15 Most Stunning Places to Visit in St. Martin and St. Maarten
St. Martin and St. Maarten form the world's smallest landmass divided between two nations: the French side (Saint Martin) and the Dutch side (Sint Maarten). This Caribbean paradise hosts 120 nationalities, world-class cuisine, pristine white-sand beaches, hidden coves, lively beach bars, vibrant nightlife, luxury shopping, water sports, and hiking trails—making it an ideal vacation spot. Discover our curated list of the 15 most beautiful places to visit.
Marigot Bay Port – A Cosmopolitan Hub on Saint Martin
Marigot Bay Port is among the island's most picturesque spots. As the capital of French Saint Martin, Marigot thrives around this vibrant bay. Capture photos of charming Caribbean gingerbread-style houses, enjoy panoramic views of Fort St. Louis, and hike to the fort for adventure. Savor bistros and the bi-weekly market for local flavors.
Maho Beach – Famous for Jaw-Dropping Low-Flying Planes
On Sint Maarten's Dutch side, Maho Beach offers idyllic sands and turquoise waters. Its star attraction? Proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport, where planes skim overhead during landings—a thrill for aviation enthusiasts and unique beachgoers alike.
Front Street and Old Street in Philipsburg – Premier Shopping Destinations
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten's main town between Great Bay and Great Salt Pond, dazzles with waterfront views. Front Street buzzes with deals on jewelry, china, and Guavaberry liquor at the Emporium, plus the Coliseum Princess Casino. For a quaint vibe, explore Old Street's historic buildings, boutique shops, bistros, and the iconic yellow car photo op.
Orient Bay Beach
Orient Bay Beach on Saint Martin's French side is a lively favorite with powdery sands and vibrant turquoise waters. Lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, it captures a bohemian essence—perfect for relaxing amid the buzz.
Anse Marcel – Saint Martin's Premier Luxury Beach
Tucked in a secluded northern cove, Anse Marcel offers calm, protected waters ideal for families. Home to luxury resorts, it's a serene escape for ultimate relaxation.
Grand Case Beach – Tranquil Sands on the French Side
This mile-long stretch on Saint Martin rivals the island's best with calm waters and family-friendly vibes. Hotels provide loungers; nearby restaurants rent them with lunch for day visitors.
Pinel Island – Pristine Paradise Off St. Martin's Coast
Protected by the French Marine Reserve, tiny Pinel Island offers hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking amid unspoiled nature. Feed friendly iguanas, dine beachside, or sip tiki cocktails. Ferry from Cul-de-Sac or paddle over.
Miguel’s Hot Beach Spot – Vibrant Service by the Port
Beloved Miguel's beach near the port blends stunning blue waters with exceptional service: beachside drinks, food delivery, and his charismatic hospitality under bright orange umbrellas.
Tintamarre Island – Uninhabited Wildlife Haven
This tiny, uninhabited isle off Saint Martin is an Important Bird Area for species like green-throated caribs and red-billed tropicbirds. Snorkel with sea turtles in a pristine Caribbean nature reserve.
Great Bay Beach – Lively Sands Near Philipsburg
A Sint Maarten highlight near Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach buzzes with bars, shops, and eateries. Its white sands and calm waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Pic Paradis (Paradise Peak) – Island's Highest Vantage Point
At 424 meters, Pic Paradis offers easy hikes with sweeping views of St. Martin and beyond, lush flora, and Loterie Farm at the base. Drive up or extend to longer trails like Northeast Ridge.
Little Bay Beach – Palm-Fringed Snorkeling Spot
Near Divi Resort on Sint Maarten, this public beach rivals resorts with calm waters, tropical fish, coral for snorkeling, and some rocky sections for variety—ideal for families.
Mullet Beach – Serene White-Sand Retreat
A peaceful Dutch-side escape 30 minutes from the cruise terminal, Mullet Beach features pristine sands, crystal-clear calm waters, and excellent snorkeling—less crowded than hotspots.
Fort Louis – Historic Overlook in Marigot
Built by the French atop a Marigot hill, abandoned Fort Louis rewards a short, steep hike with island panoramas and historic exploration.
Kim Sha Beach – Eventful Shores Near Simpson Bay
On Sint Maarten near Simpson Bay, enjoy sands, clear waters, boat-watching sunsets, loungers, bars, jet skiing, and events like the Heineken Regatta and beach movies.
