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GET ACTIVE! For a small island you will be astounded at just how much there is to do here. There are activities and attractions to fulfill everyone’s desires both on land and sea. From high octane to peaceful relaxation, here is a taster of what you can choose from.
If your idea of activity is lying on a beach chair then you will be spoiled for choice with our 37 beaches. However, the action is non-stop if you want it to be. Take an island tour in a jeep, on 4x4’s, on a bicycle, on a Harley, and a host of other weird and wonderful forms of transport and explore the island early on in your visit so you can discover spots you want to revisit later.
For history enthusiasts and to find out all about the island’s past, visit the fabulous St Maarten Museum on Front Street, Philipsburg. Open Monday to Friday from 10am-4pm. (599) 542 4917 heritage@caribserve.com . The Old House Museum near Orient Bay is another must see. Laden with artifacts from the island’s past and presented by the enthusiasm of owner Pierre Beaupeurthuy, you will leave inspired and educated.
Nature lovers will adore the beautiful Butterfly Farm on the road to Le Galion where you will be amazed by the rainbow colors of these Lepidoptera and will be treated to an educational and entertaining tour by the friendly and knowledgeable guides. Open 7 days a week from 9am. Last tour starts at 3pm. (590) 590 87 31 21 www.thebutterflyfarm.com
There is nothing to compare with riding a horse along a white sand beach and maybe even taking them bareback swimming in the crystalline waters. Check out Bayside Riding Club right next to the Butterfly Farm for the experience of a lifetime. (590) 590 873 664 . Located in Caybay on the Dutch side, the recently established Seaside Nature Park takes horseback tours through the island’s wilderness with dramatic views across the ocean (599) 544 5255/526 5283
For something really different and tons of fun, take a trip to Loterie Farm on the French side and try ziplining. There are three levels of ziplines starting with the ‘Ti Tarzan’ for the little ones, the Flyzone for ‘normal’ people, a 36-traverse multi-disciplined adventure course and the Flyzone Xtreme for total adrenaline junkies which is a thrilling 8-traverse zipline course preceded by a rigorous uphill hike. (590) 590 87 86 16 www.loteriefarm.net
Then check out the new Paintball site near Orient Bay. The large expanse of the site features old trucks and cars, barricades and makes for a great group activity. There is equipment for both kids (minimum age 12) and adults. Make sure to wear long pants and a long sleeved top! (590) 690 81 03 20
Open since 2009, St Martin’s Go-Karting site is fun for kids and adults alike. A great activity for special events like birthday parties or incentive groups, race round the track trying to beat your buddies! Located in La Savane on the road to Grand Case, it is open daily from 10am until midnight! (590) 690 74 35 65 ADD GO KART INFO AND IMAGE