Philipsburg’s best tours offer efficient ways to experience St. Maarten’s highlights in a single outing. Two standout options make the most sense for visitors: private island tours and food-focused walking excursions. Private tours win points for flexibility – you’ll hit Maho Beach and Fort Louis at your own pace while avoiding cruise crowds. The local food tours, typically 3 hours long, serve up authentic Caribbean flavors and cultural insights in the historic district.
We especially love the small-group ATV adventures along the coast – they combine beach views with just enough off-road excitement. For families, the guided cultural tours to Marigot and local craft spots provide good value and easy pacing.
Let’s explore the top tour choices for your St. Maarten visit.
Key Points
- Private and customizable sightseeing tours of St. Maarten offer personalized experiences with flexible itineraries, modern transportation, and highly-rated certified guides.
- Adventure and outdoor activities like ATV rentals, island sightseeing tours, and brewery tours provide diverse experiences to explore the Dutch and French sides of the island.
- Culinary and cultural tours highlight the unique flavors and traditions of St. Maarten, featuring small-group experiences, local cuisine, and wine tastings.
- Most tours offer accessibility options, with transportation and booking flexibility, including free cancellation and Reserve Now and Pay Later options.
- Overall, St. Maarten tours receive positive feedback, with high recommendation and rating scores, though some concerns exist regarding logistics, scheduling, and accessibility.
The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
What makes the “The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour” a top choice for visitors to Philipsburg? This personalized tour offers an ideal way to explore the island, away from the crowds.
With a customizable itinerary focused on the group’s interests, travelers can enjoy a range of activities – from swimming in Mullet Bay to duty-free shopping and savoring local cuisine.
The tour includes modern, air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable, certified guide who provides insights into the island’s history and culture.
Pickup options accommodate cruise passengers, hotel guests, and private villa residents. While children must behave appropriately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are allowed.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s guides, who are known for their friendliness, flexibility, and expertise.
With an impressive 98% recommendation rate and 4.9-star overall rating, this private sightseeing experience is an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized and immersive exploration of St Maarten.
Read our full review: The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour Review
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1 ATV Rental Ride or Tour (1 ATV)
For those seeking an exhilarating way to explore the island of Philipsburg, the ATV Rental Ride or Tour (1 ATV) offers a thrilling experience. This highly-rated service boasts 91% traveler recommendation across 64 reviews.
Riders can choose to explore on their own or with a guide, traversing paved roads and dirt paths from Orient Bay Beach to the iconic Maho Beach. Each ATV accommodates one driver and one passenger, allowing visitors to enjoy the Caribbean breeze together.
Priced at $140.00 per group (up to 2 people), the rental includes round-trip transfers from the cruise terminal, local taxes, and fuel. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a lowest price guarantee make this a flexible and budget-friendly option.
Pickup is available at the main cruise port gate or from your hotel, with confirmation required for cruise ship passengers.
While the service receives positive feedback on staff friendliness and booking ease, some travelers have reported issues with the condition and reliability of the older ATVs.
It’s recommended to thoroughly check the vehicle before departure and consider a guided tour for a more streamlined experience, especially for first-time visitors.
Read our full review: 1 ATV Rental Ride or Tour (1 ATV) Review
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FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour With Beach
Offering an immersive exploration of the stunning Caribbean island, the FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach allows visitors to discover the captivating Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten.
Priced from $60 per person, the 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and complimentary beverages.
Highlights include relaxing at the beautiful Orient Bay Beach, visiting popular spots like Marigot and Maho Beach, and taking in the island’s cultural diversity.
With 171 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, the tour is praised for its scenic views and informative guides, though some travelers note issues with crowded buses and missed itinerary points.
The tour departs from the Philipsburg cruise port or hotel lobby, with pickup details required at booking.
Walkers can easily return to their ships, with the port just a 12-15 minute stroll away.
Wheelchair users and infants are also welcome, though advance arrangements are necessary.
Read our full review: FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour With Beach Review
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St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour
The St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore the island’s history, culture, and local cuisine. This tour covers seven stops, with admission tickets included for each location.
Visitors can enjoy an open bar with alcoholic beverages and soda, as well as opportunities for duty-free shopping and sampling French/Dutch-influenced local cuisine.
The tour is highly rated, with 87 reviews and a 4.7 out of 5 star rating. Pickup is available from any hotel location or cruise ship, with clear directions provided for cruise ship passengers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Customers praise the knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating guides, as well as the customizable nature of the tour. Some noted the main picture may be misleading regarding zipline inclusion, and a few experienced late pickups or shorter durations than expected.
Read our full review: St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour Review
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St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour
The St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing visitors to explore the island’s key attractions.
This half-day tour takes travelers on a journey through Philipsburg, St Maarten, where they’ll learn about the island’s pirate history, visit the Belvedere Estate amusement park, and enjoy a photoshoot at the Coral Reef.
The tour also includes a stop at the historic Fort Louis and Maho Beach, where travelers can savor a seaside lunch and watch planes land. Participants can also sample ice cream at the Toppers Rhum Distillery.
The tour is priced at $160 per person and has received 7 reviews with a 5.0 overall rating.
It includes round-trip transfers, local history and culture insights, and lunch and samples. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has a maximum of 30 travelers.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Read our full review: St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour Review
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Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg
While the St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the island, the Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg offers a more personalized and customizable experience.
Travelers can create their own itinerary, choosing from options like beach hopping, shopping, sightseeing, cuisine tasting, and activity parks. The tour’s flexible schedule allows guests to spend variable time at each stop, exploring at their own pace with a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as complimentary refreshments like water, soft drinks, beer, and guavaberry rum punch. Gratuities are also covered, though food isn’t provided.
The tour accommodates up to 8 passengers, with a minimum drinking age of 18 and stroller accessibility. Cruise ship passengers can easily book the tour, receiving confirmation unless within 3 hours of travel.
With an impressive 4.6-star rating from 26 reviews, the Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour offers a customized and enjoyable way to explore the island.
Read our full review: Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg Review
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St.Maarten/St.Martin Tripple Beach Tour
One popular sightseeing option for visitors to Philipsburg is the St.Maarten/St.Martin Triple Beach Tour. This tour takes travelers to three picturesque beaches on the island – Orient Beach, Maho Beach, and Mullet Bay.
The tour lasts approximately 2.15 hours and includes soda, alcoholic beverages, and beach visits. Highlights of the tour include opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and taking seaside photos.
Travelers can also enjoy live music and purchase water sports. The tour has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers and is highly rated, with 93% of 41 reviews recommending it.
The tour offers flexible pickup options, including from cruise ships, and starts at 9:00 am. While some travelers have reported issues with communication and tour organization, many praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Travelers with serious medical conditions are advised to consult before booking.
Read our full review: St.Maarten/St.Martin Tripple Beach Tour Review
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Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten
A popular option for visitors to Philipsburg is the private customizable island sightseeing tour in St Maarten. This 5-6 hour experience allows travelers to design their own itinerary, visiting attractions like Maho Beach, Orient Beach, Marigot, and Grand Case. The tour includes a reserved climate-controlled van, complimentary open bar, snorkeling equipment if desired, and a knowledgeable local guide.
With 90% of travelers recommending the tour and a 4.5-star rating, it’s clear this is a well-liked experience. Reviewers praise the flexibility, personal attention, and the opportunity to explore both the French and Dutch sides of the island. Highlights include unique local spots, historical insights, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations.
However, some have noted issues with driver availability and delays.
The tour departs from the EDC Parking Lot in Philipsburg, with the option for direct meeting or pickup. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, and the tour concludes back at the meeting point. Groups of 6 or more should contact the provider for details.
Read our full review: Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten Review
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Super Island Tour Through St Martin
The Super Island Tour through St Martin provides visitors with a comprehensive, full-day exploration of the diverse landscape and cultural heritage of the island.
With 23 reviews and a 4.2 average rating, the tour offers a variety of highlights, including visits to the Philipsburg Courthouse, Maho Beach, and the Marigot Market.
Travelers can enjoy panoramic views from the 99 steps of Fort St. Louis and experience the island’s history and local culture through the knowledgeable guidance of the tour leaders.
The tour includes lunch, alcoholic beverages, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi.
While the reviews are mixed, with some highlighting the engaging stories and scenic views, others note issues with the itinerary and organization.
The tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the island, with opportunities to interact with local wildlife, explore markets, and enjoy the renowned Maho Beach.
Booking is available through [email protected], and feedback is encouraged to help improve the tour experience.
Read our full review: Super Island Tour Through St Martin Review
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Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour
Offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant local art scene, the Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour takes visitors on a half-day exploration of Philipsburg’s colorful street art and murals.
Priced at $85 per person, the tour allows a maximum of 30 travelers to discover the less-visited areas of the city, snapping photos in front of captivating murals. An air-conditioned vehicle provides transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off from all Airbnb, villas, and condos on French and Dutch St Maarten.
Included in the tour are alcoholic beverages, such as rum punch, and a complimentary lunch. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps.
Though confirmation is received at booking, the tour is non-refundable, and past reviews have noted an instance where the driver didn’t show up, leading to a refund and free airport transport as compensation.
Read our full review: Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour Review
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Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour in Sint Maarten
Travelers can embark on the Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour in Sint Maarten, which takes them to three venues to sample locally-crafted beers and indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes.
This small-group tour (maximum of 20 travelers) allows for a personalized experience as participants explore the blend of Caribbean and Dutch influences. Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicles, and beer samples and Dutch pancakes are included.
The tour starts at 11:00 am, and pickup is available at the Port Gates or hotel/villa lobbies.
However, the tour has received mixed feedback, with one review citing issues with the pickup location and delays, as well as disappointment with the venues and staff service.
Travelers who prefer a more independent brewery experience may want to consider visiting the venues on their own instead of joining the tour.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.
Read our full review: Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour in Sint Maarten Review
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Red Rose Historical Rum Tour
One of the top tours in Philipsburg, the Red Rose Historical Rum Tour, takes visitors on a journey through the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. The tour lasts a few hours and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers.
Highlights include a visit to Cole Bay Hill for stunning photos, an exploration of the Border Monument, and a tour of the Marigot Fort Louis. Guests can also enjoy a beach sunset and savor a complimentary bottle of wine and snack box.
Participants will ride in a comfortable van with air conditioning and leather seats, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour costs from $120 per person and includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available, and it’s located near public transportation.
Operated by Red Rose Island Tours, this immersive experience allows visitors to discover the essence of Philipsburg.
Read our full review: Red Rose Historical Rum Tour Review
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SXM Beer, Burger And Beach Tour
Exploring the vibrant local culture and flavors of Philipsburg, the SXM Beer, Burger and Beach Tour takes guests on a delightful journey through the island’s culinary and brewery scene.
The 9 AM tour starts with a visit to the largest brewery on the island, SXM BEER, for a behind-the-scenes look and tastings. Lunch follows at The Tap, renowned for serving the best burgers in town.
The tour then heads to the iconic Maho Beach, where visitors can enjoy the beach and watch planes land and take off. The experience includes a VIP red carpet greeting and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and infants can sit on laps. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate fitness level is required.
Read our full review: SXM Beer, Burger And Beach Tour Review
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Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour
The Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour offers visitors a deeper immersion into the vibrant local traditions and flavors of St. Maarten.
This small-group tour takes guests on a journey to Marigot’s colorful houses, where they can shop for unique souvenirs. The highlight of the tour is a visit to Topper’s Rhum Distillery, where travelers can enjoy a rum tasting and learn about the art of rum-making.
Inclusive of alcoholic beverages, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a provided lunch, the tour provides a comprehensive experience.
Pickup is available at the main entrance of the Port Gates or hotel/villa lobby, with a 15-minute leeway for traffic. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, this experience offers flexibility and personalized attention.
Read our full review: Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour Review
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Tropical Gondola Day Cruise & French Beach Tour
This tropical gondola day cruise and French beach tour transports visitors on a captivating journey through the picturesque waterways and beaches of Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
The tour begins at 9:30 am, with a private group experience and air-conditioned transportation to the starting point. Guests can look forward to a picnic basket filled with local delights, including cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and a freshly baked baguette, all paired with wine.
The cruise takes visitors through the tropical gondolas, offering a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty. Afterward, the tour heads to the nearby French beach, where travelers can relax and soak up the sun.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Guests can secure their spot with the Reserve Now and Pay Later option, ensuring the lowest price of $220 per person.
Read our full review: Tropical Gondola Day Cruise & French Beach Tour Review
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Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour in St. Maarten
Visitors embark on a culinary journey through the diverse cultural influences of Philipsburg, St. Maarten, with the Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour. This intimate experience, limited to 16 participants, offers an opportunity to explore the French and Dutch flavors that shape the local cuisine.
Throughout the 3-hour tour, guests stroll along the Philipsburg boardwalk, sampling a variety of dishes, from crab cakes to plantains and ribs with peas. The knowledgeable tour guides provide insights into the cultural significance of the foods, enhancing the overall experience.
Lunch, food samplers, and one drink per location are included in the $210 per person price. While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Guest reviews highlight the tour’s strengths, such as the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable food experiences, as well as areas for improvement, including concerns about food quality and cleanliness at certain stops.
Read our full review: Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour in St. Maarten Review
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Modern Interactive Art Mashin Tour in Philipsburg With Pickup
Although limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, the Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour in Philipsburg, St Maarten, offers a unique cultural experience.
Operated by Tours.sx (INFINITE ISLAND TOURS NV), the tour includes coffee, tea, water, fruit punch, mimosa, and materials for an art workshop led by an artist.
Pickup is available at the hotel lobby, villa entrance, or port main entrance gates, with up to 15 minutes allowed for traffic delays.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed, and it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
Booking confirmation is received immediately upon reservation.
Whether you’re seeking an artistic adventure or a deeper connection with the local culture, the Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour provides a memorable and engaging experience in Philipsburg.
Read our full review: Modern Interactive Art Mashin Tour in Philipsburg With Pickup Review
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St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour
The St. Martin/St. Maarten Magical Tour is a popular excursion that allows visitors to explore the picturesque islands of St. Martin and St. Maarten. Priced at £57.30 per person, the tour boasts a 4.5-star rating based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.
Travelers can expect a comprehensive experience, including visits to several beaches, a local lunch, and opportunities for shopping and photography. The tour is customizable, with guides accommodating group interests and modifying the itinerary as needed.
Positive feedback highlights the attentive and knowledgeable guides, as well as the enjoyable experiences at the various beaches and dining options.
However, some constructive criticism points to issues with traffic and communication about meeting times. Travelers are advised to arrive early, pay attention to the specified meeting time, and consider spending more time at their preferred beaches, such as Mullet Bay.
The tour operator could enhance communication and address traffic management to improve the overall experience.
Read our full review: St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour Review
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4 Hours Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin With Lunch
The 4-Hour Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the island’s renowned cuisine and wines. Operated by Tours.sx, the tour includes a delectable lunch featuring dishes like tuna tartar, Yucca Floats, and honey and goat cheese endive, accompanied by a selection of Caribbean-inspired alcoholic beverages.
The tour starts at 10:00 am, with pickup available either at the hotel lobby or the Port Main Gate. Travelers should allow for 15 minutes of potential traffic delays.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 12 guests and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible to most.
Unfortunately, the tour has received just one review, which expressed disappointment over the poor experience, including confusion regarding the pickup and restaurant location.
The host has acknowledged the negative feedback and offered future guests a chance to consolidate their experience if they return, emphasizing that most guests enjoy the tour as described.
Read our full review: 4 Hours Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin With Lunch Review
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Sum Up
Philipsburg offers a diverse range of tours, from ATV rides and sightseeing to culinary and art experiences. Whether you’re looking for a private tour or a small-group adventure, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and budget. With a variety of options available, visitors can easily find the perfect way to explore the best of St. Maarten’s vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes.