Ultimate DIY Island-Hopping Guide: St-Martin/Sint Maarten and Caribbean Gems
Planning a Caribbean getaway without the hassle of cruises or yacht charters? St-Martin/Sint Maarten is your ideal starting point. This compact 33-square-mile island, uniquely divided between Dutch (vibrant and lively) and French (elegantly European) sides, offers stunning beaches, affordable access, and seamless connections for DIY island-hopping to spots like Anguilla, St-Barts, and Saba.
While popular with day-trippers from cruises and condo vacationers, it's easily reachable—JetBlue offers direct flights from New York for around $350 round-trip in peak season—making it a perfect hub for authentic exploration.
Iconic Island Experiences
Day visitors often stick to Philipsburg and Marigot's shopping and dining strips, leaving the island's true gems for overnight guests and locals.
Prime beaches abound: Friar's Bay, north of Marigot on the French side, draws locals for swimming, beach bars, and lively full-moon parties. For serenity, hike a short dirt path to Happy Bay's pristine, powdery sands.
On the Dutch side, Maho Beach beneath Juliana Airport runway delivers a thrilling spectacle. Watch jets roar overhead as beachgoers pose for jaw-dropping photos at the festive Sunset Beach Bar—just a $6 taxi from the terminal, ideal for flight delays.
Indulge at Grand Case, the French side's 'Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.' Its beachfront boulevard features open-air restaurants blending Parisian flair with tropical breezes. For casual vibes, try the seaside lolos—Creole barbecue shacks with picnic areas.
Where to Stay
The island's small size means anywhere works as a base, though taxis add up. Rent a car locally for about $35/day.
Lonely Planet author Brandon Presser raves about Les Balcons d’Oyster Pond—hillside villas with bay views at Oyster Pond, starting at €100/night in high season (up to 35% off after April 15), one of the Caribbean's best values.
Simpson Bay on the Dutch side offers budget-friendly options like the Horny Toad Guesthouse; airport noise fades into the background for most guests.
Effortless Island-Hopping
St-Martin/Sint Maarten is the Caribbean's top hub for multi-island adventures. A standout day trip: 25-minute ferry to Anguilla ($15 from Marigot, every 45 minutes daytime). Arrive at Blowing Point, rent a car ($50/day), lunch in The Valley at spots like Lloyd’s B&B (rooms $135), then relax at Shoal Bay East—two miles of white sand, turquoise waters, reefs, and hammock-lined shacks.
Short flights from $100 round-trip unlock more: Try Saba ($130 on Winair) for rugged hikes, neon corals, and reef sharks—a dramatic contrast to beach bliss.
