Category: Activities

We want you to be able to explore and learn as much as you can about both Sint Maarten, the Dutch part of the island, and Saint Martin, the French part of the island, during your stay at The Hills Residence. We will let you know what attractions and activities are a MUST DO.

Our welcoming island has a lot more to offer than you might think. From adrenaline rushes with skydiving or ziplining to water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and E-foiling.

The opportunities are endless because of the fantastic weather all year long. We can promise you’ll never get bored here!

Activities

Hiking

Hiking

By the Hills Residence

Hiking in St Maarten

Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin is full of mountains and beautiful views. The highest mountain of the island is located on the French side and is called Pic Paradis, with an elevation of 1,177 ft (358 m).

A trail starting at Lottery Farm (METTRE LIEN) and going all the way up to Pic Paradis will take you around 2.5 hours, way and back. During your hike you will probably encounter monkeys, butterflies, birds and other small animals.

The island offers many others trails to different locations, each having a different view over the island.

The Froussard

The Froussards Trail starts at Ance Marcel and goes until Wilderness, taking around 4 hours to complete. The trail is along the coast, allowing you to have beautiful views on the ocean, and seeing the beautiful fauna and flora of the island.

The trail of Naked Boy Hill is located in the Dutch territory of Sint Maarten. Its summit rises to 296 meters. Total hiking distance is 1.6 km (approximately 2 hours walking time). Naked Boy Hill entertains families in its name alone. Hiking is very accessible for children, so it’s fun to go with them. If you’re lucky, this trail is also a favorite spot for iguanas, but be careful not to get too close and not to disturb them in their natural habitat. After some effort on the long but not too difficult trail, reaching the top of the hill offers breathtaking views of Saint Barths and Guana Bay. The turquoise waters that stretch as far as the eye can see are a feast for the eyes and a spectacular photo opportunity. Parking is located at Penn Shell Road in Guana Bay at the start of the road.

Chemin des Douaniers

The Chemin des Douaniers is a very nice easy hiking trail with moderately hard rock climbing at the end. It is about 2.5 km long and starts at the small harbor of Garris Bay and continues to Friars Bay. A big promise with a great view of Marigot Bay. You can park your car and put on your shoes at the Garris Bay Commercial Harbor. Drive for panoramic views of Garris Bay Harbour. On the way there is Lover’s Beach, ideal for relaxing. Continuing the road, hikers discover the Anse de Pere. This is a pebble beach, comfortable and not very crowded. Upon arrival you will have to climb the Col de la Batterie. It’s not difficult, but it’s something to consider, especially for families. At the end of the route, the Friar’s Bay, where he has two restaurants serving delicious cuisine based on fresh fish, local fruits and other specialties, comfort makes you forget about the effort.

Pinel Island

Pinel Island At 170 meters from Saint Martin and 950 meters from Cul de Sac, tiny Pinel Island is an incredible natural heritage site. Savanna landscape with many frangipani trees, beautiful white and yellow flowers typical of the Caribbean. Birds abound as well as crabs and, as in many places on St. Martin, iguanas and lizards.

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Activities

Skydiving

Skydiving

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Explore Sint Maarten Underwater

Leaving from St. Martin’s Grand Case Airport, take in the breathtaking experience of skydiving in this idyllic location and take in the Caribbean islands from a fresh vantage point. Experience a breathtaking view of stunning beaches and crystal-clear lagoons where the Caribbean Sea and the sky meet in a unique way.

When you jump free fall, from around 3000 meters (10,000 feet) over the Caribbean Sea, at a speed of over 200km/h (125 mph), Your body will be filled with adrenaline, and you’ll have the best sensations ever!

When you jump over Grand Case, you have multiple options for filming and photos. The prices may vary depending on what you choose. you can either jump with a camera in you instructors (the person you will be attached too) hand or have another parachutist that will jump alongside you to capture the moment.

you can have a full 360° video + pictures, or a normal video + pictures, or just pictures, or just videos… you choose!

Our Skydiving Advices

We advise you to wear something comfortable and stretchy, and sports shoes. Goggles will be provided for you on the spot. After taking off, the instructor will remind you of every safety step before opening the doors to jump. While flying you can enjoy the above view of Tintamarre, Pinel Island, Orient Bay and other paces of the island.

Children under 12 are not allowed to jump, and minors need the authorization of both parents. Weather conditions may not be optimal on certain days, but we still advise you to reserve a few weeks in advance to be sure you have your spot. If it does happen, and the weather isn’t suitable for jumping, they will get in touch with you to reschedule as fast as possible, so usually to the next day, or whenever the weather is adequate for jumping once again.

Grand Case is approximately a 30/45-minute drive from The Hills Residence, depending on traffic.

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Activities

Diving

Diving

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Explore Sint Maarten Underwater

Discover the breathtaking underwater universe surrounding Sint Maarten / Saint Martin. If you are an ocean lover and want to have some lifechanging moments with friends, family or even alone, while being 12 meters under water, this is the activity for you.

Even if this is your first-time diving, or if you already have your PADI certification, there are enough locations around the island adapted to each different level and desires of each person. You can choose to go to a shipwreck, or just see the beautiful tropical corals, or even go shark diving! The possibilities are endless.

If you are diving for the first time, no need to worry, the instructor will explain everything to you, and you will have the possibility to train and try out the equipment in a swimming pool beforehand, so that you can get familiar with using the equipment, and the instructor can teach you all the safety procedures.

What to Expect in Diving?

Across the south and southeastern coast of the island, there are over 35 diving sites with beautiful coral reefs, wrecks and a very colorful underwater life. Sint Maarten / Saint Marten is the home to a vast number of marine lives, including 700 species of reef fish, sharks, turtles, rays, lobsters, clams and crabs. It is also an important migratory path for both whales and dolphins.

The water temperatures are between 26-29°C (79-85F) in the summer and 22-24°C (72-75F) in the winter, and visibility goes up to 30 meters which is about 100 ft. The Depth of the diving site are usually pretty shallow, around 18 meters which is 60 ft.

During your stay at The Hills residence, you can also do the whole PADI open water course with one of our partners. The most popular diving course in the world and the first requirement for certification in scuba diving is the Open Water Diver. Before your in-water training, which consists of pool lessons and four ocean dives, you first finish the online course on your own time. You will learn the fundamental abilities needed to begin your diving career as well as everything else you require to use scuba to explore the underwater world. It will take you three half days (mornings or afternoons) to complete this course and receive your certification.

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Activities

Kitesurf

Kitesurf

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Explore Sint Maarten from Waterside

While Sint Maarten / Saint Martin is known for being a little windy, it also has the perfect conditions to kitesurf all year around. With a big sail and a board with straps you can learn how to glide on the water and discover a whole new world of possibilities while using the strength of the wind.

The best spot for kitesurfing on Saint Martin is Orient Bay, located on the northeastern part of the island, it has great conditions and also has a local club on the spot, with a professional team ready to teach you everything you need to know about kite surfing before you jump into the water.

Take a Kitesurf Lesson

The lesson time may vary depending on what your needs are. What they generally propose are packages of multiple lessons during your stay so you can learn and give yourself the time to really get what you are doing, with the board, and with the sail. Be aware that kitesurfing is considered as an extreme sport, so safety is very important and should always be prioritized.

Depending on the wind conditions, there are other spots on the island where you can kitesurf. The Lagoon for example is a great place, as you will have no waves and very few other riders. If you are a beginner and want to try training on your own, the lagoon is probably one of the safest places to do it, because there is no current, and many boats pass by, so if anything happens, someone will come and help you.

And if you want a more challenging parkour, some higher-level riders like to take off at Orient Bay and go until Wilderness, while passing in front of Pinel Island. Before doing so, always let someone know where you are going and at what time you think you’ll be back.

The instructor will follow you by boat to ensure your safety and guide you along your experience. The spot is perfect for riders of all levels.

We recommend you go with a local charter, as the waters around Scrub Island are known to be rough.

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Activities

Ziplining

Ziplining

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Explore Sint Maarten from the Air

Discover Sint Maarten / Saint Martin while zipping through the trees! An amazing experience for kids and adults, where you’ll be able to appreciate the nature of the island while having fun with your friends and family and enjoy every moment of the tour.

If you’re lucky you may even see a monkey or an iguana, but you’ll definitely hear the singing of the rare West Indian dove while you’ll be “flying” from one tree to another.

The harnesses and gloves will be provided, but you are required to wear closed-toed shoes or other footwear that is secured. No flip-flops or sandals allowed.

There are 3 ziplining locations on Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin: 

activities in sint maarten

Lottery Farm

Not only do they offer an amazing through the trees zipline, but they also are located in the middle of the “jungle” right under the highest mountain of the island, Pic Paradis. They have an open-air restaurant, and a natural pool area, that is used for parties on Sundays and just for relaxing during the week. We recommend you go ziplining around 11 a.m., to follow with a delicious lunch with your feet in the pool while you're in your swimsuit. Isn't this a perfect day of fun and relaxation?

Pelican Peak

A zipline with a beautiful 360° view over Philipsburg and the crew ships. While making your way up the hill you will learn about the culture and history of our friendly island. Pelican peak is located only a few minutes away from the crew ship docks, making it easier for passengers to make it back to the ship on time. But if you are staying with us at The Hills Residence, you will have a 20/40-minute drive to get to Pelican Peak depending on the traffic.

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Rain Forest Adventure

What makes this place special is the way you get to the top of the mountain: with a chairlift! They offer different activities besides ziplining, such as a giant slide, that will take you all the way down.

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Activities

Golf

Golf

By the Hills Residence

Play Golf at the beach

With only one golf course on the island, it is located around the lagoon and near mullet bay and attracts many locals who play regularly. If you are a golf fanatic or want to practice during your stay, you will fall in love with the scenery of the course. A part of the course is alongside the beautiful lagoon on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, and another part of the course is right in front of Mullet Bay beach.

Where to Play?

Golf carts, club and accessories can be rented directly on the spot or can be reserved in advance.

If you are a beginner or you would like to take your first lesson, we advise you to contact the Golf Club beforehand to explain your situation, and to make sure they have an instructor available during your stay.

The Gold Club is approximately a 15-minute drive from The Hills residence. Being a perfect end of the day activity is you are looking to get some air.

If your partner or friend prefers to relax instead of keeping you company while you play, they can always settle at Kalatua for a few hours, relaxing on the beach waiting for you to finish the course.

But if you are planning on playing with your partner or friends, you can always take a break at hole 19 to get a cocktail or a snack at Kalatua. Or if you prefer to finish your game first, you can always come back to watch the sunset and have a drink after.

The Golf is also near Cupcoy and Jordan Village, where you can find multiple restaurants for lunch and for dinner, as also supermarkets and other shops.

Porto Cupecoy on the other hand, has docks with beautiful boats, and a direct view on the lagoon. Giving it an extra charm.

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Activities

Horse Riding

Horse Riding

By the Hills Residence

Explore Sint Maarten from Natural Side

Another way to discover the islands beauty is through horseback riding, while galloping in the white sand and going swimming in the crystal blue water with the horses. This is truly an amazing experience.

These rides can usually go from 45 minutes to 3 hours and can also be adapted depending on your riding level. If you’ve never been riding before, it’s totally fine, just make sure to let the instructor know in advance so that they can explain the security details and the basics of riding a horse before you leave for the tour.

We recommend you come with closed shoes that can get wet (as you will be going in the water with the horse), pants or shorts, sunscreen and sunglasses. A helmet will be provided for you at the ranch.

Where to Ride?

There are two main spots on the island to go horseback riding on the beach. Along the Galion beach and along the beach of Back Bay.

Back Bay is located near Colebay the most southern spot of the island, and if the weather is clear enough you can even see our neighbor islands, such as Saba, Saint Kits, Saint Barth’s and Sint Eustatiu. The tour usually takes about 1 hour, and goes from the ranch, around the property, through a few natural paths and then to finish with the best part, a ride on the beach, and then in the water! The horses truly love getting wet after a ride to cool off.

Galion is located in the eastern part of the island and the riding tours can be a little longer and more diverse, as there is more premises to cover. The tour usually starts at the ranch, going down to the beach takes about 10 to 15 minutes, to then arrive on the beach and go all the way to the right side of Galion. When arriving at the end of the beach the horses usually go into the water to refresh and swim. The sensation of swimming with a horse if truly wonderful. You will 100% be amazed by the view of the beach and your experienced.

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Activities

Surf

Surf in St Maarten

By the Hills Residence

Surf in blue water

Surfing is one of the best activities to do on the island is you really want to connect with the warm ocean and also meet a few locals. For your surprise, Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin also has the (almost) perfect conditions for surfing all year. With multiple surf spots around the island for all levels and types of breaks, there are usually very few people in the water, giving you all the freedom during the sets.

Some surf spots can only be reached by boat or a long hike, but one this is for sure, you’ll enjoy every second, because you’ll be surrounded by the island’s nature.

Depending on the swell and the wind, certain locations will be better than others throughout the year. For beginners the perfect time would be around spring and summer, and for more advanced surfers, hurricane season and winter are the preferable times.

Cupecoy

This is one of the most difficult waves on the island, and we recommend it only to experienced riders. Its a right-hand wave that is created above a very shallow bottom over rocks and reef. It only happens when there is a strong North/ Northwestern swell.

Wilderness

Located on the northern part of the island, this spot mainly works during the wintertime as it requires North/ Northeastern swell. This spot is called Wilderness because it's really wild to access. Far from everything, you can access it by boat, or by hiking for 20 minutes. So don't forget to bring closed shoes! When the swell is on, the right-hand break creates a wall and is great for riders to do tricks and enjoy the wave. We recommend wearing surf shoes, as the waves breaks over coral which is full of sea urchins.

Mullet Bay

The same as Cupecoy and Plumb Bay, Mullet Bay only works when there is a strong North/ northwestern swell. This is usually more a spot for bodyboarders, but surfers are welcome to try the spot. But be aware if you do, the waves are very strong, and the chances are high you will break your board! We recommend this spot to experienced surfers only.

Plumbay

A North/North West swell is necessary for this spot, as it is located on the island's west coast in the Low Lands region. Beginners will love this lovely right-hand break because they can navigate the channel on the wave's left side and Returning to the lineup is very simple.

Galion Beach

It is the most reliable spot on Sint Maarten, and it is on the east coast of the island. This is because of its ideal orientation as an open window to the eastern swell, which allows you to surf there year-round. The wave has a completely harmless aspect because it breaks on a dead coral reef that is covered in seaweed. It really is the best place for beginners, as the majority of the lessons are taught here in the summer when the eastern swell is going in one direction constantly.

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Activities

E-Foiling Jetsurfing

E-Foiling Jet Surfing

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Xtrem sports in Sint Maarten

Two new extreme sports, perfect if you want to try something new and you’re a sport fanatic, or even just a beginner trying to get out of your comfort zine and be a little adventurous.

E-Foiling

E-Foiling is the new hype, and you’ll understand it after you try it.

With the help of its hydrofoil, this brand-new electric surfboard will let you “fly” 40 cm above water. We recommend an hour of practice with an instructor to fully understand this board., The electric Foil will introduce you to new sensations as it is silent, quick, and emits no emissions.

Learn how to position your weight on the board, adjust the speed, and use the remote control. (20 minutes spent on knees perfecting these abilities). You will then learn to control the first ride and rebounds while standing up. People usually need 40/50 minute sessions to really learn it. While you will be on the flat water, the instructor will follow you with a boat and will give you tips and teach you using a waterproof radio system.

Jetsurfing

The second newest hype if the electric jet surf!

By motorizing your board and propelling you through the water, an electric surfboard, also known as a jet board, enables you to surf on almost any body of water. Even if there are no surf conditions, meaning no waves, a jet board will give you one of the craziest and most exhilarating water sports experiences youll ever have.

The most effective electric surfboards are small, quick, and have lengthy ride times. The Jet surf will allow you to glide anywhere, without even needing waves, you will be able to experience a new level of freedom on the water.

This board is controlled with a remote control that is connected by wire or without wire (depending on the design/ brand…) to the board. The board being electric, makes it very ecofriendly and has zero emissions.

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Activities

Snorkeling in Sint Maarten

Snorkeling in Sint Maarten

By the Hills Residence

Explore Sint Maarten from Waterside

With the crystal blue waters of our lovely island, who wouldn’t want to go snorkeling and see what the island has to offer under water?

While you swim in the warm water, you’ll be able to see creatures such as, sea turtles, parrotfish, lionfish, angelfish, parrotfish and many others.

If you manage to get your own snorkeling gear you, can you to these following locations around the island…

Cupecoy

On the Dutch side of the island of Sint Maarten, Cupecoy Beach is situated in the southwest. The border of the island separating the French side from the Dutch side is very close to Cupecoy beach, and it's concealed in a region bordered by limestone cliffs and also has many underwater caverns, where you'll also find colorful fish while snorkeling.

Pinel Island

On the French side of St. Martin, Pinel Island is situated northeast of Orient Bay off the coast. The island is a natural reserve that has a goal to help preserve as much as possible the islands marine life as its wildlife on the island. This makes Pinel one of the best places on the island to see the marine life and spend your afternoon in the water looking at the beautiful schools of fish and tropical corals.

Dawn Beach

On St. Maarten's eastern coast, facing the neighboring island of St. Barts, is Dawn Beach. Dawn Beach is a quiet area occupied by beach clubs, luxurious villas, expensive yachts and picturesque mountain landscapes inland. A few of the beach clubs offer services like refreshments, food, and beach chairs. This beach is ideal for relaxing and pleasurable snorkeling.

Creole Rock

On the northern French side of St. Martin, you will find the Creole Rock which is a tiny island that is located to the north of Grand Case. Because Creole Rock is so close to Grand Case, strong swimmers can swim there, but a boat excursion to Creole Rock is our advised option to stay safe.

Baie Rouge

On the Lowlands region, on the northwest coast, on the French side of Saint Martin, you can find Baie Rouge and David's Hole. David's Hole is a breathtaking sight that can be accessed through Baie Rouge. The beach is called Red Bay as it used to have sand with pink tinted colored sand.

Orient Bay

The orient bay islands are located on the eastern side of the island and are multiple little unpopulated islands that can only be accessed swimming, by jet ski or boat. The islands are Tintamarre, Caye Verte and Petite Clef. Tintamarre island is a little farther away from the coast than Caye Verte and Petite Clef. Depending on the sea and weather conditions, the trip from Orient Bay to Tintamarre take around 25 m.

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