St Maarten: Private Island Tour & Beach Day with Pickup

Summary

Private sightseeing across St Maarten’s lively beaches, markets, and historic forts

You’ll taste street food in Philipsburg, climb to panoramic views at Fort St Louis, browse Marigot’s lively market with your guide, and swim at Mullet Bay—all with private transport and local stories along the way. Expect laughter, new flavors, and those little moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not really in St Maarten until you’ve tried Johnny Cakes,” our guide said, handing me one still warm from the griddle. I’d never even heard of them before—sort of sweet, sort of salty, soft inside. We’d just left Philipsburg’s colorful Front Street behind (the jewelry shops are wild) and already I could smell the sea mixing with the faint spice from food stalls. The air was sticky but in a good way, like you’re always half-damp from swimming or laughing too hard.

We zigzagged between Dutch and French sides—Marigot’s market was full of chatter and that sharp tang of saltfish. I tried to bargain for a scarf but honestly just ended up making the vendor laugh. Our guide, Marcus, knew everyone—he waved at a guy selling mangoes and pointed out Fort St. Louis perched above us (“Best view if you don’t mind stairs”). The climb was short but my legs still grumbled; the wind up there almost stole my hat. You can see all the way to Anguilla on a clear day. I didn’t expect to feel so small looking out over all that blue.

Maho Beach was next—a plane roared right over us as we stood in the sand (it really is as close as they say). Kids shrieked every time the engines kicked up sand; I got grit in my teeth and laughed anyway. Lunch was in Grand Case—Marcus ordered for us in French Creole and I tried grilled snapper that made my fingers smell like lime for hours after. We finished at Mullet Bay, where the water looked almost fake it was so clear. I forgot my towel (classic me), so I just sat on warm rocks watching locals play dominoes under palm trees.

I still think about that view from Fort St. Louis sometimes—how quiet it felt above all the noise below. If you want a day trip around St Maarten that’s more than just ticking off sights, this private island tour is it. Just remember your towel—and maybe practice your bargaining skills first.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore St Maarten highlights and beaches

• Visit Philipsburg shopping area
• Enjoy scenic shoreline views
• Relax at Orient Beach
• Have lunch in Grand Case
• Explore Marigot market
• Take photos and get drinks
• Swim and relax at Mullet Bay

Top questions

How long does the private island tour in St Maarten last?

The tour covers a full day but timing is flexible since it’s private—you can linger at any stop as long as you like.

Is hotel or cruise port pickup included for this tour?

Yes, both hotel pickup and cruise port pickup are included for your convenience.

Can we choose which beaches to visit during the tour?

Yes, you can choose your preferred beach stops such as Mullet Bay or Orient Beach during your private sightseeing tour.

Are meals included on this private sightseeing tour?

No meals are included but your guide will recommend local restaurants like those in Grand Case for lunch.

Is there time for shopping during this day trip?

Yes, there’s time to shop duty-free on Front Street in Philipsburg and browse Marigot Market on the French side.

Are towels provided for swimming at Mullet Bay?

No, guests must bring their own towels and change of clothes if planning to swim during the tour.

Is this private island tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages but kids must be well-behaved inside the vehicle per tour rules.

What’s included

Your day includes certified local guide service throughout St Maarten, private air-conditioned transportation with bottled water provided, hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off (whichever works best), plus your photos taken by your guide at scenic spots—just bring towels if you plan to swim at any beach stop along the way.