Saint Martin <Sint Maarten>

Charlene’s 7 for Saint Martin (Sint Maarten)
Normally my Charlene’s 7 is very specific but there is a LOT to do on this island so this list of 7 things are more grouping of things to do.

1. Tours. If you have never been to the island I would recommend that you take an island tour with Bernard’s tours if you are new to the island give this tour company a try. We have gone on two tours with Bernards and both were excellent. They are flexible and let the van decide how long to stay at each stop (within reason) and their standard tour hits some amazing places. The standard Benard’s tour will take you to both sides of the island and give you time for lunch, typically on the French side. You can opt for a custom tour that goes where you want it to go or is a combination of their suggestions and your ideas. Very flexible. The guides are all (from our experience) outstanding and super friendly.
2. Beaches 43 miles of coastline and 37 beaches
   – Maho beach – TripAdvisors #1 truly unique beach. Sunset beach bar, white sand and watching landing planes
   – Orient are a popular spot for cruisers
   – Dawn beach – known for its powder white sand, great bars and windsurfing
   – Guana bay beach – along the southeast coast offer magnificent views of St Barthelemy
   – Mullet bay beach – good for swimming, snorkeling and views of the sunset. White sand lined with palm trees
3. Food – Gourmet capital of the Caribbean
   – Over 350 restaurants – from street vendors to fancy dinners, with over 100 different nationality’s  there is a lot of good options on the island.
4.  (and 5) Nature stuff / Adventure stuff
   – Lotrie (lottery)farm – Ziplining, hiking and cabanas around many pools
   – http://loteriefarm.com/
   – Rain forest adventure at Rockland Estate – home of the Flying Dutchman, Sky explorer, Museum, Restaurant & Bar
   – https://rainforestadventure.com/st-maarten-top-attractions-zipline-sky-explorer-schooner/
   – Seaside nature park – horse back ridding
   – ATV
5. Circle back to 4!
6. Shopping duty free and one of the most popular islands to shop on in the Caribbean
   – on the Dutch side:
   – Guavaberry emporium Frontstreet
   – Republic rum
   – on the French side:
   – Marigot market on the French side
7. Visit other islands that are near by
   – Ferry  to Anguilla and St Barths
   – Bonus – Water sports
   – Little bay beach – Favorite of snorkelers with calm waters and good visibility
   – Glass bottom boat
   – Walk across the bottom of the ocean with a air helmet