Philipsburg | Capital of Dutch Sint Maarten (2025)
“A walk on the Boardwalk & Front Street for DUTY-FREE Shopping, pina coladas, and Caribbean history & culture!”
Welcome to Philipsburg, the capital of St. Maarten, where you can experience the perfect blend of sun, sand, and shopping. Known as one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean and home to one of the largest cruise ports in the area (Port St Maarten) hosting up to two million visitors annually.
Philipsburg is a must-visit for those who enjoy duty-free shopping for luxury brands and jewelry. Take a stroll down Front Street, where you’ll find a variety of stores offering duty-free goods, from high-end watches to designer handbags.
The shopping district is home to some of the world’s most renowned brands, and you can be sure to find something to suit every taste and budget.
For a more local experience visit the Guavaberry Emporium with local brewed rum or admire the locally made artwork. For Island souvenirs, the local marketplace behind the Courthouse and Shipwreck shop are your best options!
With everything being sold Tax-free as the Dutch side of SXM has no import tax you can easily save up to 30%, this can literally make back your stay!
As you stroll through the streets of the Capital, you will encounter various historical land-marks that reflect the Dutch influence on the region. These include the Heritage Museum, numerous churches, the renowned Courthouse, statues, and Fort Amsterdam (located within Divi Little Bay).
Other sightseeing spots that make you feel like being in the Netherlands are the AMAsterdam street, or the windmill at Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. For a delightful fusion of Caribbean and Dutch cultures, head over to the Ocean Lounge restaurant inside the Holland House Beach Hotel, which also offers an excellent beach experience.
Murals and Street Art that can be found all over Philipsburg:
When exploring the city, be sure to check out the incredible murals and wall paintings that adorn the buildings. These colorful works of art showcase the history and culture of St. Maarten and add a unique touch to the city’s charm.
The Murals are organized by colormesxm; download the map with all murals here and admire these works of art. When you post them on Instagram or Facebook, please tag #colormesxm & #wearesxm so we can share your pictures and inspire more to visit the town.
Join the “Philipsburg Sip & Mural Tour” organized by We Are SXM and Seagrape Tours together with their partners. Find the best murals and enjoy a refreshment at a local bar. Explore the capital safely and in a fun way!
Duty Free Shopping in the capital of St. Maarten – Save 20/30% on luxury products
To immerse yourself in the local culture, check out the Guavaberry Emporium, for locally made rum, Dutch Blonde Beach Bar offering locally brewed beers, or visit Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store for the best Dutch cheeses.
Create that one-of-a-kind diamond ring in many of the jewelry stores or enjoy top-tier luxury brands in European boutique style stores such as Little Europe, Art of Time or Pacific Avenue and many more below. Like to surprise or impress your loved one with a unique scent we recommend shopping at Penha for perfumes and cosmetics.
For souvenirs specific to the island, your top choices are the marketplace located behind the Courthouse and the Shipwreck shop with two locations.
Because all items are duty-free as SXM has no import duties, you can save up to 30%, which means you could potentially recoup the cost of your entire stay when buying some luxury products.
The Boardwalk and Great Bay Beach
But that’s not all Philipsburg has to offer. Experience the boardwalk full of local flavors and flair, head to one of the many beach bars or restaurants for a refreshing drink or a delicious meal. The lively atmosphere and friendly locals make for an unforgettable experience. Try some authentic Caribbean cuisine from the BBQ or enjoy an upscale lunch at places like Ocean Lounge.
Or rent some beach chairs for the day and spend the day soaking up the sun at Great Bay Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean. The clear blue waters and white sand are the perfect backdrop for a day of swimming or just lounging in the sun.
All over the boardwalk you can rent beach chairs which are usually around $10 a chair or companies offer packages for $20 to $35 per set including a bucket of beer or some cocktails. Mostly those offering packages are a little more upscale, have a toilet, sometimes a shower and offer service on the beach.
When searching for some thrill during your day, rent a Jet Ski to explore mesmerizing Great Bay. Or book a Segway tour to experience everything the boardwalk has to offer.
So what are you waiting for? Come and experience the best of Philipsburg and St. Maarten. Whether looking for world-class shopping, beautiful beaches, or vibrant nightlife, you’ll find it all in this unique Caribbean destination.
Tips when visiting Philipsburg – Good to know:
- Bring your camera to capture memories.
- Bring cash (USD), as not everyone accepts a card.
- Protect yourself well against the sun.
- Pre-arrange your activities so you do not have to deal with street hustlers.
- Leave your jewelry and valuables in the hotel room or on the cruise ship while enjoying hectic Philipsburg beach.
- Visit on a Cruise Ship day if you like it to be busy; if you enjoy a calm day, visit Philipsburg on a non-cruise ship day.
- Scroll down for the best things to do.
Things to do in Philipsburg and its surrounding areas
Philipsburg offers fun activities for young and old, from boat tours and watersports to musea and fine dining. Below we collected the best things to do, water activities, boat tours, shopping, places to eat and to stay in Philipsburg and its surrounding area. Scroll down and enjoy a day in the capital!
Shop Duty-Free for the following TOP TIER Luxury brands available in St. Maarten (Stores below):
Luxury Clothing or Bags:
Salvatore Ferregamo | Bally | Paul & Shark | Levi’s | Tommy Hilfiger | Ralph Lauren | Robert Graham | Tommy Bahamas | Hugo Boss | Gucci | Versace | Emporio Armani | Furla | Michael Kors | Kartell | Carmen Sol
Luxury Jewelry:
David Yurman | Chopard | John Hardy | Roberto Coin | Marco Bicego | Gucci | Pomellato | Mikimoto | Bvlgari | Piaget | Messika | Graff | Tiffany & Co. | Buccellati | Van Cleef & Arpels | Cartier | Dior | Boucheron | Chanel | Harry Winston | Givenchy | Hermes
Top Tier Watch brands:
Hublot | Zenith | Rolex | Piaget | Bell & Ross | Dior | Hermes | Vacheron Constantin | Patek Philippe | Doxa | Chanel | Grand Seiko | Gucci | Michele | U-Boat | Chopard | IWC | Ulysse Nardin | Jaeger Le Coultre | Panerai | Cartier | Breitling | Omega | Glasshutte | Tag Heuer | Lange & Sohne | Corum | Maurice Lacroix | Montblanc | Roger Dubuis | Tissot | Longines | Rado | Citizen | Seiko
Other:
Cuban Cigars | Cigarettes | Art | Alcohol | Pharmaceutical products
For shopping recommendations, email us what you are looking for and we will kindly help you further to improve your shopping experience! Email us at: hello@wearesxm.com
Best Shopping in Philipsburg St. Maarten – Great for Cruise-ship and Island visitors:
Our personal selection based on Quality & Service and their unique character. On top of being Duty-Free, several of our partners give additional discount or incentive when you mention (We Are SXM).
Start filling up your shopping bag! Got your bags ready? GO!
Majesty Jewelers boasts an impressive selection of diamond and gemstones jewelry, engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Front Street, Philipsburg: Quality Resort Wear. Brands: Tommy Bahamas, Lilly Pulitzer, Au Noir, 7 for all Mankind… Service is key!
A premier destination for Duty-Free luxury timepieces & fine jewelry – Breitling, Doxa, David Yurman, John Hardy, Chanel, Gucci, etc.
Jewelry of distinction; loose diamonds, custom made jewels & Pre-owned Rolex watches, Oro stands out in the crowd. Hand- crafted works of art.
Discover Blanc du Nil in Philipsburg | your destination for elegant clothing especially designed for hot climates – a storewide price of only $35!
Say Cheese! Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor store is a prime cheese lovers paradise with the best Dutch and SXM Island souvenirs!
“Providing quality at great value, people will always come back.” Their undeniable success is a result of friendship & loyal support.
Taste paradise with the Local Beers from Caribbean Brewing Co. | Brewed & bottled on St. Maarten: Dutch Blonde, Pirate IPA, SXM Light.
Charming Coffee House & Boutique store with a hand-picked selection of Gifts, Island-made products, Dutch products, and Royal Delfts Blauw.
Rue Royale Maison brings European Luxury essence with the casual and duty-free shopping of St.Maarten. The ultimate lifestyle shopping experience.
Penha offers Duty-Free fragrances, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, cigarette cartons, and a lot more from 4 different locations in Sint Maarten!
All activities and the best things to do in Philipsburg – Best things to do for Cruise Ship visitors!
When you are visiting on a cruise, you have limited time, so we recommend staying close-by. The following activities are all located very close by the port and perfectly fitting within your cruise-ship schedule. Most of these activities are within walking distance from the cruise terminal, others only a 10/15 min taxi ride away.
Taste paradise with San Martin’s Island beer, brewed and bottled on SXM! Join the Brewery Tour to learn about this local beer!
Zip, Slide, Fly, and Learn. Do the steepest zipline in the world, “The Flying Dutchman” No way you can miss this experience!
A hidden gem amongst the sand and waves. This SXM bird paradise is full of beauty, wonder and history! Super Kids & budget activity.
Join a Beach Volleyball session or improve your skills every Wednesday on Great Bay Beach in Philipsburg or Saturday on Mullet Bay Beach.
This immersive walk-through special effects attraction in Philipsburg will make you feel like a true Pirate! Fun for young and old, Arrrrr…..
A walking tour through Philipsburg, the Capital of Dutch Sint Maarten for a fun tour with Murals, Art, Culture, History, Drinks, Snacks & FUN!
The best Dutch Cheeses & tasty wines from France. With the Wine & Cheese tasting events you get to enjoy the best of both sides!
Nick Maley’s unique movie creations and memorabilia for Star Wars, Alien, Superman, Highlander, Terminator, Men in Black, etc!
Padel Tennis in Little Bay | With two courts, a snack bar, seating area, shower, changing room and professional trainers on the premises.
An ATV Rental or Tour is the best way to explore our island, pass traffic, stop almost anywhere & visit more remote places by off-road trails.
Island Tours & Taxi: For the best island view you hire the best local tour company with only experienced local drivers & tour guides!!
Fun on (or in) the water in Philipsburg – Best boat tours and discounts for cruise ship visitors
Choose between a variety of Boat charters and Water Sports to explore the capital of SXM, Jet Ski Rental, Sailing, Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Trips.
Random Wind has the Spirit of the Friendly Island of St. Maarten. Enjoy an unforgettable Catamaran trip – 10% Discount with We Are SXM!
Board one of their comfortable luxury Cats with full-service onboard and explore secluded Caribbean Islands in Paradise like never before!
Unwind with Guided Snorkeling, Home-cooked meals, & Exclusive Amenities! Exclusive 10% discount with promo WEARESXM!
Jet Ski Rental & Island Tour – Within walking distance from the Cruise dock on the boardwalk in Philipsburg, great for Cruise Ship visitors!
Lots of shared charter options, great for individuals or groups, sail around the island of SXM, or visit Anguilla! All tours include FREE TAXI SERVICE
World-class diving in SXM! Explore the incredible underwater world with Dive Sint Maarten, a friendly & personalized experience with certified instructors.
Explore Sint Maarten by Bike, Hike, or Kayak, Tri-Sport offers Rentals and Tours by trained guides. Or check out their store for Sports equipment.
Unveiling the Depths of St. Maarten: The Ultimate Underwater Adventure showing the Culture of our island, Best Snorkeling Spot of SXM!
The ultimate yachting challenge, crewing a real America’s Cup boat. A thrilling head-to-head battle between two genuine giants of the ocean!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner places
In the heart of Philipsburg, you have the Ocean Lounge with great food all day, comfortable Beach Chairs, a Shower and, Moet ICE Champagne.
There is definitely a new blonde in town; Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. Enjoy local Beers and Dutch pancakes in this gorgeous Beer Garden.
Bold Buddha brings a unique combination of Asian, Indian, and Caribbean flavors together right here on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg.
Serving home-cooked vegan meals with ingredients mostly grown from the SXM’s soil. Ital shack is helping people cleanse their bodies for decades.
The local’s choice for fresh loaves of bread, sandwiches, cakes, patties and lots more, breakfast/lunch Café in Philipsburg and Cole Bay.
A typical Dutch “Bruin Café” in Madame Estate, serving authentic Dutch food! Vegetable mashed potato, meatballs with gravy and famous Cheese fondue!
Panini’s, Sandwiches, Smoothies & Coffee. At Coffee lounge tourists relax, professionals unwind, strangers become friends & friends meet… Over Coffee.
A diverse and inviting Asian fusion food bar in Philipsburg. Fresh & inspirational dishes inspired by the far east, complemented with Japanese Saké.
Serving Rotisserie chicken and South American delicacies such as Enchilada, Patacones, Quesadillas, Wraps & Burgers.
One of the island’s best Roadside BBQ grills for authentic Caribbean dishes and local flavors. Try Ribs, Chicken, or the Jimmy Cake Burger!
Addictive Asian Fusion food with unique Himalaya mountain herbs and spices. Best Indian | Nepalese restaurant on SXM!
Restaurants | High-End Lunch & Fine Dining
This oceanfront Dutch/Caribbean restaurant is a quintessential eatery on the Boardwalk, looking out to Great Bay’s crystal blue water.
Looking for delicious, breathtaking & away from the crowds & organized tours? Indigo Beach Restaurant & Bar, is serving the best creations of SXM!
In this chic restaurant in Oyster Pond, chef Leslie Martina prepares delectable dishes and Michael cold drinks.
Located on a historic 18th century sugar cane plantation. Chef Sidney brings a combination of high-end dining with classic Caribbean cuisine.
Board this hand-built Brazilian wooden schooner with personality for a 4-Course Sunset at Sea & Dinner under the Stars (SXM’s #1 Dinner Cruise)
Places to stay in Philipsburg and the surrounding area
This astonishing boutique hotel is located in the heart of Philipsburg, the Dutch capital. HHBH is the ultimate Dutch-Caribbean blend!
All-suite oceanfront Beach resort with private terrace & incredible view of the Caribbean Sea. Centrally located between Philipsburg and Simpson Bay!
Pearl of St. Maarten in Oyster Pond. A stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean & beautiful infinity pool make this a breathtaking resort worth a visit!