Sint Maarten Island Adventures

The capital of the Dutch side of the island is the Mecca for shopping sprees. With hundreds of duty-free boutiques, you could literally shop 'til you drop.
Once you have picked up one of everything in town, head north through the town square to the old courthouse built in 1793. Then stop off at the St. Maarten Museum, which exhibits an interesting display of Columbian pottery and Delft tableware.
Fort Amsterdam, one of the four forts on St. Maarten, was the first Dutch military station in the Caribbean. It not only offers a spectacular view of the Great Bay Harbor, but you can also see the ruins of the neighboring 19th-century Fort Willem.
Venturing outside of the capital, you will come upon the three-acre St. Maarten Zoo with 35 different species and a petting zoo.
A visit to any of the sun-kissed beaches on the island will prove to be a satisfying experience. Great Bay Beach stretches for more than a mile while Little Bay Beach offers calm, clear waters for remarkable snorkeling. Other watersports rentals, such as water-skiing and windsurfing can be found on the Pelican Keys.
The quaint fishing village along Simpson Bay makes it a perfect location for some 'R & R' on the beach followed by a nice afternoon snack at one the many cafes lining the coast.
With its high cliffs and private atmosphere, Cupecoy Beach is a natural magnet for couples looking for some quiet time alone. Another choice is the summit of Cole Bay, which has an incomparable view of the surrounding islands.