Then, when you’re done relaxing, take some time to explore the Dutch side of this beautiful little island. Sint Maarten offers a whole lot more than just beaches and casinos, so whether you’re into sailing, shopping, active pursuits, or fine dining, you’re sure to find plenty of diversions to give you a break from the sun and make your vacation a lot more fun. Here are a few choice activities to consider when planning your trip:

America’s Cup for Sail
Ready to try something only a handful of people in the world will ever do? Here’s your chance to race a real America’s Cup sailboat up and down the coast of Sint Maarten. The 12-Metre Challenge (tel: 599-542-0045) pits two of these world-class vessels against each other in a mock America’s Cup Regatta, with you and your fellow tourists as the crew. Each participant learns a specific job, such as operating the backstay grinder or trimming the headsail. Once everyone in the “crew” has a handle on his or her job, the race begins and the thrill of competitive sailing takes over. Be prepared for hair-raising turns, harrowing tilts of the keel, and close brushes with your competitors. Wondering just how good these boats are? One of them happens to be Dennis Conner’s Stars & Stripes, winner of the 1987 America’s Cup. Races depart from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg. Cost is approximately $75 per person.

Shopping on Front and Back Streets
Philipsburg isn’t just the capital of Sint Maarten, it’s also a postcard-perfect colonial town where you’ll find two quaint streets lined with pastel-painted stores selling everything from European perfumes and fine liqueurs to Caribbean artwork and designer watches. And it’s all duty- and tax-free--although this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting a bargain. Jewelry is a hot item in Philipsburg, but if you’re a serious shopper it’s best to know what you’re looking for and what it should cost. With that in mind, you just might find yourself flying home with that pair of emerald earrings you’ve always wanted.

Kayaking on Simpson Bay Lagoon
It’s sometimes hard to appreciate the serenity of the Caribbean islands when you’re being shuttled from place to place along the local highways. Kayaking out on Simpson Bay Lagoon is a wonderful way to slow down, take a closer look, and get a fantastic workout all at once. TriSport Eco-Adventures on Simpson Bay (tel. 599-545-4384) rents out kayaks for about $15/hour. Guided kayak tours range from about $35-$49. A word of caution: Depending on wind conditions, kayaking can be very strenuous--and when you’re out on the bay, there’s no place to hide from the powerful Caribbean sun. Wear a hat and sunscreen and be sure to bring a bottle of water onto the kayak with you.

Plane Fun at Maho Bay
Are you like me? Do you love airplanes? If so, you’ll want to stop off at Maho Bay, where you can stand on a little crescent of beach and watch everything from single-engine Cessnas to enormous Boeing 747s as they roar a mere 50 feet overhead en route to the runway at Queen Juliana Airport. If hanging out directly below the landing path is too nerve-wracking for you, take a front-row seat at the nearby Sunset Bar, where can also catch a cold beverage and some shade. And don’t forget to bring a camera so you can prove to your friends that you were as close to these planes as you say you were.