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St Martin Tours – Beaches, Culture & Caribbean Charm

Intro to St Martin Tours

From golden shores to French bistros and steelpan rhythms, St Martin tours reveal an island split by culture yet united in spirit. This Caribbean gem blends French finesse with Dutch energy, offering coastal beauty, gourmet cuisine, and endless adventure. Explore turquoise bays, art-filled towns, and mountaintop lookouts where two nations meet under the same sun. Guided tours help travelers navigate both sides of the island with ease — from sailing the lagoon to tasting Creole fusion flavors in Marigot. Dive into discovery and see why St Martin’s tours promise more than just beaches. For detailed itineraries and cultural context, see the St Martin Travel Guide.

Why Take a Tour in St Martin

A tour in St Martin turns a small island into a world of experience. Guides connect you to the stories behind each cove and market, revealing how French flair and Dutch charm coexist seamlessly. With its bilingual culture, shared heritage, and winding coastal routes, a tour saves time while deepening understanding. From rum tasting in Grand Case to snorkeling in protected marine parks, guided experiences blend insight with safety and convenience. Whether by jeep, catamaran, or private guide, St Martin tours ensure every moment is rich in color, culture, and Caribbean rhythm.

Top Tours by Popularity

Full Island Sightseeing Tour

Discover both French and Dutch St Martin in one unforgettable day. Visit Marigot’s open-air markets, Philipsburg’s shopping streets, and Orient Bay’s white sands, with panoramic stops at Paradise Peak.

Catamaran Cruise to Tintamarre & Creole Rock

Sail the azure waters of the French side aboard a luxury catamaran. Stop for snorkeling at Creole Rock, swim with turtles at Tintamarre Island, and enjoy onboard drinks as reggae music sets the tone.

Jet Ski Coastal Adventure

Ride the waves around Simpson Bay Lagoon and Maho Beach with an experienced guide. Speed past yachts, hidden coves, and the famous plane-landing strip that makes St Martin one of the Caribbean’s most thrilling waterfronts.

Marigot Market & Grand Case Food Tour

Wander through colorful produce stalls before sampling French-Caribbean dishes in Grand Case, known as the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.” Your guide shares local history and favorite family-run eateries.

Rhino Safari Snorkel Excursion

Hop on your own inflatable watercraft and follow your guide along the coastline. Stop for snorkeling at Creole Rock to discover parrotfish, sea fans, and coral gardens beneath the waves.

Pinel Island Day Trip

A short boat ride from Cul-de-Sac brings you to Pinel Island, a protected nature reserve with calm beaches and beach bars serving grilled lobster. Ideal for families and couples seeking serenity.

Sunset Champagne Cruise

Sail into the evening with champagne in hand as the sky turns crimson over the Caribbean. It’s a romantic must-do, with live music and front-row views of Marigot Bay at dusk.

Eco Kayak & Mangrove Tour

Paddle through Simpson Bay Lagoon’s mangrove reserve, spotting herons, iguanas, and tropical fish. Eco-guides share how the ecosystem supports the island’s biodiversity.

Plane Spotting & Beach Tour

Visit world-famous Maho Beach to watch jets skim overhead before cooling off in the surf. Continue along the coastline for scenic stops and rum tasting at local beach bars.

Scenic Hike to Pic Paradis

Climb the island’s highest peak for panoramic views of both sides. Guided treks include nature commentary and fruit tastings from local orchards along the way.

Top Recommendations for You

Luxury Catamaran to Anguilla

Sail to St Martin’s chic neighbor, Anguilla, for a day of snorkeling and fine dining. The tour includes customs clearance, beach lounging, and gourmet lunch at Shoal Bay.

St Martin Art & Heritage Walk

Explore Marigot’s galleries and street murals, meet local artists, and visit historical Fort Louis overlooking the harbor. Perfect for travelers seeking culture and creativity.

Creole Cooking Workshop

Learn how to prepare island classics like accra fritters, johnnycakes, and rum-infused desserts. Classes take place in open-air kitchens with local chefs sharing family recipes.

St Maarten Rum Distillery Experience

Tour Topper’s Rhum Distillery in Cole Bay to sample award-winning spirits. Learn how sugarcane and tropical spices shape the island’s liquid legacy.

Private Jeep Island Tour

Explore at your own pace with a local driver-guide who tailors stops to your interests — from secluded beaches to hilltop cafés. A great option for photographers and small groups.

Family Fun Lagoon Cruise

A gentle sightseeing trip ideal for families, with swim stops, onboard lunch, and wildlife spotting. Guides share fun facts and stories for all ages.

Let St Martin Inspire Your Next Trip

Twin cultures, one island — every shoreline tells a different story.
The scent of grilled lobster mingles with ocean spray as laughter rises from sunset beach bars.
Beyond the markets and marinas, hidden coves wait where calm water meets golden sand.
And every journey ends with a toast to the island’s rhythm — a place where north meets south, and adventure meets indulgence.

Discover top-rated St Martin tours and curated experiences that reveal the best things to do in St Martin. We may earn a commission if you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.

Must-See Nearby Adventures

Anguilla Day Trip by Ferry

Just 25 minutes from Marigot, Anguilla offers pristine beaches, relaxed vibes, and beach-bar lunches. Bring your passport and swimsuit — paradise awaits across the channel.

Saba Volcano Hiking Adventure

From St Martin’s ferry terminal, reach the Dutch island of Saba for a guided hike up Mount Scenery — a lush rainforest peak rising from the sea.

Pinel Island Escape

Accessible only by boat, this tiny island offers calm waters, grilled lobster lunches, and colorful beach bars. Ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding.

St Barts Luxury Shopping & Beach Hop

Take a high-speed ferry or charter flight to nearby St Barts. Blend designer boutiques with quiet coves and fine French dining.

Orient Bay Watersports & Kitesurfing Tour

Join certified instructors for windsurfing, jet-skiing, and parasailing along St Martin’s liveliest beach. A hub for thrill-seekers and sun-worshippers alike.

Most Loved Attractions & Activities

Maho Beach Plane Watching: Stand under low-flying aircraft for one of the Caribbean’s most surreal thrills.
Pic Paradis Viewpoint: The island’s highest peak offers panoramic views of both coasts and neighboring isles.
Marigot Market: Browse spices, handmade crafts, and local rum beneath colorful awnings.
Loterie Farm: Enjoy canopy trails, zip lines, and cooling jungle pools amid lush greenery.
Front Street Shopping (Philipsburg): Duty-free shops line this lively stretch of jewelry, electronics, and island fashion.
Grand Case Beach: A culinary hotspot where beach bars serve grilled seafood with your toes in the sand.
Creole Rock Snorkeling: Shallow reef, easy conditions, and abundant marine life make it a top snorkeling site.
Fort Louis: Climb to the 18th-century ruins overlooking Marigot for sweeping harbor views.

Local Secrets You’ll Love

Friar’s Bay Café at Sunset: A hidden beach bar popular with locals — fewer crowds, same golden views.
Baie Rouge Caves: Natural sea caves accessible by swimming at low tide, perfect for adventurous photographers.
Local BBQ Nights in Grand Case: Thursdays bring sizzling grills, live drummers, and laughter in every direction.
Artisans of Colombier Village: Small workshops produce pottery, sea-glass jewelry, and paintings capturing island life.
Guavaberry Emporium Tastings: Try St Martin’s signature liqueur in unique flavors — coconut, mango, or tamarind.

Savor the Local Cuisine

Lolos of Grand Case: Open-air Creole grills serving ribs, conch, and grilled fish — authentic, smoky, and irresistible.
Guavaberry Colada: The island’s iconic cocktail mixes guavaberry liqueur with coconut and nutmeg.
Johnny Cake Sandwiches: Fluffy fried bread filled with saltfish or chicken, served warm at roadside stands.
French Boulangeries: Fresh croissants and baguettes on the Marigot side — a taste of Paris in the tropics.
Crab Backs: A local delicacy of crab meat baked with herbs and breadcrumbs, often paired with Creole rice.
Tropical Sorbet Desserts: Mango, passion fruit, and soursop flavors found in beachfront gelaterias.

Sample St Martin Itineraries

3-Day Getaway

Day 1: Arrive in Philipsburg, explore Front Street, and relax at Great Bay Beach.
Day 2: Take a half-day island tour and enjoy Marigot’s sunset dining scene.
Day 3: Snorkel at Creole Rock before departing.

5-Day Escape

Day 1: Stroll Marigot’s market and enjoy a French brunch.
Day 2: Sail to Tintamarre Island for snorkeling.
Day 3: Explore Loterie Farm trails and waterfalls.
Day 4: Visit Maho Beach for plane-spotting and sunset cocktails.
Day 5: Shop duty-free in Philipsburg before your flight.

7-Day Immersion

Days 1–2: Split time between Marigot and Grand Case for food and culture.
Day 3: Kayak the mangroves and visit Orient Bay.
Day 4: Take a ferry to Anguilla for a beach day.
Day 5: Zipline at Sentry Hill and hike Pic Paradis.
Day 6: Enjoy a Creole cooking class and night market.
Day 7: Relax at Friar’s Bay before heading home.

10-Day Grand Tour

Days 1–3: Explore Philipsburg, Marigot, and the island’s northern beaches.
Days 4–6: Ferry to Saba and St Barts for side adventures.
Days 7–8: Discover hidden beaches and art villages.
Days 9–10: Enjoy fine dining, sunset cruises, and local music under the stars.

Ideal Seasons to Explore

December to April (Dry Season): Peak beach weather with calm seas — ideal for sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
May to June (Shoulder Season): Slightly fewer tourists, lush hills, and good deals on tours and resorts.
July to October (Green Season): Warm and humid, with afternoon showers that refresh the landscape. Great for photography and quieter beaches.
November (Cultural Season): Carnival events and French culinary festivals bring lively energy before winter crowds.

What to Know Before You Reserve

Bring your passport — crossing between French and Dutch sides is simple but occasionally checked.
Most tours accept both euros and US dollars; confirm rates beforehand.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine habitats.
Book catamaran and zipline tours early in high season (Dec–Apr).
Guides appreciate tips of around 10–15%.
Bring a waterproof phone pouch for beach and boat tours.
Tap water is safe, but bottled water is convenient for day trips.
Island roads can be narrow — let local guides handle the driving.
Many tours offer hotel pickup; confirm exact times.
Ferries to Anguilla and Saba require valid ID and entry forms.
Always check weather forecasts before sea excursions.
Wi-Fi is widely available, but cell roaming can be costly — download offline maps.

Accessibility & Special Considerations

Major beaches like Maho and Orient Bay offer ramps and accessible facilities.
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM)
Many catamarans provide seating suitable for seniors and mobility-limited guests.
Private tours can tailor stops for shorter walks and flexible pacing.
Most resorts can arrange wheelchair-friendly transportation with notice.
Medical clinics and pharmacies are easily accessible in both capitals.

Moving Around Made Simple

Taxis are plentiful; agree on fares in advance since meters are rarely used.
Rental cars give freedom to explore both sides at your own pace.
Shared minivans operate along main roads and are inexpensive for short rides.
Ferries connect St Martin to Anguilla, Saba, and St Barts daily.
Navigation apps work reliably; driving is on the right side.

Stay Close to the Action

Grand Case: Culinary heart of the island, perfect for food lovers and beach sunsets.
Marigot: French charm with markets, cafés, and marina access.
Philipsburg: Ideal for shoppers, nightlife, and cruise travelers.
Orient Bay: Watersports hub with a lively social scene.
Simpson Bay: Balanced mix of resorts, marinas, and nightlife.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

Combine land and sea tours for the most complete experience.
Pack light — casual island attire is accepted everywhere.
Morning departures beat traffic and ensure calmer seas for snorkeling.
Stay hydrated and use reef-safe sun protection year-round.
Chat with guides about local stories; they often reveal the island’s best secrets.

Choose Your Next Adventure

St Barts: Chic, French-inspired elegance just 45 minutes away.
Anguilla: Laid-back beaches and world-class resorts nearby.
Saba: Adventure island for hiking and diving.
Antigua: 365 beaches and rich sailing history.
St Lucia: Dramatic Pitons and rainforest waterfalls await to the south.

It’s Time to Experience St Martin

Ready to plan your St Martin escape? Explore curated St Martin tours and authentic Caribbean adventures made for curious travelers. We may earn a commission if you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.