Saint Martin or Sint Maarten: How to choose the best side of the island for you

The spirit of the island of Saint Martin is characterized by levity, music and joie de vivre. Travelers can expect a welcoming experience no matter where they decide to stay; however, that decision may depend on whether they are more interested in staying on the Dutch side of the island, Sint Maarten, or the French side of the island, Saint Martin. Travel between the two sides is possible, but picking the right home base is key to tailoring your experience.

Dutch Sint Maarten

The Dutch side of the island is more developed. There are more amenities and services available, traffic tends to be heavier and the atmosphere is more animated, with a steadier flow of tourists who are more likely to be looking for a party atmosphere.

Part of the draw on the Sint Maarten side of the border is generated by the country’s casinos. The areas of Maho and Simpson Bay both offer a network of casinos, attracting high-rollers and card sharks from all over the world.

In addition to casinos, a host of night clubs and bars round out the nightlife offerings that create an energy of reverie on the Dutch side of the island. The traveler hoping to go from beachside to barside should definitely plan a trip to Sint Maarten, over the more remote Saint Martin.

Despite the debauchery permitted on the Dutch side of the island, there is not much allowance for nudity, as compared to the French. This is a reflection of the cultural values of the colonial powers, which creates a clothing dichotomy on their respective coasts.

French Saint Martin

In comparison to Sint Maarten, French Saint Martin is less developed, with more spread-out destinations and a quieter overall energy. The traveler hoping to relax and recharge away from the hustle and bustle of an active tourist strip would be best served picking this side of the island for their Saint Martin stay.

While Sint Maarten has the upper hand in nightlife, the French side of the island is known for having the more pristine beaches. Notoriously white sands edge up against crystalline turquoise oceans on the shorelines along the island’s northern face.

A key cultural import is found in Saint Martin’s elevated culinary culture. As compared to the Dutch side of the island, offerings on the French side are more refined, somewhat pricier, but reflective of discerning tastes. French cuisine and a seaside flair pairs with an exquisite wine collection to tempt the tropical gourmand.

One wishing to have a full-body sunbathing experience may select to visit French Saint Martin. Here, a selection of topless and nude beaches reflect the customs of the colonial power, giving beachgoers a choice to bare breasts and bottoms to the sun.

This story was originally published August 15, 2022 at 2:00 AM.