10 Tips To Lose the Cruise Crowd in Philipsburg by Foot
At days there are multiple cruise ships disembarking in the St. Maarten Cruise Port, the Philipsburg Boardwalk and Great Bay Beach can be lively and busy. For those that like to lose the crowds and walk to more quiet areas, here are some tips for things to do on your in a more serene setting.
1. The St Maarten Heritage Museum
Right of the boardwalk, you find the St. Maarten Heritage Museum. This charming, compact museum provides great insights in the history and nature of the island. You will recognize it by two small cannons next to the entrance. There is also a fun souvenir shop with old maps of the region and handicraft. The museum is free, but don’t forget to support the foundation with some loose change at the end of your visit.
2. Walter Plantz Square
At the far end of the boardwalk when coming from the cruise ship, you find Walter Plantz square. Thislo square consists of typical local building style houses containing shops and restaurants like The Pier. Locally very popular too is its fountain, bringing some refreshment to kids on a hot day.
3. Do an Escape Room
Philipsburg has the first Escape Rooms of the Caribbean. People familiar with this group puzzle challenge will know this is not just a way to lose a crowd – you will be “locked up”, and can only return to the great view of the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar balcony at the point you solved the puzzles you encounter in the room. A great way to cool off from the Caribbean sun and have fun in the process.
4. Dive in the Pool (and a Cabana)!
Seaview Beach Hotel and Bar has thoroughly revamped its format. Former hotel rooms have become seaside cabanas to spend your day, served with a good bottle of bubbles, a couch, a television and use of the only pool on the boardwalk. While at it, try local craft brew Pelikaan in their bar.
5. Walk to Downstreet
Whereas the east end of Philipsburg is the liveliest side, partially because of its proximity to the cruise port, its west end still has quiet streets to roam around. This area is what St. Maarteners call the “down street area”, with many small houses of the olden days.
6. Go shopping in Front Street, Back Street and Old Street
Front Street is one of the most famous shopping streets of the Caribbean. Have yourself guided by the high end jewelry houses of Ballerina Jewelers, Diamonds International, Infinity Jewelers, Oro Diamanté, Dazzling Gems and Ocean Jewelers.
Boolchands is there for all your technical needs, whereas Luciano’s will provide a once in a lifetime gelato. Amasterdam is a great location to end your shopping day with a local or international brew. Whereas Front Street is the main and upscale shopping street, Back Street is where people hunt for their bargains in the many clothing stores. Old Street, connecting the two, is a fun shopping area on itself.
7. Do the Philipsburg Mural Tour
Either by yourself or guided, go and explore what magic dozens of local artists created on empty walls in downtown Philipsburg. Next to impressions of history, you do a walk through “town” in the process, with all aforementioned areas on your route.
8. Go See the Monuments
Along Pondfill Road, Philipsburgs main artery but off the beaten tourist track, you find various statues symbolizing eras in St. Maarten history. The Saltpickers symbolize the arduous work in the salt pans that used to be active right behind the monument. The Emancipation Monument clearly symbolizes the end of slavery. On the Dutch side this was in 1863, only 15 years after the French side. A bird watching platform on the Pondfill is worth a stop for a glimpse of the Great Salt Pond. The Courthouse on Front Street, main symbol on the Dutch side St. Maarten Flag, is of course a must see monument too.
9. See the Natural Pool
Just within walking distance of the Port, you find the Natural Pool area. This rugged Atlantic coastal area is an unspoiled nature area with great views of St. Barths. Make sure you do not walk in the direction of Philipsburg when coming from the ship, but go the right into Point Blanche.
10. Another Beach: Little Bay Beach
Great Bay Beach along the boardwalk might be the closest beach to the cruise port, for those who like to walk (or want to take a 5 minute taxi), Little Bay Beach is right around the corner of Fort Amsterdam. This beach is less busy than Great Bay can be at times and combines well with a complimentary visit to Fort Amsterdam.
If this was not enough – see more cruise excursions listed here!
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