The island of St Maarten is one of the most beautiful places one could go to experience a tropical paradise. Set in the northeast Caribbean, this scenic island is divided between France and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The two different sides of the island provide visitors with the opportunity to experience everything under the sun.
The Dutch side of St Maarten is the home for festive nightlife, fun casinos and beautiful beaches. The French side of the island offers indoor and outdoor markets, French and Indian Caribbean cuisine and nude beaches.
St Maarten is surrounded by easy trade winds and provides sunshine and warmth all year round and views of the ocean as far as the eye can see. Guests of the island are never at a loss for things to do. There are plenty of places to relax and soak up the sun and feel the surf but one can also count on St Maarten to provide water sports such as diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, sailing, surfing and deep sea fishing.
St Maarten is home to 37 sandy beaches that will take your breath away. If you want to shed your inhibitions and your swimsuits then the Orient Beach is just for you. This is the longest clothing optional beach in the Caribbean. Here you can parasail, water ski or just soak up the sun au naturel. Long Beach is also a hotspot for those who could do without tan lines. This suit optional beach has the least amount of shade or breeze and has been called the hottest on the island and is a favorite among the wealthy visitors of the island.
For something a little tamer but just as much fun, Friar’s Bay is home to high octane, full moon parties and is one of the coolest beaches under the Caribbean sun. Grand Case Beach is a paradise for food lovers. There you will find restaurant row, which is lined with gourmet eateries and tranquil waves, which make this beach home to some of the best swimming on the island. Pelican Bay is where you would find the ideal place for snorkeling and walking the beach. It’s the most laid back part of the island and perfect for complete relaxation in a paradise setting.
The paradise doesn’t stop with the views of the ocean and the warm sand in your toes. St Maarten even brings it straight to your lips with mouth-watering dishes of all kinds. St Maarten is the culinary capital of the Caribbean with many restaurants located right on the beach. There are over 350 dining options spread over 37 square miles, more than any other island in the Caribbean, giving diners something for everyone. If it’s sophisticated indoor dining you are looking for, the culinary experts of St Maarten know how to please. Casual outdoor eating is always available against the backdrop of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are even exotic hot spots just to excite your appetite and allure your taste buds.
Words alone don’t do this breath taking island justice and pictures can only give a small glimpse as to the true feeling of paradise that only St Maarten can give. For those looking for the ultimate pleasure spot, come visit the island and see it for yourself.