Fort Amsterdam Philipsburg
Historic 17th-century fort ruins offering breathtaking panoramic views of Philipsburg and abundant wildlife, including pelicans and iguanas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & wildlife
Fort Amsterdam Philipsburg
Best Time
Cooler temps & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 17th-century fort ruins offering breathtaking panoramic views of Philipsburg and abundant wildlife, including pelicans and iguanas.
"Free admission, stunning views, and wildlife make this a worthwhile historical stop."
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path can be rocky and uphill. Good shoes are a must for the walk through the resort and to the fort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Caribbean sun is strong! Bring water, especially for the uphill trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Fort ramparts
Commanding vistas of Philipsburg, nearby bays, and the Caribbean Sea. Perfect for photos!
Historic Cannons
Fort walls
See replica cannons that evoke the fort's military past. A tangible link to history.
Pelican Nesting Colony
Adjacent to the fort
Observe brown pelicans in their natural habitat. A treat for wildlife enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Access & Resort Walk-Through
Best Time for Views & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path can be rocky and uphill. Good shoes are a must for the walk through the resort and to the fort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Caribbean sun is strong! Bring water, especially for the uphill trek.
📸 Drone Photography Spot
If you have a drone, Fort Amsterdam offers fantastic aerial photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Guided Resort Walks
Divi Little Bay often offers guided walks to the fort on Mondays and Fridays.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path can be rocky and uphill. Good shoes are a must for the walk through the resort and to the fort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Caribbean sun is strong! Bring water, especially for the uphill trek.
📸 Drone Photography Spot
If you have a drone, Fort Amsterdam offers fantastic aerial photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Guided Resort Walks
Divi Little Bay often offers guided walks to the fort on Mondays and Fridays.
🦎 Iguana Spotting
Keep an eye out for iguanas along the path; they are common here!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fort Amsterdam to be a free, historically interesting site with stunning panoramic views of Philipsburg and the surrounding bays. The opportunity to see pelicans and iguanas is a highlight, though the walk through the resort and the fort's current state of ruin are noted drawbacks.
"This is located on the outside edge of the property for the Divi resort. That means you need to park outside the guardhouse and walk in.
The walk is downhill to the resort, then uphill through the resort's room buildings. When you reach the edge of the property it is up a steeper part for about .1 miles to the ruins.
There is a wall on the west side with cannon replicas. They are very good. Pretty much everything else has been destroyed by the hurricane that came through in 2017.
There are signs that show a layout of how the fort looked. There are 2 building shells that you can look at.
The views from the fort are beautiful and there is a pelican nesting area adjacent to the fort property. We didn't see any when we were there.
Even with the steep walk, and warm temperatures, the breeze was nice, which helped. Overall, it was nice to see."
Libby A Mills
"To get here you have to park outside DIVI Little Bay resort but the gate lady let us in to park closer because of the kids. There are signs guiding you as you walk through the resort area. The path is mostly rocks and gravel but easy hike up. They have chairs in different spots fun to sit or take pictures. There are a lot of signs around so you can get feel for the fort as mostly rubble little structure areas left with cannons. One awesome finding here is the pelican nesting area … kids enjoyed walking around and seeing the pelicans nests. You can also see a variety of other birds here as well plus the iguanas. The views from the fort are breathtaking and can see this side of the island ( we had also visited Fort Louis). This was a fun break from the beach we did while exploring the capital city on Dutch side Philipsburg."
Mohsin Syed
"This is a free and beautiful place to visit. Fort Amsterdam is one of those places with history. Always nice to learn something! It is a short walk to Fort Amsterdam once you park your car. There is parking! Fantastic views like everywhere else on the island. By the way you will see a lot of iguanas along the walk which is cool. Stop by! Enjoy!"
Mounia V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll typically need to park outside the Divi Little Bay resort's guardhouse and walk through the resort grounds to reach the fort. Some visitors have been allowed to park closer if they have children.
Yes, you can park outside the Divi Little Bay resort. The gate attendant might allow you to park closer if you have kids.
The walk involves going downhill to the resort, then uphill through resort buildings, and finally up a steeper path to the ruins. It's about 0.1 miles to the ruins themselves.
Generally, no. You need to park at Divi Little Bay and walk. The path is mostly rocks and gravel.
While public transport can get you to Philipsburg, the final approach to Fort Amsterdam requires walking through the resort, making it less accessible via direct public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fort Amsterdam is a free attraction. You can explore the ruins and enjoy the views without any admission fee.
There are no official opening hours posted, as it's an open historical site. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Early mornings are recommended.
Fort Amsterdam is completely free to visit. Enjoy the history and views without any cost.
While there are no set hours, visiting during daylight is advisable. Early mornings are popular for sunrise and wildlife viewing.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but visitors should be respectful of the historical site and the adjacent resort property.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline and Philipsburg. The historic cannons also make for great shots.
Yes, drone footage from Fort Amsterdam has been shared, highlighting its potential for aerial photography. Always check local drone regulations.
Expect breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, nearby bays, Philipsburg, and the coastline. It's a fantastic vantage point.
Sunrise is particularly recommended for its beautiful light and wildlife activity. Sunset views are also impressive.
You can photograph the replica cannons, the remaining building shells, and informational signs detailing the fort's layout.
🎫 🌿 Wildlife & Nature
You can often spot brown pelicans, especially in their nesting colony. Iguanas and geckos are also commonly seen.
Yes, there is a significant brown pelican breeding colony adjacent to the fort property, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
The surrounding area offers beautiful coastal scenery and beaches. The walk itself provides views of the natural landscape.
Early mornings are generally the best time to see pelicans and iguanas as they are more active.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy spotting the pelicans, iguanas, and other local wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider joining a guided walk if available, as it can make the experience more engaging for younger visitors. The breathtaking views from the top are also a great reward after the hike, providing a memorable backdrop for family photos.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early morning visits are highly recommended not only for the best light but also for the chance to capture wildlife like pelicans and iguanas. The contrast between the historical structures and the vibrant Caribbean landscape makes for compelling shots.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Combine your visit with exploring the Philipsburg Boardwalk or other nearby trails for a more active day. The scenic route and the rewarding views at the summit make the effort well worth it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The fort's location was chosen for its commanding views over the surrounding bays, a crucial factor for defense against potential invaders. Standing on the ramparts, one can easily imagine the sentinels keeping watch over the azure waters. While the physical fort may be in ruins, its historical narrative is preserved through these remnants and the breathtaking scenery it overlooks.
For those interested in history, Fort Amsterdam provides a quiet, reflective experience. It's a place to ponder the island's past and appreciate the strategic positioning that shaped its development. The blend of historical ruins and natural beauty makes it a unique stop on any Sint Maarten itinerary.
The Walk and Resort Access
Once you reach the edge of the resort property, there's a final, steeper section of about 0.1 miles leading to the fort ruins. The path is described as mostly rocks and gravel, so comfortable footwear is essential. Some visitors have noted that the gate attendant may allow closer parking if you are traveling with children, making the journey a bit easier.
Despite the walk, many find it worthwhile. The resort setting offers a pleasant transition, and the final ascent is rewarded with the historical site and its spectacular views. Some resorts, like Divi Little Bay, even organize guided walks to the fort, offering a structured way to experience the site.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the pelicans, keep an eye out for iguanas and geckos that are frequently seen basking in the sun or scurrying along the paths. These encounters add an extra layer of natural wonder to the visit, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
The combination of historical ruins, stunning coastal views, and abundant wildlife makes Fort Amsterdam a multifaceted destination. It's a place where history, nature, and scenic beauty converge, offering a memorable experience for every visitor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit