Nature and outdoor places in Sint Maarten
Explore a bird-rich salt pond, hill trails, a protected lagoon and coastal scenery on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten.
These places offer different ways to spend time outdoors, from birdwatching close to Philipsburg to hiking in the island’s hills. The guide also includes coastal walks and calm lagoon waters for paddling.
Cupecoy Beach
Beach, Lowlands
Small sandy coves sit beneath sandstone cliffs, with caves and rock formations along the shore. The changing coastline makes for a distinctive setting for an evening stroll.
Fort Amsterdam
Things to do, Little Bay
A short walk leads to the rocky headland, where Fort Amsterdam’s ruins share the slope with nesting brown pelicans. The headland also offers coastal views near Philipsburg.
Great Salt Pond
Parks & Nature, Philipsburg
This large salt pond is an Important Bird Area, with seasonal gatherings of laughing gulls, herons, stilts and other waterbirds. Its ring road makes birdwatching accessible near Philipsburg.
Rainforest Adventures Rockland Estate
Things to do, Cul de Sac
The hillside adventure park has a chairlift toward Sentry Hill ridge, zip lines and a tube slide. Its setting offers a way to experience the hills behind Philipsburg.
Sentry Hill
Parks & Nature, Cul de Sac
Trails from Cul de Sac climb this 340-metre peak, with wide views over Sint Maarten and nearby islands on clear days. A chairlift also carries visitors toward the ridge.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
Parks & Nature, Simpson Bay
The lagoon’s calm, protected water is popular for kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as sunset cruises. Its shores are shared by the Dutch and French sides of the island.