Sint Maarten / Orient Beach: E-Bike Tour from Philipsburg

Summary

Oyster Pond & Orient Beach E-Bike Ride with Local Guide

Pedal from Philipsburg with a local guide, crossing both Dutch and French sides of Sint Maarten on an e-bike. You’ll pass Oyster Pond and Le Galion Beach before cooling off at Orient Beach with a drink and swim — moments you’ll remember long after your legs stop aching.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that hill? Don’t worry, the bike does half the work,” our guide, Jean-Luc, grinned as he handed me the helmet outside the little shop in Philipsburg. I’d never ridden an electric-assist bike before — honestly, I was a bit nervous about cycling in Sint Maarten traffic. But Jean-Luc just waved it off and said, “Here, we ride together.” The morning air smelled faintly of salt and diesel from the harbor. We set off weaving past pastel houses and kids waving on their way to school.

The first climb out of town was easier than I expected — maybe too easy? The e-bike hummed quietly under me. At Oyster Pond Bay, we stopped for water and watched a fisherman untangle his nets while a rooster strutted by (I still don’t know why there are always chickens everywhere here). Crossing into French St. Martin felt almost invisible except for the sudden switch in road signs and hearing Jean-Luc slip into French with a shopkeeper. The Atlantic wind picked up as we rode along the coast; it tasted sharp and left my lips sticky.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much trying to pronounce “Le Galion” — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin too (probably butchered it). By late morning, Orient Beach came into view, all turquoise water and bright umbrellas. We parked the bikes and waded straight in; sand stuck between my toes but I didn’t care. Cold juice never tasted better after a ride like that. There’s something about sharing a swim with strangers who suddenly feel like friends — maybe it’s just the sun or maybe it’s this island.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — E-Bike Tour of Sint Maarten

• Cycle along Sint Maarten coastline
• Stop at Orient Beach for drink and swim
• Pass by Le Galion Beach
• Ride along Oyster Pond coastline

Top questions

Is this e-bike tour suitable for beginners?

The tour uses electric-assist bikes which make hills easier, but riders should have at least moderate fitness and be comfortable cycling with traffic.

Does the tour include stops for swimming?

Yes, there is time for a refreshing swim at Orient Beach during the tour.

Are helmets provided on this Sint Maarten e-bike tour?

Yes, bike helmets are included for all participants.

What is included in the price of the Gem of the Island tour?

The tour includes use of an e-bike, helmet, bottled water, guidance from a local guide, and one complimentary beverage at Orient Beach.

Where does the e-bike tour start?

The tour begins in Philipsburg on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten.

Will we visit both Dutch and French sides of Saint Martin?

Yes, you will cross from Dutch Sint Maarten to French St. Martin during the ride.

Are there cycling lanes on this route?

No, Sint Maarten does not have dedicated cycling lanes; you will ride with regular traffic.

Is public transportation available nearby after the tour?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point in Philipsburg.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an electric-assist bicycle and helmet, bottled water along the way, guidance from a local expert throughout your journey across both sides of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, plus a complimentary drink (beer, soda, juice or water) at Orient Beach before heading back to Philipsburg.