How to Plan Your St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour from Philipsburg

Are you looking for a fun and relaxing way to explore the beautiful island of St. Maarten? Look no further than the St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour, departing from Philipsburg. This full-day guided tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an island tour, and stops at some of St. Maarten’s highlights. Here’s how to plan your own St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour is to book your tour online. You can do this through GetYourGuide, a reputable third-party company that offers a wide range of tours and activities in St. Maarten. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so be sure to provide your hotel information when booking.

Book your St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour here

Step 2: Get Ready for Your Tour

On the day of your tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking on the beach and exploring the island. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. The tour includes food and drink, but you may also want to bring a water bottle and some snacks.

Step 3: Enjoy the Tour Highlights

The St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour includes a variety of highlights, including:

Orient Bay Beach

Relax on the white sand and turquoise water of Orient Bay Beach, one of St. Maarten’s most popular beaches. There are plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

Iguana Farm

Visit an iguana farm and get up close to these remarkable reptiles. Learn about their behavior and habitat, and see them in their natural environment.

Marigot

Explore the fishing town of Marigot and its museums, shops, and casinos. This town has a rich history and is a great place to immerse yourself in St. Maarten’s culture.

Maho Beach

Watch low-flying airplanes come in to land over Maho Beach, one of St. Maarten’s most famous beaches. This unique experience is a must-do for aviation enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

Bell’s Lookout Point

Gaze over Simpson Bay Lagoon from Bell’s Lookout Point and take in stunning views of the island. This is a great photo opportunity and a chance to see St. Maarten from a different perspective.

Step 4: Relax and Let Your Guide Handle the Details

One of the best things about the St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour is that it includes a guide to handle all of the details. Your guide will provide commentary on the sites you visit and answer any questions you may have. This leaves you free to relax and enjoy the tour without worrying about logistics.

Conclusion

The St. Maarten Island and Beach Tour from Philipsburg is a great way to explore the beauty and culture of St. Maarten. From beaches to iguanas to casinos, this tour has something for everyone. So book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable day in St. Maarten.

Insider’s Guide to Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Philipsburg is the capital and largest city of the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten. It is a colorful city with a mixture of Dutch and Caribbean vibes that offers a plethora of attractions and activities to explore. Whether you are looking for beaches, cultural experiences, dining spots, shopping, or local history, Philipsburg has something for everyone.

Local Attractions

There are plenty of attractions in Philipsburg to keep you entertained during your visit. One of the must-visit places is The Great Salt Pond, which is a nature reserve on the outskirts of Philipsburg. This saltwater lagoon attracts many birds, including flamingos and ducks, making it a hotspot for bird-watchers. For history buffs, the St. Maarten Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the island. This museum has exhibits on slavery, culture, and the island’s history. The museum is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building on Front Street.

Beaches and Water Sports

St. Maarten is well-known for its beautiful beaches and Philipsburg is no exception. Great Bay Beach is located right in the center of town, making it a popular choice among tourists and locals alike. Another popular beach is Little Bay Beach, which is tucked away in a tiny cove. This beach is great for swimming and snorkeling.

If you are looking for water sports, there are plenty of options near Philipsburg. Jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking are all popular activities. You can take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands of Anguilla, St. Barts, or Saba.

Dining Spots

Philipsburg is known for its diverse dining scene that caters to all budgets and tastes. One of the must-visit restaurants is Chesterfield’s, a fine-dining spot that serves French cuisine. For local Caribbean flavors, try Alicia’s Inn Restaurant, which offers delightful creole dishes. Other budget-friendly options include The Greenhouse and Topper’s Restaurant & Bar. You can also head to the Philipsburg Boardwalk for some street food and local bites.

Cultural Experiences

The culture of St. Maarten is a unique blend of Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences. To learn more about the local culture, you can explore the colorful architecture and street art in the city. The Philipsburg Courthouse is a great example of Dutch colonial architecture.

Another cultural highlight is the Carnival. This annual event takes place in April and features parades, music, and dance. The locals celebrate their African heritage with traditional costumes and masks.

Local History

St. Maarten has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. You can visit the historic Fort Amsterdam, located on a hill above Philipsburg, which was built by the Dutch to protect the island from invaders.

You can also visit the Emilio Wilson Museum, which is located in a former plantation owner’s house. This museum features exhibits on the history of slavery on the island and showcases the relics of the sugar plantation era.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

For those who want to get off the beaten path, hiking the scenic trail to Sentry Hill is a great option. This trail offers breathtaking views of Philipsburg and the surrounding islands. You can also take a trip to the Butterfly Farm, which is located just outside the city. This farm features over 40 species of butterflies from all over the world.

Conclusion

Philipsburg is a fantastic destination that offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and adventure. With so much to see and do, exploring the city and its surroundings thoroughly requires at least three to four days. So, plan your trip in advance, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate island getaway.