Curator’s statement
St. Martin is a beautiful and unique island in the Caribbean co-owned by two different countries, Dutch in the south and French in the north. With an abundance of beaches, adventures, culture, cuisine and more, exploring everything St Maarten offers could take weeks. But even with just four days on this Caribbean island, you can experience the best of both sides of the island.
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Day 1: Arrival and Island Welcome
Morning: Arrival in Paradise
Land at SXM Airport, breeze through customs/immigration and take a taxi or pre-arranged car to your accommodation for the week.
Late Morning: Orient Bay Beach
Kickstart your getaway on the French side of the island at Orient Bay Beach. With its soft sands and turquoise waters, this beach is a slice of paradise. Lounge under swaying palms, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in beachfront dining at one of the charming cafes.
Afternoon: Exploring Philipsburg
After soaking up the sun, head to Philipsburg, the Dutch capital of St. Martin. Spend a few hours exploring the mile-long Philipsburg boardwalk overlooking sparkling Great Bay Harbor. See historic sites like the Courthouse and windmill, pose by the "I Love St Maarten" sign and visit the beach for spectacular jetliner views.
If you like, browse duty-free shops along Front Street for deals on watches, jewelry, alcohol, tobacco, perfumes and souvenirs.
Evening: Sunset at Tortuga Maho
Witness a breathtaking sunset at Tortuga Mago overlooking the water next to Maho beach. As planes descend over the beach for landing, enjoy a cool cocktail, the colors of the sunset and the planes incoming to your left.
Enjoy dinner on the Dutch side at Astra or Skipjacks for Caribbean lobster and other delights, while overlooking Simpson Bay lagoon. Return to your hotel and get rested up for an active day two.
Day 2: Adventure and Culinary Delights
Morning: Loterie Farm Adventure
Embark on an adventure at Loterie Farm, a 150 acre lush nature reserve with activities. Hike to Pic Paradis for panoramic views (the highest point on the island at 1,391 feet (424 meters), cool off in the natural pools or if you’re feeling adventurous, soar through the treetops on a zipline adventure.
Afternoon: Marigot Market and Fort St. Louis
Explore Marigot, the French capital, and immerse yourself in local culture at the Marigot Market. Sample fresh produce, local crafts, and Caribbean spices. Climb to Fort St. Louis for a panoramic view of Marigot Bay.
Evening: Gourmet Getaway in Grand Case
Indulge your taste buds on the French side of the island in Grand Case, known as the "Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean."
Savor the delectable French-Caribbean cuisine at one of the seaside restaurants. My favorites are delicious French food at L.
Day 3: Boat Trip and Maho Beach Beach
Morning and afternoon: Sail the Caribbean
Glide the turquoise sea by catamaran on a relaxing sailing cruise. Snorkel, swim, and sip cocktails in the Caribbean breeze. Discover vibrant marine life by snorkeling or scuba diving pristine spots like Pinel Island and Tintamare.
Late afternoon: Relaxation in Maho
After the excitement, unwind at Maho Beach. Watch planes take off and land against the backdrop of turquoise waters and perhaps the sunset.
Evening: Gourmet Getaway in Grand Case
Return to Grand Case for dinner at another fantastic restaurant in this restaurant gem of the world.
Day 4: Beach and Farewell
Morning: Beach and Final Shopping
On your last day in paradise, fit in any final beach time perhaps on Grand Case beach, where you are walking distance from lunch at Rainbow Cafe or Sunset Cafe on the French side. Or shop for handicrafts, local art, or Caribbean spices to bring back a piece of St. Martin with you.
Need to know
If you have extra days, take a day trip to neighboring island Anguilla for picturesque beaches, or fly or ferry over to St Barths for a couple of days of true luxurious accommodation and restaurants. Your four day journey through St. Martin has been a fusion of beach bliss, adventure, culinary delights, and cherished moments. As you depart, take with you the vibrant colors of the Caribbean, the warmth of the people, and memories until your next Caribbean getaway.
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Travel Advisor
Alexandra Maria
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Kim Walter's guide, Family-Friendly Things to Do in St. Martin.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to St. Martin.