See St. Maarten on your schedule with a private five-hour drive through Great Bay, Orient Beach, Cole Bay Hill and the French markets of Marigot. Expect coastal overlooks, photo stops and a guide who can tailor the route to your interests.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Step off the ship or out of your hotel and the island greets you with warm trade winds and a coastline that refuses to stand still.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly vehicle-based with short walks and stairs at viewpoints or markets.
Wildlife
History
St. Maarten’s current border dates to a 1648 agreement between France and the Netherlands, creating one island governed by two systems and bilingual culture.
Conservation
Coastal reefs are vulnerable; use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral when snorkeling and support local tour operators who follow marine-protection guidelines.
Reserve your spot on the Private St Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time around cruise schedules
If you’re arriving by cruise, plan pickup and return with extra buffer—custom tours can adjust to ship disembarkation times but traffic and security lines add delay.
Carry photo ID and passport
Crossing between the French and Dutch sides is easy but bring ID in case of checkpoints or if you plan to visit a duty-free shop on either side.
Bring cash and cards
Marigot often prefers euros while Philipsburg accepts Antillean guilders and US dollars—having small bills helps at markets.
Sun and hydration
Strong equatorial sun and reflective sand can sap energy; carry a refillable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen.
Light daypack
Carries water, sunscreen, wallet and any market purchases during stops.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and nearby coral ecosystems when you swim or sunbathe.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Useful for cobbled streets, market browsing and short viewpoint hikes.
Light rain shell
Quick showers can appear during the wet season; a compact shell keeps you dry between stops.
fall