The beaches on St. Maarten are renowned for their pristine beauty, white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. With 37 stunning beaches on the island to choose from, there is a beach for every type of traveler. Do you want to relax on silky smooth sand at Grand Case Beach, snorkel in azure waters at Dawn Beach, or experience the thrill of planes landing at the famous Maho Beach? If so, the beaches of St. Maarten leave you spoiled for choice.
With so many beaches on St. Maarten, deciding where to spend your vacation or cruise day can be overwhelming.
To help you plan your ultimate beach-hopping adventure, I have reviewed the top beaches of St. Maarten. For each beach, you’ll learn about its features, available activities, and amenities. So, whether you are spending a cruise day on St. Maarten or planning to visit several beaches on your vacation, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise with pristine golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and endless sunshine? Please keep reading to learn about St. Maarten beaches and explore the sandy shores of this stunning Caribbean island.
Introducing St. Maarten
St. Maarten is a unique and diverse Caribbean island with Dutch and French influences. The island’s southern side belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, whereas the northern side is part of the French Republic. Therefore, the island has two capitals—Philipsburg (Dutch) and Marigot (French).
St. Maarten is located in the northeastern Caribbean, making it a popular destination for eastern Caribbean cruises. It’s also popular with holidaymakers arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) and staying for an extended vacation. The island is known for its friendly locals, vibrant culture, colorful marine life, and beautiful beaches.
Sint Maarten or Saint Martin?
Because of dual governance, the island is called Sint Maarten or Saint Martin. Sint Maarten is the Dutch spelling of Saint Martin and refers to the southern part of the island.
In this article, I use the common name St. Maarten for the island because it’s the most populated part. It also has the cruise port terminal in Philipsburg and the Princess Juliana International Airport. I’ll use the name Saint Martin for beaches on the French side, as this makes the locations more straightforward to find on Google Maps.
How to Choose the Best Beaches in St. Maarten
Do you want to find the best place to soak up the sun and relax on the beautiful beaches of St. Maarten? With so many options and limited time on the island, deciding where to go can be overwhelming.
Here are six considerations for choosing the best Caribbean beach on the island for your perfect beach day.
Amenities: Evaluate what facilities are essential to you. Popular beaches like Great Bay Beach and Kim Sha Beach offer plenty of amenities, including water sports, calm, warm waters, and nearby restaurants and bars. However, more secluded beaches like Happy Bay and Plum Bay provide minimal facilities, offering a quieter experience.
Accessibility: Consider ease of access. Most beaches in St. Maarten are easily accessible by car. But some beaches, like Petite Cayes and Cupecoy Beach, require a short hike, adding to the sense of adventure and seclusion.
Safety: Prioritize safety, especially when swimming or if you have kids. Orient Bay Beach is well-known for its water sports safety measures, and many beaches have lifeguards during high season. Due to their calm, shallow waters, Friar’s Bay and Grand Case Beach are the best beaches for swimming. Always check if the beach has strong currents if you plan to swim or snorkel.
Crowd: Choose the type of beach break you want to enjoy. A lively beach atmosphere or a serene escape? The beach at Mullet Bay offers a peaceful ambiance, and unlike the nearby Maho Beach, you don’t experience the roar of jet engines when planes land and take off. In contrast, Simpson Bay Beach is bustling with tourists, cruise ship guests, and locals seeking fun and excitement.
Natural Beauty: Each beach has its charm. Choose the beach based on the scenery and natural features you most enjoy. For stunning sunsets, head to Mullet Bay, Kim Sha Beach, or Cupecoy Beach—known for its dramatic cliffs and caves.
Proximity: If you’re spending a cruise day on St. Maarten, the best choice is a beach close to the Cruise Ship Terminal. For example, Great Bay Beach is within walking distance of the pier. However, most beaches are less than a 30-minute taxi ride from the port. If you are on St. Maarten for an extended vacation, you have more flexibility to travel to any beach on the island.
Map of St. Maarten Beaches
To help you plan your beach-hopping adventure, I have included an interactive map highlighting the best beaches in St. Maarten. This map allows you to visualize the locations of each beach in relation to the cruise terminal and other major landmarks, making it easier to plan your day trips and understand the distances involved.
Getting to Beaches in St. Maarten
The beautiful island of St. Maarten has some of the Caribbean’s best and most diverse beaches. Thankfully, most are accessible by road and are easy to get to.
If you are arriving on a cruise ship, taxis or public buses are the best way to reach beaches on the island’s Dutch side. A taxi rank is just outside the terminal area. The bus station is a 15-minute walk away, located at Emma Plein on the east side of Philipsburg.
If you are on vacation in St. Maarten, renting a car is the best way to explore the island’s many stunning beaches. The good news is that you can easily cross the border between the French and Dutch sides as there’s no border control.
Are the Beaches in St. Maarten Free to Access?
The beaches in St. Maarten are free for everyone to access. Whether you are a resident or a visitor to the island, you can enjoy the beautiful shores without any entrance fees or charges. In most cases, you have to pay for using the facilities at public beaches, such as renting a beach chair or umbrella.
Beaches on the French Side of Saint Martin (St. Maarten)
Many vacationers consider the French side of Saint Martin to have the best beaches. Some outstanding beaches on the island’s north side are Grand Case Bay, Anse Marcel Beach, Plum Bay, and Orient Bay. Let’s look in detail at what the best beaches on Saint Martin offer.
Grand Case Beach (La Plage de Grand Case)
Grand Case Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island’s French side. It’s a lively beach with golden sands, many restaurants and bars, and calm waters. Despite being popular, the beach rarely feels crowded, making it a beautiful location to relax, unwind, and soak up the Caribbean sun.
Grand Case Beach is safe because it’s in a bay protected from strong currents and sea swells. The picturesque beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying Caribbean views. Other activities at the beach include snorkeling, diving, water skiing, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and parasailing. It’s also close to Creole Rock, considered to be one of the best diving locations on the island.
Access to the public beach is free, and its warm waters are calm throughout the year.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Facilities: Wide range of water sports, trendy restaurants and bars, private beach services, and on-beach massages
- Atmosphere: Charming, lively, cozy, and rarely overcrowded
Orient Bay Beach (Baie Orientale)
Orient Bay Beach is the largest beach on the island and is often called “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” It is located on the island’s northeastern coast and is a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) stretch of fine white sand. Additionally, the beach has calm waters thanks to protection from Green Cay and a barrier reef.
Orient Bay Beach is popular with tourists due to its crystal-clear waters, beachfront restaurants, and a plethora of water sports. You can also explore the beautiful beachside village with its colorful Creole buildings, squares, and tropical gardens. It also has a vibrant nightlife with various bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Part of the beach at Orient Bay is a clothing-optional area and the only official nudist beach on the island. However, it’s good to note that nudity is not uncommon on many of Saint Martin’s beaches, unlike the Dutch side, where it’s generally prohibited.
If you’re an adventure seeker, Orient Bay Beach offers a range of water sports. The strong Atlantic winds make it ideal for windsurfing, kite surfing, or parasailing. Also, a coral reef near the shore makes it perfect for snorkeling or diving at Green Cay.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 7 miles (11.2 km)
- Facilities: Bars, restaurants, beach loungers, watersports equipment rental, showers, restrooms, live music
- Atmosphere: Upbeat and lively but quieter toward Coco Beach
Green Cay (Caye Verte)
Green Cay is a small, uninhabited island located just off the southern end of Orient Beach. This secluded spot is popular with snorkeling enthusiasts looking to explore the vibrant marine life in the crystal-clear waters. You’ll encounter colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other fascinating marine life.
Green Cay has some of the most secluded beaches on Saint Martin. The unspoiled beaches let you relax and soak up the sun. The offshore island’s tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 7 miles (11.2 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful as there is nothing on the deserted island
Friar’s Bay Beach (Anse des Pères)
The beach at Friar’s Bay is a quiet, peaceful strip of sandy shore on the northwest coast of Saint Martin. The cove’s calm, shallow, azure waters make it ideal for swimming and exploring underwater marine life, while the soft sandy beach is perfect for lounging and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Lush vegetation lines the beach, making it a stunning Caribbean getaway.
A highlight of Friar’s Bay Beach is the fantastic Caribbean cuisine offered at the seaside restaurants along the shore. Here, you can dine with your feet in the sand, enjoying fresh seafood and local delicacies while enjoying the stunning views of the beach and ocean. The beach is also famous for its “full moon” parties.
Friar’s Bay Beach is near Marigot, making it an ideal location for relaxing in the sun if you are staying in the area.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: Umbrellas, beach chairs, two restaurants
- Atmosphere: Peaceful during the day, and it can get busy on the weekends and evenings
Happy Bay Beach
Happy Bay Beach is a secret tranquil beach on Saint Martin without direct access. Only a few tourists visit this secluded, quiet beach because it’s only accessible via a 10-minute hike over a craggy coastal landscape from Friar’s Bay. Unlike many Saint Martin beaches, Happy Bay provides an uncrowded, natural, and authentic beach experience.
The main highlight of the beach is the coconut palm trees that line the shoreline, providing welcome shade from the hot Caribbean sun. The wide stretch of sand offers plenty of space to relax and unwind. In addition, the clear, warm waters provide excellent snorkeling opportunities to explore the colorful marine life.
Happy Bay Beach is an ideal choice for a tranquil beach day if you want to escape crowds of cruise passengers or just unwind in peace.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: No facilities
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and serene
Le Galion Beach
Le Galion Beach on the east coast of Saint Martin is a popular beach destination for families. The beach is protected by a horseshoe-shaped bay, meaning it has calm, shallow waters and is safe for young children. The bay is also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to strong winds.
One of the beauties of Le Galion Beach is the reef near the shore. You can swim a short distance from shore to snorkel and explore coral and vibrant marine life. Tourists love the lush vegetation surrounding the bay, which adds to its tropical vibes.
Off the beaten track, the beach is typically deserted, and the bay usually has many windsurfers.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 7 miles (11.2 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Tranquil
Pinel Island Beach (Ilet Pinel)
One of the most secluded beaches on Saint Martin is the beach on Pinel Island. This beautiful stretch of white sand lies on an uninhabited island near Cul-de-Sac. Transport to the island is by a 5-minute ferry ride, kayak, or paddleboard. The clear blue calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling to view tropical reef fish.
For an outstanding experience, you can walk to the Atlantic Coast side of the island. As you go, you can explore untouched scenery, see iguanas, and enjoy breathtaking views of waves crashing against the cliffs. It’s one of the best places in the Caribbean to enjoy a sense of serenity and tranquility away from crowds.
Two restaurants on the island serve fresh seafood, lobster, and a range of Caribbean cocktails.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Facilities: Palapas, beach chairs, restaurants, bars, kayaks, and paddleboards
- Atmosphere: Relaxing and tranquil
Anse Marcel Beach
Located at the northern tip of Saint Martin is Anse Marcel Beach—one of the most peaceful beaches on the island. Visitors rate it as one of the best beaches, and it’s not hard to see why. The sandy shore lies within a protected cove, surrounded by lush green hills. It’s also home to several hotels and resorts, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
The beach at the fishing village of Anse Marcel Beach is ideal for families and kids. The calm, shallow waters and sandy bottom are suitable for wading and splashing around. Additionally, the beachfront dining options at Anse Marcel are superb. You can find everything from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants.
Anse Marcel offers a full day of activities with a friendly village vibe. The local water sports club provides options like paddleboarding, jet skiing, and more. The beach itself feels incredibly peaceful and secluded.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: Water sports center, beach chairs, umbrellas, marina, restaurants, and bars
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly and peaceful
Red Bay Beach (Baie Rouge)
Red Bay Beach is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re staying in Marigot on your Caribbean vacation. Known as Baie Rouge, it is a beautiful stretch of reddish-pink sand surrounded by rugged cliffs. The crystal-clear waters are safe for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports.
Despite its popularity, the expansive beach at Red Bay never feels crowded. There’s always enough room to spread your beach towel and enjoy the Caribbean sun. The cliffs provide a striking backdrop for sunbathing and picnicking, while the gentle waves and shallow water are ideal for swimming.
A restaurant and bar provide food and refreshments throughout the day, and you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: Beach loungers, umbrellas, water sports equipment rental, parking lot, restaurant, and bars
- Atmosphere: Fun and lively and can get busy on the weekends
Nettlé Bay Beach (Baie Nettlé)
Nestled between Nettlé Bay and Simpson Bay Lagoon is a stunning stretch of white sand. Nettlé Bay Beach is a lively beach for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. However, you can also find peaceful spots to relax, unwind, and soak up the sun in a serene setting. This breezy beach is a favorite among locals, cruise passengers, and vacationers.
Nettlé Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island for witnessing spectacular sunsets. This makes the beach ideal for romantic evening strolls and meals at one of the beachfront restaurants or bars. The palm trees along the shoreline add to the beach’s Caribbean charm.
A unique feature of Nettlé Bay Beach is its proximity to the lagoon, where you can enjoy a range of active water sports in the calm waters.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Facilities: A wide range of water sports, a boating center, restaurants, bars, bakery, grocery stores
- Atmosphere: A mixture of lively beach activities and peaceful spots
Long Bay Beach (Baie Longue)
Saint Martin’s longest beach is Long Bay, located at the western end of the peninsula near the border of the island’s Dutch side. The two-mile-long beach has soft, white sand, calm turquoise waters, and excellent waves for surfing. Activities at the beach include swimming and snorkeling—although there is no coral reef.
Part of Long Bay Beach belongs to La Samanna resort; however, two-thirds of the beach is publicly accessible from the car park near Grand Étang. Also, Terres Basses is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods on the island.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 11 miles (17.7 km) or 40 minutes
- Facilities: None unless you are staying at the La Samanna Resort
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and deserted as not many tourists come to the public beach
Plum Bay (Baie aux Prunes)
Plum Bay Beach is one of the most secluded beaches on St. Martin because few tourists visit it. The pristine beach has soft, golden sand, turquoise crystalline waters, and palm trees providing some shade. Depending on the weather, the sea can be tranquil and ideal for swimming or snorkeling. When it swells, large waves make it superb for snorkeling.
Plum Beach is your destination if you want an untouched, wild Caribbean beach to spend the day. However, take everything you need with you, as there are no amenities. Parking and entrance to the beach are at the north end of the beach at the corner of Rue E. Moreillon and Rue de la Falaise.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 12 miles (19.3 km) or 45 minutes
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful, serene, and windswept
Petite Cayes
Petite Cayes is the most remote beach on Saint Martin on the island’s northeastern shores. This hidden beach is only accessible by hiking the 1.5-mile (2.4 km) Froussards Trail through unspoiled forests. The effort of walking the steep, rocky path is worth it when you find the most private beach on the island.
The beach at Petite Cayes is stunning, with untouched white sand, crystal clear waters, pristine white sand, and a backdrop of lush tropical vegetation. When the sea swells, the beach is a magnet for surfers. Petite Cayes is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea in complete privacy.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there is a 1.5-mile trail around the northern tip of Saint Martin to Grandes Cayes Reserve.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Private and secluded
Beaches on the Dutch Side of Sint Maarten
The southern side of St. Maarten offers an incredible mix of beach experiences. The beaches tend to have more amenities and are more crowded than the French side of the island. In contrast to many beaches on the French side, there is generally no nudity on Sint Maarten beaches.
The best beaches on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten are Maho Beach, Dawn Beach, Simpson Bay, and Mullet Bay. Let’s look at these beaches in more detail.
Great Bay Beach
Great Bay Beach is the closest beach to the Cruise Terminal in the heart of Philipsburg. This bustling stretch of sand is lined with colorful umbrellas and beach bars. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the soft white sand is excellent for sunbathing and relaxing.
Thanks to its proximity to the center of Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach is an excellent place to visit some of the historic landmarks in the downtown area or take a taxi to the historic Fort Amsterdam.
Great Bay Beach offers a perfect blend of tropical paradise and vibrant city life.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 5 minutes by taxi, 15 minutes on foot, or water taxi from the terminal
- Facilities: Beach chairs, umbrellas, a plethora of water sports, restaurants, bars, duty-free shops
- Atmosphere: Lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Caribbean
Little Bay Beach
Little Bay Beach is one of the least crowded beaches in St. Maarten near the cruise terminal. This small bay west of Fort Amsterdam has a beautiful beach with calm waters and soft sand. The rocky coast and barrier reef protecting the bay make it a safe place for snorkeling and exploring marine life.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, Little Bay Beach is a great option. Despite the hotel on the seafront, this beach remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing environment. You can also go kayaking or paddleboarding in the crystal-clear, calm waters.
You can purchase a day pass at the Divi Little Bay Resort to make your beach break more enjoyable. This gives you access to loungers, umbrellas, snorkel gear, paddle boats, and a 2.5-hour reef snorkeling boat excursion.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 15 minutes
- Facilities: Water activities, snorkeling, boat trips, hotel facilities, showers, changing rooms
- Atmosphere: Peaceful, with only a few tourists
Maho Beach
Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches on St. Maarten—if not the world. Also called “airport beach,” it’s renowned for airplanes landing and taking off just above your head—less than 100 ft. (30 m) above the beach. Between landings and taking off, you can relax on the pristine beach or swim in the sparkling turquoise warm waters.
Maho Beach is among the liveliest beaches on the island’s southern side. Near the beach are beach bars, restaurants, party spots, and casinos. Many cruise passengers and other tourists visit the beach just to experience airplanes landing and taking off.
The best time to experience the thrill of jet engines is to be at the beach between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. However, to guarantee a spectacular sight, check the flight schedules at Princess Juliana Airport.
It’s vital to follow safety guidelines at Maho Beach. The blast from jet engines can reach 100 mph and is enough to knock a person over. The engine blast can blow sand into your eyes, and the noise exceeds 120 dB.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Facilities: Few facilities, beach bar, and restaurants nearby
- Atmosphere: Packed and noisy in the afternoons when most large aircrafts land and take off
Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand, is located approximately 9 miles (15 km) from the cruise ship pier on St. Maarten. It’s one of the most popular and best beaches on the Dutch side of the island, with crystal-clear waters, gentle waves, and picturesque palm trees lining the shore. When the sea swells, large waves are popular with surfers.
Mullet Bay Beach has everything you need to spend a day at the beach. Lounge chairs with umbrellas are available for rent, and several cafes and bars are on the beachfront. However, it can get busy on cruise day because it is one of the best beaches near the terminal.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 9 miles (15 km)
- Facilities: Beach loungers, umbrellas, beachfront bars, snorkeling
- Atmosphere: Large beach with plenty of space to chill and unwind in the Caribbean sunshine
Simpson Bay Beach
Simpson Bay Beach is known for having the calmest water of all the beaches on St. Maarten. This beautiful stretch of soft sand is one of the longest beaches on the island. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and active water sports. The crystal-clear lagoon-like waters are perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful marine life.
After unwinding in the Caribbean sun, you can enjoy a meal or cocktail at one of the many beach bars and restaurants along the shore. The calm waters of Simpson Bay Beach make it an excellent spot for families and those looking for a relaxing day by the sea. Even on busy days, the beach never feels overcrowded.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 7 miles (11.2 km)
- Facilities: Beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, snorkeling, bars, and restaurants
- Atmosphere: Lively thanks to several bars dotted along the beachfront
Kim Sha Beach
Kim Sha Beach, located in Simpson Bay, is a vibrant and lively beach destination known for its nightlife. It’s the ideal location for parties, active water sports, and beach concerts. Live music keeps beachgoers in the Caribbean mood. Other beach activities include surfing, swimming, jet skiing, and kayaking.
Kim Sha Beach is the go-to beach on the Dutch side of the island for a vibrant nightlife with clubs, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can find some of the best Caribbean cuisine on the island. It’s also one of the best beaches on the island to enjoy an evening stroll and watch the sun setting over the Caribbean.
Most visitors to St. Maarten rate Kim Sha Beach as the prettiest on the island to watch sunsets.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 6 miles (9.6 km)
- Facilities: Jet skiing, paddleboarding, swimming,
- Atmosphere: Party atmosphere, especially at night
Cupecoy Beach
Cupecoy Beach, near the Dutch-French border, is a stunning beach on Sint Maarten. It’s one of the most secluded beaches on the Dutch side of the island, with a backdrop of caves, rock formations, eroded limestone cliffs, and a pristine beach. It’s also one of the go-to locations to watch sunsets on the island.
It’s important to note that the north end of Cupecoy Beach is an unofficial clothing-optional sunbathing area. Additionally, frequent sea swells and a steep drop-off make the beach hazardous for young children and weak swimmers. However, it’s one of the most dramatic beaches on the island, known for its romanticism and stunning views of the volcanic Saba Island in the distance.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 10 miles (16 km)
- Facilities: No facilities apart from a few vendors selling cold beers
- Atmosphere: Romantic, dramatic, and its north end is nudist-friendly
Dawn Beach
Dawn Beach is regarded as one of the prettiest beaches in St. Maarten. Although part of it is a private beach, you can access much of it for free. As its name suggests, it’s one of the best beaches on the island to watch sunrises. It has clear blue ocean waters and white sand and is mainly deserted—ideal for privacy at a beach.
One of the reasons to visit Dawn Beach is the easily accessible coral reefs. This makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Also, it’s not known to tourists in general, making it one of the most secluded beaches on the Dutch side of the island. It offers a tranquil and beautiful escape from crowds of tourists.
It’s important to note that sea swells and large waves can make the beach rough and challenging to swim in.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 5 miles (8 km)
- Facilities: Few facilities if you don’t stay at the resort
- Atmosphere: Secluded and tranquil
Guana Bay Beach
Guana Bay Beach is one of the most unspoiled and secluded beaches on St. Maarten. The windswept beach is characterized by white sand, crystal clear waters, and crashing waves. Relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy stunning ocean views toward St. Barts. However, powerful sea swells mean it is not safe for swimming.
The large, powerful rolling waves make Guana Beach an ideal place for surfing. However, the beach has no facilities. But for many tourists wanting to spend time on an authentic Caribbean beach, this adds to its beauty and charm.
Guana Bay Beach is the perfect destination if you want to escape the more touristy areas. It’s also the starting point of hiking trails to the natural pools of Geneve Bay.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 2.5 miles (4 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful beach devoid of tourists
Geneve Bay Beach
Geneve Bay is not so much a beach as a black, rocky shoreline. It is one of the most secluded places on St. Maarten. This hidden gem is an hour’s trek from Philipsburg along nature trails that hug the coast. This wild, unspoiled site has rugged cliffs, natural pools, and spectacular scenery. You may see wild goats, iguanas, and pelicans along the way.
Once you arrive at Geneve Bay, you are greeted by stunning views of nearby islands. The natural pools with crystalline waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and you can dry off on smooth rocks. Please note that the hike along the coastal trails is challenging and unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues or children.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 2 miles (3.2 km) from Philipsburg or 1 mile (1.6 km) from Guana Beach
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful, but no sandy beaches or shade
Burgeaux Bay Beach
Burgeaux Bay Beach is a hidden gem nestled between the famous Maho Beach and Simpson Bay. The beach is a narrow strip of sandy shore that is exceptionally rocky, making it challenging to access the water for swimming. However, you can explore the bay’s diverse marine life if you have water shoes and snorkeling gear.
This bay is a favorite spot for surfers looking to ride the waves in the safe and shallow waters. You can also enjoy leisurely walks on the soft sand, searching for seashells, or admiring the stunning views of St. Barts in the distance. The beach is one of the most natural, unspoiled beaches near the cruise terminal.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 8 miles (12.8 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and tranquil with choppy waters
Cay Bay Beach
Cay Bay Beach is a small, secluded stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach is ideal if you’re looking to chill out on cruise day or vacation. The water is clear and calm, making it safe for swimming or snorkeling despite the rocky fringe of the shoreline.
Relaxing at the beach offers stunning views of St. Kitts, St. Eustatius, and Saba. The secluded beach has a small restaurant on the east side, with a few beach chairs and umbrellas. Apart from that, there are no facilities at the beach. However, if you desire a remote, serene escape to unwind, Cay Bay Beach is perfect.
- Distance from the cruise terminal: 6 miles (9.6 km)
- Facilities: Parking lot, restaurant, beach chairs, umbrellas
- Atmosphere: Quiet and peaceful
St. Maarten Beaches: FAQs
Which side of St. Maarten has better beaches?
Both the French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten are known for their beautiful beaches. The French side is known for its quieter, more secluded beaches like Grand Case and Orient Bay. In contrast, Dutch Beaches tend to be livelier and crowded, with more restaurants, bars, and water activities.
When is the best time to visit St. Maarten?
The optimal time to visit eastern Caribbean islands like St. Maarten is during the dry, mild season from December to April. The weather is warm, and there is a minimal risk of rainfall. Remember that the peak tourist season means higher prices and larger crowds.
If you prefer a quieter cruise experience with lower prices, consider booking a Caribbean cruise to St. Maarten from May to June or November. During these months, you can avoid the large crowds that come with peak tourist season. However, it’s important to note that there is a higher chance of rain during these times.
On the other hand, it is best to avoid traveling to St. Maarten during the peak of hurricane season, which occurs from August to October.
Are there sharks around St Maarten?
While sharks are present in the Caribbean, they are rarely seen near popular swimming and snorkeling spots in the waters of St. Maarten. Shark species you may encounter are generally nurse sharks, Caribbean Reef sharks, and hammerheads. Shark attacks in St. Maarten’s waters are rare, and there has been only one fatality recorded in 2020.
Is St. Maarten expensive?
St. Maarten is considered expensive primarily due to high tourist demand and the costs associated with importing goods. Prices on the island are comparable to those in North America and Europe, with limited budget options available. Grocery prices tend to be lower on the French side of the island.
Is it safe to walk around St. Maarten?
St. Maarten is considered a safe Caribbean island with low crime rates. However, it’s vital to take common-sense precautions. Stick to tourist areas and avoid walking in unfamiliar places at night. Also, protect your belongings, and don’t leave bags unattended at the beach. Some tourists also report items being stolen from locked cars.
What currency is used in St. Maarten?
The currency used in St. Maarten is the Antillean guilder, also known as the florin, on the Dutch side, and the Euro on the French side. US dollars are accepted on both sides of the island in all tourist areas; however, you may get a poorer exchange rate.
Is it safe to drink tap water in St. Maarten?
It is generally safe to drink tap water in St. Maarten. The water is treated and meets international standards for drinking water quality. However, some visitors may prefer to drink bottled water for peace of mind. Bottled water is widely available on the island.
Do the beaches in St. Maarten have free WiFi?
Few beaches on St. Maarten have WiFi hotspots. You may find WiFi signals at Oyster Pond, Orient Beach, and the Maho area. Usually, exclusive beach resorts have complimentary WiFi for guests.
What are the best beaches for snorkeling in St. Maarten?
Some of the best beaches for snorkeling in St. Maarten include Dawn Beach, Grand Case Beach, and Green Cay. These locations offer clear waters and vibrant marine life. Additionally, Creole Rock, accessible from Grand Case, is considered one of the best snorkeling and diving spots on the island.
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