Sint Peters, Sint Maarten Travel Guide

Discover Sint Peters in Sint Maarten: A blend of natural beauty, local charm, and vibrant community spirit, perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Nestled in the heart of the island, Sint Peters offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm. This delightful suburb is surrounded by lush green hills and is close to many of the island's top attractions. Whether you're looking to explore nature or immerse yourself in local culture, Sint Peters is a wonderful place to start your adventure. The area is known for its friendly locals and vibrant community spirit. As you stroll through the streets, you'll find colorful houses, quaint shops, and inviting cafes. The local markets are a treat for the senses, filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. Don't miss the chance to try some traditional dishes, which offer a taste of the island's rich culinary heritage. For those who love the outdoors, Sint Peters is a gateway to some of the island's best hiking trails. The nearby Emilio Wilson Park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a family picnic, while the more adventurous can explore the trails leading up to the peaks of the surrounding hills. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the island and the Caribbean Sea beyond.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sint Peters.

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and handmade crafts.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike; the trails can be steep and rocky.
Try the local street food, especially the Johnny Cakes and saltfish.
Bring a refillable water bottle; many places have water refill stations to help reduce plastic waste.
Emilio Wilson Park is great for families; it has play areas and plenty of space for picnics.

Explore Sint Peters: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Sint Peters

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Sint Maarten Antillen

Explore Sint Maarten Antillen: A Tropical Paradise of Pristine Beaches, Vibrant Culture, and Unforgettable Adventures Await You.

4.5

Seaside Nature Park

Discover the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Seaside Nature Park, a serene escape in Sint Maarten, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

4.6

National Nature Reserve of St. Martin

Experience the serene beauty of the National Nature Reserve of St. Martin, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.5

almond grove estate

Discover the stunning views of Sint Maarten at Almond Grove Estate, a perfect observation deck for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

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Best landmarks in Sint Peters

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Port Of St. Maarten

Explore the vibrant Port of St. Maarten, your gateway to Caribbean culture, stunning beaches, and unforgettable adventures.

4.6

Loterie Farm

Explore the lush landscapes of Loterie Farm, where outdoor adventures meet exquisite dining in the heart of St. Martin's natural beauty.

4.5

Marigot Market

Explore the vibrant Marigot Market in St. Martin for an authentic taste of Caribbean culture, local crafts, and delicious cuisine.

4.2

Rainforest Adventures St Maarten

Explore the vibrant ecosystems and thrilling experiences at Rainforest Adventures St Maarten, where adventure and nature unite in paradise.

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Best restaurants in Sint Peters

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Chesterfields Restaurant & Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine at Chesterfields Restaurant & Bar in Philipsburg - a culinary haven for tourists.

4.4

Avantika

Savor authentic Thai flavors with a Caribbean twist at Avantika in Sint Maarten – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

4.5

Captain’s Rib Shack

Experience delicious ribs and Caribbean cuisine at Captain’s Rib Shack in Simpson Bay - a true gem for food lovers!

4.4

The Greenhouse

Experience exquisite dining at The Greenhouse in Simpson Bay—where local flavors meet international cuisine in a lush tropical setting.

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Best bars in Sint Peters

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Buccaneer Beach Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled cuisine at Buccaneer Beach Bar in Simpson Bay, a premier destination for food and fun.

4.3

Dinghy Dock Sailors Bar

Experience the charm of Dinghy Dock Sailors Bar in Simpson Bay, where delicious food and craft beers meet stunning marina views.

4.4

Soggy Dollar Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Soggy Dollar Bar in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten – where cocktails meet stunning Caribbean views.

4.5

Taloula Mango’s / Blue Bitch Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning ocean views at Taloula Mango’s / Blue Bitch Bar in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.

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Best nightclubs in Sint Peters

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Soggy Dollar Bar

Discover the vibrant Soggy Dollar Bar in Sint Maarten, where cocktails, sunsets, and island vibes blend for an unforgettable experience.

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Eros club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Eros Club in Marigot, St. Martin, where exceptional drinks and lively entertainment await every visitor.

4.3

The Mood Lounge

Experience the vibrant flavors of Sint Maarten at The Mood Lounge, where delicious grilled dishes meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.1

The Green Bar

Discover the vibrant spirit of Sint Maarten at The Green Bar, where refreshing drinks and local flavors come together in a lively atmosphere.

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Best shops in Sint Peters

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Sint Rose Shopping Mall

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Phillipsburg, Sint Maarten

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Jewels & Beyond

Explore Jewels & Beyond in Sint Maarten for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring exquisite jewelry, beachwear, and unique souvenirs.

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Shop-4-Less

Explore the vibrant world of Shop-4-Less in Sint Maarten, where festive supplies and toys await every family and holiday enthusiast.

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Explore Sint Peters on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sint Peters, mapped for you.

Sint Peters Essentials

Sint Peters is located in the central part of Sint Maarten. The closest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is approximately a 20-minute drive from Sint Peters. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Sint Peters. There are also public buses and shuttle services available that connect the airport to various parts of the island, including Sint Peters.
Transportation within Sint Peters and the broader Sint Maarten area is convenient. Taxis are readily available and are a popular choice for tourists. Car rentals are also a great option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Public buses operate throughout the island, offering an affordable way to travel between different areas. Biking is another viable option for getting around Sint Peters, thanks to its relatively flat terrain.
The official currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Sint Peters. ATMs are available throughout the area, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major towns.
Sint Peters is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's always important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the crime rate is relatively low, incidents targeting tourists can occur, particularly in more isolated areas. Always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the St. Maarten Medical Center, located about 15 minutes away from Sint Peters. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many offer over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress casually but respectfully. Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but not in town or restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Bon dia.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Sint Peters like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Interact with the residents, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't miss out on local events and festivals, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Sint Maarten. Additionally, exploring the nearby natural trails and parks can provide a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

When is the best time to visit Sint Peters?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sint Peters

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sint Peters. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeAjo
  [ah-yo]
- YesSi
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fah-bohr]
- Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
- Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-pehn-sah]
- How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kohn tah bahy]
- Fine. And you?Bon. I boso?
  [bohn ee boh-soh]
- Do you speak English?Bo ta papia Ingles?
  [boh tah pah-pee-ah een-glehs]
- I don't understandMi no ta kompronde
  [mee noh tah kohm-prohn-deh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi kier wak e menu, por fabor
  [mee keer wak eh meh-noo pohr fah-bohr]
- I don't eat meatMi no kome karni
  [mee noh koh-meh kahr-nee]
- Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi kier paga, por fabor
  [mee keer pah-gah pohr fah-bohr]
- Help!Yudami!
  [yoo-dah-mee]
- Go away!Bai bai!
  [bahy bahy]
- Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [yah-mah poh-lis]
- Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [yah-mah oon dohk-tehr]
- I'm lostMi a perde mi mes
  [mee ah pehr-deh mee mehs]
- I'm illMi ta malu
  [mee tah mah-loo]
- I'd like to buy...Mi kier kumpra...
  [mee keer koom-prah]
- I'm just lookingMi ta mira solamente
  [mee tah mee-rah soh-lah-men-teh]
- How much is it?Kuantu esaki ta kosta?
  [kwan-too eh-sah-kee tah kohs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu karu
  [eh-sah-kee tah moo-choo kah-roo]
- Can you lower the price?Bo por baha e preis?
  [boh pohr bah-hah eh preys]
- What time is it?Ki ora e ta?
  [kee oh-rah eh tah]
- It's one o'clockE ta un ora
  [eh tah oon oh-rah]
- Half past (10)Diez y mitar
  [dee-ehs ee mee-tahr]
- MorningMarduga
  [mahr-doo-gah]
- AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tahr-dee]
- EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
- YesterdayAyera
  [ah-yeh-rah]
- TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [seys]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]
- Where's a/the...?Unda tin un/e...
  [oon-dah teen oon/eh]
- What's the address?Kua ta e adres?
  [kwah tah eh ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [boh pohr moos-trah mee ree-bah eh mah-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Kiko ora e siguiente (bus)?
  [kee-koh oh-rah eh see-gwee-ehn-teh boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biahe (pa ....)
  [oon byah-heh pah]

History of Sint Peters

Long before European settlers arrived, Sint Peters was inhabited by the Arawak and Carib people. These indigenous communities thrived on the island, cultivating crops, fishing, and engaging in trade with neighboring islands. Archaeological findings, such as pottery and tools, provide evidence of their long-standing presence in the region.
The arrival of European settlers in the early 17th century marked a significant turning point in the history of Sint Peters. The Dutch and French vied for control over the island, resulting in the Treaty of Concordia in 1648, which divided the island between the two nations. Sint Peters, located on the Dutch side, began to develop as a small agricultural community.
In the 18th century, the fertile lands of Sint Peters became home to several plantations. These plantations primarily focused on producing sugarcane and tobacco, which were significant exports at the time. The labor force consisted largely of enslaved Africans, whose contributions were instrumental in the economic growth of the region.
The abolition of slavery in 1863 was a pivotal moment in the history of Sint Peters. Freed slaves transitioned from plantation labor to establishing their own communities and livelihoods. This period saw the emergence of a distinct Afro-Caribbean culture, characterized by unique traditions, music, and cuisine.
The 20th century brought significant changes to Sint Peters as the island shifted from an agriculture-based economy to tourism. The development of infrastructure, such as roads and housing, transformed the area into a vibrant residential community. Today, Sint Peters is known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural diversity, and welcoming atmosphere.
Sint Peters is rich in cultural heritage, with festivals and events that celebrate its diverse history. The annual Carnival, held in the spring, is a highlight, featuring colorful parades, music, and dance. Other cultural events, such as Emancipation Day and St. Maarten's Day, offer insights into the island's history and traditions.