Anyone planning a trip to the Caribbean is full of anticipation, expectation and excitement at the prospect of sun, sea and surf. With this in mind then, what sort of things can one expect to do and see in St. Maarten/St.Martin?

Things to do and see in St. Martin: Sun, sea and sand

As with all Caribbean islands, St. Maarten’s offers visitors to its picturesque shores all the usually fun and games to be had at the seaside:
• Sailing: St. Martin’s has several catamarans for hire that allow you to either sail around the island or to island-hop; depending on your desire, time and skill.
• Diving & snorkelling: As a Caribbean island, it would be a shame if you didn’t take up the perfect opportunity to do some diving and snorkelling. The coral around the island is beautiful and the water is crystal blue clear with visibility of between 75 – 100 feet. You can explore the marine life around the island as part of your sailing trip, or as a standalone activity.
• Windsurfing: Windsurfing is a popular past time on the island and all the best surfers tend to congregate at Orient Bay Beach – which is located on the French north-side of the island.
• Kayaking: Kayaking facilities are available on the island if you want to take time out to kayak around.
• Beaches: The island is literally a treasure-trove of wonderful golden sand beaches. However, some of the more popular beaches are the Cupecoy beach (on the Dutch side of the island) and Mullet Bay and Maho Bay (on the French side of the Island).

Things to do and see in St. Maarten’s: On the shore

But, let’s face it, sun, sea and surf are not everyone’s idea of fun. Some of us prefer to stay on dry land. And this is where St. Maarten comes into a place of its own. With its rich history of friendly relations, dating back to the Treaty of Concordia signed in 1648, the island is full of historical sites and venues that you can amble and hike around. So, unlike other islands, here you can live the history. But, if staying on land is what you’re looking for, and not hiking all over the island, then you could always participate in some of the following:
• Tennis: Tennis courts are a plenty on the island, with every hotel having access to one.
• Golf: Although only 37 square miles in size, somehow the island has managed to squeeze in an exotic 18-hole championship golf course at the Mullet Bay Resort!
• Horseback riding: can be done on the island or on the beach-shores of the island.

Things to do and see in St. Martin: At night

With so many things to do during the day, you would think that St. Martin’s would be a place where you’d want to be early off to bed. In fact you would be missing out on a lot if you did that. St. Maarten’s night life is a vibrant mixture of cultures with outdoor clubs, lounges, dining on international cuisines from over 70 countries, and beach reggae parties all available to keep you going until the early morning hours. If that’s not enough fun for you in one day, on the Dutch side of the island you can also spend the night at the tables trying to win the loot for tomorrow’s fun!