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Things to do in SXM

Top Things You Should Know: How to get to Carnaval de In Saint Martin (French Side) – Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

Carnaval de Saint-Martin events take place mainly in Marigot (French side) and sometimes in Philipsburg (Dutch side). Roads close 1–2 hours before major parades, and traffic increases significantly during concerts. Visitors should arrive at least 60–90 minutes early and pre-arrange return transport, especially for night events. Cruise passengers should allow a 90-minute safety buffer before ship departure.

Top Things You Should Know: How to Get to Under SXM Underwater Sculpture Park In Sint Maarten (Dutch Side) – Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

Sint Maarten Under SXM Underwater Sculpture Park is accessed only by licensed boat tours departing from marinas in Philipsburg or Simpson Bay. Visitors should arrive 20–30 minutes before departure and confirm the exact marina location after booking. Boat transfer to the dive site typically takes 10–20 minutes. Cruise passengers should allow at least 60–90 minutes buffer before ship departure.

Top Things You Should Know: How to Get to Heineken Regatta In Sint Maarten (Dutch Side) – Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

The Heineken Regatta takes place primarily in Simpson Bay on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. From Philipsburg cruise port, travel time is typically 25–35 minutes but increases significantly during race days and evening concerts. Visitors should add a 20–30 minute buffer for traffic and avoid last-minute departures. Taxi or pre-booked private transport is recommended over self-driving during peak hours.

Top Things You Should Know: How to Get to Fort Louis In Saint Martin (French Side) – Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

Fort Louis is located on a hill above Marigot on the French side of Saint Martin. Visitors can drive or take a taxi to the upper access road to reduce uphill walking. From Philipsburg cruise port, travel time is approximately 40–50 minutes depending on traffic. The uphill walk takes about 10–15 minutes and is steep in tropical heat, so morning or late-afternoon visits are recommended.

Top Things You Should Know: How to Get to Grand Case Saint Martin (French Side)– Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

Grand Case is located on the northwest coast of French Saint Martin, approximately 40–55 minutes from Philipsburg cruise port depending on traffic and border flow. Dinner-hour congestion between 6:30–8:30 PM increases travel time. Visitors should leave at least 45–60 minutes before reservations and allow 5–6 hours total if arriving from a cruise ship.

Top Things You Should Know: How to Get to Maho Beach In Sint Maarten (Dutch Side) – Transport & Travel Guide | Tourist Information Center 2026

Outdoor dining at a restaurant in Sint Maarten with Caribbean atmosphere and waterfront setting

Maho Beach sits directly beside Princess Juliana International Airport and is famous for low-flying aircraft landings. Located on the Dutch side near Simpson Bay, it’s approximately 25–35 minutes from Philipsburg cruise port. This guide explains the fastest way to get there, parking strategies, taxi planning, and how to time your visit around major aircraft arrivals.