Planning a trip to Saint Martin? You’ve come to the right place!
This island sums up everything we love about the Caribbean. From pristine beaches and thrilling water sports to rainforest adventures, Saint Martin truly has it all. The only challenge is deciding what to do first!
After soaking up the best of Saint Martin ourselves, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 must-do activities here. If you follow this guide, you’ll be sure to get the most out of your time on this gem of an island. And of course, we’ve included all of the need-to-know info to make planning a (tropical) breeze. Let’s go!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE Saint Martin experience was this island-hopping and snorkeling tour! We cruised on a speed boat, visited stunning islands, and snorkeled with sea turtles and stingrays – incredible!
Things to do in Saint Martin
1. Explore the full island with a guide
Tour Details
If it’s your first time visiting Saint Martin, then we highly recommend booking this sightseeing tour! It’s also a great option for cruise passengers or those who are short on time.
Our guide, Cutty, was outstanding. His stories really brought Saint Martin’s history to life for us. We also loved sipping on cold beers and refreshing rum punch in the van as we drove around the island – talk about traveling in style!
Our first stop of the day was the Harold Jack Lookout Point, where we enjoyed panoramic views of Simpson Bay Lagoon and the surrounding islands. Next up, we visited Maho Beach. Planes fly very low over this beach, so it was an exciting spot to visit. It felt like we could reach up and touch the aircrafts!
Later on, we visited Marigot to do some duty-free shopping and grab some delicious French pastries. Then, we decided to walk them off by walking up the 100 steps to the top of Fort Louis!
The tour also included a visit to Topper’s Rhum Distillery, where we got to try some local rum, and free time to explore Philipsburg. All in all, it was such a well-balanced experience that gave us a great overview of the island. Whether you’re here for a day or just getting started on your trip, this tour is a fantastic way to see Saint Martin.
2. Island hop and snorkel with sea turtles
Tour Details
If you’re looking for the most fun and exciting way to explore Saint Martin, this speedboat and snorkeling tour is our top pick! It’s perfect for anyone wanting to see the island in one incredible day, including cruise passengers.
As soon as we boarded, we were welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable crew. They treated us like VIPs all day long, ensuring that we were comfortable, entertained, well-fed, and watered.
The stops we made were nothing short of magical. We loved snorkeling at Tintamarre Island because we got to see sea turtles, stingrays, and tons of tropical fish. It was the pinnacle of an epic Caribbean adventure! Snorkeling on Creole Rock was fantastic, too, as we had fun exploring the vibrant coral reefs.
Later on, we headed to Pinel Island, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch and spent some time relaxing on the sand. We also loved exploring the beautiful Mullet Bay, and of course, no tour of Saint Martin would be complete without experiencing the thrill of planes roaring overhead at Maho Beach!
We covered so much ground – or rather, water – on this tour, and managed to avoid the big crowds. It was the perfect way to explore this paradisiacal island, and we would definitely do this tour again!
3. Tour and taste at the famous Topper’s Rhum Distillery
Tour Details
Drinking rum is an essential part of any Caribbean vacation, so why not go one better and take a tour of the iconic Topper’s Rhum Distillery? We absolutely loved this tour and learned so much about this beloved local alcohol along the way.
We were welcomed to the distillery with a glass of refreshing rum punch and then began an exciting behind-the-scenes tour. Our guide, Guilia, taught us all about the different stages of rhum making and explained how Topper’s signature flavors are crafted. We also learned how “rum” is different than “rhum”!
Of course, the best part of any distillery tour is tasting. There were over 20 different varieties of flavored rhums to choose from at the tasting bar and we were allowed to try as many as we liked.
We sampled everything from classic vanilla and coconut to unique creations like spiced coffee and banana caramel. As if that weren’t enough, they showed us how to make rhum-infused desserts such as rhum gelato and rhum cake, both of which we got to try.
Honestly, neither of us are usually big rum drinkers, but we absolutely loved this tour. It was one of the highlights of our time on Saint Martin, and it definitely gave us a newfound appreciation for the Caribbean spirit. It’s not to be missed!
4. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
Tour Details
This ATV tour is the most exhilarating way to explore Saint Martin! We had an absolute blast navigating the island’s stunning scenery and iconic beaches.
We met our guides in Philipsburg, where, after a quick safety briefing, we geared up and got ready to ride. The ATVs were super easy to handle and the guides were on hand to help throughout the tour.
We started out by cruising along the main roads, taking in the gorgeous coastal views along the way. Occasional off-road stretches added a thrilling twist and allowed us to see a different side of the island.
Our first big stop was Maho Beach, where we got to experience the thrill of planes flying low overhead. Then, we made our way to the pristine Mullet Bay to enjoy the soft sand and turquoise waters.
Another highlight of the tour was Marigot, which is the capital of the French side of the island. We loved whizzing through the town’s colorful homes and we had a chance to check out the charming local markets. Oh, and if you’re an animal lover then seeing loads of iguanas and getting the chance to feed them is sure to make your day!
The tour ended back in Philipsburg, where we washed the sand and dust off with a refreshing swim in the Great Bay. The entire experience was an amazing mix of adventure and sightseeing. It’s also ideal for first-timers, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve never ridden an ATV before.
Related Read: For more great activities that depart from Philipsburg, check out our favorite things to do here!
5. Relax on a luxury catamaran
Tour Details
This sailing catamaran tour around Saint Martin is the epitome of luxury and relaxation. We were thoroughly pampered from start to finish, and the vessel itself was sleek and comfortable. We especially loved the sun deck, which was perfect for topping up our Caribbean tans.
Taking off from Philipsburg, the day began with a breakfast of fresh-cut fruit and pound cake. Our first stop was Little Bay, where we explored the calm, crystal-clear waters on a guided snorkeling excursion. We even saw a sunken helicopter and submarine, which was pretty surreal! It sent shivers down my spine.
Later on, we sailed past Maho Beach with cocktails in hand as we watched planes soar overhead. The crew anticipated our every need and never let our glasses run dry. They also ensured we had time to relax on the giant lily pad, which was so much fun.
Anchoring at Mullet Bay was the perfect finale for the tour. We grabbed some SUP boards and paddled through the turquoise waters before enjoying a delicious lunch on board. Being served a freshly cooked meal right on deck really made us feel like VIPs and it was the perfect note to end on.
This sailing trip is truly a 5-star escape into paradise – plus full of 5-star reviews (see them all here!). If you’re looking for a luxurious way to explore the stunning beauty of Saint Martin, there’s no better choice!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
6. Kayak around Pinel Island
Tour Details
Saint Martin isn’t the kind of place you ever need to escape from, but a quick getaway to nearby Pinel Island is a must while you’re here. What better way to explore than with this self-guided kayak tour?
We loved this tour because we were able to take it at our own pace. At the meeting point, the friendly staff gave us lots of tips on the best to explore, and detailed route suggestions. Then, armed with a map and newfound insider knowledge, we began the serene journey over to Pinel Island.
As we glided across the gentle waves, we had amazing views of the coastline – at one point, we spotted a sea turtle swimming alongside us. It was truly a magical moment!
When we reached Pinel Island, we beached our kayak and explored the pristine shoreline. The beaches were beautiful, with powdery sand and turquoise waters. We took our guide’s advice and snorkeled near the coral reefs, where we were amazed by the colorful array of fish and marine life.
Then, for a bit of adventure, we hiked one of the island’s nature trails and visited a gorgeous viewpoint. Finally, after a morning of activity, we relaxed on the peaceful secluded beach before heading back to Saint Martin with big smiles on our faces.
This self-paced adventure was the perfect way to connect with nature. If you’re an adventurous traveler who likes to explore independently, we highly recommend this tour.
Related Read: To make the most of your time on St. Martin, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary that covers everything from the nicest beaches to the best places to eat!
7. Take a day trip to Anguilla
Tour Details
This full-day cruise to Anguilla felt like the ultimate Caribbean escape, with turquoise water, powdery white sand, and that blissful feeling of having absolutely nothing to do but enjoy it all. If you’re looking to explore beyond St. Martin for a day, this getaway cruise is an easy (and stunning) option.
The adventure starts with a scenic boat ride across the Caribbean Sea. The crew keeps things light and friendly from the moment you step on board, and the views along the way are straight out of a travel brochure. Once you arrive in Anguilla, it’s all about sun, sea, and slow living.
You’ll stop at spots like Shoal Bay, where the water is impossibly clear and perfect for swimming or snorkeling. There’s plenty of time to relax on the beach, float in the shallows, or grab a drink and just take it all in. Midday, you’ll enjoy a laid-back beachside lunch, think grilled food, cold drinks, and the best ocean views.
We loved how this tour offered that “remote island” feeling without the hassle of planning ferries or logistics. Everything’s taken care of, from snorkeling gear to drinks on the boat, so you can truly unwind.
If you’re craving a day of barefoot luxury and postcard-perfect beaches, this Anguilla cruise is a dream. It’s the kind of outing that makes you forget what day it is!
8. Go SNUBA diving
Tour Details
Most people stick to snorkeling when they want to explore St. Maarten’s underwater world, but this SNUBA experience lets you go one step further without needing a scuba certification. It’s the perfect middle ground between snorkeling and diving, giving you the freedom to breathe underwater while staying connected to the surface through a floating air supply.
After a full safety briefing, you’ll ease into the warm Caribbean Sea before descending beneath the surface with your guide. It’s a surprisingly natural feeling, and before long you’ll be gliding effortlessly over coral reefs, watching brightly colored parrotfish, angelfish, and other tropical marine life weave through the rocks.
One thing we really like about this tour is how accessible it is. You don’t need any previous diving experience, and because you’re never carrying a heavy air tank on your back, it feels much less intimidating than traditional scuba diving. The guides stay close by throughout, so you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
If you’ve always wanted to experience what it’s feels like to breathe underwater but aren’t quite ready to commit to a full scuba course, this is a fantastic introduction.
Related Read: Still need a hotel? Check out our guide on where to stay on Saint Martin for our top hotels all over the island!
9. Unwind on a sunset cruise
Tour Details
St. Maarten sunsets are pretty spectacular from the beach, but watching the sky light up from the Caribbean Sea takes things to another level! This sunset cruise is a fantastic way to slow things down after a busy day of exploring, with gorgeous coastal views, drinks, and plenty of space to relax.
You’ll set sail aboard a spacious trimaran with a maximum of just 16 guests, which is one of the things we really like about this tour. Rather than squeezing onto a packed party boat, you can stretch out, grab a drink, and actually enjoy the scenery as you cruise along St. Maarten’s coastline.
The route takes you past beautiful spots like Mullet Bay and the famous Maho Beach. Then, as daylight starts to fade, the main event begins! The sea reflects shades of orange and pink while the sun sinks toward the horizon, and you can enjoy it all with a cold drink in hand.
Snacks and drinks are included throughout, so there’s really nothing to organize once you’re on board. For couples, friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed evening activity, this is a pretty dreamy way to finish a day in St. Maarten.
10. Experience Rainforest Adventures – zipline, the Flying Dutchman, and a schooner ride
Tour Details
If you’re looking for a tropical rainforest adventure, then it doesn’t get much better than this combo tour! The day was chock full of activities – oh, and did I mention it involved the steepest zipline in the entire world? Yep, you cannot miss this!
The experience started out pretty gently with a ride on the Sky Explorer. We loved the views as we glided up the mountainside and then at the top of Sentry Hill, the adrenaline factor ramped up with a ride on the zipline. We’ve done a lot of ziplining in our time, and this has to be one of the most scenic lines we’ve ever tackled.
Then came the main event: The Flying Dutchman. We were both pretty nervous, since this zipline is famously steep and reaches speeds of up to 56 mph (90 kmph), which is pretty crazy! It was pure, heart-pounding excitement.
The Flying Dutchman was a hard act to follow, but the Schooner ride offered a different kind of thrill. Sliding down the mountain in an inner tube and laughing at the top of our lungs as we twisted and turned along the track was pure, wholesome fun.
We loved this tour because it allowed us to enjoy three of the island’s best adventure attractions in one go. Plus, the Sky Explorer ride was super scenic, too. You really can’t go wrong with this one!
Where to Stay on Saint Martin
Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Saint Martin, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Luckily, this island isn’t huge, so whether you want to stay beachfront or close to the city, you’re never far from the top attractions. Here are three excellent hotel options for a range of budgets.
Luxury – $$$
The Morgan Resort Spa & Village is a luxury hotel in a pristine location! Located in Simpson Bay on Maho Beach, this is exactly what you’d expect for a Caribbean escape. You can enjoy the modern rooms with amazing views, the onsite pool, or lounge chairs that are right in the ocean. Plus the restaurant, bar, and spa!
Rooms average around $400 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you want the perfect location – near the beach and close to Phillipsburg, Holland House Beach Hotel is my top choice! This hotel sits right on Great Bay beach so you can enjoy sea views and all of the fun amenities to pair. They offer standard rooms or suite-style, a large luxury pool, a spa, and a traditional Caribbean restaurant.
Prices start around $240 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Alicia’s Inn is an affordable hotel located in the heart of Phillipsburg. You are just a three-minute walk from the beach and some of the best restaurants in the city. The rooms are clean and comfortable and the perfect place to stay if you want to be out exploring Saint Martin. They offer queen or twin rooms starting at $90 USD per night.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Saint Martin was a destination we won’t soon forget! It’s hard to be bored here between the stunning blue Caribbean waters, locally made rhum, and thrilling adventure activities. Even if you only hit half of the top things to do on this list, you will have a fantastic vacation in paradise!
If you need help planning your next adventure, check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blogs to help inspire your travels – cheers!
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The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.
Thanks for such a great overview. This will be our first time visiting and I will definitely be booking some of these great recommendations!!
Thank you! Have a great time!
What is the best time of year to visit the Island?
What is the weather like in the winter?
What amount of money should you bring with you?
Hi Delores,
The best time to visit Saint Martin is usually from December to April, when the weather is warm, sunny, and less humid. Winter is actually one of the most popular times to visit, with temperatures typically around 24–29°C (75–85°F) and plenty of sunshine.
In terms of budget, it really depends on your travel style, but in general Saint Martin can be a bit on the pricier side. You’ll want to budget for accommodation, meals, activities, and transport — plus a little extra for tours or dining out.
Hope that helps, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!😊
Cheers,
Bailey