City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Saint Martin/Sint Maarten

Jonathan Timianko

May 11, 2024 — 3 min read

Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, the Caribbean island known for its dual French and Dutch heritage, offers a vibrant array of attractions for boaters and travelers to enjoy from marinas, resorts and private boat lift rentals.

The island is south of Anguilla and northwest of St. Barts in the tropical waters of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re visiting Saint Martin, on the north side, or the south side of Sint Maarten (Or how about both?), you’ll want to add these spots to your boating itinerary.

Photo: Wikimedia/Eric Gaba/CC by SA 4.0

Saint Martin (French)

Grand Case

Photo: Wikimedia/David Broad/CC by SA 3.0

This charming fishing village of Grand Case is renowned as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Visitors can explore a plethora of gourmet restaurants offering a fusion of French, Creole and international cuisines. It’s one of the tastiest places around to visit from private boat docks for rent.

Marigot

Photo: Wikimedia/Richie Diesterheft/CC by SA 2.0

The capital of the French side, Marigot is a picturesque town with colonial architecture, bustling markets and a vibrant waterfront. The Marina Royale is a hub for yachts, boutiques and bistros.

Pinel Island

Photo: Wikimedia/Clavius66/CC by SA 3.0

For a unique day trip from a private boat dock for rent, sail on over to Pinel Island. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Cul-de-Sac, it’s a secluded paradise with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and rustic beach bars serving delicious seafood.

Loterie Farm

Photo: Loterie Farm (Facebook)

Loterie Farm is a lush sanctuary offering hiking trails, peaceful poolside lounging and ziplining adventures through the canopy. It's a perfect retreat for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike to explore from private boat docks for rent.

Fort Louis

Photo: Wikimedia/SV Zanshin/CC by SA 3.0

History enthusiasts can explore the ruins of the 18th-century Fort Louis fortress, which overlooks Marigot Bay. The views from the top offer stunning seascapes and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

Sint Maarten (Dutch)

Maho Beach

Photo: Wikimedia/Alljengi/CC by SA 2.0

Situated adjacent to Princess Juliana International Airport, Maho Beach is world-famous for its thrilling plane landings and takeoffs just a few meters above sunbathers' heads. The sapphire-shaded water views aren’t so bad either.

Philipsburg

Photo: Wikimedia/Rennett Stowe/CC by SA 2.0

The capital of the Dutch side, Philipsburg boasts colorful colonial architecture, duty-free shopping along Front Street and a lively boardwalk lined with bars, restaurants and casinos.

Fort Amsterdam

Photo: Wikimedia/Banja-Frans Mulder/CC by SA 3.0

For a unique day trip from private boat lifts for rent, history buffs can explore the ruins of this 17th-century Fort Amsterdam. This Dutch fort located in Little Bay offers panoramic views of Great Bay and the surrounding coastline.

The next time you’re hanging out at a private boat slip rental or cruising around Saint Martin and Sint Maarten, check out some of these sites. Let us know your favorites. Happy boating!

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