Nestled on the stunning Caribbean island of St. Maarten, the charming town of Philipsburg is the perfect destination for vacationers looking for beauty, adventure, and relaxation in equal measure. From its breathtaking beaches to its colorful culture and tantalizing cuisine, there’s so much to see and do here. And one of the best ways to experience it all is by taking a day trip. Whether you’re into history, nature, or simply soaking up the sun, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’re sharing our top picks for the six best day trips to take in Philipsburg. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore!
The 6 Best Day Trips in Philipsburg
- St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides
- Philipsburg: St Maarten Beaches Tour with Transfer
- St. Maarten: Best of St. Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
- From Philipsburg: St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour
- St.Maarten: Beach and Shopping Tour by Bus
- Philipsburg: St. Maarten Family Tour to Beaches and Marigot
The 6 Best Day Trips in Philipsburg
1. St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides
Experience the beauty of St. Maarten/St. Martin on this 4.5-hour half-day tour of the French and Dutch sides of the island. Immerse yourself in the Caribbean’s tropical wilderness with breathtaking views at Corilita Natural Reserve, followed by relaxation at Grand Case Beach. Indulge in a diverse selection of local cuisine for lunch and shop the charming streets of Marigot, the capital of St. Martin. Take in the thrill of commercial planes landing low over Maho Beach before ending the tour with a picturesque view at Cole Bay Hill. Transport, guide, one drink, and meals are all included in the tour price. Meet your guide at the Information Center at the Saint Maarten cruise terminal and don’t forget to bring towels and sunscreen. Please note that a minimum of 8 guests is required for the tour to take place and reservations must be reconfirmed at least 72 hours prior to the tour. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the best of St. Maarten/St. Martin in half a day.
2. Philipsburg: St Maarten Beaches Tour with Transfer
Explore the beauty of St Maarten’s beaches with the Philipsburg: St Maarten Beaches Tour with Transfer. This tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers who want to discover the island’s highlights in a short amount of time. Admire the island’s picturesque view from Bell’s panoramic lookout point and learn about local history and culture from your professional guide. Enjoy free time at Mullet Bay Orient Beach and Maho Beach to swim and relax. You’ll also have the chance to wander around the charming shops of the small town of Marigot. Hotel or cruise port pick-up and drop-off, transportation during the activity, tour guide, food, and drinks are included. Note that the tour is not suitable for people with heart problems, wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, people with a cold, or people with altitude sickness. Bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, swimwear, and a change of clothes. Pets, weapons or sharp objects, luggage or large bags, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed.
3. St. Maarten: Best of St. Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
Explore the beauty of St. Maarten in one day with a private sightseeing tour. Take in the breathtaking mountaintop views of Phillipsburg Margot and neighboring islands. Learn about the island’s history while taking photos and shopping. Indulge in some delicious local food and relax on a beautiful local beach. With private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, and a certified sightseeing and historic tour guide, you will have a memorable experience. The tour includes cruise port pickups and drop-offs, as well as hotel pickups and drop-offs. Your guide is fully vaccinated, giving you peace of mind during your day tour. Book now and experience the best of St. Maarten!
4. From Philipsburg: St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour
Discover the highlights of St Maarten on this guided day trip tour from Philipsburg. Start by passing by one of the island’s beautiful reefs on your way to an iguana farm where you can get up-close to the remarkable reptiles. Then, head to the famous Orient Bay and Maho beaches to relax by the white sand and turquoise water. The tour also gives you a chance to explore the capital Marigot, which features museums, shops, and casinos. Additionally, watch low-flying airplanes come in to land over Maho Beach and gaze over Simpson Bay Lagoon from Bell’s Lookout Point. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to and from your accommodation, and make the most out of this amazing tour experience. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or people with motion sickness. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, change of clothes, and camera. Also, note that pets, smoking, bikes, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed on this tour.
5. St.Maarten: Beach and Shopping Tour by Bus
Experience the best of St. Maarten on this Beach and Shopping Tour by Bus. Relax as your coach driver takes you through the island to explore its famous attractions. Begin the tour by immersing yourself in the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Orient Bay, Kim Sha Beach, and Maho Beach. Afterward, shop to your heart’s content with duty-free souvenirs at Philipsburg. Take a moment to delve into the history of Philipsburg by visiting the museums and art galleries. Get to witness the stunning and picturesque views of Simpson Bay from the top of Bell’s Lookout Point. Stay comfortable throughout the trip with a headset to listen to the tour guide and cold drinks provided. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, people with epilepsy, a cold, or motion sickness are also not recommended to join. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and swimwear. Pets, luggage or large bags, smoking in the vehicle, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. Please eat breakfast before the tour starts. Join us and have an unforgettable experience in St. Maarten.
6. Philipsburg: St. Maarten Family Tour to Beaches and Marigot
Explore the best of St. Maarten’s beaches and local life on a family-friendly Day Trip from Philipsburg. Begin your journey with a visit to the colorful town of Marigot and immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant culture. Then, relax and unwind by the sea with stops at Orient Beach, Maho Beach, and more. Admire iguanas up close at a St. Maarten iguana farm and capture unforgettable photos at one of the island’s reefs and at Cole Bay Hill. With transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, food and drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour offers a stress-free and memorable experience for the whole family. Please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, people with a cold or people with motion sickness. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, and a towel. Pets, luggage or large bags, smoking indoors, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Philipsburg is the capital city of St. Maarten and is a popular tourist destination. Located on the southern coast of the island, it attracts tourists from all over the world with its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and lively nightlife. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Philipsburg.
What is the best time to visit Philipsburg?
The best time to visit Philipsburg is from mid-December to mid-April, which is the peak season for tourism. During this time, you can enjoy pleasant weather and a wide range of activities, such as water sports, shopping, and nightlife. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of the year, and prices for accommodation and flights may be higher. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider going during the low season, which is from May to November.
What are the best beaches in Philipsburg?
Philipsburg has several beautiful beaches that offer crystal-clear water, soft sand, and stunning views. Among the most popular beaches are Great Bay, Little Bay, and Kim Sha Beach. Great Bay is the most accessible beach and is right in the center of the town. Little Bay is a more secluded option that requires a short hike to reach, but it offers a more peaceful atmosphere. Kim Sha Beach is ideal for water sports enthusiasts and has several beach bars and restaurants.
What are some of the must-see attractions in Philipsburg?
There are several must-see attractions in Philipsburg that offer a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. The most famous attraction is the Philipsburg Courthouse, which was built in 1793 and now houses the St. Maarten Museum. Another popular attraction is the Fort Amsterdam, a historic fort that was built in the 17th century to protect the island from invaders. For art lovers, the Roland Richardson Art Gallery is a must-see, as it showcases the works of the famous local artist.
What are the best shopping areas in Philipsburg?
Philipsburg is known for its duty-free shopping, and there are several areas that offer a wide range of products at tax-free prices. Front Street is the most popular shopping area in the city, and it features numerous jewelry stores, clothing shops, and souvenir shops. Back Street is a less crowded option that also offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. If you prefer luxury shopping, head to the Heritage Square Mall, which features high-end brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
What are the best restaurants in Philipsburg?
Philipsburg has a diverse culinary scene that offers something for everyone. Among the most popular restaurants are The Greenhouse, which serves Caribbean and international cuisine, and Taloula Mango’s, which offers delicious seafood and cocktails. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Lolo’s, which are open-air restaurants that serve grilled meats, fish, and vegetables. Other popular options include Topper’s by the Sea, Ocean Lounge, and Chesterfield’s Restaurant.
What are the best tours and activities in Philipsburg?
There are several tours and activities in Philipsburg that allow you to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Among the most popular tours are the boat tours that take you around the island’s stunning coastline and the ATV tours that allow you to explore the island’s natural trails. You can also go on a sightseeing tour of the island’s historic landmarks and attractions, or participate in water sports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling.
In Conclusion
Philipsburg is a vibrant and colorful city that has plenty to offer for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you prefer sunbathing on the beach, shopping, exploring historic landmarks, or trying out new cuisine, Philipsburg has something for you. By planning your trip in advance and knowing some of the city’s top attractions and activities, you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful island destination.
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