St Maarten vs St John: Which Island Is Better to Visit?

Trying to decide between St Maarten vs St John for your next Caribbean getaway? Both islands offer stunning beaches, unique cultural experiences, and plenty of outdoor adventures. But which one is the better fit for your travel style?

I’ve explored both destinations firsthand and gathered insights from other travelers to bring you this detailed comparison. Whether you’re looking for excitement, relaxation, or budget-friendly options, this guide will help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in! 🌴✈️

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1. Island Size & Accessibility

St. Maarten and St. John differ significantly in size and accessibility.

St. Maarten’s Accessibility

St. Maarten spans 37 square miles and is divided into two territories: the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint-Martin). The island is home to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which offers direct flights from North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. Additionally, St. Maarten serves as a hub for island-hopping to places like Anguilla and St. Barts.

💡 Personal Insight: I loved the ease of hopping between different cultures on St. Maarten. One day, I was enjoying French pastries in Saint-Martin, and the next, I was soaking up the Dutch Caribbean vibe in Philipsburg.

St. John’s Accessibility

St. John is much smaller, covering just 20 square miles. It does not have its own airport, so visitors must fly into St. Thomas (STT) and then take a ferry (about 20-45 minutes) to St. John. The ferry ride is scenic, but the extra travel step may be inconvenient for some.

🏆 Winner: St. Maarten (Easier to reach with a major airport and better island-hopping options)

2. Beaches & Water Activities

Both islands boast incredible beaches, but their atmospheres are different.

St. Maarten’s Beaches

St. Maarten offers a mix of lively and secluded beaches. Maho Beach is famous for its low-flying planes, while Orient Bay Beach has a European feel with watersports and beach clubs. Mullet Bay Beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and Creole Rock is a hotspot for marine life.

💡 First-Hand Experience: Watching planes soar just overhead at Maho Beach was exhilarating! I also enjoyed the calm waters at Mullet Bay—perfect for floating the day away.

St. John’s Beaches

St. John is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, especially within Virgin Islands National Park. Trunk Bay is world-famous for its underwater snorkeling trail, while Honeymoon Beach and Maho Bay offer crystal-clear waters and sea turtle sightings.

💡 Personal Insight: Snorkeling the underwater trail at Trunk Bay was one of my favorite experiences! The coral and fish were incredible, and the beach itself looked like a postcard.

🏆 Winner: St. John (More untouched, picturesque beaches and excellent snorkeling)

3. Nightlife & Entertainment

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene, St. Maarten is the better choice.

St. Maarten’s Lively Nightlife

St. Maarten has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in Maho Village and Simpson Bay, where you’ll find casinos, beach bars, and nightclubs. Sunset Beach Bar, Mimosa Sky Lounge, and Lotus Nightclub keep the party going late.

💡 First-Hand Experience: Enjoying drinks at the Mimosa Sky Lounge, under the stars was unforgettable. The music, the drinks, and the ocean breeze made it magical.

St. John’s Laid-Back Nightlife

St. John’s nightlife is much quieter and more relaxed, with a focus on casual beach bars and live music rather than big clubs. The Beach Bar and Woody’s Seafood Saloon in Cruz Bay are popular spots for a laid-back evening.

💡 Personal Insight: I loved the chill vibe of St. John’s bars, but if you’re looking for a party, St. Maarten is the way to go.

🏆 Winner: St. Maarten (More variety and late-night options)

4. Resorts & Accommodations

St. Maarten’s Resorts

St. Maarten offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to all-inclusive options and everything in between. Sonesta Ocean Point Resort provides an upscale, adults-only experience, perfect for couples, while Divi Little Bay Beach Resort offers more family-friendly options with multiple pools and dining options. Many resorts are located right on the beach, giving guests easy access to the island’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family vacation, St. Maarten has plenty of choices that suit all budgets.

St. John’s Resorts

St. John offers a more boutique-style experience, with fewer large resorts. Accommodations tend to be more intimate and eco-friendly, with places like Caneel Bay Resort, which has its own private beaches and nature trails. Gallows Point Resort provides a unique stay with breathtaking ocean views and villas that blend into the natural surroundings. Visitors looking for a more secluded and luxurious experience can rent private villas, many of which are nestled in the hills with panoramic views of the sea. However, the limited options can make it harder to find accommodations during peak season.

🏆 Winner: St. Maarten (More all-inclusive and budget-friendly resorts)

5. Cost & Budget Considerations

St. Maarten’s Costs

St. Maarten offers a wide range of affordable hotels, budget dining, and duty-free shopping. You can find budget-friendly accommodations around Simpson Bay and Philipsburg, making it easier for travelers on a tighter budget. While more luxurious resorts and fine dining options are available, they can significantly increase the cost of your stay. However, St. Maarten’s tax-free shopping allows for some savings, especially if you’re looking to purchase electronics, jewelry, or designer goods.

St. John’s Costs

St. John is generally more expensive, as most accommodations are boutique resorts or luxury villas, catering to travelers seeking a more exclusive experience. With a higher cost of living, groceries and dining can be pricier than on other islands, especially in more remote areas. The limited number of hotels and high demand for premium accommodations drive prices up. While you can still find charming smaller cottages and vacation rentals, the overall price for staying on St. John will usually be higher than on St. Maarten.

🏆 Winner: St. Maarten (More budget-friendly options)

6. Weather & Climate

Both St. Maarten and St. John enjoy warm, tropical climates year-round, with temperatures averaging between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). However, St. John is located in the hurricane belt, making it more vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes, especially from June to November. St. Maarten, also in the hurricane belt, has been significantly impacted by hurricanes in recent history, including Hurricane Luis in 1995 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. St. John’s drier months are typically from December to April, offering ideal travel conditions, but it’s wise to keep the risk of weather disruptions in mind during the rainy season.

🏆 Winner: Tie (Both islands have similar weather, but hurricane season can affect St. John more)

7. Outdoor Adventures & Activities

St. Maarten’s Adventures

St. Maarten offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities. You can experience the thrill of zip-lining at Loterie Farm, which offers stunning views of the island’s lush landscape. Hiking Pic Paradis, the island’s highest peak, rewards you with panoramic vistas of the island’s beautiful coastline. Additionally, ATV tours allow visitors to explore the island’s rugged terrain and secluded beaches. There are also opportunities for windsurfing, kayaking, and boat tours, making St. Maarten a great destination for active travelers.

St. John’s Outdoor Activities

St. John is 60% national park, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island boasts hiking trails like the Reef Bay Trail, which leads to scenic views, ancient petroglyphs, and waterfalls. The island is also home to some of the best hidden beaches and world-class snorkeling locations, including Trunk Bay, known for its underwater trail. You can also kayak through the mangroves, explore coves, or go on a kayaking eco-tour to learn about the island’s biodiversity. For those seeking even more adventure, you can take a sailing trip around the island or enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in its calm waters.

💡 First-Hand Experience: Hiking the Reef Bay Trail was an unforgettable experience. The views, nature, and history made it a must-do!

🏆 Winner: St. John (More outdoor adventure opportunities)

8. Shopping & Local Markets

St. Maarten is a duty-free shopping paradise, especially in Philipsburg, where you’ll find a wide range of high-end jewelry, electronics, designer brands, and luxury items. Whether you’re searching for fine watches, perfume, or local Caribbean crafts, the island has a bustling shopping scene. Additionally, you’ll find various malls, outdoor markets, and boutique shops offering unique souvenirs and goods. The island is known for its tax-free prices, making it a favorite for shoppers.

On the other hand, St. John is more laid-back when it comes to shopping. The island has a few charming boutique stores and local markets in Cruz Bay, offering handmade jewelry, art, and souvenirs that reflect the island’s natural beauty and culture. While the shopping is more unique and artisanal, it lacks the variety and volume of goods available on St. Maarten.

🏆 Winner: St. Maarten (Better shopping options, especially for luxury goods and duty-free items)

9. Final Verdict: Which Island Should You Visit?

✅ Choose St. Maarten if you want:

• Exciting nightlife and casinos
• A mix of Dutch and French culture
• Budget-friendly dining and hotels
• Thrilling adventure activities
• Duty-free shopping

✅ Choose St. John if you want:

• Crystal-clear snorkeling beaches
• A secluded, nature-filled experience
• Luxury resorts and eco-friendly stays
• World-class hiking in Virgin Islands National Park
• A laid-back, peaceful atmosphere

10. How This Was Researched

To create this guide, I relied on first-hand travel experiences to both islands, local insights, and traveler reviews from forums and tourism sources. My goal is to provide an honest, experience-driven comparison to help you choose the island that best suits your travel style.

No matter which island you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure! 🌟