St Maarten: UTV & ATV Guided Island Tour with Beach Stops

Summary

Philipsburg adventure by UTV with French Dutch island sights

You’ll ride your own UTV or ATV around St Maarten with a local guide leading the way—crossing from Philipsburg through both French and Dutch sides, stopping to swim at beaches and feed iguanas at Oyster Pond. There’s time for laughter, photos, and even trying out “the Moses walk” over shallow water—leaving you with real memories of the island’s energy.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — engines humming in the morning air just outside Philipsburg, helmets clutched awkwardly under our arms. Our guide, Jean-Paul, grinned like he’d seen this nervous excitement a thousand times. “Don’t worry,” he said, “the hardest part is deciding who gets to drive.” I didn’t expect to feel so giddy climbing into that UTV, but there’s something about seeing St Maarten from behind the wheel that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.

We set off in a little caravan, bouncing along roads that twist between pastel houses and sudden flashes of turquoise water. The main keyword here is UTV & ATV guided tour Philipsburg — but honestly, it felt more like being let in on the rhythm of the island itself. At one point we stopped at Orient Bay Beach; sand soft underfoot, salty wind tugging at my hat. Some locals were setting up umbrellas and laughing about something I couldn’t quite catch. I tried saying “bonjour” and probably butchered it — Li (my friend) still teases me about that.

Oyster Pond was next. There was this moment when Jean-Paul handed us bits of fruit to feed bright green iguanas—one of them blinked at me like it knew I was new here. You can see St Barths across the water if you squint through the haze. Later at Coralita Beach’s lookout point, we did what they call “the Moses walk.” It’s not really walking on water but for a second it almost feels like it — feet splashing over a shallow sandbar toward a tiny island, sun hot on your shoulders. My shoes squelched for ages after that.

I keep thinking about how different the French and Dutch sides felt — not better or worse, just different flavors of life stitched together by these winding roads and sudden sea views. The whole day had this easygoing pace; nobody rushed us, even when we lingered too long taking photos or just breathing in salt air. If you’re looking for a day trip from Philipsburg that’s more than just ticking off sights… well, I still think about those iguanas.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — UTV tour across St Maarten island

• Board 4x4 UTV vehicles
• Drive past Front Street, Philipsburg
• Pass through French and Dutch sides
• Stop at Orient Bay beach
• Walk beach and use facilities
• Purchase snacks and beverages
• Visit Oyster Bay
• Take pictures and feed iguanas
• Enjoy views of St.Barths island
• Arrive at Coralita Beach lookout
• Participate in "Moses walk" activity

Top questions

Do I need a driver’s license for the UTV & ATV guided tour in Philipsburg?

Yes, you must be 18+ and bring your physical driver’s license (no photos accepted).

What beaches do we visit during the day trip from Philipsburg?

You’ll stop at Orient Bay Beach for swimming or relaxing and Coralita Beach for the Moses walk.

Is lunch included on this St Maarten UTV tour?

No lunch is included; however, you can buy snacks or drinks during stops like Orient Bay Beach.

Can children join the ATV/UTV guided tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages as passengers; only those 18+ with a valid license can drive.

Are there restroom facilities along the route?

Yes—Orient Bay Beach has restrooms available during your stop.

Will we see wildlife during this St Maarten tour?

You may spot bright green iguanas at Oyster Pond and possibly other local animals along the way.

How long does the UTV/ATV guided tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours including multiple scenic stops.

Is pickup included for this day trip in Philipsburg?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes an in-depth tutorial on operating your UTV or ATV (with helmet and fuel provided), plus guidance from professional local guides throughout both French and Dutch sides of St Maarten—with time to swim at beaches, feed iguanas at Oyster Pond, try out the Moses walk at Coralita Beach lookout point, and plenty of chances for photos before heading back to Philipsburg.