ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN! - Hit the Beach

Hit the Beach

As diverse as its people and culture, the beaches of St. Maarten/St. Martin boast a variety of outdoor pleasures. Whether you enjoy soaking up the rays while sprawled on luxurious sand or prefer the exhilaration of a Jet Ski, this island has a beach for you.

St. Maarten (Dutch side)

Great Bay Beach
The boardwalk along Great Bay Beach is a big part of its appeal. With beach bars and watersports vendors lining the way, this is the place for entertainment. And the wide beach area makes Great Bay ideal for a morning jog or a romantic evening walk.

Mullet Bay Beach
Tucked behind the Mullet Bay golf course and near the airport, this island hot spot has been a Sunday tradition for years. There are a few local stands selling barbecue food and an all-around fun ambience plus good snorkeling.

Guana Bay Beach
Guana Bay is well worth the drive it takes to reach it. The steady swells are fun to splash around in and perfect for a little bodysurfing, though exercise caution if the surf is rough. This little beach is never dull, and there's a great view of St. Barths.

Maho Beach
Calling all thrill-seekers: this is one of the most unique beaches in the Caribbean. Imagine lying on the sand staring out at the serene ocean as a 747 comes in for landing directly overhead. The unparalleled view of the planes, combined with great beach bars, make Maho Beach an experience not to be missed.

Simpson Bay Beach
Like solitude? This beach is free of motorized sports, big resorts, or food concessions. It's just you, the sand, and the water. Take a long walk along the half-moon-shaped shoreline or a dip in its calm waters. This is a pleasant spot from which to watch the yachts sail by.

St. Martin (French side)

Baie Rouge
Step off the stairs onto this lovely beach, and you'll be struck by just how fine the sand is. The calm, crystal-clear water makes for a relaxing swim, but beware of the undertow and the rocks that seem to appear seasonally. There are beach rentals, refreshments, and facilities available.

Baie aux Prunes
Breakers crash on the rocky outcropping of this long crescent-shaped beach, which you'll probably have all to yourself, save for some surfers on windy days and the occasional nude sunbather. In fact, the appeal of this beach lies in what it lacks, so bring your own chair, umbrella, and water.

Friar's Bay Beach
Nestled off the road from Marigot to Colombier, Friar's, as it is commonly referred to, is a happening beach. With two beach bar/restaurants, including the famous Kali's Beach Bar, a fun-filled day is assured at this island gem.

Happy Bay Beach
Getting to this beach will awaken your inner explorer; it's accessible by parking at Friar's Bay and walking eight to 10 minutes over a nearby bluff. Although the journey there can be challenging, the beach itself is well worth the effort. Because it's so secluded, this beach tends to be very quiet; it's also clothing-optional.

Orient Beach
One thing is certain, Orient Beach is something everyone should experience. You can enjoy all kinds of watersports, everything from banana-boating to parasailing. Home to many bars and restaurants, it is known as the beach for gourmet dining. It is also home to Club Orient naturist resort and is thus clothing-optional.

Îlet Pinel
If you are looking to spend an entire day at the beach, then Pinel is the place. A five-minute ferry takes you from French Cul-de-Sac to this tiny island. With gorgeous sand, gentle waves, shallow and clear water, and a leisurely atmosphere, Pinel is ideal for families with small children. Also, this little island has all the amenities, including chairs and umbrellas for rent and food for sale.

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Hit the Beach

St. Maarten (Dutch side)

St. Martin (French side)