Philipsburg Map

Description:

Philipsburg is the capital and largest city of Sint Maarten, the Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. Founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch navy, the city is situated on a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond.

The city serves as the main commercial hub of Sint Maarten and is a significant port for cruise ships in the Caribbean, welcoming over 1 million cruise passengers annually. The most prominent thoroughfare, Front Street, stretches for about a mile along the waterfront and features numerous duty-free shops, jewelry stores, and restaurants housed in traditional colonial buildings.

Great Bay Beach, a long stretch of white sand beach, runs along the entire length of Philipsburg's waterfront. The beach is complemented by a concrete boardwalk known as the Great Bay Beach Promenade, which serves as a popular spot for walking and cycling. The city is home to several historical sites, including the Courthouse, a prominent white wooden structure built in 1793 that serves as an iconic landmark and features a pineapple-topped tower.

The Sint Maarten Museum showcases the island's history through artifacts, documents, and exhibits. Another notable attraction is Fort Amsterdam, built in 1631 as the first Dutch military outpost in the Caribbean. Located on the western edge of Great Bay, the fort offers panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding areas.

Philipsburg has a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The city is served by Princess Juliana International Airport, famous for its proximity to Maho Beach. The population of Philipsburg is approximately 1,500 permanent residents, though this number fluctuates significantly with tourist seasons.