St Martin Adventure Travel Guide

Introducing St Martin (Continued...)

auty, is also more conservative and commercial in its values. The frivolous Dutch side has a more hedonistic nature characterised by the pulsating nightlife and laid-back lifestyle.
As you would expect from a pretty Caribbean destination, Saint Martin has all the white sand beaches, hot sun and sparkling sea you can dream up. But hidden in this Caribbean delight are opportunities for excitement.
Sint Maarten, the Dutch side of the island, is physically smaller but has a slightly larger population. It’s quite well developed with the large Princess Juliana Airport, with its main town, Philipsburg, being its most important port; an attractive place to be, with the native Creole influence blending with a classic European heritage.

The French side, Saint-Martin, is larger with more wildlife and natural beauty. Generally, the island is fairly flat, but reaches a minor peak (424m) at Pic Paradis in the central chain of hills. The capital Marigot is a pretty port on the east coast. In the north of Saint-Martin you’ll find Grand Case, with a distinctly European feel and its own little airport.

The island of Saint Martin has an excellent Maritime climate, meaning it is hot all year round. The refreshing trade winds ensure that it is never uncomfortably hot, and Saint Martin is not as prone to flash showers as some of its Caribbean neighbours.

Kitesurfing

The Caribbean is seeing kitesurfing develop as one of its regional specialities, and Saint Martin is no exception. With the beaches providing the attractive backdrop and the Atlantic Ocean to the east providing the wind, all you need do is get out onto the sea and go!
There are plenty of fantastic locations no matter whether you’re on the French or Dutch side. Orient Bay in the French north is a great place to start. Protected from really strong waves by the Green Cay coral reef, there are a number of trainers with boats to take you out. From here, you can get a great grounding in kitesurfing, or, if you’ve done it before, take your skills to a whole new level.
Whether you’re here to try something new, or to get another chance at a water sport you love, Saint Martin will provide you the perfect place to do it.

Windsurfing

There are three things you need to make windsurfing fantastic. First, you need consistent waves. Second, you need strong but not overpowering wind. And finally, you need a good teacher. Saint Martin checks all three boxes.
Windsurfing is especially popular on the French side of the island, but can be found virtually anywhere along the coast. Le Gallion, known as the Coconut Grove, commonly has bigger waves and serves up opportunities for high-flying tricks, so it may be best suited to those with a bit of experience.
For the novice, Orient Bay has a lagoon that is perfect for practicing and picking up tips from the instructors before you move onto the open waters. Head out to sea a little and you’ll find your skill level rises with the waves.

Yachting

It’s no big surprise that a yacht is a status symbol; yachts provide you with the key to the oceans. In Saint Martin the sea is calm and clear; the scenery is breathtaking; and all you will be left to wish for are more hours in the day.
Saint Martin has plenty of yachts to rent. Of course you’ll need to have some boating experience, but there is no better way to spend your time here. Otherwise, if you simply want the idyllic lifestyle without the hassle of learning to sail, then just hop on board a chartered yacht and make the most of your journey through these Caribbean waters.

Classic Itineraries

Fly in to the Princess Juliana International Airport and find yourself on the Dutch side of Saint Martin, where life doesn’t get much more complex than lounging on the beach or shopping for bargains. The capital city, Philipsburg, has streets lined with towering palm trees, and the town has a relaxed and jovial feel. Of course a holiday in the Caribbean wouldn’t be the same without getting down to the beach and taking part in some watersports. To see the best that Saint Martin has to offer it’s a good idea to go to the northern French side. Take lessons, if you need them, but if not get out onto the waves and make the most of your days.

Other Activities

There’s little in the way of rivers or streams, but kayaking is nevertheless popular: that’s because it is sea kayaking. The sea near the coast is ideal, even for novices. If paddling is not your thing then try jet-skiing or wake boarding; there will always be something here for you.
The casinos found on the Dutch side of the island offer a different type of thrill, just know your limits! They are located close to the beaches on the west coast, so let’s hope the draw of the white sand should keep you from spending too much!