On Your Own in St. Martaan About This Page:

[Luu]

Any recommendations for private tours on St. Martaan? We would like to go to Marigot for shopping and also to a beach. We've already been to Orient Bay on a previous trip so we would like to try a different beach this time. Disney doesn't seem to offer this type of port adventure and I'm a little nervous about taxis and private tours. Any suggestions?

[Dave Marx]

I don't have experience with specific tour operators, so no particular recommendations there. As to beaches... what are you looking for in a beach? Remote/accessible, quiet/busy, lots of facilities/minimal facilities, etc.? It's been a while since my last visit, but I've been to nearly every one of the island's 36 beaches over the years.

You might consider a simple taxi trip to and from Marigot, with a separate trip to the beach (even if its a short walk over to Great Bay Beach in Philipsburg). The taxi situation on the island is very good - it's not something I'd personally worry about. You can arrange with the driver to be picked up at a certain time. If you expect to shop in Marigot, it's probably best to bring your purchases back to the ship before heading to the beach anyway. I recommend timing your visit to Marigot to include lunch. There are lots of choices - a bunch are right by the waterfront crafts market, and another good lunch destination is the Port la Royale marina area - around a half-dozen restaurants encircle a very picturesque marina.

[Luu]

We will take your advice and catch a taxi to Marigot and then try Great Bay beach. Thanks!

[dmpyron]

Your taxi driver will know when you need to head back to the ship from either Marigot or the beach. I'd recommend allowing some time for clearing customs between the two "countries". Perhaps as much at 30 seconds.

Many (most?) of the shops close around noon until 1:30. Plan on using your credit card for just about everything. The dollar isn't really popular in countries that use the euro (St. Martin, ie Marigot)

[Luu]

Great tips!

[Dave Marx]

Originally Posted by dmpyron

Your taxi driver will know when you need to head back to the ship from either Marigot or the beach. I'd recommend allowing some time for clearing customs between the two "countries". Perhaps as much at 30 seconds.

Of course, if they haven't cut the grass around the border monuments, you won't even know you are crossing the border.

Many (most?) of the shops close around noon until 1:30. Plan on using your credit card for just about everything. The dollar isn't really popular in countries that use the euro (St. Martin, ie Marigot)

Depending on economic circumstances, sometimes the dollar is very welcome. The last time I was there (three years ago), a fair number of merchants in Marigot were offering the dollar at "par" - $1 = 1 euro. Can't beat that deal with a stick!

[Donald_Quackers]

I would highly recommend Bernard's tours. I spent $40 on my tour and we went all over, including a stop to feed iguanas, orient beach, the beach by the airport, and Marigot.

Complimentary pop, beer, and punch.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

[Luu]

Awesome! Thanks for the tips. I will check into Bernard's too