Best Things to Do in SXM When You’re Not at Carnival
SXM offers a world of adventure, relaxation, and culture — and we’re showing you not just what to do, but how to get there, and even ways to score discounts on your favorite activities. From heart‑pumping ziplines to laid‑back rum tastings, this guide breaks down the Best Things to Do in SXM when you’re not at Carnival. Stay tuned and take notes, because we’re diving into the best ways to experience both sides of the island like a true local.
A Quick Carnival Snapshot
SXM celebrates two carnivals each year — St. Maarten Carnival (on the Dutch side, usually in April–May) and Saint Martin Carnival (on the French side, often in February). Each has its own unique vibe: the Dutch side brings the big fetes, pageants, and road parades, while the French side keeps it rooted in traditional masquerade and live music.
You can check out both carnival programs by clicking below:
Whether you’re here before the bands roll out, resting between events, or extending your trip, these activities are among the best things to do in SXM beyond Carnival.
Off-Carnival Adventures to Try
Rainforest Adventures
One of the best things to do in SXM for adrenaline lovers is visiting Rainforest Adventures at Rockland Estate. Start with the Soualiga Sky Explorer, a chairlift that glides high above the lush hills, then zip across Sentry Hill for breathtaking 360° island views. If you’re brave enough, take on the Flying Dutchman, one of the steepest ziplines in the world.
How to Get There: Located in Cul de Sac on the Dutch side, Rainforest Adventures is about a 15-minute drive from Philipsburg and easily accessible by car or taxi. If you’re traveling like a local, you can hop on a public minibus headed toward St. Peters (look for the sign on the front of the bus).
The bus fare is usually around $1 – 3 USD.
Culture, Crafts & Hidden Corners
SXM’s charm goes far beyond its beaches. Visit the Emilio Wilson Museum (right next to Rainforest Adventures) to dive into local history, or check out Parotte Ville Bird Park for vibrant photo ops. Over on the French side, explore artisan studios or take a perfume-making class in Grand Case.
How to Get There: Most of these cultural attractions are centrally located. Emilio Wilson Museum and Parotte Ville Bird Park can be reached by minibus heading toward St. Peters or Cul de Sac. For Grand Case and other French-side locations, driving or taking a taxi is recommended since buses don’t regularly service that area.
Topper’s Rhum Distillery
For a flavorful cultural experience, stop by Topper’s Rhum Distillery in Cole Bay — another must on the list of best things to do in SXM. The guided tour walks you through the process of making their award-winning rum, from fermentation to bottling, before treating you to up to eighteen different rum flavors.
How to Get There: Topper’s Rhum Distillery is located on the Dutch side, about a 10-minute drive from Simpson Bay or Philipsburg. Driving or taking a taxi is the easiest and most direct option. There is no bus route that drops you exactly at the distillery, but you could take a public minibus that takes you to Cole Bay and walk the remaining distance.
Underwater Walks & Snorkel Adventures
Trade the road for the sea and explore SXM from below the surface. Try SeaTrek Helmet Diving or a guided snorkeling tour around reef sculptures and marine life. The calm Caribbean waters make it an unforgettable and beginner-friendly experience — one of the best water activities in SXM.
How to Get There: Most tours depart from the marinas in Philipsburg or Simpson Bay. Both are about 10–15 minutes from major hotels. There are limited public transport options to the marinas, so the best way to get there is by car or taxi (Parking is available near the docks).
Hike Pic Paradis
If you prefer a slower pace, head to Pic Paradis, the highest point in St. Martin. This scenic hike offers panoramic views of both sides of the island and a peaceful escape from the party scene. The trail is moderately challenging, but the reward — seeing all of SXM from above — makes it one of the best outdoor activities in SXM.
How to Get There: Located near Loterie Farm on the French side, Pic Paradis is about a 25-minute drive from Simpson Bay or Philipsburg. There is no public bus service directly to the trailhead, so the easiest way to reach it is by rental car or taxi. Free parking is available at Loterie Farm, where the trail begins.
Why You’ll Want a Car
After exploring all these activities, you’ll quickly realize that having a car in SXM makes the adventure much smoother. The island’s attractions are spread across both Dutch and French sides, and public transportation can be unreliable at times.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches, hilltop views, and local spots at your own pace. Stop for roadside BBQ, chase sunset views, and uncover neighborhoods tourists often miss.
Money-Saving Tip: WeAreSXM.com
Want to stretch your budget while exploring like a local? Check out WeAreSXM.com — it’s a locally run site offering exclusive discount codes on tours, hotels, restaurants, and activities across both the Dutch and French sides. Whether you’re booking a jet ski tour, reserving a beachside dinner, or grabbing last-minute tickets for a day cruise, you’ll often find promo codes that save you around 5–10% off your total cost.
Make It a Vibe
Whether you’re coming down from the Carnival rush or just looking to explore SXM’s softer side, remember: the island’s energy doesn’t stop when the trucks do. From rum tastings and ziplines to hikes and cultural gems, there’s always something new to experience in St. Maarten / St. Martin.
Handy Travel Resources for Your Carnival Trip
- Expedia - Book flights, hotels, and car rentals in one place and score package discounts for your carnival getaway.
- Hostelworld - Find fun, affordable hostels close to carnival routes and meet other travelers.
- Welcome Pickups - Enjoy a seamless ride from the airport to your hotel and back.
- GetYourGuide - Discover local tours, cultural experiences, and must-see attractions before or after the carnival.
- Airailo - Stay connected with Airalo eSIMs (affordable, no SIM swaps or roaming stress).
- VisitorsCoverage - Get reliable travel insurance for medical issues, trip delays, or lost bags.
- NordVPN - Stay secure on public Wi-Fi while traveling.
- AirHelp - Claim compensation if your carnival flights get delayed or canceled.
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