Best of St Maarten: Private Sightseeing & Beach Day from Philipsburg
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short walks and a few stairs at forts and viewpoints.
Overview
Spend a private day moving from Philipsburg’s colorful waterfront to the island’s best beaches and hilltop forts. This customizable tour blends history, food, and beach time—perfect if you want a single, expertly guided introduction to St Maarten.
Best of St Maarten: Private Sightseeing & Beach Day from Philipsburg
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The morning wind off Great Bay smells of salt and diesel as the van peels away from the cruise terminal. Windows down, the island opens in a sequence of bright fragments: low-rise Dutch storefronts framed by concrete piers, a ribbon of white sand that draws nearer, and a patchwork of reef-blue bays that dare you to dive in. On a private Best of St Maarten tour, that drive is curated—every stop chosen to compress the island’s split personality into one long, readable day.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring towels and a change of clothes
If you plan to swim, pack towels and a dry change—wet clothing is not permitted in the vehicle.
Book morning pickup for cooler temps
Early departures mean fewer crowds at viewpoints and markets and easier walking at Fort Louis.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen
Protect local coral by avoiding sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Carry small bills for markets
Vendors in Philipsburg and Marigot prefer cash for quick purchases and tips.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelican
- Green sea turtle
History
The island is split between the Dutch and French; its strategic harbor locations led to the construction of colonial forts that still punctuate the coastline.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid anchoring on coral; support local businesses and avoid single-use plastics to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philipsburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Towel and swimwear
Necessary for beach stops and swimming at Mullet Bay or Orient Beach.
summer specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the island’s coral reefs during snorkeling or sunbathing.
summer specific
Light daypack
Carries water, camera, and a change of clothes for beach time.
Comfortable walking shoes
Useful for short hikes and stair climbs at Fort Louis and other viewpoints.