Animal Activities in St. Maarten

If you’re an animal lover or simply looking for a unique experience on the island of St. Maarten, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with some incredible creatures.

Swimming Pigs

• Location: Grand Case Beach
• Cost: Free (if you have your own kayak or paddleboard), otherwise rentals available from $20-$50 per hour.
• Tips:
  • Be respectful of these wild animals. Keep a safe distance and avoid touching them, as this can cause stress and potentially harm the pigs.
  • If you’re planning to swim with the pigs, ensure that you’ve rented or brought a suitable vehicle (like a kayak) to reach the area without causing disturbance to the island’s ecosystem.

Horseback Riding

• Location: Various ranches throughout the island
• Cost: Ranges from $50-$100 per person for a guided tour.
• Tips:
  • Choose a reputable and licensed horseback riding service. Many offer unique experiences such as sunset rides or beach treks.
  • Always wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Protective gear might be provided, but it’s always better to be prepared.

Turtle Monitoring

• Location: Pinel Island (accessible via ferry from Cul-de-Sac)
• Cost: Free (if you have your own kayak or paddleboard), otherwise rentals available from $20-$50 per hour.
• Tips:
  • Join a guided turtle monitoring tour if possible. This not only helps with the conservation efforts but also provides valuable insights into these incredible creatures.
  • Always keep an eye out for turtles nesting on Pinel Island, especially during their breeding season.

Other Activities

Other animal-related activities in St. Maarten include visiting the St. Maarten Zoological and Botanical Park (the smallest zoo in the world) and taking a guided snorkeling tour to spot various sea creatures.