It seems hard to believe that a 34-square mile island can contain so much variety in terms of landscapes, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, but the truth is that in St Martin activities are so varied that boredom is never an option. Here’s a list of the most popular St Martin activities for tourists.
Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm is a privately owned nature reserve where visitors can explore St Martin’s lush tropical vegetation, go ziplining, sample the local cuisine in the farm’s alfresco restaurant, or chill out in the reserve’s tree lounge.
St Martin shopping
A visit to a traditional open-air market is a must during a holiday to a Caribbean island. In St Martin, Marigot market is a lively meeting point for vendors from all over the island, who display their colourful produce and crafts every Wednesday and Friday. Duty-free shopping is particularly good in Philipsburg, where the streets are lined with tax-free stores selling electronics, jewelry, and more.
Saint Martin’s National Nature Reserve
This vast nature reserve offers visitors a chance of discovering St Martin’s rich biodiversity. Coral reefs, dozens of bird species, rare wild plants, extensive mangroves, dramatic cliffs, and salt ponds are some of the things that can be found here. Humpback whales and dolphins can also be spotted during the first half of the year. The area is home to some outstanding St Martin beaches too. We recommend you a stop on Pinel island.
Orient Bay Village
Orient Bay village has a beautiful location along a crescent-shaped bay and is packed with upscale restaurants, bars, and hotels. Many consider this area to be the Caribbean equivalent of St Tropez. The nearby 2-mile long Orient Bay beach is one of the top St Martin beaches and includes a clothing-optional section.
The Tijon Parfumerie
Visiting the Tijon Parfumerie is a treat to the senses. Tourists have been coming here since 2007 to explore the world of handcrafted custom fragrances. This family-run business offers 3-hour courses where visitors can create their signature fragrance, but ready-made perfumes and cosmetics are also available for purchase. This is a great St Martin shopping experience and an opportunity to get a unique souvenir.
Fort Amsterdam
The ruins of Fort Amsterdam overlook the sandy beaches of Great Bay, St Martin’s vegetation-covered hills, and a peninsula that is great for birdwatching. The fort dates from the 17th century and is a great place to spend the afternoon.
