How do you get around Philipsburg St Maarten?

Don't worry about getting around, the city has a variety of options for transportation, such as the local bus options, several taxi stations, bicycle-guided tours, and even ATV tours. Whether you're here for a day or a week, Philipsburg has plenty to offer its visitors.



Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side of St. Maarten, is a very walkable city, particularly the main shopping areas of Front Street and Back Street, as well as the Great Bay Boardwalk. If you are arriving on a cruise ship, the most common way to get to the city center is via the Water Taxi, which costs about $7 for an all-day pass and takes you from the cruise pier directly to the heart of the shopping district in about 10 minutes. For exploring beyond the main town, the most affordable and authentic way to travel is the Local Bus system. These are actually privately owned minivans with "Bus" signs in the window and specific destination placards (like "Maho" or "Mullet Bay"). They run frequently and cost only $1 to $3 per person. Taxis are also plentiful and operate on standardized government rates, though it is always best to confirm the price before the ride starts. If you prefer more independence, car rentals are available, but be aware that traffic in and out of Philipsburg can be extremely congested during peak cruise ship hours.

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Traveling by public bus (more like a minivan) is a reasonable means of transport on St. Maarten/St. Martin if you don't mind a bit of inconvenience and overcrowding. Buses run daily from 5am to midnight and serve most major locations on both sides of the island.

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There are no Uber services in St Maarten nor any other rideshare options here. You'll have to take a taxi, use public transport or book a car rental in St Maarten.

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Many cruise ships visit the island on a weekly basis, docking at the Port of St. Maarten in Philipsburg. You will need a passport to travel to and from St. Martin but rest assured that you can travel freely between the island's French and Dutch sides.

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Walking to this beach from the cruise pier is easy and possible, and there is always the option of a water taxi. The water taxi ride costs about $4 per person. This beach's convenience makes it a hot spot for many tourists who are looking to relax and have some fun. So, go there early to get a good spot on the beach.

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Mullet Bay sits near the airport, just south of scenic Cupecoy Beach and is free to visit. Many call calm and quiet Mullet a decent alternative to the noise and sand blasts of Maho Bay, or to the crowds of the French side's Orient Bay.

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If you want to talk about worst area, then we can talk about Sandy Ground and Agrement (both in Marigot). Best Area : The French Low lands, Orient Bay residencial Park and Oyster Pond..

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The island's weather is pleasant year-round, but these are times when rain showers are less likely. Summer and early fall are not good for a vacation; many hotels close in this offseason and there's a chance of hurricanes. Also avoid visiting in winter and early spring (mid-December to April) if you can.

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See our dedicated what to do with kids on St Maarten page for the best beaches and activities for our junior visitors! ? CAN YOU WALK AROUND ST. MAARTEN ? St Maarten is a compact island allowing, in theory, to walk around the entire island within a day.

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Taxi Drivers: Should I tip? Tipping taxis drivers on the island is common and drivers usually get around $0.50-$1 depending upon the total distance and final prices. Tour Guides: Is a tip required? Tipping your tour guide between 10%-15% is advisable in St Maarten.

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Maarten is one of the world's most stunning islands. Thousands of tourists return to the island year after year, basking in the bright Caribbean sun and clear turquoise waters. St. Maarten is a true tropical paradise, combining vibrant island culture with elegant European charm.

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The Antillean Guilder or Florin is the official currency in St. Maarten, which is divided into 100 cents. US dollars are accepted at the majority of businesses on the Dutch side of the island. On the French side, the euro is the official currency.

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English is the most commonly spoken language along with a local dialect. The official languages are French for Saint-Martin, and both Dutch and English for Sint Maarten.

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The dry season, from December to April, is the most pleasant. This is also the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the agreeable weather and summer temperatures. The sunshine is almost constant during this period, with hardly any rain.

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High season is considered to be February, March and April. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is September. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest St. Maarten flight deals.

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VERDICT: If you want more of a European feel, stay on the French side. If you want more of an Americanized feel, stay on the Dutch side. FYI, the cruise ships and the airport are located on the Dutch side.

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The dual-nation island is just as safe as other island getaways. Crowds are denser in St. Maarten, however, so travelers should exercise common sense when moving around the tourist areas; leave your valuables at home, and only carry small bills.

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Plum Bay or Baie aux Prunes beach is secluded and not so frequent a destination for tourists. Golden sands and clear turquoise water are enhanced by the peace and quiet that this beach offers. The calmer seas around this wild beach are the perfect locations for snorkeling and sometimes for surfing.

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