Sint Maarten with autistic children has been one of favourite and easiest places to visit with our child. Sint Maarten is known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, offers a welcoming environment for families with autistic children. The Dutch side of the island is known as Sint Maarten, but it is attached to the French side known as Saint Marten. Here’s how to make the most of your visit to the island.
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Getting To Sint Maarten
Princess Juliana International Airport is the main gateway to Sint Maarten. Direct flights are available from many major cities. Consider the most comfortable mode of transport for your child, and plan for breaks during the journey.
We came here as a cruise stop, and ported up in Philipsburg. You are able to walk from the cruise port to the town and this is what we did. We did have pretty sore feet so you may consider other options but we managed it all with a stroller.
Where to Stay
Choose accommodations that offer quiet environments and easy access to outdoor spaces. Many hotels and resorts in Sint Maarten are family-friendly and can accommodate specific needs. Consider self-catering options for more flexibility. We did not stay on the island because it was a cruise stop so I have no personal recommendations.
Family-Friendly Activities in Sint Maarten
Maho Beach
Famous for plane spotting, this beach offers a unique and exciting experience. Visit during quieter times to avoid crowds. This is the famous beach where you’ll see people film planes up super close as they fly over the beach to land at the airport nearby.
Pre-book your trip to Maho beach here via GetYourGuide.
Butterfly Farm
Explore this tranquil farm, home to hundreds of butterflies, offering a peaceful and educational outing. The butterflies can be overwhelming to autistic people – the fluttering by and the light tickle they cause to the skin. We did a similar experience in the UK and you can see in this video that my nephew just wanted the butterfly off him after a while.
Loterie Farm
A nature reserve with hiking trails, zip-lining, and a serene pool area. It’s a great place for outdoor adventures. Make sure to consider the heat and what this means to your autistic child before you book.
With GetYourGuide you can pre-book your visit to Loterie Farm here.
Seaside Nature Park
Offers horseback riding, hiking trails, and a petting zoo, providing a range of activities in a calm environment.
St. Maarten Zoo
Visit the local zoo to see various animals in a family-friendly setting. The zoo is smaller and less crowded, making it ideal for autistic children.
Great Bay Beach
A quieter beach with gentle waves, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The quieter nature of this beach might be more appealing to families with autistic children.
Fort Amsterdam
Explore the historical fort with stunning views of the island. It’s a peaceful spot to learn about local history.
Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary
A bird sanctuary where children can interact with various bird species in a controlled environment.
Emilio Wilson Park
A beautiful park with open spaces and playgrounds, ideal for a leisurely day outdoors.
Check out what we did on Sint Maarten here.
Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Activity in Sint Maarten
Philipsburg Boardwalk
A lively area with shops, cafes, and beautiful ocean views. Early mornings are less crowded and more manageable. We loved this area, it is easily walkable. You can still see the damage from the hurricanes and storms that have hit. If you want to use a beach chair on the beach bring money because they charge you for using them.
Getting Around Sint Maarten with Autistic Children
If you want to see a bit more of the island than what you can walk to, I recommend using a taxi or private car to explore. Sint Maarten is very hot, and I think public buses could be really overwhelming in the heat there.
Is Sint Maarten Autism-Friendly?
Sint Maarten offers a generally autism-friendly environment, especially in terms of its natural attractions like beaches and outdoor activities, which can be enjoyed in a low-stress, sensory-friendly way. However, the island may lack some of the specialized services and infrastructure found in larger, more developed areas. Families with individuals on the autism spectrum should plan carefully, considering factors such as peak tourist times, the availability of medical support, and the need for a quiet, controlled environment. With the right preparations, Sint Maarten can be a pleasant and accommodating destination for those with autism.
Things That Make Sint Maarten Stand Out
- Public transportation on Sint Maarten is limited, with most people relying on taxis, rental cars, or private transportation. Taxis are generally accessible and can provide a more controlled environment for individuals with autism. Renting a car might be the best option for families needing flexibility and control over their environment.
- The island is famous for its stunning beaches, many of which are relatively quiet and spacious. Beaches like Mullet Bay and Cupecoy Beach can provide a relaxing environment away from large crowds, especially if visited during off-peak hours.
- Activities like snorkelling, boat tours, and visiting nature reserves can be enjoyable for individuals with autism, offering sensory-rich experiences in calm and open settings. Private tours can be arranged for a more controlled environment.
- Many tourist spots can be crowded during peak season, but visiting during the off-season or early in the morning can provide a quieter and more manageable experience.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need.
- Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
- Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
- Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.
Sint Maarten offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to the needs of children with autism. From beautiful beaches to engaging parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in this tropical paradise.
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