Beautiful Philipsburg’s finest tours deliver a mix of culture and adventure. The cross-island sightseeing tour stands out, efficiently covering both Dutch and French territories in a single day – perfect for time-conscious travelers. The private tour option, while pricier, allows you to skip crowded tourist spots and move at your own pace.
I especially love the ATV excursions, which take you to spectacular viewpoints most visitors never see. For a taste of local flavor, the rum tasting tours and street art walks showcase the island’s vibrant culture and history.
These carefully selected tours represent the best ways to experience Philipsburg’s highlights. Check out our top picks below:
Key Points
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The Fun Day St. Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour offers a full-day exploration of the Dutch and French sides of the island, including popular attractions and complimentary beverages.
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The St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour provides a tailored experience with customizable stops, admission tickets, an open bar, and duty-free shopping opportunities.
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The Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour offers a unique immersive experience focused on contemporary art, with an art workshop and beverage options.
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The St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour features a half-day itinerary with a Pirate Experience, Belvedere Estate amusement park, Coral Reef photoshoot, and seaside lunch.
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The Red Rose Historical Rum Tour provides an immersive experience exploring Philipsburg’s history, including Cole Bay Hill, Border Monument, Marigot Fort Louis, and a beach sunset with wine and snacks.
FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour With Beach
One of the popular tours offered in Philipsburg is the “Fun Day St. Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg.” This full-day tour allows visitors to explore both the Dutch and French sides of the island, including highlights like Orient Bay Beach, Marigot, Maho Beach, and Cole Bay Hill.
The tour includes complimentary beverages such as beer, wine, soda, and rum punch throughout the day, providing a refreshing experience. Travelers can relax on the beautiful Orient Bay Beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the scenic vistas.
The tour departs daily at 9:00 AM from the EDC parking (Sand Bank) at the Philipsburg cruise port or the hotel lobby. The tour is open to a maximum of 100 travelers and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and an air-conditioned vehicle.
Lunch and gratuities are also included in the tour price.
With a 4.6-star rating based on 172 reviews, this tour is a great way to experience the highlights of St. Maarten in a single day.
Read our full review: FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour With Beach Review
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St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour
Though the “Fun Day St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour With Beach” provides a rundown, the St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour offers a more intimate and tailored experience.
With an impressive 87 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, this tour promises to immerse guests in the island’s history, culture, scenery, and local cuisine.
The tour features seven stops at your own pace, allowing you to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sights at your leisure. Admission tickets and an open bar are included, along with opportunities for duty-free shopping.
Pickup is available from any hotel or cruise ship, with directions provided for cruise passengers.
Guests praise the knowledgeable and personalized service of the guides, who offer valuable insights and are responsive to the group’s needs.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour Review
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The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
What makes the “The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour” one of the top-rated experiences in Philipsburg? This private tour offers guests the flexibility to customize their itinerary based on their interests, whether that’s swimming, shopping, or sampling local cuisine.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, it’s clear why this tour is so highly sought after.
The tour includes modern, air-conditioned transportation, with pickup and drop-off at the cruise port or hotel. Certified guides provide insightful commentary, and guests can capture scenic views with their personal cameras.
While swimming and wet clothing aren’t allowed inside the vehicle, bottled water is provided to keep guests hydrated.
Accessibility is a consideration, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly. Participants must be well-behaved, and infants must sit on laps.
With a high overall rating of 4.9 out of 407 reviews, the “The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour” is a must-do experience for visitors to Philipsburg.
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)
Although the ATV Rental Ride or Tour (1 ATV) in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, has a 91% traveler recommendation, the experience has received mixed reviews.
The service offers the opportunity to explore the island at your own pace, riding along the coast from Orient Bay Beach to Maho Beach while enjoying the Caribbean breeze. However, some customers have raised concerns about the condition of the vehicles, reporting issues like flat tires, throttle problems, and lack of maintenance.
The tour is priced at $140.00 per group (up to 2 people) and includes local taxes, round-trip shared transfer, and fuel.
Travelers can opt for a guided tour or explore on their own, with the option to reserve and pay later. Meeting and pickup information is provided, with pickups available at the cruise terminal or hotels.
While the service appeals to those seeking a self-guided adventure, it’s recommended to consider a guided tour for better navigation and safety.
Travelers are also advised to use Google Maps instead of the provided maps and to explore alternative rental options for a more reliable and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: 1 ATV Rental Ride or Tour (1 ATV) Review
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St.Maarten/St.Martin Tripple Beach Tour
The St.Maarten/St.Martin Triple Beach Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the best beaches on the island. This highly-rated tour, with 93% of travelers recommending it, takes guests to three or more of the top beaches in the area.
Starting at 9 am, the tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers and includes beverages like soda and some alcoholic drinks. Guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach fun, capturing seaside photos and dancing to live music.
The tour showcases the French and Dutch sides of the island, providing a mix of relaxation and exploration. Pickup is flexible, with the meeting point being the taxi dispatch sign outside the cruise ship.
While the guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, some guests have noted issues with timing and communication. The St.Maarten/St.Martin Triple Beach Tour offers an immersive beach experience, catering to travelers seeking sun, sand, and island culture.
Read our full review: St.Maarten/St.Martin Tripple Beach Tour Review
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Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten
For travelers seeking a more personalized and immersive island experience in St Maarten, the Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour offers a compelling alternative to standard group excursions.
This 5-6 hour private tour allows guests to design their own itinerary, choosing from popular destinations like Maho Beach, Orient Beach, Marigot, Philipsburg, and Grand Case. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour provides valuable insights into the island’s culture and history.
The experience includes a reserved climate-controlled van, complimentary open bar, and optional snorkeling equipment.
With an impressive 4.5-star rating from 21 reviews and 90% traveler recommendation, this tour promises a tailored journey that caters to individual interests.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for participants with moderate physical fitness. Priced at $550 for up to 5 people, the tour offers a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten Review
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Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg
One of the most popular private tours in St Maarten, the Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg offers travelers a chance to explore the island’s highlights at their own pace.
With a flexible and customizable itinerary, guests can choose to visit beaches, go shopping, or taste the local cuisine. A knowledgeable local guide provides insights about the island, while complimentary refreshments, including water, soft drinks, beer, and guavaberry rum punch, keep guests hydrated and refreshed.
The tour accommodates up to 8 passengers per vehicle and offers hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.
The tour is suitable for those 18 and older, with infants required to sit on laps. Gratuities are included, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Feedback from previous travelers highlights the guides’ knowledge, flexibility, and friendliness, making this a top choice for a personalized St Maarten sightseeing adventure.
Read our full review: Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg Review
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Super Island Tour Through St Martin
A popular choice among visitors to Philipsburg, the Super Island Tour through St Martin provides a rundown of the island’s highlights in a single day.
Operated by Noel Tours, Taxi & VIP Services, the tour boasts a 4.2-star rating from 23 reviews and is priced from $80.52 per person. Key attractions include the St. Maarten Nectar, Philipsburg Courthouse, and the iconic Maho Beach, along with a visit to the 99 steps of Fort St. Louis for panoramic views.
While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Noel, Sonya, Edwin, Vanessa, and Henry, some travelers have noted issues with the tour’s organization and communication.
Pickup and timing can be inconsistent, and more detailed historical insights would be welcomed.
Nevertheless, the Super Island Tour remains a recommended option for first-time visitors seeking a well-rounded introduction to St. Martin’s diverse attractions.
Read our full review: Super Island Tour Through St Martin Review
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St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour
The St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour offers visitors a comprehensive sightseeing experience that showcases the island’s diverse attractions. Priced from $160 per person, this half-day tour takes travelers on a journey through Philipsburg, exploring the Pirate Experience, Belvedere Estate amusement park, Coral Reef photoshoot, and Fort Louis.
Along the way, guests can indulge in ice cream at Toppers Rhum Distillery and enjoy a seaside lunch at Maho Beach, complete with plane views.
The tour boasts a maximum capacity of 30 travelers and has received an impressive 5.0 rating from 7 reviews. Highlights include the knowledgeable tour guide, Dennis, who provides insightful commentary on the island’s history, culture, and legends.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate. Pickup is available from select locations, and round-trip transfers are included.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour offers a flexible and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
Read our full review: St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour Review
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Modern Interactive Art Mashin Tour in Philipsburg With Pickup
Though the bustling port town of Philipsburg offers a variety of sightseeing options, the Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour stands out as a unique and immersive experience.
Limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, this tour allows visitors to explore the world of contemporary art through an art workshop led by a skilled artist. Participants will be provided with all necessary materials and can choose from a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, fruit punch, and mimosas, to enjoy during the session.
The tour also includes hotel or port pickup, ensuring a seamless start to the experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are welcome, and it’s located near public transportation.
With confirmation received at the time of booking and operated by Tours.sx (INFINITE ISLAND TOURS NV), the Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour in Philipsburg offers a memorable and engaging way to take in the local art scene.
Read our full review: Modern Interactive Art Mashin Tour in Philipsburg With Pickup Review
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Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour in St. Maarten
Offering a unique culinary exploration, the Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour in St. Maarten takes visitors on a flavorful journey through the island’s French and Dutch influences.
This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, promises an immersive experience, starting at $210 per person.
Guests can expect to walk along the Philipsburg boardwalk while sampling a variety of local delicacies, including crab cakes, plantains, ribs with peas, and fresh coconuts.
The tour also includes lunch and one drink per location, allowing participants to fully enjoy the cultural significance of the cuisine.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and the diverse food offerings, some guests have reported issues with cleanliness and service at certain stops.
Plus, cruise passengers have experienced some confusion regarding pickup points.
Operated by Tours.sx, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, with infants allowed to sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate, and a low-price guarantee is available, along with a “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option.
Read our full review: Small-Group Culinary Culture Tour in St. Maarten Review
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4 Hours Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin With Lunch
Although the 4 Hours Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin offers a blend of culinary delights and wine pairings, the experience has received mixed reviews.
The tour, operated by Tours.sx (INFINITE ISLAND TOURS NV), takes place in Philipsburg, St Maarten and starts at 10:00 am with a maximum of 12 travelers.
Inclusions feature a lunch with dishes like tuna tartar, Yucca Floats, and honey and goat cheese endive, as well as alcoholic beverages paired with wine.
While the tour promises an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, it’s not wheelchair accessible.
With a single review rating it 1 star, the customer described the experience as disappointing and the $446 price for two as high.
The host, however, offered a future experience if the customer returns.
Read our full review: 4 Hours Wine and Culinary Tasting Tour in St Martin With Lunch Review
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Red Rose Historical Rum Tour
The Red Rose Historical Rum Tour provides travelers with an immersive experience exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Philipsburg, St Maarten. The tour lasts a few hours and accommodates up to 20 people, offering convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable van with air conditioning and leather seats.
Highlights of the tour include visits to Cole Bay Hill, the Border Monument, and Marigot Fort Louis, providing insights into the island’s past. Guests can also enjoy a beach sunset with a glass of wine and a complimentary snack box.
The tour includes alcoholic and cold beverages, ensuring a refreshing experience.
With a price starting from £97.84 per person, the Red Rose Historical Rum Tour offers a well-rounded sightseeing experience. Travelers can book with confidence, as the tour operator provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Red Rose Historical Rum Tour Review
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Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour in Sint Maarten
Travelers can explore the local brewing scene in Sint Maarten on the Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour. The tour takes visitors to three venues, where they can sample locally-crafted beers with Caribbean and Dutch influences.
Tasting notes promise a range of flavors, from tangy to malty and floral. The tour includes beer samples and traditional Dutch pancakes. An air-conditioned vehicle provides transportation, accommodating up to 20 travelers for a personalized experience.
Pickup is available at the main Port Gates or hotel/villa lobby, with a 15-minute leeway advised for traffic.
However, reviews indicate some issues with this tour. One traveler reported poor communication from the operator, leading to a 45-minute delay.
There were also problems at the venues, including confusion at the second stop and dissatisfaction with service. Ultimately, the traveler was dropped off early due to the poor experience.
Given these concerns, it may be worth considering alternative options, such as in-house brewery tours at SXM Brewery, which could provide a better overall experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Ultimate Brewery Beer Tour in Sint Maarten Review
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Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour
For those seeking a deeper immersion into the rich culture and heritage of St. Maarten, the “Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour” offers an exceptional experience.
This small-group tour takes visitors on a journey through the vibrant Philipsburg, showcasing the island’s diverse Caribbean culture. The tour includes a visit to the Topper’s Rhum Distillery, where participants can learn about the art of rum-making and indulge in a rum tasting.
Plus, the tour explores the charming colored houses of Marigot and offers time for shopping and relaxation at the picturesque Mao Beach.
Included in the tour are air-conditioned transportation, a delicious lunch, and all fees and taxes, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour provides a personalized and intimate exploration of St. Maarten’s captivating culture and delectable rum heritage.
Read our full review: Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour Review
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Tropical Gondola Day Cruise & French Beach Tour
Embarking on a captivating Tropical Gondola Day Cruise & French Beach Tour allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Philipsburg, St Maarten.
This private tour, starting at 9:30 am, provides an exceptional experience with a picnic basket of cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and a fresh baguette from a local French bakery, accompanied by smooth and refreshing wine.
Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup at the main entrance of the Port Gates or hotel/villa lobby.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, and the tour duration includes travel time.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Guests can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility, with the tour priced from $220.00 per person.
Read our full review: Tropical Gondola Day Cruise & French Beach Tour Review
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Tropical Gondola Day Tour
Though the Tropical Gondola Day Tour in Philipsburg, St Maarten, offers a romantic experience ideal for couples, it also provides a personalized, private guided journey through the area’s breathtaking nighttime sights.
This tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a gondola ride, beverages, and snacks. Guests will meet their guide at the main entrance of the Port Gates, next to the Port Sign AC Wathey Pier, or in the lobby of their hotel.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult. A smart casual dress code is required. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Priced from $220.00 per person, the Tropical Gondola Day Tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. A Reserve Now and Pay Later option is also available.
With a total of 1 review and an overall rating of 1.0, this tour’s reviews have been thoroughly checked.
Read our full review: Tropical Gondola Day Tour Review
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Half-Day Cocktails Mixology in Philipsburg and Orient Bay Tour
The Half-Day Cocktails Mixology in Philipsburg and Orient Bay Tour allows participants to enjoy the art of Caribbean mixology.
This 3-hour experience takes place in Philipsburg, St Maarten, with a maximum of 22 travelers. Pickup is available from the main entrance of the Port Gates or hotel/villa lobbies, with an allowance for 15 minutes of potential traffic delays.
During the tour, guests will enjoy a variety of locally-sourced tapas, including tostones with mango salsa guacamole, fried coconut shrimps, and spicy bites.
Alcoholic beverages are also included, along with an interactive Caribbean mixology workshop where participants can learn the science of mixtures. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour is accessible for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair or stroller-friendly.
Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Cocktails Mixology in Philipsburg and Orient Bay Tour Review
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Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour
Explore the vibrant street art and murals of Philipsburg, St Maarten, on this half-day Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour. For $85 per person, you’ll discover the local art scene with a guide, exploring the city streets and snapping photos in front of colorful murals.
This small-group tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and includes air-conditioned transportation, rum punch, and lunch.
The tour highlights include supporting local artists and businesses, as well as capturing Instagram-worthy shots of the island’s vibrant street art.
Pickup is available from all Airbnbs, villas, and condos on both the French and Dutch sides of St Maarten. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with a 3.0/5 rating, the company promptly issued a refund when a previous tour’s driver didn’t show up, and they offered free airport transport as compensation.
Read our full review: Dutch St Maarten Mural Picture Tour Review
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St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour
As one of the top-rated tours in Philipsburg, the St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour offers a comprehensive experience for visitors. Rated 4.5/5 based on 10 reviews, this 5.5-hour tour takes travelers to several beaches, including the popular Orient Beach and Mullet Bay. The tour is priced at $70 per person and can accommodate up to 33 travelers.
Highlights of the tour include the opportunity for lunch and souvenir shopping, as well as historical and cultural insights provided by the guides.
Travelers have praised the guides’ attentiveness and flexibility in customizing the itinerary based on their interests. However, some have noted issues with traffic delays and communication about meeting times and beach stop durations.
The tour includes alcoholic beverages and soda, and infant seats are available.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour Review
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Recap
Philipsburg offers a variety of engaging tours for visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. From sightseeing excursions and beach outings to ATV adventures and cocktail-making classes, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day or an adrenaline-filled experience, Philipsburg’s diverse tour options can provide an unforgettable way to discover the charms of this Caribbean destination.