Top 10 Things To Do When Visiting St. Maarten/St. Martin

For the History Buff
Visit the St. Maarten Heritage Museum Foundation, which is located on Front Street, for an in-depth look at the island's history. On display are objects from times when the Amerindians lived on the island, as well as pieces from the island's colonial period and information about the island's natural environment. There's also a great shop offering maps.

For the Sightseer
Check out the forts that are still in existence on the island for insight into St. Maarten/Martin's tumultuous colonial past. On the French side, visit Fort St. Louis located in Marigot. And on the Dutch side, both Fort Amsterdam and Fort Willem are located in Philipsburg.

For the Nature Lover
Go on a hike at Loterie Farm, located at the foot of Pic Paradis, the highest point on the island and where organized tours are offered as well.

For the Adventurous Type
Take advantage of the numerous water sports available in St. Maarten/Martin. These include Jet Skiing, banana boating, scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. Visitors can also try their hand at kitesurfing on Orient Beach.

For those with kids
Visit the Butterfly Farm, located on the French side on Galion Beach Road, which features a variety of different species and provides guided tours. Another popular attraction is the St. Maarten Zoological Park and Botanical Gardens, located on the Dutch side on Arch Road.

For the Shopaholic
Take advantage of the competitive prices and duty-free shopping opportunities on the island and treat yourself to something special at one of the many stores, where you can buy anything from jewelry to electronics, liquor and linens.

For the Gourmet
Savor the fine dining at some of the world-class restaurants on St. Maarten/Martin and learn why it's known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. For an authentic experience, try anything from one of the gourmet restaurants located throughout the island or the authentic barbecue sold from the roadside lolos (grills).

For Those Who Need to Relax
Check into a spa and allow yourself to spend the day being pampered. Most hotels on the island offer luxurious spa experiences.

For the Beach Bum
Spend your days lazing on St. Maarten/Martin's world-renowned beaches, enjoying the soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.

Read more about St. Maarten's/St. Martin's Spectacular Shores.

For the High Roller
Try your luck at the many casinos on the Dutch side of the island where you can play everything from roulette to blackjack, Caribbean and Texas Hold 'Em poker and the slot machines.

Don't leave home without your credit card, or our shopping maps. Click here for quick guides to St. Maarten/St. Martin shopping and shopping maps.

On your tour around the island, sample the island's cuisine. Use our restaurant guide to help plan as well as a handy guide to activities and sights.