Combine the soft, activity-filled sands of Orient Beach with the jet-blasted spectacle of Maho in one five- to six-hour shore-to-shore tour. Expect watersports, French bakeries, plane-spotting thrills, and practical tips to make the day run smoothly.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The van pulls up to a crooked roundabout and the air tastes like salt and diesel from the runway. At one end of the island Orient Beach sprawls with soft white sand and a chorus of beach bars; at the other, Maho throbs with engine roars as jets skim a few feet above sunbathers. This one-day loop condenses St Maarten into contrasting acts: adrenaline and leisure, French boulangeries and Dutch duty-free stalls, the bright hum of water sports and the slow pull of a rum punch.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; able to walk short sandy stretches and manage stairs or small inclines at bars and kiosks.
Wildlife
History
St Maarten is split between Dutch and French control; the island developed as a strategic Caribbean hub with a long aviation history centered on Princess Juliana Airport.
Conservation
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral; local groups encourage removing plastic and respecting nesting zones for sea turtles.
Reserve your spot on the St Maarten Beach hopping tour (Oreint beach and Maho beach combo) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and your skin — apply liberally and reapply after swims; many vendors sell sunscreen but bring your preferred brand.
Time plane landings at Maho
Head to Maho 30–60 minutes before the scheduled arrivals for the best viewing and photos without the largest crowds.
Carry local cash
Small vendors, beach kiosks, and some activities prefer cash for faster transactions; ATMs exist but can be slow.
Hydrate and shade up
Bring a wide-brim hat and drink water between cocktails; sun and wind mask dehydration on open beaches.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Prevents reef damage and protects skin during long sun exposure.
summer
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Needed for swimming, snorkeling, and drying off between stops.
summer
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky entries, coral patches, and high-traffic beach areas.
Light windbreaker or cover-up
Trade winds can be cool near the runway and at dusk — a thin layer helps.
winter