The Caribbean is filled with so many beautiful islands that make great destinations and ports of call, but my absolute favorite island has to be that of St. Martin. St. Martin may be small in size, but it is the perfect port of call with its abundance in culture, beautiful weather and hospitable people. There is no shortage of things to see or do on this island, no matter what you are after.
WHAT TO DO
BOOK A TOUR
To see the entire island in one day, book a tour. While I am big on booking excursions through the cruise line directly, I cannot recommend Bernard’s Tours enough. This was truly one of the best excursions I have ever taken and the cost was significantly cheaper than the one offered on the ship. Our tour took us around the entire island and included plenty of beach and shopping time at the end. The tour operators are the epitome of professional and it was easily one of the best tours I have ever taken.
GO SHOPPING IN PHILIPSBURG
A short water taxi ride away from where the ship is docked is the major shopping area of Philipsburg. On Front Street, you can find everything from luxury goods, to jewelry, electronics and liquor shops, duty-free. If you are looking for the best price in duty free, look no further. St. Martin is usually the cheapest of the islands.
SEE THE PLANES LAND AND TAKEOFF AT MAHO BEACH
Besides shopping, the number one thing to do on the Dutch side is to go to Maho Beach. Located next to the Princess Juliana International Airport, incoming planes are so close before they land, you almost feel like you can touch the belly of the plane. Departing planes however, produce a jet blast so strong, people more or less get knocked off their feet (easily avoided by standing off to the side). Both are a sight to see.
TAKE IN THE FRENCH SIDE IN MARIGOT
A short drive over and you are in St. Martin, the French side of the island. Marigot is the capital of St. Martin and it truly feels like being on the French Riviera, with the beach in clear view and the many cafes, boulangeries and boutiques that line the main thoroughfare. Marigot is the perfect place to practice one’s French and fill up on as many French delicacies as humanly possible.
RELAX AT ORIENT BEACH
Most tours will end with some beach time, and after a full day, there’s nothing quite like Orient Beach to rest and unwind. You really can’t go wrong with a sandy white beach with beautiful turquoise water and gentle waves. You will want to know your right from your left as part of St. Martin is a nude beach.
WHERE TO EAT
SARAFINA’S IN MARIGOT
Located on the waterfront in Marigot is Sarafina’s, the best place to eat in all of St. Martin. A place you will dream about long after your trip is over, and the reason why you will return to St. Martin. Whether it is a baguette and cheese, macarons, croissants, crepes or gelato you are after, there is plenty to choose from at Serafina’s.
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