20 of the Best Things to Do in St. Martin/St. Maarten

"Split into Dutch Sint Maarten in the south and French Saint-Martin in the north, this Caribbean island offers a unique mix of cultural and historical influences in one effusively hospitable destination. St. Martin is one of the region's most accessible islands for travelers from the U.S., and numerous daily inter-island flights and ferries make it a popular stopover for people headed to Anguilla or to hidden gem islands like Saba and Sint Eustatius. Visitors will find stunning stretches of sandy coast, international flavors, and thrilling adventures from zip lining to shark diving as well as more relaxing things to do."

"Philipsburg, the capital of St. Maarten, is a charming town worthy of exploration. You can spend a day strolling the boardwalk, admiring how the buildings on Old Street blend colorful and colonial styles, and shopping on Front Street. Stop to take a picture of the cupola-topped courthouse, built in 1793, before following your nose to some Caribbean food."

"St. Martin is a melting pot of culinary traditions, but "visitors have to try the truly local dishes from food trucks or roadside rib shacks that exemplify the island," says Marla Chemont of the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. "Stop at a roadside spot for delicious barbecue, like barbecued chicken, lobster, or ribs with a fried johnnycake.""

Split between Dutch Sint Maarten in the south and French Saint‑Martin in the north, the island blends cultural and historical influences with warm hospitality. Frequent flights and ferries make the island highly accessible from the U.S. and a common stopover for nearby islands such as Anguilla, Saba, and Sint Eustatius. Attractions include long sandy beaches, international culinary offerings, and activities from zip lining and shark diving to relaxed swimming and sunbathing. Recommended experiences include exploring Philipsburg’s boardwalk, Old Street architecture and Front Street shopping, hiking the 3.1‑mile trail to 1,400‑foot Pic Paradis early in the morning, and sampling roadside barbecue and local liqueurs.

Read at Travel + Leisure