Looking for the best things to do in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten? You’re in the right place!
Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch (southern) side of the island, known as Sint Maarten (the northern side belongs to France and is called Saint Martin), and it’s one of my favorite Caribbean destinations. From sipping rum punch on white-sand beaches to hand-feeding tropical birds and swimming alongside sea turtles, it’s packed with experiences that keep me coming back.
What I love most about Philipsburg is its perfect blend of laid-back island vibes and unique activities. It’s not just about the stunning beaches (though they’re incredible!)—it’s about uncovering the hidden gems that make this island so special. So, let’s dive in!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE Philipsburg experience was this island-hopping and snorkeling tour! We cruised on a speed boat, visited stunning islands, and snorkeled with sea turtles and stingrays – incredible!
- Our Top Choice
- Things to do in Philipsburg
- 1. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
- 2. Island hop and snorkel with sea turtles
- 3. See exotic birds at Parotte Ville Bird Park
- 4. Relax on a luxury catamaran
- 5. Explore the full island with a guide
- 6. Spend the day at Orient and Maho Beach
- 7. Drive your own mini-speed boat on a snorkeling adventure
- 8. Go for a ride on a Jet Ski
- Where to Stay in Philipsburg, St. Maarten
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
- The Services We Recommend
Things to do in Philipsburg
1. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
Tour Details
This ATV tour is the most exhilarating way to explore Sint Maarten! We had an absolute blast navigating the island’s stunning scenery and iconic beaches. Plus, with over 1,400 5-star reviews, you know it will be a great tour!
We met our guides in Philipsburg, where, after a quick safety briefing, we geared up and got ready to ride. The ATVs were super easy to handle, and the guides were on hand to help throughout the tour.
We started out by cruising along the main roads, taking in the gorgeous coastal views along the way. Occasional off-road stretches added a thrilling twist and allowed us to see a different side of the island.
Our first big stop was Maho Beach, where we got to experience the thrill of planes flying low overhead. Then, we made our way to the pristine Mullet Bay to enjoy the soft sand and turquoise waters.
Another highlight of the tour was Marigot, which is the capital of the French side of the island. We loved whizzing through the town’s colorful homes, and we had a chance to check out the charming local markets. Oh, and if you’re an animal lover, then seeing loads of iguanas and getting the chance to feed them is sure to make your day!
The tour ended back in Philipsburg, where we washed the sand and dust off with a refreshing swim in the Great Bay. The entire experience was an amazing mix of adventure and sightseeing. It’s also ideal for first-timers, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve never ridden an ATV before.
2. Island hop and snorkel with sea turtles
Tour Details
If you’re looking for the most fun and exciting way to explore St. Maarten, this speedboat and snorkeling tour is our top pick! It’s perfect for anyone wanting to see the island on one incredible day, including cruise passengers.
As soon as we boarded, we were welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable crew. They treated us like VIPs all day long, ensuring that we were comfortable, entertained, well-fed, and watered.
The stops we made were nothing short of magical. We loved snorkeling at Tintamarre Island because we got to see sea turtles, stingrays, and tons of tropical fish. It was the pinnacle of an epic Caribbean adventure! Snorkeling on Creole Rock was fantastic, too, as we had fun exploring the vibrant coral reefs.
Later on, we headed to Pinel Island, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch and spent some time relaxing on the sand. We also loved exploring the beautiful Mullet Bay, and of course, no tour of St. Maarten would be complete without experiencing the thrill of planes roaring overhead at Maho Beach!
We covered so much ground – or rather, water – on this tour, and managed to avoid the big crowds. It was the perfect way to explore this paradisiacal island, and we would definitely do this tour again!
3. See exotic birds at Parotte Ville Bird Park
Tour Details
If you’re a bird lover or just curious about local wildlife, this bird tour in Philipsburg is an experience you won’t forget!
You’ll start with a convenient pickup from your Philipsburg hotel or the cruise port before heading to a local bird park. Home to 26 species and around 140 birds, this park is a haven for bird enthusiasts!
We thought exploring with a guide made the experience so much better – they shared fascinating insights about the different species and their habits while answering all our questions.
But the highlight for me had to be feeding the birds! They flew right up to us, landing on our hands, shoulders, and even our heads. It was such an interactive and fun experience that both kids and adults absolutely loved. (Pro tip: wear a hat – just in case a bird gets a little too excited above you!)
At only 2.5 hours long, this tour is perfect for cruise passengers or anyone short on time. Whether you’re traveling with family or simply looking for a unique activity in Philipsburg, this tour is engaging, educational, and leaves you with plenty of time to explore more of the island afterward!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
4. Relax on a luxury catamaran
Tour Details
This sailing catamaran tour around St. Maarten is the epitome of luxury and relaxation. We were thoroughly pampered from start to finish, and the vessel itself was sleek and comfortable. We especially loved the sun deck, which was perfect for topping up our Caribbean tans.
The day began with a breakfast of fresh-cut fruit and pound cake. Our first stop was Little Bay, where we explored the calm, crystal-clear waters on a guided snorkeling excursion. We even saw a sunken helicopter and submarine, which was pretty surreal! It sent shivers down my spine.
Later on, we sailed past Maho Beach with cocktails in hand as we watched planes soar overhead. The crew anticipated our every need and never let our glasses run dry. They also ensured we had time to relax on the giant lily pad, which was so much fun.
Anchoring at Mullet Bay was the perfect finale for the tour. We grabbed some SUP boards and paddled through the turquoise waters before enjoying a delicious lunch on board. Being served a freshly cooked meal right on deck really made us feel like VIPs and it was the perfect note to end on.
This sailing trip is truly a 5-star escape into paradise – plus full of 5-star reviews (see them all here!). If you’re looking for a luxurious way to explore the stunning beauty of St. Maarten, there’s no better choice!
5. Explore the full island with a guide
Tour Details
If it’s your first time visiting Philipsburg, then we highly recommend booking this sightseeing tour! It’s also a great option for cruise passengers or those who are short on time.
Our guide, Cutty, was outstanding. His stories really brought Sint Maarten’s history to life for us. We also loved sipping on cold beers and refreshing rum punch in the van as we drove around the island – talk about traveling in style!
Our first stop of the day was the Harold Jack Lookout Point, where we enjoyed panoramic views of Simpson Bay Lagoon and the surrounding islands. Next up, we visited Maho Beach. Planes fly very low over this beach, so it was an exciting spot to visit. It felt like we could reach up and touch the aircrafts!
Later on, we visited Marigot, the capital of the French side of Saint Martin, to do some duty-free shopping and grab some delicious French pastries. Then, we decided to walk them off by walking up the 100 steps to the top of Fort Louis!
The tour also included a visit to Topper’s Rhum Distillery, where we got to try some local rum, and free time to explore Philipsburg. All in all, it was such a well-balanced experience that gave us a great overview of the island. Whether you’re here for a day or just getting started on your trip, this tour is a fantastic way to see the island!
Related Read: To make the most of your time on St. Martin island, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary that covers everything from the nicest beaches to the best places to eat!
6. Spend the day at Orient and Maho Beach
Tour Details
For beach lovers visiting Philipsburg, this half-day tour to Orient Beach and Maho Beach is an absolute dream! It’s a stress-free way to visit two of the island’s most famous beaches, complete with complimentary drinks and plenty of time to soak up the sun.
The tour starts with a drive to Orient Beach, a gorgeous stretch of white sand and turquoise water. Known as the “French Riviera of the Caribbean,” it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or even trying out watersports (available at an additional cost). With two full hours to relax or explore, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the beach’s breathtaking beauty!
Next, you’ll head to Maho Beach, one of the most iconic spots on the island, where you can see planes flying just overhead as they come in to land at the nearby Princess Juliana International Airport. Standing on the sand as jets roar just above you is such a thrilling and unique experience – it’s like nothing else I’ve ever done!
And, of course, what’s a beach day without drinks? With complimentary beer, rum punch, and water included, you can sip and relax your way through the day. This tour is perfect for beach bums looking to explore St. Maarten’s coastline and experience its most pristine beaches in a fun and easy way!
7. Drive your own mini-speed boat on a snorkeling adventure
Tour Details
Driving our very own mini-speed boat along the stunning coastline of St. Maarten was such a thrilling adventure! It’s not every day that you get to be your own captain in the Caribbean, so as far as we’re concerned, booking this tour is a must while you’re in town!
We had a quick briefing and got comfortable using our speedboat, and then before we knew it, we were off, cruising across the Simpson Bay Lagoon. We were whooping and hollering as we passed by mega yachts owned by the rich and famous. Our guides even shared some fun stories about the owners of these luxurious vessels, which made the ride even more interesting.
Once we crossed under the Dutch causeway and into the French waters, we made a seamless transition into the world of pristine beaches and cute coastal towns. We especially loved visiting Creole Rock, which is easily one of the island’s best snorkeling spots. Jumping into the water and exploring marine life was a blast, especially as we got to see Sergeant Major fish and colorful parrot fish.
On the way back, we passed hidden bays and secluded beaches, including the charming Happy Bay. It was so quiet, with such pristine scenery that we could scarcely believe it was real! Basically, this tour is a must if you’re looking for excitement and natural beauty.
8. Go for a ride on a Jet Ski
Tour Details
Jet skiing in St. Maarten is so much fun, and doing it right off the shores of Philipsburg in stunning Great Bay makes it even better! The turquoise water, the open space, and that feeling of freedom as you speed across the bay? Truly unbeatable.
This Jet Ski rental sets you up with everything you need for a smooth and safe ride. The team was incredibly welcoming and gave us a clear tutorial before we got started. Life jackets and fuel are included, so all you have to do is show up ready to have a blast.
Once we were out on the water, the fun really began. You can cruise along the coast, carve through the waves, or just take in the beauty of the shoreline from a totally new angle. There’s something really special about seeing St. Maarten’s beaches and hidden coves from the water, and getting to do it at your own pace makes it even more memorable.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or trying a Jet Ski for the first time, this is a must-do activity while you’re in Philipsburg. It’s quick to book, easy to access, and an absolute thrill, a perfect way to add some adventure to your beach day.
Related Read: If you plan on exploring beyond Philipsburg, check out our top 10 favorite things to do on the entire island of Saint Martin here!
Where to Stay in Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Philipsburg, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Luckily, this island isn’t huge, so whether you want to stay beachfront or in the city, you’re never far from the top attractions. Here are three excellent hotel options for a range of budgets.
Luxury – $$$
The Morgan Resort Spa & Village is a luxury hotel in a pristine location! Located in Simpson Bay on Maho Beach (just 15 minutes from downtown Philipsburg), this is exactly what you’d expect for a Caribbean escape. You can enjoy the modern rooms with amazing views, the onsite pool, or lounge chairs that are right in the ocean. Plus the restaurant, bar, and spa!
Rooms average around $400 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you want the perfect location – near the beach and right in Phillipsburg, Holland House Beach Hotel is my top choice! This hotel sits right on Great Bay beach so you can enjoy sea views and all of the fun amenities to pair. They offer standard rooms or suite-style, a large luxury pool, a spa, and a traditional Caribbean restaurant.
Prices start around $240 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Alicia’s Inn is an affordable hotel located in the heart of Phillipsburg. You are just a three-minute walk from the beach and some of the best restaurants in the city. The rooms are clean and comfortable and the perfect place to stay if you want to be out exploring St. Maarten. They offer queen or twin rooms starting at $90 USD per night.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
We loved our time in Philipsburg; it was the perfect launch point for exploring St. Maarten! It’s hard to be bored here between the stunning blue Caribbean waters, charming colonial architecture, and thrilling adventure activities. Even if you only hit half of the top things to do on this list, you will have a fantastic vacation in paradise!
If you need help planning your next adventure, check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blogs to help inspire your travels – cheers!
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