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St Martin/St Maarten / Special Interests / Family

By Nigel Tisdall

St Martin/St Maarten has plenty to interest children. The French side of the island, in particular, has safe, sandy beaches with good facilities and a civilised atmosphere that appeals to many visitors – all pools, for example, must be fenced with a child-proof gate.

Teenagers are also well-catered for if they like watersports, sailing and seaside activities. Many of the larger hotels offer children's clubs and there is also the option of renting a villa with a pool. Here are some fun things for a family to do.

St Martin

Bayside Riding Club, Le Galion Bay - A well-established stables with 30 horses that offers beach rides and lessons. Closed Sunday, cash only.

Butterfly Farm, Le Galion Bay - A secret world of dazzlingly beautiful insects backed up with a highly informative tour.

Loterie Farm, Rambaud - Zipwires, obstacle courses, hiking trails, a swimming pool and a good restaurant – it's all here in this forest adventure centre. Closed Monday.

Pinel Island - Off the northeast coast, this small, low-lying island with sheltered sands and easygoing restaurants is a good choice for families looking to spend some time on the beach. The atmosphere is lively and friendly and there is a snorkelling trail. Ferries depart from Cul-de-Sac on the hour from 9am with the last one back in the late afternoon.

St Maarten

Carousel, Cole Bay - A winning combination of a Venetian-style merry-go-round and Italian ice cream parlour.

Playstation 4 Kids - A floating adventure playground close to Pelican Marina - book though Aqua Mania Adventures, in the Simpson Bay Resort.

St Maarten Zoo, Philipsburg - See and learn about the wildlife of the Caribbean and other tropical regions.

Seaside Nature Park, Cole Bay - Horseriding is the principal activity at the Lucky Stables here, which take children from age six. Over-nines can also join hiking and kayaking tours.

Browse Family on other islands

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St Martin/St Maarten’s weather

St Martin/St Maarten weather chart

When to go and weather

Looking for inspiration?

  1. Experience the sights and sounds of Orient Beach
  2. Swim to Pinel Island for a decadent lunch at Karibuni
  3. Climb to Fort-Louis above Marigot and appreciate the historic views
  4. Enjoy classic French cuisine in Grand-Case
  5. Sail to Anguilla or St Barth’s for the day

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