believed to be the first French settlement on the island.

Soualiga Destinations Boat Tours

This thrilling boat tour will take you to some great spots around St. Maarten and the knowledgeable staff will tell some interesting stories about the island. Snorkeling in the clear blue sea and have lunch at a beach side restaurant will wrap up a perfect day.

Loterie Farm

Loterie Farm is a private nature reserve and the perfect spot for an ecological adventure and a gourmet experience. Dine and drink some wine or participate in one of the numerous outdoor activities like climbing, hiking or gliding over the treetop canopy.

Bernard's Tours

This is a great opportunity to take part in outstanding individual or group tours. On the half-day trip led by competent guides you will discover all the major sites of the island and learn its long and rich history.

Hope Estate Archaeological Site

At this site, archaeologists have excavated artifacts including pottery and ruins of the ancient Arawak village. Delve into the history of this ancient village built around 500 BC and learn about the culture of the people that lived here.

Grand-Case

Grand-Case has gained the status of St. Martin's gourmet capital. A number of world-class restaurants are located in traditional huts and the village is home to the last remaining wattle houses. In January, a Caribbean jazz festival with bands and orchestras takes place.

Border obelisk

Back in 1648 the French and Dutch signed a contract dividing the island into two parts. Since then, the two sides have lived in peace and harmony. Apart from the language, the only indicator of the border is a border obelisk marking 300 years of peaceful coexistence by the two nations.

National Nature Reserve of Saint Martin

A true oasis of fauna and flora, the triangle-shaped Reserve covers over 3000 hectares of sea and land including the islands off the east coast: Pinel Island, Petite Clef, Green Cay and Tintamarre. With its rocky coasts, cliffs and beaches, the reserve is home to a host of different species like seabirds, iguanas, sea turtles,…

Fort Amsterdam

Located between Great Bay and Little Bay in the southern part of the island, Fort Amsterdam dates back nearly four centuries. It was constructed by Dutch settlers who claimed the island in 1631 and utilized shortly thereafter in battle with Spanish occupiers.

Seaside Nature Park

At Seaside Nature Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy whether you love the water or you're more of a landlubber. Some of their more popular activities include guided horseback riding tours across the beach, snorkeling in the waters of Cay Bay and hiking tours through the park.

St. Maarten Museum

The exhibits at St. Maarten Museum provide insight into the cultural heritage and the natural history of the island. Learn about the people who helped shape St. Maarten into the place it is today and about its industry, geography, plants, and wildlife.

Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit

Film buffs will really get a kick out visiting the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, which houses a number of pieces of movie memorabilia. Some pieces are works created or co-created by the artist and owner Nick Maley, who has worked on films like Star Wars, Superman and Highlander.

Dining

Visitors to Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten will be spoiled with all of their choices when it comes to dining out. For lovers of French cuisine, there is probably nowhere else in the Caribbean where you can dine on à la carte and French-inspired gourmet food at such reasonably inexpensive prices. The food is usually al fresco or located on the beach, with fine wine lists to accompany the meal. Look out for the wonderful aromatic Creole and Caribbean cuisine, or taste some other popular cooking styles, such as Mexican, Indonesian, and Italian. Most restaurants have a varied menu of meat, fresh fish, and shellfish dishes, while beach bars with non-stop barbecues offer spicy chicken and fish dishes cooked with traditional Caribbean recipes.

Izi Restaurant

Decorated to a style reminiscent of Italian architecture and decor, this restaurant serves fine Italian cuisine, including authentic pasta dishes with sauces. All dishes are prepared and cooked using ingredients imported from Italy.

Coco Beach

Located near the Esmeralda Resort, this beachfront cafe-restaurant provides its clientele with fresh snack food and beverages at reasonable prices from sunrise to sunset. The homemade flavored rum is the perfect touch to make your day.

Bamboo

If you are a sushi lover, then you can't absolutely miss this popular Tiki garden. At Bamboo, you will be served generous portions of sushi and a wide selection of exotic cocktails. Steak, chicken and shrimp dishes are also available.

L'Effet Mer

L'Effet Mer serves fabulous French cuisine overlooking the beach. Enjoy casual but elegant dining with inventive dishes and a wonderful wine selection.

Le Tropicana

This waterfront bistro has been a mainstay of Saint Martin's culinary scene for many years and its French cuisine has definitely become a must-try for many tourists heading there. They also offer a full selection of continental dishes, from appetizers to dessert. Table reservation is recommended, since the restaurant usually gets very crowded.

Bistrot Caraïbes

With its impeccable professional service as well as local cuisine at its finest, Bistrot Caraïbes will not fail to impress you. They boast a wide selection of lobster dishes, such as lobster Thermidor, lobster soup and grilled lobster, so make sure you don't miss any of their specialties. Their ginger flavored rum will be the…

L'Auberge Gourmande

Wonderful flavors, authentic service, comfortable atmosphere and attentive and charming staff, that is what L'Auberge Gourmande is all about. They serve excellent French fare like escargot, lobster bisque and frog legs.

La Villa Restaurant

If you are searching for a magical place to have an intimate dinner, then there is no need to look any further: La Villa has everything you would expect from a classy restaurant. Caribbean specialties meet here with traditional French cuisine, creating a unique combination of flavors.

Vesna Taverna

Your taste buds will want to savor whatever delectable treat finds its way to your table at Vesna Taverna. Once a humble bagel house, this place has now become a St. Martin institution serving up full, hearty breakfasts as well as lunch and dinner. Vesna Taverna's rich and varied menu includes Greek food as well…

Piazza Pascal

Piazza Pascal provides a romantic, al fresco dining experience with delicious Italian cuisine. The renowned service will tempt you with world-famous recipes: lasagna, pasta, risotto, meat and fish dishes; everything here is to die for.

Mario Bistrot

Many who come to Mario's are instantly hooked thanks to the unpretentious atmosphere and creative contemporary cuisine infused with both Asian and Caribbean flavors. It is a favorite dining option for both locals and tourists alike.

Le Piment

Word of mouth has brought fame to this bustling eatery in Orient Bay, and tourists return time and again to savor some classics of Italian and French cuisine at great prices. The laid-back atmosphere and the attentive staff will make your experience truly memorable.

Cafes

Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten are dotted with cafes and informal restaurants where you can enjoy snacks and beverages while gazing at the stunning panorama. Most of the popular beaches have their own cafes, usually serving local fresh products, while some other great spots offer several hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered.

Bikini Beach

There is no better place to experience the real Caribbean atmosphere while sipping on a cocktail at sunset. At this cafe you can either choose to relax and have lunch on the terrace or savor some fresh snacks and beverages right by the beach.

Top Carrot

Enjoy your meal at Top Carrot on a terrace complete with palms and shrubs. The menu here is varied and includes many vegetarian dishes and drinks; their juices and smoothies are among the best you will find on the island. This venue also features a small ethnic shop with souvenirs, jewelry and books.

Cafe Atlantico

Freshly baked bread, french baguette, café au lait or crêpes are just some French delights offered at this cheerful little spot, perfect to start the day in the right way.

Zee Best

The island's best almond croissants, traditional french pastries, breakfast sandwiches, fresh juices, coffees, and bread can be enjoyed at Zee Best.

La Sucrière

If you are looking for a casual coffee with authentic French pastries, search no further: La Sucrière is a great place to have breakfast with baguettes, croissants and quiches while sitting on a terrace overlooking the lagoon.

Karakter

Karakter, located a short walk from the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea, opens for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering guests predominately western cuisine with dishes cooked to-order by the chef. Some attractive menu items include grilled lobsters, crabs, burgers, ribs and multiples seafood specialities, as well as vegetarians options such as ratatouille. Live music…

Carousel Gelateria Bar

This lovely bar serves up over 30 different ice-cream flavors – all made in-house. Pick your flavors and go for a ride on the adjacent carousel (which was imported from Italy).

Sunset Bar and Grill

This modest bar on Moho Beach is a mecca for those looking to spot some spectacualr landings. Alongside the stunning view, it offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and the best burger on the island. Sipping on a beer on the breezy terrace while looking at planes soaring overhead is just the perfect way…

Freedom Fighter's Ital Shack

The friendly staff of Ital Shack will serve you homemade vegan and vegetarian food; everything here is home-cooked and prepared with local products. Whether you're coming for breakfast or lunch, healthy tidbits and a laid-back atmosphere will always welcome you.

Bars & Nightlife

Nightlife in Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten is synonymous with long, refreshing cocktails on the terrace before dinner, followed by relaxing meals of French and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Although, visitors often head for the casinos and beach bars to enjoy livelier evenings of music and savour local drinks. The island has 12 casinos – all on the Dutch side.

Diamond Casino

This casino in the heart of Philipsburg welcomes every gambling man with more than a hundred ultramodern slot machines and seven table games, including roulette, blackjack, Caribbean poker and three card poker.

Lazy Lizard Beach Bar & Grill

At this family-owned open-air bar and grill you can enjoy great views while eating fabulous food and sipping specialty cocktails. Located right on the beach, the Lazy Lizard earned its reputation over the years and is now a favorite of both locals and tourists.

Dinghy Dock Sailors Bar

This fun and casual place will delight your taste buds with a huge selection of BBQ food and craft beers, including their own IPA. The friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere of the Dinghy Dock Bar will make you feel at home.

Karakter

Located just in the middle of Simpson Bay littoral zone, this little gem combines great seafood and drinks with live music sessions. The staff even provides its clientele with chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the turquoise waters and the fine sand, thus enhancing the whole experience.

Grand Case Tuesdays – Harmony Nights

Every Tuesday night (from 6–10:30 pm), from January to April, Grand Case -- a small town on the French side of the island -- hosts Les Mardis de Grand Case. Also known as Harmony Nights, it is a street fair with local music, arts and crafts exhibitions as well as traditional dance shows. Street food,…

The Red Piano Lounge

This waterfront lounge packed with quality music, spirits and cocktails of any kind offers one of the best places to have fun in St. Maarten. Check out their upcomingevents and have a whale of a good time.

The Palms

Here at The Palms, size doesn't really matter; this little restaurant offers many options in a range of culinary styles, including some old family recipes to die for. Come here and savor their renowned specialties, like the drunken ribs and the jerk chicken wrap, or just join the karaoke contest and showcase your talent.

Dirty Sanchez Crew Bar

Take a break from exploring the busy town of Philipsburg at Dirty Sanchez Crew Bar. They are located right on the beach at the Waterfront Boardwalk, and the bikini-clad bartenders mix up classic cocktails using a blend of unique ingredients.

Shopping

St. Martin and St. Maarten are a shopper's duty-free paradise, especially for high couture fashion from French and Italian houses, jewelry, leather goods, fragrances from the world’s top perfumery companies, fine porcelain, crystal and handcrafts. Passengers from ships touring the Caribbean are drawn to the shops around Front Street in Philipsburg. On the other side of the island, Marigot gathers numerous chic shops and boutiques, and the waterfront West Indies shopping mall proves a temptation for shoppers. If you are looking for local handicrafts and produce, then head for the Marigot Market, where you can purchase tropical fruits, spices, freshly caught fish and unique souvenirs to bring home.