St Maarten offers more than just beaches and nightlife; its rugged coastlines, lush hills, and hidden coves make it an excellent destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Whether you’re after sweeping ocean vistas, challenging mountain climbs, or tranquil nature walks, St Maarten has something to satisfy your craving for outdoor adventure. I personally enjoy the Guana Bay Coastal Hike because it combines stunning views with a manageable pace, perfect for those wanting to experience the island’s wild side without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, with guides sharing interesting stories about the island’s natural and cultural history, you get more than just scenery—you get a sense of place. For more details, check out the Guana Bay Coastal Hike.
If you’re curious about exploring multiple facets of the island’s natural beauty in one day, the St. Martin – St. Maarten: Small Group, Coastal Hike & Swim Tour offers a full itinerary. It combines mountain viewpoints, wildlife spotting, and underwater snorkeling—all in just four hours. I like how this tour balances land and sea, giving you a taste of diverse environments. It’s perfect if you want a compact yet comprehensive experience. Details are available at the Small Group Coastal Hike & Swim Tour.
Finally, for those who want a bit of inner peace along with outdoor activity, the One Day Retreat. Meditation, mindful hike, concert at sea blends gentle movement with relaxation. It’s a more introspective option, ideal if you’re looking to unwind while connecting with nature. Although it’s less about physical challenge, its focus on mindfulness makes it a lovely choice for travelers seeking balance. Learn more about this retreat at One Day Retreat.
1. Guana Bay Coastal Hike
The Guana Bay Coastal Hike is a fantastic way to see a less-visited side of St Maarten’s eastern coast. For around $40 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring quiet trails from Guana Bay to Geneve Bay, led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes a hip pack, bottled water, and a complimentary beverage, making it easy to focus on the scenery without fussing over logistics. What makes this hike special is the rugged landscape where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, natural rock formations, and wildlife. The terrain is described as leisurely but with some care needed, making it suitable for most fit travelers. Several reviewers mention how the guide shares interesting stories about the island’s history and natural features, adding depth to the experience.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a moderate, scenic walk with minimal difficulty, but maximum visual payoff. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see a different side of the island. The calm, coastal environment also makes it a good choice for families with older children.
Bottom line: A manageable, scenic hike with excellent views and insightful commentary—great for a half-day adventure that’s both relaxing and informative.
2. St. Martin – St. Maarten: Small Group, Coastal Hike & Swim Tour
This 4-hour tour is a top pick for those wanting a full taste of St Maarten’s outdoor diversity. It begins with a trek to the island’s highest point, Pic Paradis, where you get stunning panoramic views of the landscape and ocean. The tour then includes a visit to a saltwater pond—a fantastic spot for wildlife spotting, including lizards, birds, and iguanas. The highlight for many is the snorkeling in a calm bay, exploring the vibrant underwater world filled with colorful fish and even submerged objects like a helicopter and submarine. The tour also includes a stop for coffee, tea, and cake, which makes it feel less like a workout and more like a relaxed nature outing.
Guide Werner, who’s been praised for his wealth of knowledge, keeps the group engaged with stories about the island’s flora, fauna, and geology. The tour’s small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the variety of activities—hiking, wildlife viewing, snorkeling—appeals to active travelers who want more than just a walk.
Bottom line: A well-rounded trip for nature lovers, offering elevation, wildlife, and underwater exploration, all with a friendly guide. It’s a little pricier but offers significant value for the diverse sights.
3. St.Maarten Nature, Hike & Snorkeling
For those who want to combine land and sea adventures, the St. Maarten Nature, Hike & Snorkeling tour is a solid choice. It costs about $75 per person and lasts around four hours, making it a full half-day of activity. The tour includes a hike to a snorkeling spot where you can see an array of marine life, including fish and even wreckage like a helicopter. The hike features some challenging sections with loose rocks and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate difficulty. The guide, Terry, is known for his thorough knowledge and friendly demeanor, ensuring safety and fun.
While some reviews mention minor organizational hiccups—like transfers from the port requiring additional taxis—the overall experience is positive, especially for those who enjoy a balance of physical activity and relaxation by the water. You’ll have the chance to unwind after the hike under your umbrella, making it suitable for those who want a mix of adventure and downtime.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore both coastal terrain and underwater life in a single tour, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate hiking.
4. St. Martin or St. Maarten: Nature Hike Secret Beach Tour
If you’re looking for a challenging hike with stunning coastal scenery, the Secret Beach Tour is your pick. Priced at $89, this four-hour tour takes you through rugged terrain along the Petites Cayes and Anse Marcel, with the reward of discovering a secluded beach—Baie des Petites Cayes—for a refreshing swim. The trail includes steep sections and uneven surfaces, so good footwear and some stamina are necessary. What sets this tour apart is the combination of intimate nature exploration and the thrill of reaching a less-visited beach. The guide shares insights about the flora and geography of the area, making this a rich educational experience as well.
The route offers gorgeous views of green mountains, blue water, and the surrounding islands. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a more demanding hike who want to experience the island’s wild side. The serene beach at the end makes it a rewarding finish.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for serious hikers seeking solitude and spectacular scenery, with a focus on rugged beauty and physical challenge.
5. One Day Retreat. Meditation, mindful hike, concert at sea
For a different kind of outdoor experience, the One Day Retreat offers a mix of mindfulness, gentle hiking, and musical relaxation. Priced at $90, this four-hour experience focuses on well-being, making it ideal for those looking to recharge mentally and physically. The retreat includes a mindful hike surrounded by beautiful scenery, a moment of self-reflection, and finishing with a concert at sea. It’s a self-care day designed to leave you feeling rejuvenated rather than exhausted.
Since the focus is on relaxation and self-awareness, it’s more suitable for travelers who prefer a gentle pace and introspection over physical challenge. While there are no reviews yet, the combination of activities promises a unique way to connect with nature while also caring for your inner self.
Bottom line: A peaceful, restorative outing perfect for travelers interested in combining outdoor activity with personal growth.
$90.00 per person
6. Private Beach Hike Sunrise Serenity
If witnessing sunrise over the ocean sounds appealing, the Private Beach Hike Sunrise Serenity is an exceptional choice. For $75, this three-hour tour takes you through rocky trails toward Petite Cayes, with panoramic views of Anse Marcel, Pinel Island, and Anguilla. The hike involves some rugged terrain, so sturdy shoes and long pants are recommended. Along the way, you’ll stop to take photos, explore native plants—including labeled cacti—and enjoy the peaceful early-morning atmosphere. The trail ends at the secluded Petite Cayes beach, where you can relax and soak in the dawn’s quiet beauty.
This hike is best suited for early risers and those who appreciate spectacular vistas and solitude. The focus on photography and flora makes it ideal for nature lovers and shutterbugs alike. The guide’s insights into the local plants add an educational touch, enriching the experience.
Bottom line: A scenic, peaceful hike that rewards sunrise admirers and nature enthusiasts with unforgettable views and a sense of calm.
$75.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hiking or Trekking Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and available time. The Guana Bay Coastal Hike is great if you want a short, scenic outing, while the Small Group Coastal Hike & Swim offers a full, active day with diverse experiences. For a more leisurely or mindful day, the Retreat or Sunrise Serenity hikes are ideal. If you’re after a real challenge, the Secret Beach Tour pushes your limits with rugged terrain and a secluded reward.
Booking early is recommended, especially for tours with limited group sizes like the small-group hike or those requiring specific gear. Also, check the weather forecast, as some trails can be slippery or muddy during rainy periods.
Final Thoughts
St Maarten provides a great variety of hiking and trekking options, from easy coastal walks to demanding mountain climbs. The Guana Bay Coastal Hike offers a manageable yet stunning introduction to the island’s rugged beauty, while the Small Group Coastal Hike & Swim Tour combines mountain views, wildlife, and water fun for a full-day adventure. For travelers seeking tranquility, the Sunrise Serenity hike or the Retreat provide peaceful escapes with a focus on inner well-being.
No matter your fitness level or interest, there’s a tour that can help you experience St Maarten’s natural side authentically. Be sure to book early, pack good shoes, and prepare for memorable outdoor experiences. Happy trekking!