St Maarten is a favorite for travelers seeking a quick burst of adventure — thanks to its compact size and diverse landscapes, it’s easy to cover in just an hour or two. Whether you want to see the highlights from the comfort of a jeep or get your adrenaline pumping on a jet ski, there’s an option that fits your schedule and style. I especially like the guided jeep tour for its blend of sightseeing and relaxing beach time — a true sampler of everything this island has to offer. And for water enthusiasts, the private jet ski tour or jet-ski rentals provide a quick thrill and a chance to carve your own path along the coast.
If you’re trying to choose between these options, consider your interests: are you after a scenic drive that hits the highlights, or an active water adventure? No matter what, all these tours promise a compact, memorable experience — ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of St Maarten’s lively beaches and beautiful bays.
Quick Overview of the Best 1-Hour Tours in St Maarten
This list highlights diverse experiences: a comprehensive guided jeep tour exploring major sights including Maho Beach and Marigot Market (more details here), private jet ski adventures that let you explore at your own pace (see more), and jet ski rentals for a self-guided splash (check availability here). Each offers a quick way to enjoy the island’s coastlines, beaches, and bays.
Now, let’s look at each option in detail to help you decide which best suits your style and schedule.
1. 3-Hour Guided Jeep Tour Island Highlights and 1-Hour Relax by Beach
This half-day adventure is perfect if you want to see both the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten without spending the whole day in transit. The tour lasts about 4 hours and combines sightseeing with downtime at the beach. You’ll drive a 4×4 Jeep Wrangler — automatic, comfortable, and capable of handling some off-road terrain — through highlights like Airport Beach, famous for its jet landings, and the bustling Marigot Market, where you can browse local art, jewelry, and spices. The tour also includes a stop at the Rotary Lookout Point for beautiful views and a chance to cool off near Lucas Bay.
One of the best parts of this tour is the balance — you get on-road sightseeing with some off-road fun, along with bottled water and two non-alcoholic beverages included. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the flexibility — especially with the option to buy out the Jeep if you’re in a group. For families, couples, or small groups, this is a great way to cover a lot of ground in a short time. The $76.93 price offers excellent value considering the mix of sights, culture, and beach relaxation.
Bottom line: If you want a rundown of St. Maarten’s highlights combined with a relaxing beach stop, this tour is hard to beat.
2. One Hour Private Jet Ski Tour in Saint Martin with Free Passenger
For those craving personalized water fun, this 1-hour private jet ski tour is a top choice. Operated from Anse Marcel, you can ride solo or with a passenger, making this a flexible option for thrill-seekers or couples. Your guide takes you around the island’s bays and beaches, stopping at Grand Case Beach, Friar’s Bay, and Happy Bay — three stunning spots perfect for snorkeling or swimming, with equipment provided. The tour includes all necessary gear — life jackets and splash protection masks — and is designed for a fully customized experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the private setting, allowing you to go at your own pace and focus on the areas that excite you most. The 2021-model jet skis are well maintained and easy to handle, even for beginners. Reviewers love how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, with some calling it “one of the highlights of the trip.” Priced at $155.24 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers unmatched flexibility and personal attention.
Bottom line: If you prefer a personalized water adventure that lets you explore at your own pace, this jet ski tour is a fantastic option.
3. Jet-Ski Rental Great Bay (30 Min / 1 Hour)
If you’re confident on a jet ski and want total freedom, renting a jet ski is the way to go. This self-guided rental at Great Bay offers 30 minutes or an hour of pure fun, with well-maintained equipment and a professional staff. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to carve their own route around the bay and nearby beaches.
The rental is straightforward — no boat license is required — and provides a quick, adrenaline-filled escape. Reviewers mention that the jetskis are in excellent condition, though some note the location is a bit remote from the port, which might mean extra transport costs. At $83.34 for up to 2 people, it’s a cost-effective way to add a burst of excitement to your day.
Bottom line: If you’re comfortable on a jet ski and want the ultimate in flexibility, this rental offers a straightforward, quick thrill.
4. 1-Hour Jet Ski Tour: Single or Double Option
This 1-hour guided jet ski tour balances excitement with sightseeing, allowing you to explore the coast of St. Maarten on your own or with a partner. You can choose a single or double rider setup — with each jet ski accommodating up to two riders. Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll cruise through the Lowlands area, passing Nettle Bay, Red Bay, and Mullet Bay, with stops to take photos or swim.
What sets this tour apart is the guided element, which provides safety, local insight, and the opportunity to see more remote bays than you might on your own. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the fun atmosphere, with many calling it a “great time” and recommending it for active travelers. The price of $180 per person reflects the personalized experience and guided instruction.
Bottom line: If you want a guided jet ski experience that lets you see key areas of the island’s coastline, this tour offers a good mix of adventure and sightseeing.
How to Choose Your Perfect 1-Hour Tour in St Maarten
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. If you prefer a comprehensive island overview with some beach relaxation, the guided Jeep tour (see more) is ideal. For water lovers who want personalized, private time on a jet ski, the private jet ski tour (check it out) is a great choice. If you’re confident on a jet ski and desire flexibility, the rental (see here) might best suit your needs.
Consider your fitness level — some tours involve a bit of driving or balancing — and your timing. Many tours operate year-round, but booking early ensures availability, especially during peak season. If you’re traveling with family or a partner, think about which experience offers the right mix of adventure and comfort.
Final Thoughts
With options ranging from guided land excursions to thrilling water activities, your brief time in St Maarten can be packed with fun. For a balanced mix of sightseeing and chilling on the beach, the jeep tour is tough to beat. If you want total control over your water adventure, the private jet ski tour offers customization and exclusivity. And for those craving simple, quick thrills, a jet ski rental delivers pure fun.
Whatever you choose, these one-hour experiences make it easy to squeeze in an authentic taste of the island — so don’t wait too long to book. The sooner you lock in your spot, the more likely you’ll enjoy that perfect moment of island adventure.