11 “Only on St. Maarten / St. Martin ” Experiences
Research has shown that one of the most appreciated features of St. Maarten / St. Martin is that there are so many things to do on land, at its shores and sea. Among that wide array of great excursion experiences here are some you are neither going to find at home nor anywhere else in the Caribbean, in random order:
1. Foodie boats: Anchoring with “Pyratz”
So you might already know St. Maarten is dubbed “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean” for its wide variety of restaurants. There is however more that contributes to this reputation. Take for example the Pyratz sxm ships taking you out for sumptuous barbecues on some of St. Maartens most pristine beaches. Guided by highly experienced French chefs and food and drink experts, trust this experience to be a true foodie walhalla.
2. Unexpected Horseback Riding Routes
It is difficult for us to not spoil a surprise here. But one of St. Maartens / St. Martins most popular on land tours especially amongst younger animal fans, Horse Back Riding in Seaside Nature Park, comes with an unexpected twist in your route at the end of your tour!
3. The World’s Steepest Zipline at the Flying Dutchman
There is no place on earth you will experience zipline gravity compared to the Flying Dutchman Zipline at Rainforest Adventure Park. But if not a thrillseeker, just take the Soualiga Sky Explorer and come and enjoy the view as many do on the magnificent platform.
4. Shopping
St. Maarten / St. Martin has been an awarded Caribbean shopping mecca for decades. Especially the variety of shopping options in capital Philipsburg has brought in quite some accolades. And nowhere lets a day of shopping combine itself as well with one of the most famous beaches of the Caribbean. Great Bay Beach and swimming and relaxing options stretches all along the shopping strips of the Boardwalk, Front Street and Backstreet.
5. Home made cosmetics
Few Caribbean islands export cosmetics. St. Maarten Nectar does not only do that, it also combines well with the opportunity of indulgence in one of its wellness retreats. Go and visit!
6. Boardwalk Cabanas (, Craft Beer and pool!)
If you, for a day, want your own relaxing part of the Philipsburg boardwalk, pass by the Seaview beach hotel! Its cabanas provide you a variety of amenities – from sumptuous food, locally made Pelikaan Beer to the only pool at the boardwalk.
7. Ethnic cuisines
St. Maarten / St. Martin has been awarded many times for its wide variety of culinary options. Its over a 100 cultures often brought their own specialties, readily available at scenic settings. Just to name a few: try Austrian bites at Schnitzelhouse, Mediterranean specialties at Al Pasha, have a taste of Indonesia at Aziana, or follow Anthony Bourdain and experience true “Ital” rastafarian food at Ital Shack.
8. Pirate Shipwreck the Rusty Parrot
There is not going to be a building you ever visited like the Rusty Parrot. Built as the leftovers of an imposing schooner of buccaneer heydays, this pirate center and its multimedia presentations is not going to disappoint young aspiring privateers and teaches parents about history in the process. Do not forget to climb the deck for a drink after with commanding views over Great Bay!
9. Airplanes over Maho Beach
No list of St. Maarten / St. Martin experiences is complete without seeing airplanes land and depart at Maho Beach. A day of plane spotting combines well with unique food options at popular Spices of India, off the beaten track and relaxing Dinghy’s Beach Bar or multi-cuisine foodcourt Oasis / Roma / Mr.Chow.
10. Escape Rooms at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar
The four escape rooms in the Caribbean are all at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on the Philipsburg boardwalk. A not to miss puzzle experience, whichever of the four options you decide to embark on. Try the bars award winning “Dutch Blonde” craft beer and a Dutch pancake in the process!
11. Brown Pelicans at Fort Amsterdam
The brown pelican is St. Maartens national bird, and even depicted on its flag. At historic Fort Amsterdam close to Philipsburg, you find a very large colony attracted by the high concentration of fish below the rocks (worth a snorkeling trip on another day!). From a viewpoint next to the fort, you have a perfect view of the rocks with pelican nests and their continuous cycle of steep dives into the ocean.