Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin is one culturally diverse and lively Island split into two different countries. The French side, and the Dutch side. These two countries coexist to make one big, friendly, tourist destination . Each side has its own capital. Marigot on the French side and Philipsburg on the Dutch; both with their own unique feels. In the two large and gorgeous capital cities, we were determined to find the most instagram worthy hidden gems, so you do not have to. Keep reading to see all the best places to give your instagram feed a little boost, and to see some of the best places to capture your Caribbean vacation!
Marigot, the French capital, is a town rich in history, decorated with colorful colonial and Creole-style houses.
In 1789, Marigot became a military base under King Louis XVI of France. On a hill near Marigot bay stands the ruins of Fort St. Louis, which was built during that year to protect the warehouses of the port of Marigot. The fort is the most important historical monument in Marigot to date. Marigot was expanded in 1970 when one part of its lagoon was filled. This allowed for the village to extend and with a second filling made in 1990, a new road was built along the waterfront.
Fort Louis is one of two forts still standing on the island of St. Martin/St. Maarten. Overlooking both the capital city of Marigot and the Marina Port la Royale there is a bit of a hike, but the location will not disappoint with an ireplicable 360 view. Get in a short work out with the most rewarding view at the top. It is easy for all ages.
Near Marina Port Royale is a scenic view of the water and the hillside homes near Marigot. From this point, you can see the West Indies mall and Fort Louis at the top of the hill. It is the perfect location to view some of Marigot Oldest and most picturesque landmarks. You will definitely want to take a moment to snap a photo of this view with and without you in it.
On your way to the west indies mall, you are bound to pass these one of a kind tile murals, and the colorful doors that reside just outside of them. Surrounded by locals selling delicacies and little souvenir carts, this is the perfect area to stop and capture some memories in a tucked-away location. When you are done with your photo opportunity, grab some inexpensive food and souvenirs before you head to your next location.
At the West Indies Mall, stop and enjoy some shopping and take in the French architecture. In the mall’s idle times, take a moment to sit on the stairs and gaze through the skylight and snap a quick picture. If you have more time, venture further into the mall, and discover the little stained glass windows in a stairwell, where you can peer out to the marina. Seeing the marina through this colorful glass will certainly provide a memorable mental image.
Philipsburg, the Dutch capital, is a bit busier than Marigot. It is where all of the cruise ships come in. Philipsburg was founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch navy; the settlement soon became a center of international trade. The main shopping district, Front Street, is in the heart of the city. The city also has a port that is visited by many cruise liners. Today it is as bustling as ever, with lively shopping streets, cafés, and hotels.
Starting your journey at the courthouse and walking down Front street towards the pier, you will pass several beautiful photo spots. First you will see a colorful and iconic staircase, with the words, “I left My Heart in St. Maarten.” The mural is a part of the Philipsburg art walk, but it is easy to find on your own. If you have seen any photos of Sint Maarten, odds are you have seen someone posing on this staircase.
Walk a little further, and you will find another mural, with a wooden swing attached. The swing looks like it is attached to a painted tree, with rainbow hills rolling in the background.
The final stop on front street is the fountain. The fountain is surrounded by colorful restaurants and shops, and leads directly to the pier. After you take your photos, stop and grab some food from the locals, you will not regret it!
On your way back, make sure you walk down the boardwalk. Divert your attention from the ocean and take a look to your left, and stop at these pastel colored, Caribbean style windows. The bright and patterned shutters will surely catch your eye.
Before you leave Philipsburg, make sure to take a stroll down Old street. On your walk to Old street, you will see why Philipsburg is a shopping. hub. There are a lot of luxury, high-end stores. However, there are also several very affordable souvenir and clothing shops. Not only can you get those things, there are several jewelry stores you have the opportunity to visit. As you enter there is a metal gate way to welcome you to a quieter area away from the bustling capital city. The street provides a Caribbean twist on Colonial architecture. Old Street is located right between Front Street and Back Street. Whether it is shopping, basking in the sun at a small bistro, or just taking memorable photos of the Old Street yellow car, Old Street is a must on your to do list.
We hope these photo spots give a good taste of what the capitals have to offer, including shopping, food, architecture, and one-of-a-kind views. So go out there and start exploring! Make all your friends jealous; they will say your instagram has never looked better! Head to our socials to see more about our adventures in these capitals, and how we fell in love with these cities and all they have to offer.
