St. Martin, a unique island in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, is split between two countries: the French Saint-Martin to the north and the Dutch Sint Maarten to the south. Covering about 34 square miles, with a population of approximately 75,000, St. Martin is celebrated for its dual cultures, diverse cuisine, and scenic beaches. The island’s real estate market ranges from luxurious beachfront villas and hillside homes with panoramic views to stylish condos, appealing to both vacationers and those looking to establish a home in paradise.
From the lively boardwalks of Philipsburg to the charming streets of Marigot, St. Martin offers a vibrant blend of European flair and Caribbean warmth. Known for its world-class dining, lively nightlife, and tax-friendly status on the Dutch side, St. Martin is an ideal destination for those seeking an active and culturally rich island lifestyle.
St. Martin is home to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches. Orient Bay on the French side, known for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, is perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, and water sports like jet-skiing and windsurfing. Maho Beach on the Dutch side is famous for its proximity to the airport, where visitors can experience the thrill of planes landing just overhead, making it a must-see attraction for tourists.
Beyond the beaches, St. Martin offers ample outdoor activities. The island’s hilly terrain provides excellent hiking opportunities, with trails like Pic Paradis leading to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For marine enthusiasts, the island’s clear waters are ideal for diving and snorkeling, with thriving coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks to explore. For a relaxed day on the water, island-hopping to nearby Anguilla or St. Barths is a popular activity among residents and visitors.
St. Martin’s cultural scene is vibrant, reflecting its dual heritage. The French and Dutch influences are celebrated through a variety of festivals and events. The annual St. Martin Carnival, held in April, is one of the island’s biggest celebrations, featuring colorful parades, calypso music, and dancing, drawing crowds from all around.
On the French side, the Bastille Day celebrations in July offer a unique cultural experience with parades, local cuisine, and traditional music, highlighting the island’s French connection. Sint Maarten’s Heineken Regatta, held every March, is an internationally renowned sailing event, attracting world-class sailors for a weekend of competitive racing and lively parties. These events, along with weekly markets and art shows, create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all.
St. Martin’s real estate market presents diverse options, from luxury beachfront properties and hillside villas to modern condos in both Dutch and French styles. With a variety of tax incentives on the Dutch side, including no capital gains tax, St. Martin is an attractive choice for investors, retirees, and expatriates. The island’s dual culture, excellent healthcare, and thriving expatriate community make it an appealing choice for those seeking a Caribbean lifestyle with a European twist. With easy access to both French and Dutch amenities, breathtaking natural beauty, and a bustling social scene, St. Martin offers a balanced and vibrant living experience for all.
St. Martin’s history is a fascinating tale of colonial influence and cultural blending on one of the Caribbean’s smallest islands divided between two nations. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, St. Martin was initially occupied by the Spanish before France and the Netherlands gained control of the island in 1648, resulting in its unique split under the Treaty of Concordia. The northern part, St. Martin, became French, while the southern half, Sint Maarten, was under Dutch rule, a rare political arrangement that remains to this day.
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, both sides established prosperous plantation economies based on sugar and salt, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. Emancipation came in the mid-19th century, reshaping the social landscape and paving the way for new industries. Tourism took root in the mid-20th century, transforming St. Martin into a major destination known for its vibrant culture, cuisine, and pristine beaches.
Today, St. Martin is celebrated for its multicultural identity, a blend of French, Dutch, Caribbean, and African influences that define its art, language, and festivals. Its dual-national identity remains a hallmark, drawing visitors who experience two distinct cultural heritages on one small yet vibrant island.
(both the Dutch and French sides of the island)
Maho Beach
Known for its dramatic plane landings just above the beach, Maho Beach is a thrilling spot for watching aircraft up close and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Orient Bay Beach
One of the island’s most famous beaches on the French side, Orient Bay offers pristine sand, clear waters, beach clubs, water sports, and stunning Caribbean scenery.
Philipsburg Boardwalk
This bustling promenade on the Dutch side has shopping, dining, and local entertainment along a picturesque beachfront with beautiful views of Great Bay.
Fort Louis
Located in Marigot, Fort Louis offers panoramic views over the island and the ocean, with historic ruins that reflect the island’s colonial past and battles with British forces.
Loterie Farm
A 135-acre nature reserve on the French side that offers ziplining, hiking trails, and a poolside oasis surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
Pinel Island
Accessible by a short ferry ride, Pinel Island is a tranquil paradise perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood.
The Butterfly Farm
A family-friendly attraction featuring a tropical garden filled with exotic butterflies and educational tours about these colorful creatures and their habitats.
Grand Case
Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Grand Case is a charming village with gourmet restaurants, beachfront dining, and vibrant Creole cuisine.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
This large lagoon is a hub for yachting, with boat charters, waterfront restaurants, and scenic views, offering both casual and upscale dining options along the water.
Marigot Market
The open-air market in Marigot is an excellent spot to explore local culture, with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, and Caribbean-style clothing.
