Private Two Islands Tour and Beach Stop

St. Maarten Private Beach & Two Island Tour Two countries on one island for almost 400 years. Wouldn't you love to know how they do it? On this private Two Countries on One Island St. Maarten excursion, you'll learn that and lots more; but don't worry, you won't be tested. Now that you are in the true tropic frame of mind, you'll depart Philipsburg and drive towards Cole Bay and Belle Vue. You'll make a photo stop at the Harold Jack lookout point high on a hill overlooking the sea where (clouds permitting), you will have fantastic views of the neighboring islands of Saba (the home of Kong in the original King Kong) and St. Eustatius to the south, and British Anguilla to the north. On this St. Maarten tour you will also begin to see Simpson Bay and its lagoon as you crest the hill. Here, your island drive takes the path less traveled by most cruise ship tours and heads through the busy Simpson Bay area, home to much of the island's nightlife and several of its casinos. You'll pass the International Airport and Maho Beach, where tourists sunbathe under landing planes. The Maho area also boasts resorts and casinos. You will then pass through the resort area of Mullet Bay, home to more resorts and the island's only golf course. Towards the end of this Dutch side of the island you find Cupecoy. Once a sleepy little area known for its beautiful secluded beaches, it is now home to some of the newest and nicest resorts and condos on the island. Crossing over to the French side, you will drive through Terres Basses. At one time a somewhat unsanitary area, it is now a popular residential spot for the rich and famous. Walls landscaped with colorful bougainvillea, hibiscus, and cactus hide sumptuous private villas. Nearby at Long Bay is one of the most beautiful hotels on the island, La Sammana, located on an island and not readily accessible to the general public. Arriving in Marigot, the French capital, you will feel a truly European ambiance as you browse the open-air markets, quaint shops, boutiques and sidewalk cafes during a brief stop for free time. Continue on to the famous Orient Bay, perhaps as well known for its relaxed dress code as for its white-sand beach and blue water. Here you will have approximately one hour to swim, stroll, soak up the sun or purchase a tropical drink in one of the many local beach cafes and bars. On the return to Philipsburg, you will take a different route, passing by more scenic areas including the Orleans Quarter. Please Note: Vehicles available for this tour accommodate groups of up to 33 guests maximum. Groups with more than 33 guests will need to book multiple vehicles. Please take this information into consideration when booking. Due to the short time at the beach, a chair is not included in the price of the tour. Chairs are available for rent at the beach. Be advised that European-style (clothing-optional) sunbathing may be observed throughout beaches in St. Maarten. This excursion may operate in reverse due to traffic conditions. On Sundays, most shops and restaurants on the French side are closed. All stores are closed on the following national holidays: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Kings Day, Carnival Day, Labor Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, Emancipation Day, Constitution Day, St. Maarten's Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.