St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
While in port in St Maarten, enjoy fun in the sun at two of St Maarten’s renowned beaches – Orient Beach and Maho Beach. Your friendly guide will deliver you to Orient Bay Beach where jet skiing, sailing and paragliding are among the water activities on offer (own expense). You’ll have plenty of beach bars and restaurants to choose from before watching aircraft fly overhead at Maho Beach. With your proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport, you'll be a jet setter on this half-day shore excursion that includes complimentary refreshments and round-trip transport.
Available options
St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Transport by air-conditioned coach or van
Beverages (water, beer, soda, guavaberry rum punch) while intransit
Port pickup and drop-off
Worry-free shore excursion guarantee
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Maho Beach is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. It is famous for being adjacent to the Princess Juliana International Airport making it at attraction to visitors and locals alike and for plane-watchers enthusiast.
2
One of the most popular beaches on the island located on the French Side. Guest can take part in water sports activities or lounge on the beach chairs. Or hang out at the local beach bars and try the island's local mixed rums.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food
Beverages at lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
413 reviews
5★
296
4★
65
3★
28
2★
9
1★
15
Tripadvisor
4.3
68 reviews
5★
47
4★
9
3★
3
2★
2
1★
7
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is recommended that you bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen
Minimum age to consume alcohol is 18 years
Note: tour departure time is based on local island time, not cruise ship time
During the winter season (November-March) there is an additional departure time of 10am. The 9am departure time is available year-round
Please Note: A portion of Orient Beach is clothing optional.
Meeting point
Meeting point is the EDC-Lot located at the North exit of the cruise port
Important notes
Please Note: Tour departs at 9am (April thru October) and 10am (November thru March) LOCAL ISLAND TIME. The time on your cruise ship may be different.
• Please Note: A portion of Orient Beach is clothing optional.
About Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a unique destination that offers the best of two cultures and landscapes. The island is divided between the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin), each offering distinct experiences. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options, it's a tropical paradise that caters to a wide range of travelers.
Top Attractions
Maho Beach
Famous for its close proximity to the airport runway, where planes fly extremely low. A must-see for thrill-seekers.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
Orient Bay Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, known for its white sand and clear waters. Ideal for water sports and relaxation.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free (rentals and activities extra)
Philipsburg
The capital of Sint Maarten, known for its colorful Dutch architecture, duty-free shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore (shopping extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Conch Fritters
Fried fritters made from conch meat, a local delicacy.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Johnny Cakes
Fried dough bread, often served with butter or jam.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Bouillon
A hearty soup made with chicken, dumplings, and vegetables.
Soup
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Popular Activities
Jet-skiing
Parasailing
Ziplining
Hiking
Beach hopping
Spa treatments
Sunbathing
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the peak tourist season with the best weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
24°C to 29°C
75°F to 84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch (Sint Maarten), French (Saint Martin)
- Widely spoken: English, Papiamento (Creole dialect)
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Netherlands Antillean Guilder (Sint Maarten) / Euro (Saint Martin) (ANG / EUR)
Time Zone
GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time)
Electricity
110V (Dutch side) / 220V (French side)V, 60Hz (Dutch side) / 50Hz (French side)Hz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sint Maarten is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Princess Juliana International Airport • 3 km from Philipsburg
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable but infrequent and can be crowded. They are a good option for budget travelers.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi services, no Uber or Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Philipsburg
Maho
Marigot
Day trips
Anguilla
15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day
A nearby island known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and high-end dining. A great escape for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Sint Eustatius
30 km (18 miles) • Full day
A small, historic island with a rich colonial past. Known for its well-preserved ruins, diving spots, and laid-back atmosphere.
Tiny Island
10 km (6 miles) • Half day
A small, uninhabited island with beautiful beaches and clear waters. Perfect for a day of snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking.
Festivals
Carnival • April (dates vary)
St. Martin Jazz Festival • March (dates vary)
St. Martin Day Parade • November 11
Pro tips
- Visit Maho Beach for the thrilling experience of watching planes land and take off
- Explore the French side for a taste of European charm and culture
- Try local dishes like conch fritters and Johnny cakes for an authentic culinary experience
- Book accommodations and transport well in advance, especially during peak season
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
