Introduction
As the place nicknamed the “friendly island,” there is so much to do for all ages and interests in Sint Maarten! Whether you’re a thrill seeker or a sun soaker, Sint Maarten has something for everyone to enjoy. Delectable food, thrilling activities, and beautiful sights are just a few of the things that make this island a cannot miss travel destination. Come relax on the beautiful beaches that surround the island or do some hiking to learn about the island’s rich history. For the thrill seekers in the family, brave the Flying Dutchman, which is the steepest zipline in the world! Try themed activities such as the Pirate Experience at the Rusty Parrot suitable for anyone in your group who just can’t get enough of Pirates of the Caribbean. Lastly, enjoy a fun atmosphere with games and great food at Pineapple Pete’s.
Rainforest Adventures
The activities by Rainforest Adventure at Rockland Estate are perfect for everyone in your group from foodies to thrill seekers. If you’re looking for a thrill ride the Schooner Ride, the Sentry Hill Zipline or brave the Flying Dutchman. For those less daring, see the sights while riding the Sky Explorer, and see all the islands around Sint Maarten when you reach the top of the mountain. Foodies can enjoy the restaurant on-site for an additional cost.
The Sky Explorer
The Sky Explorer is a ski lift that takes its riders all the way up the side of Sentry Hill at Rockland Estate stopping along the way to drop daredevils off at various sites along the mountainside. For those not feeling so adventurous, enjoy the sights of Phillipsburg and the surrounding areas as you ride the lift all the way up to the bar at the top of the mountain.
Schooner Ride
The Schooner Ride is a thrilling tube slide that twists and turns down the side of the mountain and doesn’t even require you to get wet. After a short ride on the Sky Explorer up the mountain, you will reach the top of the slide where a friendly and helpful guide will help you into the tube and send you on your way! Enjoy rushing down the mountain but be sure to wear your best smile, because there will be pictures taken as you complete your journey.
Sentry Hill Zipline
After you finish the Schooner Ride, hop back onto the Sky Explorer to ride up to the Sentry Hill Zipline. This experience is actually four ziplines that take you soaring over valleys surrounding the park. Look around you to see the beautiful sights of Phillipsburg as you fly high above the trees as a warm-up for The Flying Dutchman. These ziplines are completely stress-free as they have automatic breaks and there are helpful guides at every step of the way to help you!
The Flying Dutchman
Finally, for those willing to take the risk, ride the Sky Explorer up to the very top where you will find the world’s steepest zipline, The Flying Dutchman. Enjoy a drink or multiple at the bar while you take in the sights of the surrounding islands and muster your courage to take on this thrilling experience. When you’re ready, step right up to the beginning of the line where the crew helps you get seated and secured on the line. Then they will open the gates and you will go flying down the side of the mountain. Before you know it, you’ll be at the bottom where the automatic breaks stop your descent. Put on your best smile because your picture will be taken at the bottom of the hill!
Forts/Hiking
If you’re looking to get out, get moving, and learn a little history along the way, the forts on the island are the perfect experience for you. Located on the French side is Fort St. Louis. You can drive and park halfway before climbing up the fort, or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can start from the bottom and take the stairs all the way up. This fort was built in 1789 under Governor Jeans Sebastian Durat, who governed both St. Martin and St. Barthelemy at the time. The goal of the fort was to defend Marigot against British and Dutch pirates. The fort is now inactive but provides beautiful views. You can take cool pictures at the fort and see a 360 view of Marigot.
Located on the Dutch side is Fort Amsterdam. This fort in Philipsburg is more preserved than its French counterpart. The fort features placards where you can learn about its history and a beautiful view of the city and the beach.
Pirate Experience at The Rusty Parrot
The Pirate Experience at The Rusty Parrot is truly fun for the whole family. This sunken pirate ship provides an immersive experience with many cool scenes for kids to look at while teaching them about the history of pirates. The ship also includes a gift shop and a beautiful view of Philipsburg, Sint Maarten. On the top deck, you can enjoy a meal while the adults indulge in some rum. Visitors rave about how knowledgeable and friendly the staff is. If you’re looking for an adventure that will excite all ages, make sure to check this place out!
Pineapple Pete’s
If you’re looking for a fun, delicious restaurant that the whole family will enjoy, you should try Pineapple Pete’s. This ocean-side restaurant is decorated with bright, tropical colors that give it a fun and welcoming environment. They have an extensive menu from seafood to steak. If you’re feeling extra brave, they also have an extremely spicy pasta. Their menu also features shareables for the family, such as “The Bridge,” which is a plate of sushi that serves three. For the adults, they also have a wide variety of cocktails and beers. For the thrill seekers, located right outside of Pineapple Pete’s is the Rhino Safari, an excursion that allows you to drive a total of 18 nautical miles to a snorkel destination and back. The ride also takes you under the Causeway Bridge and allows you to see million-dollar homes and Creole Rock. Pineapple Pete’s is the perfect lunch stop before or after your excursion.
