Kayak Lagoon Tour

Experience the Unseen Side of St. Maarten with a Kayak Lagoon Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see a different, quieter side of St. Maarten, a kayak tour along its largest saltwater lagoon offers just that. For around $50 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours paddling at a relaxed pace, guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing stories and sights that often go unnoticed from land or larger boats. The tour begins at Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay, with a brief safety lesson before setting out on your sit-on-top kayak—a stable and easy-to-handle craft perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the island’s crowded beaches and roads. Instead, you’re paddling through quiet, scenic waters where wildlife like crabs and iguanas often blend into the rocks, and where your guide will point out the imaginary water border between the Dutch and French sides. Also, the flexibility of start times—early or late morning—makes it easier to fit into your island itinerary without feeling rushed.

A small consideration is that moderate physical fitness is recommended; this isn’t a passive activity, but it’s not overly strenuous either. Plus, since transport to the meeting point isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way there, which is straightforward given the tour’s proximity to public transportation options. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, curious travelers, and anyone who enjoys a bit of adventure coupled with educational tidbits about the island.

Key Points

• Unique access: Paddle to parts of St. Martin that boats can’t reach.
• Relaxed pace: Suitable for those who want a leisurely experience.
• Expert guides: Guides share wildlife insights and local history.
• Small group setting: Max 24 travelers for a personalized feel.
• All equipment included: Kayak, paddle, life jacket, and a beverage.
• Flexible scheduling: Choose morning start times that suit you.

In-Depth Review of the Kayak Lagoon Tour

Discovering the Hidden Side of St. Maarten

This tour is designed to show you a tranquil, scenic side of the island that most visitors overlook. Starting at Kim Sha Beach, you’ll receive a quick safety and paddling lesson—crucial for those new to kayaking, but also reassuring for experienced paddlers. With your gear—a sit-on-top kayak, paddle, and life jacket—you’re ready to glide across the largest saltwater lagoon in the Antilles.

The tour typically lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including time for stops, paddling, and some relaxed chatting with your guide. The cost is quite reasonable at just over fifty dollars, especially considering all the included equipment, the guided nature of the trip, and the chance to enjoy refreshing beverages at the end—beers, rum punch, or sodas.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Kim Sha Beach
Your adventure begins with a brief orientation on the beach. The friendly guide will demonstrate how to use your kayak and safety tips, ensuring everyone feels confident before heading out. This initial step is especially valuable for first-timers or anyone cautious about ocean paddling. The beach setting also offers a picturesque backdrop and the chance to dip your toes in the ocean after the tour.

Stop 2: Exploring the Lagoon and Its Sights
Once paddling begins, you’ll follow your guide across the lagoon, where the water is calm and the scenery is lush. As you glide past marinas filled with opulent mega yachts, you’ll realize just how popular St. Maarten is as a winter haven for the wealthy. Your guide—possibly Leroy or Pablo, based on reviews—will point out interesting sights, including the imaginary border dividing the island’s Dutch and French sides, adding a touch of geographic fun.

Throughout the paddle, your guide will share stories about the island’s history and ecosystem, enriching the experience beyond just moving your arms. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Casey or Leroy make all the difference, making the trip fun, informative, and engaging.

Rest Stop & Refreshments
Midway through, there’s a brief stop—perfect for stretching, resting your muscles, or snapping photos of the lagoon’s stunning reflections. After paddling back to Kim Sha Beach, you’ll enjoy a complimentary beverage, often something cool and refreshing like soda or a local rum punch—an appreciated reward after your gentle exertion.

Wildlife and Ecosystem Highlights

The lagoon is a haven for nature lovers. Many guides take time to point out crabs, iguanas, and even subtle wildlife that camouflages perfectly with the rocks. As one reviewer shared, guides excel at showing you wildlife you might otherwise miss, ensuring your eyes are as engaged as your arms. The lagoon’s ecosystem is vibrant, and the guide’s insights help you understand the delicate balance of this saltwater habitat.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike crowded boat tours or land-based sightseeing, this kayaking trip offers an intimate connection with nature. You can paddle at your own pace—whether leisurely or a bit more energetic. The small group size (max 24) fosters a friendly, relaxed environment, and the flexible start times make scheduling convenient.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many guests have praised the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Michelle W highlighted Casey’s attentiveness to wildlife, while John P appreciated Leroy’s extensive island knowledge, calling the experience “both educational and beautiful.” Those new to ocean kayaking, like Terry B, found the instructions thorough and reassuring, emphasizing the value of proper safety guidance.

Practical Details and Considerations

While the activity is affordable and well-organized, keep in mind that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Since the tour is moderate in physical demand, it’s suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. The weather can influence the experience—if poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Also, the tour is limited to 24 participants, ensuring everyone gets attention from the guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This kayaking lagoon tour is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape from busy beaches, those interested in local wildlife and ecosystems, and anyone eager to learn about island geography and history in an engaging way. It’s suitable for adventurers of all experience levels—from novices to seasoned paddlers—who enjoy a small-group, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic activity that offers a different perspective of St. Maarten beyond the typical cruise ship excursions, this tour fits the bill beautifully. It’s especially attractive to those who value guides’ local knowledge and storytelling, making the experience both educational and fun.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including paddling and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay and ends back there after the paddling.

What is included in the price?
You get a kayak, paddle, life jacket, guide, and a complimentary beverage such as beer, rum punch, soda, or water.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Yes, moderate fitness is recommended as you will be paddling, but the pace is relaxed enough for most people.

Can beginners join?
Absolutely. The guide provides a paddling lesson and safety instructions before heading out, making it suitable for those new to kayaking.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Kim Sha Beach.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are group sizes large?
No—maximum 24 travelers—which allows for more personal attention from your guide.

Can I book early or late morning?
Yes, you can select an early or late morning start to suit your schedule.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to see St. Maarten from a different angle, this kayak lagoon tour offers a relaxed, authentic experience away from the crowded tourist spots. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn some fascinating facts about the island’s geography and wildlife, and enjoy a refreshing break from land-based sightseeing. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude consistently earn high praise, making it a trustworthy choice.

This tour is especially suitable for those who appreciate scenic tranquility and small-group intimacy. Whether you’re a first-time kayaker or a seasoned paddler, the calm waters and friendly guides make this a rewarding, memorable outing. The combination of educational storytelling, wildlife spotting, and a relaxed paddle makes it a standout activity for a genuine taste of St. Maarten’s natural beauty.

In summary, if you’re looking to escape the crowds, learn about the island’s ecosystems, and enjoy a gentle adventure, the Kayak Lagoon Tour provides excellent value. It’s a well-organized, engaging activity that combines physical activity with cultural insights—perfect for curious travelers wanting to go beyond the usual sightseeing routines.