Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing: Philipsburg, Orient Bay & Maho Beach
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; minimal walking and a few short stair climbs.
Overview
Spend a private day crossing the French and Dutch halves of St Maarten—Philipsburg’s colonial charm, the white sweep of Orient Bay, Grand Case’s beachside restaurants and Maho’s jet-stunning beach—all with a local guide and private vehicle.
Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing: Philipsburg, Orient Bay & Maho Beach
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The van eases out of a hotel curb and the island opens like a map you can walk into: powder beaches rimmed with palms, color-splashed market stalls, and the constant rush of trade winds that pry salt from the sea. On this private, full-day circuit you ride both sides of an island that feels twice as big as it is—Sint Maarten’s Dutch streets and Saint-Martin’s French beaches—while your guide stitches location, history and local recommendations into a steady stream of stories.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a towel and change of clothes
Many stops include beach time—pack a towel and swimwear for quick dips and a spare shirt for the return ride.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect local coral and your skin—apply sunscreen before beach stops and reapply after swimming.
Plan for plane-spotting at Maho
Keep a safe distance from the airport fence and follow guide instructions; the jet blast is powerful and unpredictable.
Carry small bills and cash
Markets and beach vendors often prefer cash for quick purchases—bring local currency or small USD bills.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelicans
- Black iguanas
History
Sint Maarten/Saint-Martin has been divided between French and Dutch control since 1648; that split shaped its bilingual culture, cuisine and towns.
Conservation
Choose reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral; local operators encourage responsible beach use to protect seagrass and reefs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philipsburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight daypack
Holds water, towel, sunscreen and purchases from markets.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the island’s coral ecosystems.
summer specific
Sturdy sandals or walking shoes
Comfortable for short walks, stairs at Fort Louis and beach sand.
Compact snorkel mask
Useful if you plan to snorkel during free-time stops at calmer beaches.
summer specific