If you are looking to for ideas for your next beach vacation, how about Sint Maarten / Saint Martin?
While officially, the island is two countries Sint Maarten (Dutch) / Saint Martin (French), the locals see it as one. It is easy to travel on the island back and forth as you desire. You will find that most people speak multiple languages including English. But if you can learn some polite phrases, they will love that too.
Accommodations & Transportation
There are plenty boutique hotels and VRBO/AirBnB options available. Be sure to consider your mode of transportation when booking. For example, if you rent a car, the hotel may not have parking available.
If you want to explore the island, renting a car is the best way to go. Drivers are usually polite and the roundabouts are easy to maneuver. Make sure you have a GPS (we used waze app or Google maps) so you don’t get lost.
If driving in another country is too scary for you, getting a taxi is the next best thing. This can be expensive though! Average trips are about 20-30 minute drives and can cost $50 or more roundtrip.
There are many speed boat and yacht tours and excursions available which allow you see many of the islands beaches. **Recommend the Captain Bob Speedboat tour (ask for Anthony and CJ)
Visitor Recommended Beaches
Mullet Bay Beach (plenty of parking but be careful not to get stuck it the sand)
Maho Beach & Sunset Beach bar (great for watching the planes takeoff, free parking with validated parking ticket at the bar)
Grand Case Beach (limited parking access, great for snorkling)
Marigot Beach (maybe difficult to access in the off season)
Things to Remember
- Some beaches have Beach Clubs that include food, drinks, and other amenaties for a fee
- Most beaches have someone selling Set of Chairs & umbrellas $20 (rentals until 5pm) *try to negotiate if going later in the day or if you need more than 2 chairs
- Beach area restrooms may be available on site for a fee
- May see some seaweed or may have some rocky terrain
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