Two Islands, Twice the Fun

Experience the Best of Both Sides of St. Maarten with a Guided Tour

Looking to see both the French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten without spending your entire day on the road? This tour, offered for around $60 per person, packs in highlights like Oyster Pond, Great Bay Beach, Maho Beach, and charming Marigot, all within about 4 to 6 hours. The tour is particularly popular with cruise ship passengers, thanks to its flexible timing and convenient pickup options.

What we really love about this experience is how efficiently it covers so much ground, giving you a true taste of the island’s diversity—both culturally and visually. The knowledgeable guides stand out, sharing stories and insights that make the stops come alive, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural introduction. Plus, the views at Cole Bay Lookout and Orient Bay are truly postcard-worthy.

A potential consideration is that while the tour is fast-paced, some travelers might wish for a bit more time at certain stops—especially Maho Beach, where the planes fly so close overhead that it’s tempting to linger. Also, French side pickups are not included, so you’ll want to plan your arrival accordingly if you’re staying on that side.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and fun facts, especially those on a cruise or short layover. If you love breathtaking viewpoints, like hearing about local history, and want a hassle-free way to traverse the entire island, it’s a strong choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Highlights both the French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten in one half-day trip.
• Excellent value: At $60, you get a well-rounded experience with many stops and plenty of photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Raj earn praise for their friendliness and depth of knowledge.
• Stunning viewpoints: Cole Bay Lookout and Rotary Lookout offer panoramic views worth the trip.
• Authentic experiences: Stops like Oyster Pond and Marigot showcase local life and natural beauty.
• Flexible timing: The tour leaves plenty of free time afterward for additional exploring or relaxing.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Start: Easy, Clear Pickup and Introduction

Right from the beginning, this tour feels organized without feeling rushed. You’ll meet your guide at the cruise port or hotel, with good signage making it simple to find your group. The van is typically air-conditioned—a nice touch in the Caribbean heat—and groups are kept small, usually under 22 travelers. This makes for a more personal experience, where your guide can answer questions and tailor some stops to your interests.

Exploring the French Side: Oyster Pond and Grand Case

The first part of the journey takes you across the island’s border into Saint-Martin’s French territory. The highlight here is Oyster Pond, a peaceful marina that beautifully displays the shared waters of the bay. The view of the protected lagoon is calming, with boats moored in the still waters. It’s a perfect photo stop and gives you a sense of the island’s peaceful side.

Next, you’ll pass through Grand Case, a fishing village celebrated for its culinary scene. While the tour doesn’t stop directly here, the drive offers a glimpse of its charming streets lined with restaurants and local life. Many reviews mention that guides share stories about the area’s reputation as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” making it a worthwhile cultural highlight.

The Iconic Maho Beach: Plane Spotting and Thrills

Crossing over to the Dutch side, the tour hits Maho Beach, famous worldwide for watching planes land just feet overhead. This stop is the most vibrant and exciting, especially for aviation buffs or those wanting a dramatic photo. The thrill of seeing large jets so close, sometimes just a few meters above your head, is undeniable. Several travelers describe it as a must-see, though also note that traffic can be heavy during cruise ship days, which might cut into your time here.

Some reviewers express that due to traffic concerns, the guide might not always be able to adjust schedule to maximize time at Maho, but most still find it worth the visit. If plane spotting is a priority, plan for a quick visit rather than a long stay.

Panoramic Views: Cole Bay Lookout and Rotary Lookout

After Maho, your guide takes you to Cole Bay Hill—a popular spot for sweeping views of the island’s skyline. Here, you’ll see Great Bay, with its peaceful waters and the city lights shimmering in the distance, often described as postcard-perfect. It’s a quick stop, about 10 minutes, but the vistas make it well worth the moment.

Next is Rotary Lookout, which provides a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the barrier reefs. Many reviews mention how this spot offers iconic Caribbean scenery—crystal-clear waters, distant reefs, and lush hills—perfect for snapping memorable photos.

Marigot: A Taste of French Caribbean Charm

Time permits a 45-minute stop in Marigot, the capital of the French side. Here, the bustling open-air market is a highlight, with vendors selling everything from local produce to handcrafted souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere earns praise for its authentic local flavor and vibrant colors. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to stroll the streets and enjoy a quick taste of French Caribbean culture.

Peaceful Oyster Pond and Orient Bay Beach

Before heading back, the tour visits Oyster Pond again, offering a tranquil view of the marina. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in the natural beauty and reflect on the journey.

The final leg is a relaxing hour and a half at Orient Bay Beach, often called the “French Riviera of the Caribbean.” Wide, white sands stretch along the coastline, providing ample space to lounge, swim, or simply enjoy the sun. Many reviews mention how pleasant and scenic this beach is, making it a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour features a small group setting with a comfortable, air-conditioned van, typically accommodating no more than 22 guests. This makes for a more intimate experience, allowing your guide to give personalized attention. The vehicle is praised for being clean and comfortable, with some reviews highlighting how helpful the guide is in answering questions about the island’s history and culture.

Pricing and Value

At $60, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of stops, scenic viewpoints, and cultural insights. For those on a cruise or short layover, it provides a rundown of the island without the need to rent a car or spend a full day. The price includes bottled water, which is refreshing under the Caribbean sun, but not additional amenities like beach chairs or meals.

Practical Tips

• The tour does not include pickups on the French side, so plan your arrival accordingly.
• Consider bringing sunscreen and a hat, especially for the open-air stops.
• While the tour is fast-paced, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy each location.
• If plane spotting is your main goal, arrive early at Maho Beach to avoid the busiest traffic times.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. For example, Jennifer describes her guide as “very professional and courteous,” and Ralph appreciates that “Raj loves to share his pride in St. Maarten.” Several travelers mention how much they learned about the island’s history, culture, and geography, which adds depth to the experience.

Others praise the scenic stops, especially Cole Bay Lookout and Orient Bay. One guest notes, “The views are pure postcard perfection,” reflecting how striking the scenery truly is. Conversely, a few mention that the time at certain stops could be longer—particularly Maho Beach—if traffic permits.

The tour is celebrated for its balance of scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and affordability, making it a favorite for those wanting a quick but meaningful glimpse of the island.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re visiting St. Maarten and want a well-organized, affordable way to see both the French and Dutch sides in one morning or afternoon, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, or anyone with limited time who still craves authentic sights and stunning vistas. The tour’s small-group atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable guides make it feel personalized and relaxed, even with a packed itinerary.

While some may wish for more time at specific locations—like Maho Beach or Orient Bay—the trade-off is a rundown that saves you the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The value is high given the price, scenic stops, and insights provided. If your goal is to get a quick, fun, and informative taste of the island, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Does the tour include pickup from the French side?
No, pickups are only offered from the port or hotels on the Dutch side. If staying on the French side, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 4 to 6 hours, giving you a full but manageable snapshot of the island’s highlights.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Absolutely. It’s designed with cruise guests in mind, offering a convenient and efficient way to explore the island with plenty of stops and free time afterward.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and your camera. Bottled water is provided, but beach chairs or meals are not included.

Can I customize the stops?
While the itinerary is set, guides are generally flexible enough to accommodate small requests if time permits, especially at popular spots like Orient Bay or Marigot.

Is the tour good for families or solo travelers?
Yes. The small-group format and friendly guides make it suitable for all ages and solo travelers wanting to learn and see the sights comfortably.

In all, this tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun at a price that makes it accessible for most travelers. It’s a straightforward way to fall in love with the diverse charm of St. Maarten—whether it’s your first trip or a quick revisit.