A Week in St. Maarten: A Visitor's Guide

Day 1: Our adventure began with a late afternoon arrival, where we were warmly greeted by the Hertz driver just outside the airport exit. A short five-minute ride later, we found ourselves at the rental car station, ready to navigate to our home, a VRBO property at Ocean Breeze in Indigo Bay.

The villa is a sight to behold, boasting breathtaking views and two master suites, making it an ideal retreat for two couples. The cherry on top? We were allowed an early check-in at no additional cost!

Our next stop was the Carrefour Market on Bush Road #79, St. Maarten. The grocery store was reminiscent of mid-sized grocery markets in the U.S., operating hours from 8 am to 8 pm. Its close proximity to the villa, a mere five minutes away, was an added bonus.

Come dinner time, we enlisted the services of Kevin from Dynamic Transport. His prompt and professional demeanor, coupled with his courtesy, made for a seamless experience. You can connect with him via WhatsApp at 1.721.554.9016. I highly recommend him when you need a driver when out drinking to keep from driving. The price is quotes you is roundtrip.

Our dining destination for the night was Bamboo House, marking the beginning of our culinary journey.

As we sat down to a delicious meal, we reflected on the action-packed week ahead. We were sharing this SXM adventure with another couple who, despite having briefly visited the island during cruise stops, had never fully immersed themselves in its charm. We were all excited about what lay ahead and packed the week full of good food and beach time. Then back to villa Ocean Breeze to call it a night.

Day 2: Our day started bright and early with an 8:30 am service at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Philipsburg. The vibrant Caribbean-style service, held within the beautifully adorned church on Great Bay, was truly a feast for the senses. We learned that parking can be a challenge, so arriving about 10 minutes early to secure a spot and seats is advisable. The church service is fun, uplifting, and one you will be glad you attended.

Post-service, we went to Rainbow Café nestled in Grand Case (pronounced Grand "Cas"). The café is a personal favorite - lounging on the beach is an unrivaled experience, and their sushi ranks among the best on the island, order by the number of pieces and let them surprise you with a variety of sushi. The café’s beach with nice lounges and chairs exudes an energetic vibe, with lively dance-themed music playing continuously, creating a fun and upbeat atmosphere. A unique feature is the fashion show conducted on the beach throughout the day, showcasing pieces from the boutique fashion store located upstairs within Rainbow Café.

After a fulfilling day out, we retreated to Ocean Breeze, our villa, and decided to spend the rest of the evening poolside. With a selection of hors d'oeuvres and wine by its private pool, we were more than content to skip dinner. As we reflected on our first full day in SXM, we couldn't help but feel exhilarated by what the rest of our stay promised.

Day 3: Our next adventure led us to the pristine shores of Anse Marcel beach. Known for its unparalleled beach service, Anse Marcel is a haven for those seeking a blend of relaxation and indulgence. The lunch served here is second to none, with an impressive array of French cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds. Coupled with its picturesque location, this spot should undoubtedly be on your itinerary.

However, a word to the wise - make sure to plan ahead. The popularity of Anse Marcel often leads to fully booked spaces weeks in advance. For further details on Anse Marcel and how to secure a reservation,

Remember to request a lunch cabana when booking to make this a really special day.

After a fulfilling day at the beach, we found ourselves back at Ocean Breeze, surrendering to some much-needed poolside relaxation.

The evening brought with it a unique experience - a private cheese and wine tasting at Le Comptoir Des Fromages, scheduled for 6 pm. The owner's extensive knowledge about cheese made for an educational and enjoyable time. The cheese and wine tasting alone was substantial enough to replace dinner.

If you plan on partaking in the wine tastings, I highly recommend using Kevin's services from Dynamic Transport. You can reach him via WhatsApp at 1.721.554.9016. His reliable transportation ensures a worry-free evening of indulgence.

Day 4: Today was earmarked for some much-needed relaxation at our villa, Ocean Breeze. The day began with a refreshing au natural dip in the pool, setting just the right tone for the rest of our laid-back day.

Our culinary journey led us to La Champagne restaurant for a delectable French lunch. Conveniently located adjacent to Select Wine Cellar, the establishment is owned by Sylvain, who also runs the wine store. A favorite amongst locals, La Champagne boasts an exceptional French menu complemented by an extensive wine list. If you have a particular bottle in mind from the wine store, Sylvain is more than willing to accommodate your request. Whether it's a first-grown Bordeaux or something less extravagant yet equally delightful, he has never failed to find the perfect bottle for us.

A trip to SXM wouldn't be complete without a visit to Shiva's Jewelers in Philipsburg on Front Street. We've been loyal customers for nearly two decades now. Their "trade-in" program is particularly appealing — any diamond jewelry purchased from them can be traded in for credit towards your next purchase. My wife has taken advantage of this offer several times, upgrading to something more luxurious or simply something different. I also appreciate their policy that the sale isn't final until I've had the item appraised back home. Danny, the manager, and his team have always looked after us.

After shopping on Front Street, we head a few stores down from Shiva’s Jewelers (direction of Ocean Breeze) to LuxBar, my favorite bar in SXM. Chat and his skilled mixologist, Kat, are known for crafting some of the best cocktails on the island. It’s a fun modern atmosphere with engaging conversations. Luxbar in SXM is the island's first premium whisky bar, offering the largest selection of whiskies on SXM.

The bar has gained praise for its mixologist, Kat, who is recognized for her exceptional skills in crafting drinks. A notable summer concoction at Luxbar included Casa Dragones tequila meeting orange, hibiscus, and burnt ancho pepper smoke, creating a truly unique take on traditional cocktails.

Later in the evening, we found ourselves at the doors of my favorite restaurant in Grand Case - Spiga. Renowned for its Northern Italian-influenced menu, Spiga has been a beacon of culinary excellence since its inception in 2002. The restaurant offers an authentic fine dining experience, with owners Lara and Ciro sharing the genuine flavors and warm hospitality of Italy.

The ambiance of Spiga is a delightful blend of charm and elegance. From the lovely decor to the friendly staff, everything about this place exudes a sense of comfort and sophistication. The menu is a testament to traditional Italian cuisine, with each dish crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Complementing the splendid food is a well-curated wine list that features a diverse selection of fine wines.

For a more detailed insight into what makes Spiga a must-visit destination for food lovers, refer to our blog post. Here's to an unforgettable evening of fine dining at Spiga!

Day 5: A sense of excitement hung in the air as we woke up to a day dedicated to the breathtaking beauty of Orient Beach. Known for its turquoise waters and soft white sands, this beach is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike (for more insights, refer to our blog post on Orient Beach).

Our day began at Le String, a delightful beachside establishment that welcomes patrons with the promise of free beach chairs if you're dining with them. Our time here was marked by good food, laughter, and the soothing sounds of the ocean (dive into our Le String blog post for a detailed review).

As the afternoon sun blazed overhead, we made our way to Perch Lite Bar & Grill, conveniently located a short walk down the beach from Le String. Their happy hour, running from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, is the stuff of legends, offering two-for-one drinks that were the perfect antidote to the tropical heat.

After a day of sun-soaked fun, we retreated to our villa, Ocean Breeze, for some rest and relaxation. The tranquil ambiance of the pool area provided the ideal backdrop for unwinding and reminiscing about the day's adventures.

As the sun set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, we made our way to Palapa Grill & Steakhouse for dinner. Nestled close to our villa, this restaurant is celebrated for its delectable meals and serene setting. As always, the food was excellent, rounding off our day on an incredibly high note.

Day 6: The excitement was palpable today as the Heineken Regatta, the Caribbean's largest regatta, kicked off. We were fortunate enough to have prime viewing spots from our location at Ocean Breeze. As the vibrant sails dotted the clear blue waters, we decided to make the most of this spectacle by indulging in a relaxed poolside barbecue.

Villa Hibiscus is a remarkable establishment located in Grand Case, Saint Martin. This boutique hotel and restaurant is renowned for its intimate, romantic ambiance and exceptional culinary offerings. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, it provides guests with an idyllic setting to explore the local culture and cuisine.

The restaurant at Villa Hibiscus is a gastronomic delight. It offers a tasting menu that showcases the best of Caribbean and French cuisine. The selection includes exotic cheeses, charcuterie, and an impressive range of high-quality wines. The food here is not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making for a dining experience that's as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

If you're a foodie looking for a memorable culinary experience, Villa Hibiscus is a must for SXM.

Day 7: We greeted the day with a revitalizing morning swim in our villa's heated pool. The tranquility of the early hours, coupled with the gentle warmth of the water, set the tone for a relaxing day ahead. As the sun climbed higher in the sky, we resumed our spectatorship of the electrifying Heineken Regatta. The sight of sails unfurling against the azure backdrop was nothing short of mesmerizing.

For lunch, we ventured to the Sunset Beach Bar, a popular spot located on the ocean side of the airport. This location is famous for offering a unique spectacle - the dramatic landing of airliners just above the beach. With the jets seemingly within arm's reach, it's an experience that makes for a great photo opportunity and is often considered a must-do for visitors to the island.

As the day waned into evening, we found ourselves at Azul, a renowned restaurant best known for its innovative culinary creations. The menu at Azul is a testament to the fine art of fusion cuisine, blending local ingredients with international flavors. The result is an array of dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Coupled with the serene ambiance and excellent service, our dinner at Azul was an experience to remember.

Day 8: Our final full day in SXM unfolded with a languid charm. After bidding farewell to our friends yesterday, we opted for a peaceful day at Cupecoy Beach, a hidden gem on the Dutch side of the island.

Cupecoy is home to Dany's beachside bar, a decades-old establishment that has become an integral part of the beach's character. Upon arriving, we placed our lunch orders, paid for parking and beach chairs, and were welcomed by Dany himself who opened the gate leading to the beach parking.

This beach is unique in its clothing-optional policy, and many sun worshippers choose to embrace this freedom. Despite this, Cupecoy remains far less crowded than its counterpart at Orient Beach’s nude section, lending it an air of tranquil exclusivity. Sunday’s are considered family day and clothing optional is not possible on Cupecoy, Orient is your only option that one day of the week.

It's worth noting that Cupecoy should ideally be visited during low tides due to rough waters and the water consuming most of the beach during high tide. A quick check of the tide schedule is a good idea before planning your day – look early in your stay to find the best day to visit. The sunsets from Cupecoy are amazing.

Once settled, Dany or his assistant would set up our chair rentals and umbrella, creating a cozy little haven for us on the beach. Our lunch was delivered right to our spot, usually arriving within 20 to 30 minutes of the specified time.

As evening fell, we made our way to La Villa. Grand Case is blessed with a myriad of remarkable gourmet eateries, but La Villa stands out as one of the finest. Each visit here is a gastronomic delight, making for the perfect conclusion to our time on the island.

Day 9: Our final day in SXM began with a return to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church. Steeped in history and local culture, the church offered a serene start to our day with its fun and enlightening Caribbean influenced music of the service. The service is conducted in English.

We then returned to Ocean Breeze to tackle the inevitable task of packing. With every item tucked away into suitcases, we savored our last moments on the island by lounging by the pool. The sun's rays dancing on the water's surface made for a picture-perfect farewell.

Lunch was a simple affair, feasting on the remaining leftovers from our culinary adventures throughout the week. As we prepared to leave, we handed off our unused food to the ever-friendly security guard at the entrance, a small token of our appreciation.

The journey home began at the airport. Once notorious for its lengthy departure process, the introduction of new technology has significantly streamlined the procedure. It now takes just 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. However, keep in mind there is a one check-in rule before your flight. It's important not to cut it too close to ensure you are on your flight.

Day 10: Back Home: Home sweet home! But oh, how our hearts are already yearning for the sun-kissed shores of SXM. The memories are still fresh, and we can't help but daydream about our next adventure on this slice of Caribbean paradise. Get ready SXM, because we're coming back for more! Until then, we'll be living on island time in our minds, counting down the days until we return. So long for now, but not forever!

Things to Do from Our Other Trips to SXM: This trip we reveled in the gourmet food scene of SXM, while also soaking up the sun at various beaches and lounging by the poolside. But let me assure you, the vibrant island of SXM is brimming with thrilling adventures just waiting to be discovered.

For adrenaline junkies, if you are fascinated by the mysteries of the deep sea, don't miss out on snorkeling around SXM or diving near Saba, a short ferry away. The mesmerizing aquatic life will leave you in awe.

Craving some local culture and retail therapy? Take a leisurely stroll down Front Street. This palm tree-lined boulevard is bustling with shops offering everything from local crafts to luxury items. For a taste of local cuisine and more shopping opportunities, the Marigot Market is a delightful spot.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a hike to the highest peaks of the island or visit the serene Seaside Nature Park. Alternatively, embark on a cruise around the island or explore the island's hidden coves by boat or by jet ski.

Now, let's add some more exhilarating activities to this list. How about experiencing the world's steepest zip line, adding a thrilling dimension to your adventure? Or chartering a boat for a personalized tour of the beautiful coastline? Rum tastings are a fun way to sample the local spirits. And if you're feeling lucky, why not try your hand at one of the island's casinos? Party boats offer a lively atmosphere with music and dance, while horseback riding along the beach provides a calmer but equally enjoyable experience.

Also, you might want to check the calendar for this vibrant island's electrifying festivals that attract visitors from all over the world.

One of the most anticipated events is the SXM Festival, a week-long electronic music extravaganza set to take place in March. This festival offers an opportunity to dance to the beats of top electronic music artists at secluded beaches, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and pulsating rhythms. It's not just a festival, it's an extraordinary event that contributes to the island's growth and has become a major tourist attraction.

Apart from the SXM Festival, the island hosts numerous other events throughout the year. The St. Martin Carnival in February and the St. Maarten Carnival in April/May are two such events that showcase the island's rich culture and traditions.

The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, another event scheduled in March, is a world-renowned sailing race that attracts some of the best sailors from around the globe. The Grand Case Festival, St Maarten Day, and the Flavors of St Maarten Food & Wine Festival are other notable events that offer unique experiences, from cultural immersions to gastronomic delights.

In short, SXM is a festival paradise that offers something for everyone - whether you're a music enthusiast, a sailing aficionado, a foodie, or someone who enjoys immersing themselves in local cultures.