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Planning a three-day escape to St. Martin? Let’s make it unforgettable!
This Caribbean gem is a mix of powdery beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful towns that make every moment feel like a postcard. Beyond the sun and sand, Saint Martin is packed with adventures, from ATV rides along scenic coasts to snorkeling with sea turtles and watching planes soar over Maho Beach.
After multiple trips, we’ve crafted a well-paced three-day itinerary that blends relaxation, adventure, and a taste of local life. From chasing sunsets to strolling vibrant streets or soaring on a parasail, this plan shows you the best of the island without feeling rushed.
Three days. Two countries. One Caribbean island you’ll never forget—let’s explore Saint Martin!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE experience on Saint Martin was this island-hopping and snorkeling tour! We cruised on a speed boat, visited stunning islands, and even snorkeled with sea turtles and stingrays!
Check out the 4,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Saint Martin is actually one island split between two countries—giving you the best of both worlds. The southern half, Sint Maarten, belongs to the Netherlands, while the northern half, Saint Martin, is French. They’re separated only by an invisible border you can cross freely, making it easy to explore beaches, towns, and attractions on both sides. For this three-day itinerary, we’ll be based on the Dutch side, known for its lively beaches, fantastic dining, and easy access to tours and nightlife.
The best way to explore is by renting a car—budget‑friendly and perfect for zipping between the Dutch and French sides whenever the mood strikes. Many guided tours also include hotel pickup for days when you want to relax. However you get there, over the next three days, you’ll dive into adventure, soak up plenty of beach time, and take in unforgettable views, giving you the ultimate taste of Caribbean life.
Day 1: Start with a full-island sightseeing tour to see both the Dutch and French sides, then enjoy a relaxed lunch and boardwalk stroll in Philipsburg. Cap off the day with a sunset sail and dinner in lively Simpson Bay.
Day 2: Spend the day island-hopping by speedboat, snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish, and soaking up hidden beaches. In the evening, head to Grand Case for French‑Caribbean dining and a laid‑back nightlife vibe.
Day 3: Wrap up your trip with a morning ATV adventure, followed by a lazy afternoon on Orient Bay Beach, or go parasailing for extra thrills. Finish with a beachfront farewell dinner and dancing under the stars at Orient Bay.
Day 1
Morning – See the full island with a local guide
There’s no better way to kick off your trip to Saint Martin than by seeing the island from end to end, and this sightseeing tour is the perfect introduction. With a 9 am start, you’ll spend the morning exploring the highlights of both the Dutch and French sides, soaking up beaches, viewpoints, and local flavor along the way.
Our guide, Cutty, made the experience unforgettable. He shared fascinating stories about the island’s history as we cruised around in air-conditioned comfort, sipping on cold island drinks.
We started with the Harold Jack Lookout Point on the Dutch side, where the sweeping views of Simpson Bay Lagoon and nearby islands gave us the perfect first glimpse of paradise. From there, we stopped at Maho Beach, famous for planes flying low over the sand. It feels like you could almost touch them!
The tour also took us through the French side capital of Marigot, where we grabbed pastries and strolled up to Fort Louis for stunning panoramas, plus a quick stop at Topper’s Rhum Distillery to sample some of their locally-made spirits. We wrapped up with free time in Philipsburg, perfect for some shopping or a beachside drink, before arriving back around 2 or 3 pm—just in time for lunch.
This tour is hands-down the best way to start your trip and get your bearings on the island. And judging by HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here, we’re not the only ones who think so!
Book our favorite sightseeing tour here and get FREE cancellation!
Lunch/Afternoon – Ocean Lounge @ Holland House
After your island tour wraps up in Philipsburg, head to Ocean Lounge @ Holland House for a well‑earned lunch. This open‑air, beachfront spot is the perfect place to refuel after a morning of sightseeing. Grab a table overlooking Great Bay Beach, savor Caribbean‑inspired dishes, and soak in the sea views.
Depending on when your sightseeing tour returns, you may also have time for a quick stroll along the boardwalk or a peek into a few duty‑free shops. Just keep in mind that cruise ship days make this area busier, and you’ll want to leave enough time to head toward Simpson Bay for your sunset sail.
Evening – Relax on a sunset cruise
There’s no better way to end your first day on St. Martin than out on the water, watching the sun melt into the Caribbean Sea. This small-group sunset sail is the perfect mix of relaxation and island beauty, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.
The cruise departs at 5 pm from Simpson Bay (arrive about 10 minutes early), and over the next 90 minutes, you’ll drift along the coast past Maho Beach and Mullet Bay as the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and gold. Every few minutes, the light shifts, making it a dream for photos—or simply for sitting back with a drink in hand and soaking up the moment.
The cruise provides alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, and light snacks, all served in a relaxed, intimate setting that’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a fun and relaxed evening out on the water. Just note, this sail doesn’t usually run on Sundays or Wednesdays, so plan accordingly and book in advance—it tends to sell out!
Book your sunset sail here for an unforgettable evening!
Dinner – Simpson Bay
Since your sunset sail ends right in Simpson Bay, it’s the perfect place to spend your evening. This lively area is packed with restaurants ranging from casual beach bars to elegant waterfront dining, and it’s also one of the island’s nightlife hubs. We chose Vesna Taverna for dinner and loved its cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any spot along the strip. Many restaurants here have open-air seating and a relaxed, tropical vibe, making it easy to settle in for a leisurely meal.
After dinner, keep the night going at The Red Piano SXM, a classic piano bar that feels like it’s been frozen in time. With live music, a lively crowd, and a laid-back charm, it’s a fun way to end your first day on the island. Whether you stay for a song or close out the night here, Simpson Bay is the ideal spot to experience the island’s nightlife!
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:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Morning/Afternoon – Island hop and snorkel with sea turtles
Kick off your second day on Saint Martin with the ultimate Caribbean adventure—this speedboat and snorkeling tour is the perfect way to see the island from the water. Departing from Philipsburg at 9:30 am, you’ll zip across crystal-clear waters, visit hidden coves, and see some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. With a return around 3:30 pm, it makes for a full, exciting day without feeling rushed.
From the moment we stepped on board, the friendly and energetic crew made us feel like VIPs. They kept everyone comfortable and entertained throughout the day, making the experience as fun as it was seamless.
The snorkeling stops were the highlight! Tintamarre Island was unforgettable, with sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish gliding through the water, and Creole Rock offered vibrant coral reefs that were so fun to explore.
Plus, the adventure didn’t stop there! We relaxed on Pinel Island with a delicious lunch and some beach time before heading to Mullet Bay, a stunning stretch of sand perfect for photos. And of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without Maho Beach, where planes roar dramatically overhead—a thrill that never gets old!
This tour packs in all the best of Saint Martin by water, giving you an adventurous day and plenty of memories. And it’s not just us raving! The glowing five-star reviews here speak for themselves—this tour is clearly a highlight of any St. Martin trip.
Don’t miss out—reserve your spot on this top-rated boat tour here!
Evening – Grand Case
After a full day on the water, head back to your hotel to rinse off the salt and take a quick rest before venturing to Grand Case on the French side for the evening. This charming seaside town is famous for its incredible dining scene and offers a more relaxed nightlife than the busy Dutch side—think romantic streets, soft beach views, and a lively but laid‑back vibe.
Start your visit by strolling down Boulevard de Grand Case, the main street lined with colorful buildings and inviting restaurants. Take a moment to peek at the beachfront or dip your toes in the sand before settling in for dinner. We highly recommend Le Cottage, a local favorite serving amazing French cuisine in an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. The menu is a perfect mix of island ingredients and classic French flavors, making it a true culinary highlight of the trip.
After dinner, keep the night going with drinks at Blue Martini Grand Case. This fun, lively bar has a friendly crowd and often live music, making it the ideal spot to soak in the energy of the French side without the late‑night chaos of other areas. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a great drink and soak up the relaxed vibe before calling it a night.
Related Read: If you’re basing yourself in Philipsburg, check out some of our favorite things to do while you’re there!
Day 3
Morning – ATV tour of the island
Kick off your final day with a burst of adrenaline on this ATV island tour—our favorite way to combine sightseeing with adventure. We recommend the 9 am to 1 pm option, which departs from Philipsburg, giving you plenty of time to explore and still enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
The morning starts with hotel pick up if you choose and a quick safety briefing and gear-up session, and before you know it, you’re riding along the island’s scenic coastal roads. The ATVs are surprisingly easy to handle, even for first-timers, and the guides are fantastic at keeping the pace fun and safe. Occasional off-road stretches add a thrilling twist and show you a wilder side of the island.
The route is packed with iconic stops. We started at Maho Beach, followed by a visit to Mullet Bay, where the soft sand and turquoise water begged for a quick photo stop. Riding into Marigot on the French side was another highlight, as we cruised past colorful homes, local markets, and even paused to feed friendly iguanas along the way.
By the time we returned, a refreshing dip in Great Bay felt like the perfect reward after a morning of sandy trails and sea breezes. A thrilling mix of adventure and sightseeing, it’s easy to see why this tour has earned a wall of five‑star reviews!
Book this ATV tour here with FREE cancellation up to 24 hours before!
Afternoon – Relax on Orient Bay Beach
After a morning of ATV adventure, slow things down with some classic Caribbean beach time at Orient Bay Beach. This stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water is exactly what most people picture when they dream of a tropical getaway. The beach is lined with loungers and umbrellas for rent, and you’ll find plenty of beach bars for a cold drink or casual lunch. Whether you’re up for a swim, a stroll along the shore, or just soaking in the sun, Orient Bay is the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Parasailing
If you like your beach days with a touch of adventure, don’t miss the chance to go parasailing over Orient Bay. This thrilling experience lets you soar high above the Caribbean Sea, taking in panoramic views of St. Martin’s lush green hills and sparkling blue water. The friendly crew makes the whole process easy and safe, so even first-timers can relax and enjoy the ride. Floating above the bay feels like flying, and the mix of excitement, incredible scenery, and pure joy makes this one of those bucket-list experiences you’ll never forget.
Reserve your parasailing spot at Orient Bay Beach here!
Dinner – Maison Mère
After your afternoon at the beach, take a short stroll over to Maison Mère for a delicious French-Caribbean dinner. This popular spot focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a menu that changes seasonally but often features standouts like tuna tartare, lobster risotto, and perfectly cooked filet mignon.
The setting is relaxed yet refined, with stylish décor, friendly service, and a great mix of indoor and open-air seating. We recommend pairing your meal with a glass from their well-curated wine list or a signature cocktail to end the day on a high note!
Evening – Enjoy the nightlife
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, Orient Bay has a fun but relaxed nightlife scene that lets you end your trip on a high note. Several of the beachfront venues transform after dark, with music, dancing, and a lively crowd under the stars.
Kontiki Beach is perfect if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with a chic beach club vibe. DJs often spin upbeat tracks here, and the energy picks up as the evening goes on. It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink, mingle, and maybe even dance with your toes in the sand.
Bikini Beach, on the other hand, has a slightly more laid-back feel while still offering music and a social crowd. It’s ideal if you want to relax with a drink in hand, listen to the waves, and enjoy the glow of the night without going full party mode.
Whether you pop in for a single drink or stay to dance under the Caribbean sky, ending your last night at one or both of these beach spots is a carefree and memorable way to say goodbye to St. Martin!
Related Read: Staying longer than 3 days? Check out our top 10 favorite things to do on Saint Martin to fill up the rest of your itinerary!
Where to Stay on St. Martin
Now that your Saint Martin itinerary is sorted, it’s time to pick the perfect place to stay! We suggest basing yourself on the south side of the island in Sint Maarten so that you’re closer to the city, nightlife, and top attractions. That said, the island of Saint Martin is small, so no matter where you stay, nothing is ever too far away. To make it easier, here are three fantastic hotel options for every budget:
Luxury – $$$
The Morgan Resort Spa & Village is a luxury hotel in a pristine location! Located in Simpson Bay on Maho Beach (just 15 minutes from downtown Philipsburg), this is exactly what you’d expect for a Caribbean escape. You can enjoy the modern rooms with amazing views, the onsite pool, or lounge chairs that are right in the ocean. Plus the restaurant, bar, and spa!
Rooms average around $400 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
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.
Related Read: For more hotel options and neighborhood insights, check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Saint Martin here to find the perfect base for your trip.
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
- Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
- Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
- Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
- Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
- Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
- An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Three days in Saint Martin will give you a great taste of what makes this island so special—stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a delicious mix of French, Dutch, and Caribbean flavors. Whether you’re sipping cocktails with your toes in the sand, exploring colorful markets, or enjoying fresh seafood by the water, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days here.
Hopefully, this itinerary has made planning your trip a whole lot easier, so you can just relax and enjoy every minute on this beautiful island. But, if you’re continuing your Caribbean travels, make sure you check out all of our Caribbean content to help with your planning. To get you started, here are a few of our favorites:
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