Camping and Eco-Tourism in St. Martin

The island that is home to St. Martin and St. Maarten, with it's duty free shopping, is a popular stop for packs of tourists that arrive by plane or cruise ship. The island does not have large areas of natural preserves, and there are no campgrounds on the island. Still, travelers looking for ecotourism can find some adventure while on vacation.

Watersports and water adventures are widely available on the island from both independent services and vendors, and from all-inclusive hotels and resorts. Wind surfing, sailing, and deep sea fishing are all available the island, as are snorkeling, scuba diving and dolphin adventures. Charter deep sea fishing boats can run $550(USD) for half a day to $900(USD) for a whole day, while double dive with rented scuba equipment will run about $90(USD). A 30 minute dolphin experience will start at around $200(USD).

Kayaking, hiking, mountain biking and kayaking are also available for travelers to enjoy while on St. Martin and St. Maarten. Kayaking tours, heading out of Simpson Bay, will run about $50(USD) for a single person kayak. The island has 25 miles of trails and a nature and adventure park in St. Martin. Mountain bike rentals can start as low as $18(USD) a day with a helmet included. If you are looking to combine romance and ecotourism, an evening horseback ride on the shore will appeal to you. Read more about St. Martin's natural sites here.

While the island may not have any offerings for campgrounds or be a popular ecotourist destination currently, both countries have recently established nature or ecotourist associations that are working to preserve the remaining environment and spread the popularity of ecoadventure on St. Martin and St. Maarten.

Below is the one property we know about in St. Martin that can get you back to nature. Click its name to learn more about on-site details and nearby landmarks and activities. Who knows? It could be the perfect place for your vacation.

• Turquoise Shell Inn