Don’t be Dutch and French-kiss your vacation goodbye: Top things to do and see on both sides of the island
Sint Maarten and Saint Martin share one island in the Caribbean Sea.
Sint Maarten is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Saint Martin is an overseas collectivity of France. Together, Sint Maarten and Saint Martin make up this unique destination allows travelers to experience two different governments, cultures, cuisines, and languages in one place.
Whether you’re looking to relax on stunning beaches, explore historical sites, or indulge in delicious food, there are plenty of things to do and see on both sides of the island.
From the famous Maho Beach to the charming village of Gran
d Case, Sint Maarten and Saint Martin offer many activities and attractions for an unforgettable vacation.
Here are some things to do and see on both sides Sint Maarten and Saint Martin.
Sint Maarten:
- Maho Beach: This famous beach is located adjacent to Princess Juliana International Airport and is known for its proximity to landing airplanes.
- Philipsburg: The capital offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical sites, such as Fort Amsterdam.
- Loterie Farm: This nature reserve offers zip-lining, hiking, and a beautiful pool area.
- Mullet Bay Beach: This stunning beach offers crystal-clear water and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Great Bay Beach: Located in Philipsburg, this beach offers a beautiful town view and lively atmosphere.
Saint Martin:
- Orient Bay Beach: This popular beach offers crystal-clear water, water sports, and a variety of restaurants.
- Marigot: The capital offers a picturesque marina, shops, and historical sites, such as Fort St. Louis.
- Grand Case: This charming village offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and beautiful ocean views.
- Loterie Farm: This nature reserve offers zip-lining, hiking, and a beautiful pool area.
- Pinel Island: This small island is located just off the coast of Saint Martin and offers crystal-clear water, beautiful beaches, and a variety of water sports.
Tip: It is possible to stand in two countries simultaneously on Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint Martin.
The border between the Dutch and French sides of the island is marked by a sign that says “Welcome to the French side” or “Welcome to the Dutch side,” depending on which direction you are traveling. There are also a few places on the island where you can stand directly on the border, such as at the top of the Pic Paradis mountain.Â
There is a small park called “Friendship Park” near the border where you can simultaneously stand in both countries.
Did you know?
Many people may need to learn that the island of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, aka “SXM” combined, is the smallest landmass in the world that is divided between two countries.
While other countries share a border, such as the United States and Canada, this island is unique because it is entirely surrounded by water and divided between two distinct nations.
The Sint Maarten and Saint Martin island’s unique co-cultures is reflected in its food, music, and language, influenced by African, European, and Caribbean traditions over the centuries.
A little history:
The island of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin, also known as “SXM”–has a complex history that spans several centuries. The island’s first inhabitants were the Arawak people, who arrived from South America around 800 AD.
The Carib people later supplanted them and called the island Oualichi. In 1493, Christopher Columbus sighted the island during his second voyage to the Americas and named it after Saint Martin of Tours.
The Spanish claimed the island in 1493 but did not settle it, and the French later usurped it in 1631 and the Dutch in 1633.
The island remained divided between the two European powers until the Treaty of Concordia was signed in 1648, establishing the border between the French and Dutch sides of the island.
Over the centuries, Sint Maarten and Saint Martin became an important center for sugar and salt production and played a role in the slave trade. The island was occupied by the British during the Napoleonic Wars and was later used as a base for American troops during World War II.
In 1954, the French side of the island became an overseas department of France, while the Dutch side became part of the Netherlands Antilles.
Following the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, Sint Maarten became a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Despite Sint Maarten and Saint Martin island’s complex history and diverse cultural heritage, the island has managed to maintain a unique identity. It has become a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife.