Philipsburg, Sint Maarten - Cruise Port
St. Martin is a lush Caribbean island, famously known as the “island of 37 beaches.” It’s an ideal destination for self-exploration by rental car, especially for cruise visitors with limited time. We did just that! In this guide, we’ll share port details, car rental tips, driving advice, and highlights from our island tour.
Welcome to St. Martin!
Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, about 250 miles east of Puerto Rico, St. Martin is unique as it is split between two nations:
The Dutch side (Sint Maarten), with its capital Philipsburg
The French side (Saint Martin), with its capital Marigot
The island is compact, only 37 square miles, and takes just a few hours to circle by car. While ship excursions are available, we highly recommend renting a car for maximum flexibility and adventure.
The Cruise Port
The cruise port is located just south of downtown Philipsburg and has a six-ship capacity. It’s a spacious open-air facility with:
Duty-free shopping (including rum, clothing, and souvenirs)
Restaurants and bars
ATMs and a tourist info desk
Clean and large restrooms
Despite its size, the port can feel crowded on busy days, but the developers did a great job designing an easy-to-navigate space.
Getting Around from the Port
For nearby attractions, you have several transportation options:
Walk: Philipsburg is 20-30 minutes away on foot along a flat sidewalk.
Water Taxi: A 15-minute shuttle loop runs between the port and Great Bay Beach/Philipsburg Boardwalk for $7 round trip.
Taxi: Prices are regulated, with different rates based on destination and group size (See rates here).
For independent exploration, we pre-booked a rental car for the day.
Renting a Car on St. Martin
Rental cars are available just beyond the tour bus assembly area, with multiple agencies in one convenient location. Scooters are also available for the adventurous!
We reserved a Hertz rental in advance for $89.80 for the day, comparable to a single ship excursion. We also opted for additional insurance for peace of mind.
Requirements for Renting a Car
Passport
Valid driver’s license (no international permit required)
Credit card for payment
Pick-Up Process
Confirm reservation and finalize payment.
Inspect and document the car’s condition.
Sign paperwork and receive keys.
Keep your cruise card and rental paperwork for security checks upon return.
The rental car was basic but functional, and although it lacked a GPS screen, we managed with phone navigation.
Driving in St. Martin
Drive on the right side, similar to the U.S.
Lots of roundabouts, but very few traffic lights or stop signs.
Roads vary in quality, with potholes and narrow winding lanes in some areas.
Traffic congestion can occur, especially near major tourist spots.
Motorcycles and pedestrians appear unexpectedly, so drive cautiously.
Despite these quirks, driving is relatively relaxed, as the locals are easygoing and patient.
Our Island Route: Must-Visit Stops
We planned a circular route covering both the Dutch and French sides, stopping at eight key locations:
1. Philipsburg (Dutch Side)
A great starting point for ATM access, market shopping, and pharmacies. The town is small and better explored on foot, as it has narrow streets and heavy pedestrian traffic.
2. Maho Beach (Dutch Side)
Famous for low-flying planes landing at Princess Juliana Airport. The beach is small, with rough waves and commercial surroundings. Parking costs $5, but street parking is also an option.
3. Baie Rouge Beach (French Side)
A secluded, stunning beach with no services but breathtaking views. The parking lot is rough, but the peaceful atmosphere makes it worthwhile. Be careful for possible Sand Fleas here.
4. Marigot Town (French Side)
A charming French Caribbean town with cafés, boutique shops, and a colorful market. We enjoyed an authentic Caribbean meal at Chez Ginette, recommended by a local pharmacist. Parking can be tricky, so allow extra time.
5. Fort St. Louis (French Side)
A short drive uphill from Marigot, this 18th-century fort offers panoramic views of the town and harbor. The climb is worth it for the breathtaking scenery.
6. Friar’s Bay Beach (French Side)
A semi-secluded beach with a relaxed vibe, accessible via a rough road. A beach club provides lounge chairs, food, and drinks, making it a comfortable getaway.
7. Orient Beach (French Side)
The largest and most activity-filled beach on the island. It features fine white sand, jet skiing, parasailing, and plenty of restaurants and vendors. Ideal for families and adventure seekers.
8. Oyster Bay Beach (Dawn Beach) (Dutch Side)
A quiet, semi-secluded beach near a resort. No public facilities, but a great spot for a peaceful escape before heading back to the port.
Returning to the Cruise Port
Gas station: Located near the port (cash preferred to avoid overcharges).
Return process: Find the same rental car lot, park, and check out.
Total drive time: Around 3 hours spread throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Would we rent a car and explore again? Absolutely! St. Martin offers stunning beaches, charming towns, and small adventures that make it a fantastic self-guided experience. If you’re comfortable driving abroad, we highly recommend this option!