Best Snorkeling in St Martin: Ultimate Guide to the Best Locations

The island of Saint Martin / Sint Maarten is one of the best places in the Caribbean to go snorkeling. I've travelled on a few occasions to this beautiful Caribbean island for the day on multiple cruises, including my cruise on the Caribbean Princess where I decided to go snorkeling in St Martin.

I embarked on a snorkeling tour in St Martin with my sister where we visited several locations to snorkel on both the French and Dutch sides of the island. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or it's your first time attempting the water activity, going snorkeling in St Martin is a really fun way to experience the nature, wildlife, and gorgeous landscapes of this tropical island.

Fun Facts About Sint Maarten / Saint Martin

Sint Maarten, or Saint Martin, is a half Dutch, half French island in the Caribbean. Here are a few fun facts about the island:

• It is the smallest island in the world shared by two nations.
• Saint Maarten is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Prior to 2010, it was designated as an island territory as part of the Netherlands Antilles.
• Legend has it that a Frenchman and a Dutchman divided up the land on the island by standing back to back and walking off in opposite directions, walking around the island until the met up again. Apparently, the Dutchman stopped for a refreshing brew during his walk, and as a result, the French ended up with 60% of the land and the Dutch with only 40%!
• There is no border crossing between the French and Dutch sides. There are only small signs indicating that you've changed territories.
• St. Maarten was originally named Soualiga, or "Land of Salt" by the Carib Indians. When Christopher Columbus spotted the island in 1493, he named it after Saint Martin of Tours as it was the holiday, St. Martin Day on that day (November 11th).

Best Snorkeling in St Martin: Captain Bob's Snorkeling Tour

We visited St. Martin from a cruise ship, though Captain Bob's Snorkeling Tour is open to anyone staying on the island or those traveling from cruise ships. We walked to the meeting place from the cruise ship dock to meet Captain Bob himself.

In total, there were only six people on our snorkeling tour in St Martin, which was a surprisingly small number. Small group tours are always better for snorkeling trips. First, the waters won't be crowded so it's less likely you'll get kicked or bumped into by a fellow snorkeler. Second, it's much better for the wildlife as it's less of a disruption to the natural surroundings.

I took this St. Martin snorkeling excursion with my sister, Robyn, who was sailing aboard the Caribbean Princess with me. We boarded the little speed boat and sat up near the front. It's a bit of a bumpier ride at the front, though sitting at the back means that you'll get more wet. We wanted to sit up front where the action was.

The speed boat ride was super thrilling and fun. We flew along the turquoise waters of Sint Maarten. It's also one of the best places to view the beautiful scenery of the island as we passed by beaches, rocky shorelines, and lush, green mountains.

Snorkeling in St Maarten: Tintamarre Island

One of the best places to go snorkeling in St Martin is Tintamarre Island. This is the first stop on Captain Bob's Snorkeling Tour. Although it was a bright and sunny day, it was incredibly windy. Unfortunately, as the waters were too choppy, the conditions did not allow for us to sail to Tintamarre Island in the Atlantic Ocean.

This was a bit disappointing as Tintamarre Island is a deserted tropical island in the French Nature Reserve. There are great chances to snorkel with sea turtles around Tintamarre Island. If it's super windy, there's a chance that you won't be able to visit Tintamarre Island, but I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

Tintamarre Island is only accessible by boat and large groups of tourists are forbidden there. Only small groups may go snorkeling at the island. It's also possible that you might spot some stingrays while snorkeling. It offers some of the best snorkeling in St. Martin due to the fact that it's more isolated than other spots, and also because you might snorkel with stingrays and sea turtles.

Snorkeling in St Martin: Creole Rock

Since we couldn't snorkel at Tintamarre Island, we headed directly to our second snorkeling location, Creole Rock. Before going snorkeling, our tour guide, Jim, took us to a small beach on the mainland near Creole Rock for a snorkeling lesson.

This tour is fantastic for those who have never wore a snorkel mask or snorkel fins in their lives. As Robyn and I have snorkeled on several occasions in the past, we didn't really need a lesson. The lesson is super valuable for anyone who is a beginner at snorkeling.

I wish that we could have spent more time snorkeling or sailing and it might have been better if the tour company asked how experienced we were ahead of time, only teaching basic lessons to those who requested them.

The snorkeling at Creole Rock was pretty decent. The speed boat anchored off the coast. As we swam closer to the small rocky islands, we witnessed several species of fish. There were many sea urchins lining the ocean floor, and the fish swam between the rocks. The snorkeling around Creole Rock had more rocks than coral, though it was a great place for spotting tropical fish.

Snorkeling in St Martin: Mullet Bay

After lunch at Grand Case Beach where we enjoyed frozen margaritas and the vegan salad option (you can request vegetarian and vegan meals in advance), we were ready for some more snorkeling and swimming. We were off to Mullet Bay.

Mullet Bay is one of the best beaches in St Martin, so it was packed with tourists, catamarans and party boats. When this location is really busy, it's not great for snorkeling. With everyone splashing around and boats everywhere, this is a better swimming location than snorkeling location.

However, Captain Bob's Snorkeling Tour offers unlimited beverages, so you're welcome to grab a beer and a pool noodle, and go for a relaxing float with a drink in your hand. Unfortunately, we didn't spot many fish, but we did have a wonderful time at Mullet Bay all the same.

On this tour, you will also make one last stop at Maho Bay for the Princess Juliana International Airport to watch the big planes fly directly overhead. It's all the luck of the draw as to whether or not you'll see any jumbo jets, but we did watch one small plane land. This can be quite the dramatic sight if any large planes fly toward the airport as they'll fly directly overhead.

More Snorkeling in St Martin (French Side)

As I mentioned before, Saint Martin (or Sint Maarten) is the territory of two different countries, France and the Netherlands. The island is divided into two, so you have the opportunity to visit both France and the Netherlands on the same trip.

Here are the best places to go snorkeling in St Martin on the French side of the island. This is in addition to the places I've already mentioned above, which include Tintamarre Island and Creole Rock.

Le Galion Beach / Coconut Grove

Located on the eastern side of St. Martin, Coconut Grove in Baie de l'Embouchure is one of the best places to go snorkeling on the island. This warm, crystal clear water is shallow and protected from the swell by the coral reef.

Le Galion Beach is also a very family-friendly beach since the waters are very calm and not too deep. However, at the entrance to Coconut Grove, windsurfers and surfers can practice their sport when waves are present.

Pinel Island

Pinel Island is your little oasis in Saint Martin. There are tranquil beaches and an unspoiled nature to experience. In fact, there's no running water on Pinel Island since it is a protected area within the Nature Preserve. So, be sure to pack some water with you when you visit.

You can reach Pinel Island by the shuttle boat (runs on the half hour) or by sea kayak / stand up paddleboard. Pinel Island is home to an underwater snorkeling trail that begins at the shuttle boat's landing jetty (the Pinel Island Marine Trail). You'll be able to witness so many sea creatures in this sheltered cove.

Happy Bay Beach

Happy Bay Beach is located on the opposite side of the island on the west coast. It's just the north of Friar's Bay Beach, so it's possible to snorkel at both beaches in the same day if you'd like. You'll find the white sands and turquoise waters that make tourists flock here.

This beach is a great place to snorkel, swim or relax beneath the shade of a palm tree. There are no beach bars or restaurants here, so make sure to bring your own water and snacks just in case. Depending on the weather and the wind, you might be able to try your hand at surfing here, too.

Friar's Bay Beach

Friar's Bay Beach is just south of Happy Bay Beach. This beach is equally as beautiful as Happy Bay Beach and is similarly great for snorkeling. Where these beaches differ are the amenities: you will be able to visit one of two beach bars, rent lounger chairs here, and it's also a kid-friendly beach, too.

Baie Rouge Beach

Baie Rouge Beach (Red Bay Beach) is located in the Lowlands area of Saint Martin. If you check out the rocks at the north end of the beach, you'll find the best spot for snorkeling. Another reason why it offers the best snorkeling in St Martin? Beyond those rocks is another secluded cove that's ideal for snorkeling!

This is one of the longest beaches in St Martin. There's ample space for everyone to relax and soak up the sunshine. There are also many villas and hotels situated on Baie Rouge Beach, making it a great place to set up a home base.

More Snorkeling in Sint Maarten (Dutch Side)

There are even more amazing places to snorkel in Sint Maarten on the Dutch side of the island. These beaches and surrounding waters offer some of the best snorkeling in St Martin. This is in addition to Mullet Bay Beach, which I already mentioned above.

Simpson Bay Beach

Simpson Bay Beach is one of the largest beaches on the island. This is a center for water sports, nightlife, hotels, beach bars and shopping. You can also embark on many tours from Simpson Bay Beach, like sailing, snorkeling and more.

This is a bustling and busy area though. I'd try snorkeling here if you're staying nearby. Otherwise, I'd head to another snorkeling spot in St Maarten.

Cupecoy Beach

Cupecoy Beach is a unique beach in Sint Maarten with its stunning limestone cliffs. The coral reef at Cupecoy Beach is right along the shore, so it's easily accessible to all. You can snorkel and swim between Cupecoy Beach and Mullet Beach, though these locations do get quite busy during high tourism seasons.

If you're looking for one of the best places to view the sunset in St Martin, head directly to Cupecoy Beach. Or better yet, swim and snorkel in the afternoon, and watch the sun go down to wrap up a memorable day.

Kim Sha Beach

Located in Simpson Bay, Kim Sha Beach offers water activities for all interests, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing. This is a well-protected, family-friendly beach that's perfect for kids and snorkelers alike. The coral reef protects the bay from getting too choppy, and the waters are fairly shallow.

There are many nearby hotels and restaurants, so it's quite possible that you'll stay on Kim Sha Beach when you travel to St. Martin. If that's the case, head down to the beach with your snorkel gear and go for a swim near the reef. Hopefully you'll find plenty of colorful fish.

Dawn Beach

Dawn Beach is located on the eastern side of Sint Maarten, and it's one of the best places to watch the sunrise on the island. Its clear waters are very popular with snorkelers as there are many beautiful sea creatures and coral formations.

However, Dawn Beach is on the windward side and can be exposed to the swells of the Atlantic Ocean. Take the proper precautions when snorkeling here and try to visit when the waters are calm.

Indigo Bay Beach

Indigo Bay Beach (also known as Cay Bay) is an eco-friendly beach free from commercial trapping and over-development. Its calm waters and soft sandy beaches are inviting for people of all ages. This is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature all to yourself.

It's possible to see angelfish, stingrays, parrotfish and so many more varieties of colorful fish here. The nearby Seaside Nature Park is a great place for hiking and kayaking. There's also the Indigo Beach Bar and Restaurant on its shores where you can grab a bite to eat or take advantage of chair and umbrella rentals.

Divi Little Bay / Little Bay Beach

Not too far from Indigo Bay Beach lies Little Bay Beach (Divi Little Bay). This bay has calm, clear waters and an abundance of sea life. Most unique when compared to other places to snorkel in St Martin are its six wrecks (shipwrecks and the wreck of a helicopter!).

Want to pair your snorkeling with other activities? Take a hike up to Fort Amsterdam for sweeping panoramic views of the island. This beach is also close to restaurants, bars, and places that rent snorkeling gear and water sports gear.

Bring Your Own Snorkeling Gear When Snorkeling in St Martin

While snorkeling gear is always supplied when you take a snorkeling tour, you will need to bring your own if you decide to explore these locations on your own. I'll make a few recommendations for the best snorkeling gear to bring with you on a snorkeling trip.

This Zeeporte Snorkel Set is perfect for travel. It comes with an anti-fog snorkel mask, a top quality snorkel, snorkel fins, and a quick-dry bag to put everything into. If you prefer, you can purchase a Full Face Snorkel Mask Set where the mask and snorkel are incorporated into one piece. This set also comes with snorkel fins, too. In addition, here are Full Face Snorkel Masks for Kids.

In conclusion, while Saint Martin isn't the best destination in the world for snorkeling, you will find some fascinating places where many fish, sea turtles and stingrays like to hang out. With any luck, you'll have a great time discovering the underwater wildlife on this beautiful French and Dutch island in the Caribbean.

If you're looking for more places to go snorkeling in the Caribbean, here are some other destinations where we've gone snorkeling and written some informative guides:

• The Best Places to Go Snorkeling in Aruba (And Tour Recommendations)
• One of our Favourite Places to Snorkel Ever: Klein Bonaire, the Island of Bonaire
• Snorkeling at Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands
• Snorkeling at Cas Cay, St. Thomas, USVI
• The Best Snorkeling in the Caribbean

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