From powdery white sand beaches to thrilling water sports and cultural explorations, Saint Martin promises an unforgettable experience for families seeking fun and adventure!
Get ready to go on an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, bonding, and endless memories!
Here are 9 fantastic family activities to dive into on the beautiful island of Saint Martin.
The Best Family Activities in Saint Martin
9. Beach Fun at Orient Bay and Sundowners
Orient Bay – Wikimedia Spend a day at Orient Bay enjoying the sun, sand, and surf as you commence your trip – it is one of Saint Martin’s 37 top beaches.
With its majestic white dunes and glistening clear waters, this breathtaking stretch of coastline is ideal for making sandcastles, playing in the waves, and soaking up the Caribbean sun.
Make things especially comfortable by renting a few lounge chairs and an umbrella.
Also, don’t forget to bring lots of snacks and water to keep everyone refreshed throughout the day!
End your day on a high note with a highly recommended sunset cruise that’ll give you a unique perspective of the island and its hidden coves and bays.
Enjoy the ocean breeze on deck with a chilled cocktail in hand as you watch the sky turn into fiery hues of orange and pink.
Hot Tip: It’s best to book a catamaran cruise for a comfy and spacious sailing experience. Onboard amenities like open bars and gourmet island snacks are perfect for large groups!
8. Snorkeling Safari at Creole Rock
Reef Snorkelling – Wikimedia One of the most iconic places to snorkel in Saint Martin is Creole Rock where kids can dive into an underwater wonderland there.
Hop onto a speedboat that’ll get you to Creole Rock which is a top choice destination for water sports activities in Saint Martin.
Then strap on those snorkels, fins, and masks, and be ready to be wowed by the abundance of aquatic life and vivid coral reefs that call these waters home!
Watch out for brilliant fish like blue tang and blue striped grunts, sea turtles, and perhaps even a few octopuses.
A GoPro camera is an absolute must!
Tip: To learn from local experts or for added safety, inquire about a guided snorkeling excursion.
7. Picnic Paradise at Pinel Island
A short ferry ride will get you to the Avatar-like environs of Pinel Island where a day of picnicking and exploration awaits amid pristine shores, calm waters, and lush tropical landscapes.
Older kids and teenagers should consider tandem paddleboarding or kayaking from Saint Martin to Pinel.
En route, you can even take a break on the welcoming Little Key Island!
Once at Pinel Island, camp beneath a palm tree’s shade, take a leisurely dip in the sea, and look out for the cheery iguanas that patrol the shore.
Snorkeling is recommended here too!
For a convenient lunch, pack a cooler with some fish sandwiches and patties, snacks, and lots of water. Besides Pinel Island, there are tons of epic day trips you can make from Saint Martin.
6. Adventure Awaits at Loterie Farm
Nestled deep in the heart of Saint Martin’s rainforest at the foot of the island’s tallest mountain, Pic Paradise, Loterie Farm is a must for outdoorsy, nature-loving families.
There’s much to do: embark on a wild zipline adventure through the treetops, take on the challenging obstacle course, or unwind in the serene natural setting with monkeys for company.
Kids will love exploring the farm’s botanical gardens and spotting exotic birds and wildlife along the way!
Lunch at the Jungle Room promises to tickle your taste buds- there’s crab, samosas, cod fritters, prawns, and decadent chocolate pies to tuck into.
Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for your day out at Loterie Farm!
5. Educational Excursion to Fort Louis
Fort Louis – Wikimedia Step back in time and explore the eventful history of Saint Martin at Fort Louis, a historic fortress overlooking Marigot Bay on the French side.
Brace yourself for a climb to the ruins fort for stellar views of the island and to learn about the role it played during the colonial era. Culture trippers should consider a private, exclusive tour with knowledgeable local guide.
The young ones will enjoy exploring the cannons, tunnels, and ruins scattered throughout the site while soaking up riveting tales of pirates and plunder.
Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the harsh heat of the sun.
Stay a bit longer to catch a stunning sunset over Marigot Bay, the iguanas here are quite camera friendly as you will notice!
4. Animal Encounters
Get up close and personal with exotic animals at Seaside Nature Park spread over 30 acres of rustic nature.
This family-friendly attraction hosts friendly farm animals to majestic birds of prey, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy at this interactive wildlife sanctuary.
Feed the ducks, pet the baby horses and goats, and admire the preening peacocks.
The free-roaming horses are a sight to behold and you must experience a sunset horse ride through the cool waters at some point on your visit!
Kids and adults can take lessons at Lucky Stables. It’s recommended to wear closed, solid shoes for your visit to Seaside Nature Park.
3. Culinary Exploration at Marigot Market
Johnny Cakes – Wikimedia Which family doesn’t appreciate a hearty meal? Especially in the Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean!
Tease those taste buds with a culinary tour of Marigot Market, Saint Martin’s colorful open-air market.
Make sure to try local delicacies, including fresh fruits, seafood, and traditional Caribbean fare (Johnny cakes, fish patties, and crab-rice), as you wander through the stalls and chat up vendors.
Try to visit the market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for a choice selection of fresh produce and true blue island flavors.
The village of Grand Case merits special mention for its diverse dining scene and lip-smacking cuisine.
Choose from refined dining establishments to chilled-out beachfront cafes!
Every palate and budget is taken care of at this cute seaside village which offers traditional French and Creole specialties like fresh seafood, savory crepes, and rich pastries.
2. A Fun Workout: Tubing and Kayaking
Another top family activity is making your way on a kayak through the sleepy waters of Saint Martin’s mangrove forests on a guided exploration tour.
The entire family will learn how to navigate narrow channels and waterways like pros as you spot native wildlife such as egrets, herons, and perhaps even some dolphins.
Several watersports providers throughout the island offer tubing experiences, so fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a wild ride!
As you’re pulled behind a speedboat, strap yourself into an inflatable tube and cling on, bouncing over waves – it’s an adrenaline rush like none other!
The kiddos will love it!
If this sounds a bit too adventurous for your taste, settle for a more laid-back tubing experience, especially with little children accompanying you!
Tip: Pick a day with calm seas for the most idyllic experience.
1. Turtle Sightings in Anguilla
Sea Turtle – Wikimedia Finally, hop onto a ferry boat that’ll get you to the island nation of Anguilla, north of Saint Martin.
Enjoy sunny picnics, swimming, and snorkeling in the warm waters of Shoal Bay!
What about the turtles? Plan your trip from April to November – this is when several of Anguilla’s beaches are nesting areas for leatherback green and hawksbill turtles.
Small kids will enjoy these wondrous turtle sightings!
Down at Island Harbor, they can have a chat with the obliging sailors and local fishermen.