Princess Juliana International Airport is just 15 km from Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The drive takes about 20 minutes along the coastal road past Simpson Bay and the famous Maho Beach.

About Philipsburg

Philipsburg stretches along a narrow sandbar between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond, creating a compact capital with beaches on both sides. Front Street, the main shopping boulevard, runs parallel to the waterfront and is lined with duty-free jewelry shops, electronics stores, and Caribbean restaurants—making it a major stop for cruise ship passengers.

Boardwalk Beach runs the length of town with white sand, turquoise water, and beachfront bars serving rum punch. The Courthouse, built in 1793, anchors the eastern end of Front Street, while Fort Amsterdam provides historical context with views over the bay. Philipsburg is busiest when cruise ships are in port (typically mornings) but quiets down in the evenings for a more relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.

Nearby Landmarks

Boardwalk Beach Fort Amsterdam Courthouse Great Bay Marina

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $15-20 USD
Time 15-20 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit the terminal and find the taxi stand. 2. Share a taxi or take a private one along the main road east. 3. Pass through Simpson Bay and along the coast road. 4. Arrive in Philipsburg in approximately 20 minutes.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $15-20 USD 15-20 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis operate 24/7 on Sint Maarten with fixed rates. A ride from SXM to Philipsburg costs approximately $15-20 USD at night. There is no public bus service after 8 PM. Water taxis between Simpson Bay and Philipsburg are available until about 10 PM.

Luggage Tips

Taxis handle luggage easily. If using the local minibus, space is limited for large suitcases. The walk along Front Street and Boardwalk is flat and suitable for rolling luggage.

Accessibility

Taxis can accommodate wheelchairs with advance notice. Boardwalk Beach has some accessible sections. Front Street is mostly flat but can be crowded and narrow in spots when cruise ships dock. Most newer hotels and shops are accessible.