How to Plan Your St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides in Philipsburg?

Are you planning a trip to Philipsburg and looking for a great way to explore the island? Look no further than the St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides. With a scenic circular drive around the island, breathtaking views of the wilderness, relaxing time at serene beaches, local cuisine to taste and shopping opportunities, this tour offers a perfect way to experience the best of St. Maarten. In this post, I will guide you on how to plan your St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides in Philipsburg.

Experience

The 4.5-hour St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides takes you on a circular route around the island, exploring the best of both worlds. Here’s what you can expect on this tour:

Highlights

• Take a scenic circular drive around the French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten/St. Martin
• Swim in the turquoise Caribbean waters off Grand Case Beach
• Find local dishes to sample over lunch in your own time
• Get breathtaking wilderness views of Corilita Natural Reserve
• Experience the thrill of commercial planes coming into land low over Maho Beach
• Shop in the French colonial capital of Marigot

Full description

The tour starts with a pick-up at your hotel in Philipsburg. You will board a comfortable air-conditioned coach and embark on a circular route around the island, exploring both the French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts and stories about the island, its culture, and history. The first stop is at Corilita Natural Reserve, where you’ll get breathtaking wilderness views. The reserve features some of the most incredible views on the island, and you’ll want to make sure to have your camera ready to capture the scenery. Next, you’ll get to the viewpoint overlooking the stunning Orient Beach, one of the best beaches on the island. This beach offers an unforgettable Caribbean experience with its turquoise waters and white sandy beach. Afterward, you’ll travel to Grand Case Beach, one of the most serene beaches on the island, surrounded by charming local restaurants, cafes, and shops near the beachfront. Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or take a stroll along a pure white shore. As Grand Case is known as the Caribbean’s gourmet capital, we recommend trying out some of the local dishes on offer during lunch in your own time. The tour then continues to a popular attraction, Maho Beach, which offers the thrill of commercial planes coming into land low over the beach. This is an incredible experience that you do not want to miss! Finally, the tour will take you to the French colonial capital of Marigot, where you can enjoy some shopping opportunities. There are plenty of stores to browse, selling everything from clothing to jewelry, local craft, and souvenirs. The tour concludes with your return to your hotel in Philipsburg.

How to Book Your St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides?

Booking your tour is easy. Go to the following link: book the tour here, and click the “Book Now” button. Choose your preferred date, the number of guests, and complete your booking process.

Tips for Your St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides:

1. Carry sunscreen, towels, and bathing suits for a beach trip to Grand Case Beach and Maho Beach.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing on this tour, as we’ll be doing a bit of walking and standing at each stop.
3. The tour includes lunch, but additional food and drinks, and souvenir purchases are not included in the ticket price.
4. You’ll have some free time to explore Marigot; make sure to check out its beautiful colonial architecture and street art.
5. Make sure to bring along your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views, including low-flying planes over Maho Beach.

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this guide has helped you plan your St. Maarten Half-Day Tour of French & Dutch Sides in Philipsburg. With its beautiful beaches, amazing sights, and a chance to explore the island’s culture, this tour is a perfect way to experience the best of St. Maarten. Be sure to book your tour online in advance to ensure availability, pack all the essentials, and enjoy your tour to the fullest!

Frequently Asked Questions about Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of St. Maarten, a popular Caribbean destination known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and duty-free shopping. If you’re planning a trip to Philipsburg, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Philipsburg, along with the answers.

1. Where is Philipsburg located?

Philipsburg is located on the southern coast of the island of St. Maarten in the Caribbean Sea. St. Maarten is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is situated about 150 miles east of Puerto Rico.

2. What is the currency used in Philipsburg?

The currency used in Philipsburg is the Netherlands Antillean guilder or florin (ANG). However, the US dollar is widely accepted on the island, and most businesses in Philipsburg will also accept major credit cards.

3. What language is spoken in Philipsburg?

The official language of St. Maarten is Dutch, but English is widely spoken and is the language of commerce on the island. Spanish and French are also spoken by some residents.

4. Is Philipsburg safe to visit?

Philipsburg is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should still exercise common sense and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas, and to keep valuables like wallets and purses out of sight.

5. What are some of the major attractions in Philipsburg?

Philipsburg is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful buildings, and duty-free shopping. Some of the major attractions in Philipsburg include:

• Great Bay Beach
• Philipsburg Boardwalk
• Fort Amsterdam
• St. Maarten Museum
• Front Street (shopping)
• The Guavaberry Emporium (rum tasting)

6. What is the best time of year to visit Philipsburg?

The best time to visit Philipsburg is during the dry season, which runs from January to April. Temperatures during this time of year are comfortable, and there is little rain. However, prices for hotels and attractions may be higher during this time, and the island can be crowded with tourists.

7. How do I get to Philipsburg?

The most convenient way to get to Philipsburg is by flying into Princess Juliana International Airport, which is located on the Dutch side of the island. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to Philipsburg. Some visitors may also choose to arrive by cruise ship, as Philipsburg is a popular port of call in the Caribbean.

8. What are the best beaches in Philipsburg?

Philipsburg and the surrounding areas are home to several stunning beaches, including:

• Great Bay Beach
• Maho Beach
• Dawn Beach
• Orient Bay Beach (on the French side of the island)

9. What should I pack for a trip to Philipsburg?

When packing for a trip to Philipsburg, be sure to include sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, a hat or visor, and lightweight clothing suitable for the warm Caribbean climate. If you plan on doing a lot of shopping, you may also want to pack an extra suitcase to bring back your purchases.

10. What is the local cuisine in Philipsburg?

St. Maarten is known for its multicultural cuisine, which includes influences from Dutch, French, and Caribbean traditions. Some local specialties to try in Philipsburg include:

• Johnny cakes (fried dough)
• Callaloo soup (made with leafy greens, coconut milk, and seafood)
• Guavaberry liqueur (made from a local berry and often used in cocktails)
• Plantain chips (thinly sliced and deep-fried plantains)

11. What are some popular activities in Philipsburg?

There are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in Philipsburg, including:

• Swimming and sunbathing at the beach
• Shopping at the duty-free stores on Front Street
• Taking a boat tour of the island
• Visiting historic sites like Fort Amsterdam
• Tasting local cuisine and drinks at restaurants and bars

12. Is it necessary to rent a car in Philipsburg?

While renting a car in Philipsburg is not strictly necessary, it can be a convenient way to explore the island and visit out-of-the-way attractions. However, traffic on the island can be heavy, and drivers will need to adjust to driving on the left side of the road.

13. Can I use my cell phone in Philipsburg?

Most visitors to Philipsburg will be able to use their cell phones, provided that the phones are compatible with the local networks. Visitors should check with their mobile phone provider before leaving home to ensure that their phones will work on the island. Alternatively, visitors can purchase a local SIM card or rent a mobile phone from a local provider.

14. Are there any cultural norms or customs that visitors should be aware of in Philipsburg?

Like many Caribbean destinations, Philipsburg and St. Maarten have their own unique customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of. Visitors should try to dress modestly when visiting public places like churches, and should ask permission before taking photos of residents or their property. It is also polite to greet people with a friendly “good morning” or “good afternoon” when passing them on the street.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the main town on the Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten. With a colorful history, scenic beaches, and a duty-free shopping scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best things to do and places to see during your visit to Philipsburg.

Explore Philipsburg’s History and Culture

Philipsburg has a rich cultural history, with influences from the French, Spanish, British, and Dutch, all of which is reflected in the architecture, food, and traditions of the island.

1. Visit the Sint Maarten Museum

Start your tour of the town with a visit to the Sint Maarten Museum, located in a beautifully restored historical building. The museum gives an insight into the island’s history, art, and culture, with exhibits ranging from pre-Columbian times to modern-day.

2. Take a Stroll along Front Street

Front Street is the main shopping street in Philipsburg, and it’s lined with colorful colonial-style buildings that house duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along the street, and you’ll find plenty of bargains to be had.

3. Browse the Philipsburg Courthouse

The Courthouse is a historic building located in the heart of Philipsburg. Built-in 1793, it now serves as a museum and library, and a great place to learn more about the island’s legal history.

Relax on the Beaches

Philipsburg is home to several beautiful beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

1. Great Bay Beach

Great Bay Beach is the main beach in Philipsburg, and it’s the perfect place to soak up some sun and watch the world go by. The beach is long and wide, with crystal-clear water and soft white sand.

2. Little Bay Beach

Little Bay Beach is a small, secluded cove that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon away from the crowds. The beach is located a short walk from Fort Amsterdam and has calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Take in the Natural Beauty

Philipsburg is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Sint Maarten.

1. Hike to Sentry Hill

Sentry Hill is the highest point on the island and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. A hike to the top takes around 2 hours, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.

2. Take a Boat Tour

A boat tour around the island is the perfect way to see the natural beauty of Sint Maarten from a different perspective. The tours take you to secluded coves, hidden beaches, and underwater reefs, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Sample the Local Cuisine

Philipsburg has a thriving food scene, with influences from all over the Caribbean.

1. Head to the Old Street Restaurant

The Old Street Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, serving up a range of Caribbean and international cuisine. The restaurant is located in a historic building on Front Street, and the outdoor seating area has stunning views of Great Bay Beach.

2. Try the Johnny Cakes

Johnny Cakes are a local delicacy, similar to American cornbread. They’re often served for breakfast and can be found at bakeries and cafes throughout the town.

Final Thoughts

With its bright colors, stunning beaches, and rich history and culture, Philipsburg is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Sint Maarten. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town’s fascinating past, or sample the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Follow this guide, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Philipsburg.