Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin Dining & Activities Guide 2023

CONTENTS

DINING

Dutch Blonde Escapes Inside front cover

Ocean Lounge pg. 5

Aziana pg. 6

Domino’s pg. 7

Carrefour Market ........................................ pg. 9

Sale & Pepe pg. 11

Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant .... pg. 12-13

Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine pg. 15

SkipJack’s .................................................... pg. 15

Lee’s Roadside Grill & Bar pg. 16

The Boon pg. 17

Zee Best ...................................................... pg. 18

Balls & Wine pg. 19

The Hideaway Restaurant ....................... pg. 20

Beirut pg. 20

Topper’s Restaurant & Bar ...................... pg. 20

Buccaneer Beach Bar pg. 21

Mandarin pg. 23

SALT Restaurant + Bar pg. 24

JAX Steakhouse pg. 25

3 Amigos ..................................................... pg. 26

Rendezvous Lounge pg. 27

Spices of India............................................ pg. 27

Da Waterhole pg. 28-29

Infinity Restaurant pg. 30-31

Veranda Market and Bistro pg. 30-31

Mélange Back cover

NIGHTLIFE

Casino Royale ............................................ pg. 33

SHOPPING

Caribbean Gems pg. 34-35

THERE’S MORE TO NOVEMBER THAN JUST THE COUNTDOWN TO THANKSGIVING AND THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

It’s the month of St. Maarten Flavors, a premier event of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). Throughout the month, foodies can enjoy a three-course menu at a steal-of-a-deal at participating restaurants and bars. Menus usually feature a signature dish or cocktail combination from the restaurant or bar. For more information, visit www.stmaartenflavors.com. Happy eating!

ACTIVITIES

Seaside Nature Park pg. 37

Rainforest Adventures pg. 39

The Rusty Parrot pg. 41

Dutch Blonde Experiences ...................... pg. 43

Topper’s Rhum Distillery pg. 44

SXM Beer .................................................... pg. 45

Tri-Sport pg. 46

Mullet Bay Golf Course pg. 47

Solid ATV Scooter Rental pg. 47

Aqua Mania Adventures pg. 51

The Daily Herald ......................................... pg. 53

RTGH Photography pg. 53

Dive Sint Maarten ..................................... pg. 55 St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

Inside back cover

Did you know you can search for shopping, dining, and attractions at www.visitstmaarten.com? Also, scan the QR code to download the Visit St. Maarten app while on the go!

BY ALITA SINGH

A Taste of THE I S LAND

Delicious dining and diverse choices have made St. Maarten/ St. Martin the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.

Embark on a gustatory tour of the world when you dine in St. Maarten/St. Martin. The food here is part Dutch, part French, and a whole lot of Caribbean — all influenced by the tastes and techniques of those who have settled here from around the globe.

Visit in November and enjoy St. Maarten Flavors, a month of restaurant specials to get your taste buds tingling. You can run the gamut of flavorful finds, from world-class cuisine by noted chefs to street treats like kapsalon, a Dutch snack of fries smothered in meat, cheese, and sauce. And don’t overlook the island’s French-style bakeries and supermarkets stocked with products from every corner.

Getting hungry? Come with us on an island tour that’s sure to please your palate.

J. Kevin Foltz

The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant

D I N I N G I N

PHILIPSBURG

The capital of the Dutch side is famous for duty-free shopping, but it’s also a culinary hot spot. Dotted with beach bars and waterfront restaurants catering to myriad tastes, this bustling little town holds its own in the culinary world.

Holland House Beach Hotel’s Ocean Lounge is the epitome of chic beach dining for lunch or dinner. Gaze at the wide expanse of Great Bay, the Boardwalk, and Port St. Maarten as you enjoy flavorful dishes with wine or crafted cocktails.

J. Kevin Foltz

Ocean Lounge Bar & Restaurant

Waterfront Dining at Bobby’s Marina

Aziana Asian Fusion Food Bar also should be at the top of your list. You have never had a poke bowl until you’ve tried it here. How about an eggplant sushi roll? Classic dishes such as fried rice and flavorful soups also populate the menu. It’s a good lunch spot to refuel for your shopping day and a place to return for drinks and dinner as the sun slips behind the boats in Great Bay.

Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store is a great place to discover the Dutch side’s link to The Netherlands. Enjoy cheese and wine tastings for a unique local treat. Another popular venue that celebrates Dutch culture is the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on the Boardwalk. Taste island-crafted beers such as the restaurant’s namesake, as well as other delights.

Prefer to picnic on the beach or relax in your hotel room? Domino’s Pizza has you covered. This is the same famous Domino’s that you’ll find in your hometown, but with a Caribbean vibe. The pies are piping hot and always fresh.

In addition, you can stock up at one of the Carrefour Markets. The shelves are brimming with familiar and exotic ingredients that call to your inner chef — or the chef on hand at your rental villa.

J. Kevin Foltz

Dutch Blonde Beach Bar

J. Kevin Foltz

Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store

CARREFOUR MARKET

ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO SPOT top chefs on the island is among the aisles at Carrefour Market, the largest supermarket chain in St. Maarten. Carrefour Market is synonymous with comfort and offers its customers an ultimate shopping experience. They stock a huge range of fresh, thoughtfully sourced groceries from around the world.

The produce is fresh and replenished throughout the week and includes organic fruits and vegetables. The dairy section is arguably the best on the island. They carry a huge range of wines, spirits, aperitifs, and mixers to choose from and have the finest snacks. You

can also purchase duty-free liquors in singles or bulk.

Carrefour Market has two major outlets with 40,000 square feet each — one located on Bush Road and the other in Cole Bay. With Carrefour Express, the chain has expanded further with two more locations in Porto Cupecoy and Jordan Village, reaching customers in those areas.

Whether you are on the Dutch side or just across the border on the French side, you are never far from a huge assortment of quality products, ample parking, a hygienic and shopper-friendly ambience, and prompt assistance in every aisle.

4 LOCATIONS

79 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4400

53 Union Road, Cole Bay

Tel: +1 721-544-3118

Porto Cupecoy, Rhine Road Tel: +1 721-545-3162

Jordan Village, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-545-5259

cmsxm.net email@cmsxm.net

D I N I N G I N

SIMPSON BAY AND COLE BAY

This is the epicenter of the Dutch side’s entertainment scene. There’s more than something for everyone. Do you just want a cocktail? This stretch has you covered. Live music? Check! How about food? Yes, and a bit more.

You may want to try one of everything at Balls & Wine. The tacos and cheese balls are tempting, and the wine list covers all the bases.

It’s stuffed grape leaves and hummus at Beirut. The meats are seasoned to perfection and will transport you to the Middle Eastern city for which the restaurant is named.

Beach vibes and good food star at Buccaneer Beach Bar. Brick oven–fired pizza, sizzling burgers, and finger foods are on hand all day at this hopping corner of Kim Sha Beach. The beach parties are epic, and so is the huge fireball that awes patrons as it competes with the setting sun.

J. Kevin Foltz

Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant

Jai's Contemporary Fusion Cuisine

If you are looking for the best authentic Sicilian Italian food then Sale & Pepe is the place! Using fresh fish and a variety of other seafood, Chef Davide Davide is happy to work and mix directly imported Sicilian products with fresh Caribbean ingredients. Described by established customers as a convivial rallying place, you will most definitely feel like eating Grandma’s recipes in a modern and romantic atmosphere. Dining on the water at Sale & Pepe is a MUST experience with a magnificent 190º view, friendly staff and superb food. You will not be disappointed! You can enjoy your meal with exclusive Sicilian wine from the Etna mountain in Catania. Open for Lunch and Dinner.

Karakter Beach Bar/Restaurant is located on the mile long Simpson Bay Beach with the runway passing behind and the airport only a 5 minute car drive away. It makes Karakter the perfect first stop after landing and last stop before taking off. Simpson Bay Beach is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches on St.Maarten.

Complementary comfortable beach loungers are offered to the guests. The kitchen is open from 9 am till 10 pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most nights of the week, Karakter offers live entertainment and every Sunday a beach party, starting at 2 pm until late, with multiple DJ’s.

The menu offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, meat and fish dishes. Just a selection: Tuna tartar, Coconut shrimp salad, Carpaccio sandwich, Chicken sate, Red snapper, Grilled tuna, Pork tenderloin, Buratta salad, NY striploin, Sushi and Build your own burger. The wine and cocktail lists are extensive.

By Alita Singh

ark Meijjer can almost qualify as an international man of mystery. He’s one of the friendly faces at Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant on the picturesque Simpson Bay Beach. Repeat customers know him as the owner of this laid-back, fun beach bar, famed from its parties and New Year’s Day swim.

Meijjer can easily be mistaken for having always been an “island boy” bonded with the beach. But there’s way more to this story, and it starts on a whole other island: Curaçao. Meijjer was visiting the sister Dutch Caribbean island and stopped at Karakter Beach for a refresher. A few beers in and a lively conversation with the beach bar’s owner ensued. That’s when he learned that there was another Karakter in St. Maarten.

“The owner said in passing he’d be willing to sell Karakter in St. Maarten. A few beers later, I said ‘perhaps I want to buy,’” shares Meijjer. This was how a black toga-wearing Amsterdam lawyer became the ever-smiling man of Karakter! This was almost eight years ago, and he has not thought twice about giving up the courtroom to serve a

different kind of clientele.

“I decided to retire early,” he adds, after finding his passion for the beach and for the island. “Karakter is a place where everyone is welcomed. I believe there are two kinds of people in the world — good people and bad people. All the good people are welcome at Karakter, and all the bad ones, they should just stay away.”

“Why come to Karakter?” I ask. Meijjer emphatically responds, “Simpson Bay Beach is the most beautiful on the island. It’s just us here in this corner with the long whitesand beach stretching along. You can stroll and meet very few people. It’s tranquility.”

After that stroll, settle in at the beach bar and choose from a diverse menu covering Caribbean tastes, Dutch flavors, and lots more in between. “We cater to and have diverse guests. Our menu reflects this. There is something for everyone,” Meijjer says. The chicken satay is one of the menu’s top sellers.

By the end of our conversation, it was clear that Meijjer is where he’s meant to be and that he doesn’t miss the days in the courtroom. “Working here on the island, on the beach, is as good as it gets,” says Meijjer. “People are always happy and in a good mood when they come to Karakter. I like dealing with happy people. As a lawyer, no one calls to share good things. There’s dissatisfaction. Here, there are smiles and maybe someone shares they won the lottery,” he says with a smile.

Want to join in on the fun? Karakter has a beach party on Sundays and live music on most nights.

He swapped a law career for food and fun at a beach bar with personality.

MARK MEIJJER: A MAN OF KARAKTER

Courtesy of Mark Meijjer

J. Kevin Foltz

Topper’s

SAVOR THE FLAVORS

Nothing brings more smiles than a cone topped with yummy ice cream. Discover your signature island-made ice creams and gelatos at one of the many purveyors of all things frosty, creamy, and delicious. This is an adventure itself and a perfect treat for any or all of your vacation days.

At Topper’s in Cole Bay, order made-on-the-spot gelatos and sorbets in a rainbow of flavors. Get a scoop or more to enjoy as you overlook Simpson Bay Lagoon.

A refreshing ice cream on the beach is a picture-perfect moment. Treat yourself at Gelateria Milano on the Boardwalk. Take a seat and savor or stroll up the Boardwalk together with your little one.

Get ice cream and desserts in all forms at The Sugar Mill Café on Bush Road. You can even have ice cream for breakfast! How’s that for a good time?

Sweet & Turf on Airport Road has a variety of frozen yogurts and toppings. Hang out with the little ones or get your treat to go.

St. Maarten/St. Martin is home to Etna, the Caribbean Ice Cream. Discover this island gem at restaurants and ice cream parlors. Grab a tub to share from the freezer section of the supermarket. If you take a day trip to St. Barths or Anguilla, Etna is there, too.

A FAVORITE ESCAPE

Mary’s Boon has increasingly become a favorite escape for charter guests and yacht crews.

SITUATED IN THE MIDDLE OF SIMPSON BAY BEACH, south of Princess Juliana International Airport, this true Caribbean-style iconic beach hotel is “St. Maarten/St. Martin’s Little Secret.” Away from the crowds but near to the action, Mary’s Boon has increasingly become a favorite escape for charter guests and yacht crews, for both the hotel and the restaurant and bar — which come equally well recommended. In the evening, the restaurant at Mary’s Boon is one of the most romantic dining locations in St. Maarten/St. Martin, with the gentle surf breaking on the beach below the open-air bar and dining deck. The

Boon is open all day for cocktails. Hotel and day guests can enjoy the beach, relaxing on comfortable beach loungers, and soaking up Mary’s Boon hospitality — attentive staff, cocktails at The Boon Beach Bar, and a delicious lunch menu at the restaurant. In the evening, an equally delicious dinner menu adds to an unforgettable romantic dining experience. On Sunday Funday, live or DJ music on the beach ups the tempo and offers a great way for crews to spend the day away from the marina, yet right on the beach. Visit www.marysboon.com or call 721-545-7000 or 1-800-497-5834 for more information.

EVERYBODY COMES TO THE BOON!

The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant in Simpson Bay. The Boon was built as part of Mary’s Boon Hotel, a quaint 36-room hotel that has been a fixture of Simpson Bay since the 1970’s. The bar and restaurant boast oceanfront views and inside dining as well as beach seating. Umbrellas and chaise lounges are free of charge!...

Whether you are there for a beach lunch, an elegant dinner or an afternoon of sunbathing, water sports, or cocktails and music, “The Boon” will not disappoint. And for early birds, breakfast is served starting at 7:00 a.m. Ask any of the

bartenders for a refreshing twist to the usual cocktails and their signature Bloody Mary is hand mixed and topped with bacon. The lunch menu features the usual burgers, but the chefs also create a tuna tartare with wasabi ice cream on the side! Where the dinner menu is more seafood and steaks.

“Sunday Funday” is the highlight of the week, drawing locals and visitors. The beachfront bar is open and a deejay provides afternoon and evening music on the sand.

Be sure to allow a day (or two!) to add The Boon to your list of fun memories of St. Maarten!

Continued from page 10

Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine features specialties from the subcontinent with a hint of Caribbean flare, reflecting the heritage of the chef and crew and bringing together a blend of spices and vibes. Vibes also are predominant at Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant, along with a diverse menu and events like Sunday parties and a New Year’s bash. In addition, the location complements the entrees at The Hideaway at La Vista Resort. Savor meals around the pool along with heavenly views of the azure Caribbean Sea.

Fresh and flown-in seafood highlights the Sicilian menu at Sale & Pepe in Simpson Bay Lagoon. Chef Davide is also renowned for his freshly made pastas, as well as vegetarian delights. In addition, Lee’s Roadside Grill, a family-run restaurant, serves up fresh seafood cooked in a variety of ways. Caribbean lobsters fill the tanks at SkipJack’s. Pick your favorite and the chef will do the rest as you enjoy the views and swap stories with friends.

Topper’s Restaurant and Bar serves up international fare along with homey dishes like your grandma made. Sample signature rums and give your vocal cords a karaoke workout. The Boon restaurant at Mary’s Boon Beach Hotel on Simpson Bay Beach has been welcoming diners for decades. It retains its charm and ambience with a menu that caters to diverse culinary pleasures. And remember to head for Zee Best for mouthwatering, just-out-of-the-oven pastries, savory crepes, and other fresh offerings for breakfast and lunch.

Courtesy of Buccaneer Beach Bar

Buccaneer Beach Bar

BY ALITA SINGH

ITALIAN FARE WITH FLAIR

His enthusiasm and love of cooking are reflected in the mouthwatering dishes he creates from traditional and unconventional ingredients. In the two decades Chef Davide has called this island home, he has made his name synonymous with exceptional Italian cuisine.

BORN IN CATANIA, an ancient port city at the foot of Mount Etna on Sicily’s east coast, Chef Davide Zagami of Sale & Pepe

Italian Sicilian Cucina restaurant has a deep connection with the sea and the cuisine spawned from it. He captures this essence in his dishes by opting only for the freshest, top-quality ingredients. Many of his dishes feature local ingredients, notably fresh seafood.

The success of Sale & Pepe is a labor of love Chef Davide shares with his soulmate, Scarlet. The two met in St. Maarten in 2009, and their first offspring was their restaurant in Simpson Bay. The chef wanted his diners to connect with the land and water, which he prized back home in the Old Country. Sale & Pepe has achieved that dream for Chef Davide. This standout waterfront restaurant offers outdoor seating and boasts lagoon views. If you prefer to dine indoors, there is also a well-appointed, air-conditioned dining room.

When you dine with Chef

Davide and Scarlet, you are part of the family. They combine the chef’s talent and experience in the kitchen with Scarlet’s managerial experience and front-ofhouse presence. The menu is a combination of Italian cuisine and Caribbean influence, with options such as Linguine alle Vongole (clams) and Rigatoni alla Siciliana (with Italian sausage). Also delectable are the

risottos: one with porcini mushrooms, another is a vegetarian option featuring asparagus. Gluten-free pastas are available, and there are non-pasta main courses as well.

Sale & Pepe is the epitome of a family restaurant. Here is a family adding care and love as the base ingredient in every dish, and they are happy to share that with everyone.

J. Kevin Foltz

Enjoy a taste of Sicily in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

Sale & Pepe

D I N I N G I N

PORT DE PLAISANCE

A short distance from the border at Cole Bay and Bellevue, Port de Plaisance is a little haven with impressive amenities, including a resort, casino, marina with multimillion-dollar yachts, and memorable restaurants.

Mélange Grill, for example, is not your typical restaurant; it’s a destination. Select a grilling table and a variety of proteins and veggies cooked to your liking. In addition, Mélange has recently

introduced Hibachi, an interactive dining show. It’s a feast for your senses! They also offer an a la carte menu featuring steak and seafood, as well as vegan and gluten-free menu options.

Mandarin Pan Asian Cuisine & Sushi also offers a fusion of flavors that are sure to satisfy every palate. From sushi to stirfries, they feature a full-fledged Pan Asian menu including Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and the not-to-be-missed ramen bowls.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Mandarin Pan Asian Cuisine & Sushi

D I N I N G I N MAHO AND CUPECOY

There’s no shortage of dining options here on the island’s “Gold Coast.” Start your feast at Da Waterhole, the anchor restaurant on Mullet Bay Beach. This spot has grown from its humble beginnings as a tiny barbeque joint to a full-fledged beach eatery. The barbecue is still some of the juiciest, and the menu has grown along with entertainment options.

J. Kevin Foltz

JAX Steakhouse

FUN FACT DA WATERHOLE,

ANCHOR RESTAURANT

Spices of India restaurant, meanwhile, adds fiery flavor and depth to the dining scene. Fear not, you can order your favorite curry as mild or as spicy as you desire. Craving Tex-Mex? Head for 3 Amigos, a bustling restaurant on the Maho strip. Every day the place is popping with classic drinks and good eats. JAX Steakhouse , meanwhile, offers choice cuts of meat as well as offerings that will appeal even to veggie-loving members of your tribe.

THE

ON MULLET BAY BEACH, HAS GROWN FROM ITS HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AS A TINY BARBECUE JOINT TO A FULLFLEDGED BEACH EATERY.

RTGH Photography

Da Waterhole

The Morgan Resort is home to Salt, one of island’s premier restaurants. Sit indoors in the chic setting or claim the Caribbean air poolside and listen to the tall palm tree sway as you sip your opening cocktail. Also worth a visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner is Rendez-Vous Lounge, tucked in a corner of a Mediterranean-style plaza.

MORE TO NOVEMBER THAN JUST THE COUNTDOWN TO THANKSGIVING AND THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

It’s the month of St. Maarten Flavors, a premier event of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). Throughout the month, foodies can enjoy a three-course menu at a steal-of-a-deal at participating restaurants and bars. Menus usually feature a signature dish or cocktail combination from the restaurant or bar. For more information, visit www.stmaartenflavors.com Happy eating!

French & Italian Cuisine

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner served daily

Terrace-style dining located in Porto Cupecoy Open 7 days a week • For reservations, call 1.721.545.3070

Courtesy of 3 Amigos

THERE’S

3 Amigos

D I N I N G I N

OYSTER POND

With several culinary offerings around the bay, mesmerizing ocean views, and the distant twinkle of lights from neighboring St. Barths, Oyster Pond is a must-visit.

At Oyster Bay Beach Resort are two of the best restaurants in this border region: Infinity Restaurant and Veranda Market and Bistro Infinity showcases Italian fare with some Caribbean twists. The newer Veranda Market and Bistro serves up savory barbecue, rustic handmade pizzas, and more. You can dine in or order takeaway. But there’s a benefit to dining in: You’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the ocean while satiating your palate.

No matter where you go on St. Maarten/St. Martin, irresistible global cuisine awaits you. Grab a seat and try the inventive dishes in the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.

A taste for everything

Veranda Market & Bistro and Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort: a Sophisticated Beach Bar, Gourmet Market and Fine Dining — all with captivating ocean views overlooking St. Barth’s and Dawn Beach.

Live a little, live a lot at:

Sunday Brunch Buffet at Infinity Restaurant: 11:30am–3:00pm Call 543-6040 ext. 3825 for reservations.

J. Kevin Foltz Infinity Restaurant

FUN FACT YOU CAN DINE IN OR ORDER TAKEAWAY. BUT THERE’S A BENEFIT TO DINING IN: YOU’LL BE REWARDED WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF THE OCEAN WHILE SATIATING YOUR PALATE.

A Different Point of View from across the

Pond

Secret St. Maarten

Oyster Bay Beach Resort

Veranda Market and Bistro

ISLAND HOT SPOTS

From sizzling casinos and lively beach bars to clubs where you can dance your shoes off, St. Maarten/ St. Martin abounds with ways to entertain you until the sun comes up again. Here’s a taste of some of the island’s must-visit entertainment venues.

A good spot to start off is Da Waterhole on Mullet Bay Beach. This beach restaurant and bar morph seamlessly from a daytime eatery to a sundown hot spot. Lounge on the beach as music wafts over you or dance with the sand between your toes.

A little way up from the beach is 3 Amigos in Maho. This is a lively spot with music, drinks, nibbles, and so much fun you may want to make it one of your home-away-from-home addresses.

Just across the street, Lady Luck lives in Casino Royale at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. Raise the stakes in this casino, which spans over 21,000 square feet, with the largest gaming and entertainment options on the island. Take your winnings and treat your honey at one of the top-rated restaurants, bars, and lounges above or next door or across the street in Maho Village.

Want to test out your vocal cords? Then your destination must be Topper’s Restaurant & Bar in Cole Bay. This is the No. 1 place for undiscovered pop stars to get a cheer. In between tracks, enjoy a meal from Topper’s extensive menu or have the

bartender mix up a craft cocktail. There’s also delicious made-on-the-spot ice cream.

AMAsterdam on Front Street has many layers. Grab a chilled beer when taking a break from exploring Philipsburg or join the after-work crowd for some Dutch Caribbean–style socializing. Enjoy the music and a variety of beers as well as cheeses, Dutch snacks, and more.

Take a seat at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar and Restaurant in the windmill on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. Sip a local, award-winning beer and channel your inner Houdini in one of the island’s only escape rooms.

The Rusty Parrot has been designed to resemble a wrecked ship on the shore of Great Bay, but it’s an interactive entertainment venue that takes you back to the days when pirates roamed the sea. On deck you’ll enjoy cocktails, nibbles, and music, along with views of Philipsburg and the peninsula of Fort Amsterdam.

Located on Kim Sha Beach, Buccaneer Beach Bar is the place where visitors and locals alike come together to enjoy a tiki-style island bar, great food, live music, fireballs on the beach, and breathtaking sunsets.

Some folks say “Happy Hour” was invented on St. Maarten/St. Martin. True or not, the fun starts around 4 p.m. daily with drink specials and good eats.

GOOD TO KNOW

Here’s an insider tip for charting an unforgettable night flight. Check The DailyHerald, the island’s main English-language newspaper, for updates about events and festivities. On Thursdays, the “Out n’ About” section showcases funfilled events for the week ahead. You also can tune in to Island 92 Radio to get the party started.

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets on St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

HIGH AND DRY

Landlubbers on “The Friendly Island” will find plenty of ways to play the day away.

BY JEFFREY LAIGN

Why did you choose to vacation in St. Maarten/ St. Martin? If you’re like most first-timers, you probably were drawn to this island paradise because you read that it’s the best beach destination in the Caribbean. It is. How could it not be, with 37 postcard-perfect shores? But as repeat visitors will tell you — and you surely will count yourself among them after you’ve had a taste of the place — St. Maarten/St. Martin is so much more than sandy shores. Inland is a trove of scenic sights and attractions that are certain to please those who like to get out and make the most of a land-based day. Here are some of the best ways to do it.

BIKING

Rent a mountain bike and build up your strength and endurance, along with your appreciation of an impressive terrain of rolling hills, soaring peaks, and a shoreline kissed by gentle surf. Coast leisurely through the French flatlands or along seaside trails from Cay Bay to Fort Amsterdam and Mullet Beach. Serious pedal pushers may want to take on the 35-mile-long road that encircles the island or challenge themselves to ascend more than 1,400 feet to the top of Pic Paradis, the island’s highest point.

HIKING

Here’s another way to spend a memorable day while working those leg muscles. Both sides of the island are marked with well-maintained hiking trails, including eight mapped and cleared by EPIC, a local environmental group. Dedicated hikers who scale Pic Paradis, the island’s highest point, are rewarded with magnificent vistas. Others may choose to hike along the undeveloped coastline of Guana Bay and Point Blanche before treating themselves to a refreshing dip in a natural pool.

GOLF

St. Maarten/St. Martin may not be known as a golfing mecca, but club swingers will find lots to love about the long-established Mullet Bay Golf Course. Master golfer Joseph Lee sculpted the 18-hole, par-70 course around a lovely lagoon. In addition, Oyster Bay Beach Resort recently added a putting green near its entrance, just steps from Dawn Beach. The deep green perimeter frames 3 holes and accommodates multiple guests.

TENNIS

The American Tennis Academy on the French side features two lighted courts and structured programs, lessons, clinics, and rentals for juniors and adults of every skill level. In addition, you can play on quality courts at several resorts around the island.

PADEL

If you’re in love with tennis, you may want to try this new sport that’s gaining aficionados across the island. A mix of tennis and squash, it’s usually played in doubles on a glass-enclosed court. The SXM Padel Club, across the street from the Belair Beach Hotel, features two stateof-the-art lighted courts for day and night play, showers, changing rooms, a bistro and bar, and a retail pro shop. Players can rent the courts by the hour via the SXM Padel Club app. Padel rackets and balls are available for rent. Guests can also book private or group classes.

SXM Padel Club

Courtesy of SXM Padel Club, The Rusty Parrot

The Rusty Parrot

PÉTANQUE

Also at the Padel Club are two regulation lighted courts where you can try your hand at the French version of lawn bowling. The sport is gaining in popularity on this island that mixes European charm with Caribbean flair.

PICKLEBALL

Here’s a game that combines elements of racquetball, badminton, and table tennis. It’s a challenging sport you play with a wooden paddle and a hard plastic ball with holes. After a couple of lessons, you’ll understand why competitors of all ages are taking up this fast-growing sport.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Saddle up at Lucky Stables and saunter through Seaside Nature Park, a 30-acre preserve that provides a home to iguanas, mongooses, and, of course, championship horses that are born and bred here. Beautiful winding trails lead you to a splendid lookout point. If weather permits, you can take in views of Saba and Statia (Sint Eustatius). Couples, meanwhile, can toast each other with champagne after a romantic ride. Later,

you can end the day with a refreshing swim with your horse in the ocean. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

MOTORING

Horsepower offers another pathway to fun on St. Maarten/St. Martin. Sign up for a Segway excursion on the Dutch side. Rent a car at Dollar/ Thrifty and tour the island at your own pace, or tackle the terrain on an ATV, scooter, buggy, or quad bike.

Solid ATV Scooter Rental can set you up for a fun-filled day.

CULTURAL EXCURSIONS

You can’t really get to know St. Maarten/St. Martin without learning a bit of its history and culture. The best way to do that is to book a tour. How about a shopping tour of Philipsburg or a sipping tour of Topper’s Rhum Distillery? You can also spend several fascinating hours at Amuseum Naturalis, which maintains a bush tea garden showcasing the island’s medicinal plants, along with agricultural displays, poetry exhibits, and more.

The whole family, moreover, will enjoy stepping back to the days of yore at The Rusty Parrot, a “scuttled ship” in Philipsburg like those once used by marauding pirates. It’s an immersive experience designed to show what life was like for infamous Caribbean pirates like Jack Rackham, known to history as Calico Jack. Visitors learn more about the infamous buccaneer through special effects and many surprises. Topside, enjoy drinks and tapas along with memorable views of Philipsburg and Great Bay.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

For the thrill of a lifetime, zoom down a mountain on The Flying Dutchman, the steepest zip line in the world, at Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten. Also unforgettable is a guided ecotour of the island.

Make your way on foot along a rocky, undeveloped coastline or explore the countryside on a Jeep tour from St. Maarten Nature Island Tours. In addition, Tri-Sport offers a variety of hiking, biking, and kayaking tours. You’re apt to encounter a variety of plants, animals, and birds as you learn more about the island’s distinctive terrain and ecosystem. After your adventure, cool down and refresh yourself with a memorable taste of St. Maarten, a cold beer from one of the island breweries.

Clockwise from left: J. Kevin Foltz (2), courtesy of Solid ATV Scooter Rental

Did You Know? At Amuseum Naturalis you’ll learn how African and Amerindian heritage came together on the island.

Lucky Stables

Amuseum Naturalis

Solid ATV Scooter Rental

BY / ALITA SINGH

BY ALITA SINGH

AHOY, MATEY!

Come join the “pirates” on The Rusty Parrot.

GRAB AN EYE PATCH and head for The Rusty Parrot, a “scuttled” ship in Philipsburg like those once used by marauding pirates. Now it’s the newest hot spot in St. Maarten/St. Martin, a favorite of history lovers and partiers alike.

The story begins with pirate enthusiast Raphael Dorra, the creative mind behind the new attraction. Dorra describes The Rusty Parrot as an “immersive experience” designed to show what life was like for infamous Caribbean pirates like Jack Rackham, known to history as Calico Jack. Visitors enter the bowels of the “ship” to learn more about Rackham through special effects and many surprises.

Dorra, who grew up in Tahiti, says there are many stories surrounding pirates; but most are distorted, based on legends, not facts. When the opportunity presented itself for a unique adventure, Dorra was ready to hoist the Jolly Roger, the internationally known symbol of pirates created by Rackham.

The Rusty Parrot takes visitors through the life of Rackham based on researched materials, artifacts, some plotline twists, and a few turns.

“The idea is to present history in a fun way,” says Dorra. “This is a total experience for family, friends, groups, anyone who wants to experience something exciting and different.”

Tours are offered in five languages — English, Dutch, French, German, and Spanish — and the “crew” dresses in full pirate garb to lend authenticity to the experience.

Continue your pirate adventure with gear from the gift shop. Then head up to the deck for a view of Philipsburg and Great Bay. Topside, enjoy drinks and tasty tapas at the bar and lounge as you take in the island’s balmy weather. Music is also on the menu.

“Visit us at The Rusty Parrot,” Dorra says. “It’s an adventure like no other.”

The Rusty Parrot

J.

Kevin Foltz

DUTCH BLONDE EXPERIENCES

Home of THE OFFICIAL BEER OF SINT MAARTEN™

DUTCH BLONDE WAS BORN IN EARLY 2019 when St. Maarten/ St. Martin’s Caribbean Brewing Company started with the production of local St. Maarten/St. Martin beer. The company has continued to pride itself on its consistency, palatability, and variety. Its beers are made fresh with the finest malts, hops, and natural ingredients; they’re also organic, unfiltered, and unpasteurized and don’t contain any corn syrup or preservatives. Caribbean Brewing Company offers a unique brewery tour that gets you up close and personal with the entire beer-making process. In the taproom, you can sample the various flavors. Take a video and make all your friends jealous by drinking straight out of the fermentation tank! The tour has been rated the No. 1 brewery tour on Tripadvisor.

As one of the most popular beers they brew, Dutch Blonde received the 2021 London Beer Competition Silver Medal. The jury described the brew as “fruity and spicy with honey, orange,

and clove flavors … overall very complex and refreshing.” Caribbean Brewing Company was also awarded the 2022 North, South & Central Americas Travel & Hospitality Award, an honor based on the aggregation of reviews from multiple thirdparty sources. Winners are those who can demonstrate their uniqueness, quality of services and facilities, and exceptional levels of customer care across a number of categories.

Proudly named after this “lady,” Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, located on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, is the newest hot spot offering a great variety of entertainment and true goodies. You can have a great time enjoying the best beers, cocktails, wines, and creative mixes like the Naughty Blonde. Many gather on Friday evenings for karaoke or come to play giant Jenga. Once a week you can take part in a wine tasting of five thoughtfully selected French wines paired with five Dutch cheeses. And every day of the week, you can eat your heart out enjoying special Dutch pancakes and poffertjes, among other delicious dishes and snacks. Don’t forget to try the Dutch stroopwafel and the yummy stroopwafel cheesecake!

Also at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, you will find the Caribbean’s premier escape rooms. Experience this exciting reallife adventure game in one of four settings. Discover clues, solve puzzles, and complete tasks in order to accomplish your goal and escape the room. For more information and to make reservations, visit www.dutchblondeexperiences.com or call 721-543-3314. This hot spot has it all!

Courtesy of Dutch Blonde Experiences

A DIFFERENT ISLAND GETAWAY

the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. This windmill, looking out on Great Bay, features four adrenaline-pumping escape rooms designed to test your skills, problem-solving abilities, brainpower, and common sense.

ALL YOU WANTED TO DO WAS LOUNGE ON THE BEACH and sip a local craft beer. But, just your luck, you’re captured by the evil pirate Blackbeard. He may be planning to sell you off or keep you to scrub the decks. You make your great escape when the pirate and his crew go plundering ashore.

Sound like a movie? Not in this case. Blackbeard’s Brig is an escape room at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on

You will need all your wits about you because you may have escaped from the brig only to find yourself in a dark and stormy night. Suddenly you hear a scream. After the shock fades, you notice someone is missing. Where’s Alex? What was that scream?

Raven Woods is the next escape room. Do a single room or try your skills at all four.

Prefer to do some sleuthing for gems? The Lost Jewel of Zanzibar beckons you. It is 1930. Your colleague, Magnus Ferguson, has been exploring in Africa, searching for antiquities. He has made a wondrous discovery, but it is in danger of falling into the

hands of a ruthless warlord. Magnus has hidden the jewel in his camp and left clues that only you will be able to interpret. Are you ready?

Move into a different era at The Lucky Duck Speakeasy. This escape room takes you to 1925, when prohibition is in full swing. You have been leading the crackdown on illegal sales and other nefarious activities. The evidence you need to identify the kingpin of this criminal organization is here

at the speakeasy. A bomb has been set to destroy the building and its secrets. Can you disarm it in time?

BY ALITA SINGH J. Kevin Foltz

Are you pumped to try your MacGyver skills in one of these escape rooms? They challenge you to search for clues and solve puzzles together with your family or friends. It’s fun — and good for you, too. As Dutch Blonde tells participants, problem-solving is beneficial for brain function.

Have you got what it takes to find your way out of an escape room?

Dutch Blonde Experiences

TAKE A HIKE

Hit the trails for an up-close encounter with nature.

ATTENTION NATURE LOVERS: St. Maarten/St. Martin invites you to explore its many hiking trails. Crisscrossing the island’s rolling hills and meandering along the sandy or rocky coastline are trails for all levels of hikers. You can plot a course yourself using online tools, schedule a guided hike with a tour company such as Tri-Sport, or seek out one of the local hiking groups. Here are a few hikes that will inspire you to explore.

Back Bay (Easy)

The natural pools are the reward of this 1.3-mile out-and-back trail at Back Bay. Start in Point Blanche or Guana Bay. Hike along the hillside through little cactus forests. Don’t forget your swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing dip in the pools. This is an easy route and takes about 28 minutes to complete.

Pelican Peak (Easy)

Pelican Peak offers amazing views of Point Blanche and St. Barths to the east and Great Bay and Philipsburg to the west. This is a 2.5-mile out-andback trail that takes about 90 minutes to complete. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone.

Fort Amsterdam (Moderate)

A scenic along-the-coast hike is to Fort Amsterdam Peninsula. Explore this 1.8-mile out-and-back trail near Little Bay. Start in the vicinity of Belair Beach Hotel and walk along the beach and rocky coastline to the peninsula. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, this trail takes about an hour out-and-back to complete. The fort ruins provide a good place to imagine what the garrison may have been like in olden days.

J. Kevin Foltz

Pic Paradis (Moderate)

Conquer the highest point on the island: Pic Paradis. This is a popular area for birding, hiking, and running; so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The 2.8-mile out-and-back trail starts near Colombier, or you can access alternative ways to the top from Loterie Farm. The main trail takes about two hours to complete.

Grandes Cayes (Easy)

Tackle this 3.2-mile outand-back trail near French Cul de Sac. The easy route takes about 75 minutes. It’s a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still find some tranquility during quieter times of day.

Bellevue Border-Crossing Hike (Easy to Moderate) This hiking trail starts just off the main road into Marigot

Crisscrossing the island’s rolling hills and meandering along the sandy or rocky coastline are trails for all levels of hikers.

and leads past a small wooden bridge over an old stone wall (also referred to as a “slave wall”). Follow the trail to the Dutch side. Keep an eye out for flags before crossing the border. This takes about an hour.

EPIC Hikes

The local Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Foundation hosts a monthly free guided hike. The hikes are open to the public and feature a different trail each month. Joining the EPIC hikes is a good way to connect with nature and nature lovers. Learn more about EPIC’s schedule on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/epicislands

ATV

JUMP RIGHT IN

For fun on, above, or under the waves, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers an array of ways to have fun in the water.

BY JEFFREY LAIGN

J. Kevin Foltz

Middle

Bottom

From left to right.

Top row: J. Kevin Foltz, courtesy of Dive Sint Martin, RTGH Photography

row: RTGH Photography, J. Kevin Foltz, Lili Peterson Photography

row: courtesy of Dive Sint Martin, courtesy of Sea Trek, J. Kevin Foltz

St. Maarten/St. Martin is famous for many reasons — cuisine, culture, and a unique Dutch-French heritage — but it’s the island’s warm, clear water that attracts many visitors, especially active, adventurous types. This one-of-a-kind island boasts 37 beaches and an impressive array of ways to enjoy them. Straddle a Jet Ski or challenge the waves on a surfboard. Dive down to discover a colorful new world or strap on a water-propelled jet pack and kiss the sky. On your island vacation, you’ll find practically endless ways to get your adrenaline going above and below the surface.

HYDROFLYING

Here’s a water sport that will take you to new heights. “Hydro” comes from the Greek word for water, and flying is… well, flying. It’s all about water pressure. Think of a cork shooting from a champagne bottle. With a flyboard, you step into wakeboard-style boots that are attached to a platform you operate with a controller. Hoverboarding combines

flyboarding and something like surfing on a skateboard to give you an unforgettable Back to the Future sort of thrill. Or strap on a jet pack and give your inner Rocket Man permission to zoom. All three devices are powered by compressed water, and they’re easier to tackle than you might imagine — not to mention loads of fun!

DIVING

Aquatic adventures also await you under the sea. Dive deep to explore old shipwrecks, join up with schools of multicolored reef fish, or hang out with nurse sharks on a thrilling night dive. Because reefs and waters here are protected, opportunities abound for cozying up to a variety of fanciful creatures that thrive beneath the surface. Many island dive operators conduct PADI certification courses and set you up with gear. Dive Sint Maarten, for example, offers a comprehensive range of services, including PADI courses and tours. Forgoing all that, you can still have an underwater adventure. Sign up for a guided helmet dive and walk below the waves without ever getting your hair wet.

J. Kevin Foltz

Tri-Sport

Did You Know? Surfing season in St. Maarten/ St. Martin is prime from

November through April.

BOARDING

Ancient Polynesians mastered the waves, but could any of them have imagined the many ways watersport enthusiasts would come to use surfboards in St. Maarten/St. Martin? Traditionalists head for prime spots like Mullet Bay and Cupecoy. Then there are the windsurfers and kitesurfers who challenge themselves at Le Galion Beach when the wind is blowing strong. Not quite ready for that? Try e-foiling on a surfboard with an electric propeller or build up your balancing acumen on a stand-up paddleboard. You’ll also find surf schools that will teach you how to hang ten with the coolest of dudes.

St Maarten

RTGH Photography

MUST-DO EXPERIENCES on the water

SNORKELING

If diving isn’t your thing, you may be surprised by how much of the underwater world you can explore from shore with only a mask and fins. The crystal-clear waters surrounding St. Maarten/St. Martin are home to abundant sea life, including turtles, rays, and vibrant corals. Meet up with a multitude of colorful reef fish at Creole Rock, off the shore of Grand Case. Check out the artificial reefs formed by sunken ships and planes, where you may spot lionfish, barracuda, and the ever-inquisitive yellowtail snapper. And don’t overlook the soft corals and swim-through gap at Baie Rouge Beach or the rocky reef break at Simpson Bay.

FISHING

Speaking of fish, you can catch them, too. Deep-sea charters will take you to prime spots like Tuna Shoals, where anglers reel in big ones like yellowfin and mahi-mahi. Set your sights as well on blue marlin, sailfish, grouper, and wahoo. Tarpon are known to gather in salt ponds and canals. Think of the reel stories you’ll tell the folks back home about the one that didn’t get away.

FUN FACT

THE ST.

BOATING

Each year in March, seasoned sailors from around the world converge on the island to compete in the renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. As you might expect then, boating in all forms reigns supreme in the glass-clear waters that surround the Dutch-French island — and you needn’t be a pro to participate. In Philipsburg, for example, you can help crew an authentic America’s Cup racing yacht at the St. Maarten 12 Metre Regatta. Charter a luxury catamaran and relax as you take in the sights and scenery. Explore the shore in a kayak or spend a day sailing to Saba and other nearby islands.

SKIMMING

Boating isn’t the only way to enjoy yourself on the surface. Imagine the fun you’ll have sea-bobbing on a motorized water scooter or zipping around on a Jet Ski. You might even want to strap on a pair of water skis or hug a giant tube as a motorboat pulls you through the water on the ride of your life.

TOURING

Signing up for a sea tour is a great way to spend the day in and around St. Maarten/St. Martin. Aqua Mania Adventures offers a variety of dive options as well as island-hopping excursions and other day trips. Explore the island’s ecosystem on a kayaking or canoeing excursion. You also may want to consider dining on a catamaran as you take in the scenery on a day cruise to Anguilla.

MAARTEN HEINEKEN REGATTA HAS THRILLED SAILORS AND SPECTATORS FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS.

BY ROBYN DEKKER

DIVER’S DELIGHT

Get up close and personal with wrecks and reefs and help preserve the natural environment with every descent.

ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN IS KNOWN FOR ITS LUSH GREEN HILLS and tropical beaches, but some of the island’s most impressive sights are not immediately apparent to the average traveler. Some views and creatures will take your breath away, but to access these elusive sights, you’ve got to step off the beach and into the ocean.

The waters surrounding the island boast an underwater ecosystem that encompasses a variety of sea life — from tropical fish to beautiful corals, stingrays, and several different shark species, including nurse and reef sharks. Some days, you could be lucky enough to spot sea turtles floating through the water, while other days, you may share your swim with barracudas or spotted rays. While there is never a guarantee of what you will see, one thing is certain: Your dive won't disappoint.

“The wonderful thing about scuba diving in St. Maarten/ St. Martin is that there is something for any age and experience level,” says Robyn Gerrist-Dekker of Dive Sint

Maarten, located at Bobby’s Marine in Philipsburg. “The island features almost 30 dive sites which include 11 wrecks and a few deep dives. Just off Great Bay, we have several options, including Carib Cargo, Teigland, Fish Bowl, and Mike’s Maze. It takes just minutes to get to a great dive site here in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.”

Scuba diving in the waters surrounding St. Maarten/ St. Martin is a unique experience. There is a wide variety of dive options for experienced and novice divers alike. Starting from age 10 and up, Dive Sint Maarten offers a Discover Scuba Diving course that will get you acquainted with the world of scuba. Once you’ve learned the basics, you can head to one of the many wrecks and experience the other side of St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

Carib Cargo, a popular dive site, is an old interisland trader that sits upright in about 70 feet of water. It’s home to snapper, lobsters, turtles, sharks, stingrays, crabs, and, if you’re lucky, a bottlenose dolphin who visits during winter months. This dive site is situated on

Courtesy of Dive Sint Maarten (2)

the edge of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park, which encompasses almost 8,000 acres of protected reefs, historical wrecks, seagrass meadows, and open sand.

Another popular dive site is HMS Proselyte, a stunning wreck that was once a 32-gun Royal Navy frigate. Built in 1770 in Rotterdam, her crew mutinied and turned her over to the British in 1796, where she served in the Royal Navy until she wrecked in 1801. While making her way to St. Maarten/St. Martin from St. Kitts, the ship struck the Man of War Shoal. Boats from Philipsburg hurried out and rescued her crew, and this stunning vessel came to rest on her starboard side about 50 feet down. Ballast bars, cannons, anchors, and more lay scattered throughout the water surrounding this wreck. This site has become heavily

encrusted with coral over the last 200-plus years and is a top-rated dive site among both visitors and locals.

Some dive sites are reserved for the more experienced divers and, due to their location, are only accessible when weather permits. One Step Beyond, Molly Beday, and Hen and Chicks dive sites can be found on the east coast between St. Maarten/ St. Martin and St. Barths; these feature healthy reefs with large sponges and corals.

Dolphins and whales are frequently seen in the waters surrounding St. Maarten/ St. Martin from December through April, shares Dive Sint Maarten’s Captain Willem Dekker.

“I have been lucky enough to see many dolphins over the years,” he says. “They enjoy accompanying our divers near the wrecks, and when we head

out in the mornings, they often play in the waves off the bow. I know it will be a great dive when we see them.”

Still not sure about adding a dive or two to your island itinerary? What if we told you that by diving in St. Maarten/St. Martin, you’re helping to preserve the island’s underwater ecosystem? Each diver must purchase a dive tag. Dive tag fees are collected by dive shops, with all proceeds going to the Nature Foundation St. Maarten, which earmarks the funds for managing protected areas, funding conservation research, and maintaining moorings. By diving in St. Maarten/St. Martin, you become a part of this important effort, preserving the island’s enchanting dive sites for generations to come.

BY MICHELE KORTEWEG

SAIL AWAY

Widely regarded as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers myriad ways to set sail.

WHETHER YOU’RE A MAJOR COMPETITOR in the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta or a novice mariner, sailing is a fun and accessible activity to all who visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin. Depending on your skill (and thrill) level, your expectations, and your budget, there are lots of options to enjoy the turquoise waters surrounding the island and explore its beautiful coastline.

First off, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is an annual sailing event that takes place the first full weekend in March. This year, the 43rd edition will be celebrated from March 2–5, 2023. The event combines world-class racing with splendid onshore entertainment, also known as “serious fun parties.” While many people race their own boats, there are also a good number of people who charter boats in order to participate, making for all the fun and none of the worry. Race charters are becoming more popular and are a perfect means to tick off this bucket-list experience.

If you aren’t a sailor, this can still be your new favorite event, as many people flock to the island to be part of the bustling energy that is generated in the weeks surrounding the St. Maarten

Heineken Regatta. Lots of people book their tickets on the spectating boats early, as they can’t wait to watch the 100-plus boats racing around the island. Watching the starts from the water is the ultimate way to enjoy this event — unless, of course, you are a big music lover. Then you would also thoroughly enjoy the activities organized at the Regatta Village at Port de Plaisance, where all the best of St. Maarten/St. Martin comes together: ice cold drinks, food, and music. There is so much going on that it’s best to visit www.heinekenregatta.com to get all your information.

What if March is not a good time for you to visit St. Maarten/St. Martin? Or perhaps you like sailing, but a big event like the regatta is a bit overwhelming? Let’s go over some other options for you to get out on the water, feel the breeze in your hair and the salty sea spray on your face, and witness beautiful St. Maarten/St. Martin from the water. It’s an experience that is hard to beat.

For keen sailors, racers, or even those who never set foot on a boat, you can have a brilliant time on the 12 Metre Experience, which invites

you to race former America’s Cup boats as actively as you please.

A big-budget item, but a vacation on its own, is a weeklong boat charter, where you can cruise the waters at your own pace. Discover quiet and gorgeous bays — like Happy Bay, Grand Case, Tintamarre, and Pinel — or even visit the surrounding islands like St. Barths and Anguilla. You can charter through Sunsail or look into private options. If you are on a budget, you can always consider picking one of many day sailing charters that bring you this joy for a fraction of the price of a full-week charter. Take your pick from sailing catamarans, monohulls, fast racing, or comfortably cruising boats. Whatever you choose, that smile will be plastered on your face for a while — even after you come back home to rain or snow.

Becoming more popular are vacations where you work on a skill. St. Maarten/St. Martin is a fantastic place to learn how to sail or to further develop your sailing skills. You can book sailing lessons in dinghies, which are smaller sailboats like Lasers and double-handed boats, at the Sint Maarten Yacht Club; or if your focus is on bigger keelboats and internationally recognized certification, the Maritime School of the West Indies offers you great options.

Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed by your time on the waters around St. Maarten/St. Martin. The trade winds offer fantastic sailing conditions, and let’s not forget the average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). When is the last time you tried something new? Maybe now is the time to make it happen and enjoy an unforgettable sailing experience.