With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. Orient Beach, which lies north of Philipsburg in the French district, is the most popular and well-known beach on the island. Here are some of the best activities in St. Maarten. But traffic outside of the Boardwalk and Front Street is often heavy. The high rocks block most of the wind, so its a good choice when the Caribbean trade winds are strong that day. Cruise passengers get from the docks to Philipsburg via walking, taxi or an inexpensive water taxi. Anse Marcel is one of St. Martins best kept secrets. In this post we will explore the top 5 beaches to visit if you are in St Maarten on a cruise. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. It is located in the heart of the downtown capital Philipsburg and is about 3km from the cruise port. The beach is seven miles west of the cruise port by Simpson Bay, which has a cluster of hotels, resorts and restaurants. Feel free to browse our website for more content on St Maarten, the Dutch Caribbean and rest of the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. Day and night, theres always a lively atmosphere in Kim Sha Beach, St Maarten. When the clock hits at the time of sunset, thats where the flashing lights, livid atmosphere, and the nightlife starts. They called him cheap and and wouldnt leave him alone. This mile-long stretch of soft, white-sandy beach runs parallel to a long promenade stretching its entire length. Make sure to take some home with you. Seawater averages about three degrees cooler, which makes swimming good at any time. If you are going to be traveling to Maho beach its best to pack up and head back to the port latest 3:30 pm if your ships leaving at 5 pm. Great Bay Beach, a long boardwalk and shopping on Front Street run side by side. Kim Sha beach is the place to be for party-goers who want the time of their life. You can see the location on the St. Maarten map below. The beach is certainly grand in Sint Maarten, and within steps from the port (unlike Cayman). An exclusive shore excursion to Orient Bay costs about $70 per person. They also have many water sports that are available. Bring your full gear or opt to rent for snorkeling to ensure that youll catch the breathtaking views underwater in Dawn Beach. Asked for Miguel after reading recomendations but he wasn't around so headed off to quiet end with wider beach and Sweet Andy looked after us. 1. We were taken to two cushioned beach chairs one row back from the beach with umbrellas. before joining cruise ship. All Rights Reserved. Head to St. Martin, the French side of St. Maarten, where you'll find a peaceful environment. In Phillipsburg, one of the best things to do is shopping on Front Street or Back Street or hang out in Wathey Square. The roads are narrow and winding. Orient and Maho are the most popular shore excursion beaches, but Great Bay is free and a short walk away. Maho Beach is usually a favorite of visitors to the island and it is a tiny beach. The beach strip has enough to offer during the day, though, and stores galore towards Achter Straatan enduring shopping destination! The ride is only 10 minutes long. Fondly known as Airplane beach, as planes usually have to approach the landing at an altitude of less than 100 feet. With close to 45 miles of beautiful coastline, you'll find some amazing beaches near St Maarten cruise port. The casino hours are 10am to 4am daily. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. Great Bay Beachs location is ideal if you want to enjoy the beach as well as take advantage of the excellent duty free opportunities available on the island. Taxis. Great Bay Beach is a fun beach and everything you will need will be there------the beach---water sports---bars--restaurants----long & wide and close to the docks and along one of the best shopping streets in the Caribbean. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. An island tour that includes quick stops at Orient Beach, Maho Bay, Marigot, Mullet Bay Beach and other attractions will cost about $50 per person. Travel by water taxi is about 5 minutes and via taxi (car) about 8 minutes via Walter A Nisbeth Road. Usual beach, bars, restaurants, shops. St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour 36 Bus Tours from $40.00 per adult St Maarten Shore Excursion: Maho Beach and Orient Bay Sightseeing 23 Recommended Bus Tours from $35.00 per adult Calypso Tour 56 Recommended Bus Tours from $47.00 per adult Maho Beach Extreme Jet Blast 1 Bus Tours from $35.00 per adult A guide, complimentary refreshments and round-trip transportation from the . While the Dutch side boasts of the closest beaches to the cruise port, the French side has some of the best. Few facilities or commercial establishments are available nearby. The calm waters on this beach justify its spot as the best beach for swimming in St Maarten. That aspect alone would make you want to visit this spot, and it also makes Burgeaux beach one of the best beach destinations on the island. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel La Plantation. The city of Philipsburg itself is one of the best attractions on the island because of its appealing and well-developed tourism district. This is an active beach with water sports ranging from kayaking to paddle boarding. They guarantee a low waiting time of 10 minutes or less. You can even take a short taxi ride into Maho to watch the planes take-off and land. They also give you free Wi-Fi so dont forget to ask for the Wi-Fi code, especially for your social media buffs. This St. Martin beach is a bit far, about 45 minutes and 15 miles from the port but the entry and exit areas are easy and accessible. Once we got the the beach there are people there trying to rent you lounge chairs. Visitors should know in advance that restaurants and food stands are a bit expensive, so it pays to bring food along on the visit. Heres a list of a few more suggestion in Phillipsburg: Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port. If you prefer to walk its about 20 minutes. Here are 10 attractions near the cruise port to make planning easier for passengers. Simpson Bay Beach is a long half-moon of white sand located by a fishing village. Additionally, there is a clothing optional area on this beach. This beach presents a serene environment for laying back and just busking. Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Zafiro Boutique Hotel. The short runway forces planes to fly low over the beach. 10 Indulgence by the Sea St. Maarten Photo courtesy of Indulgence by the Sea The Indulgence by the Sea Spa. Is there anything near the cruise port? Anyone visiting St. Maarten by cruise ship or to stay at the resorts should consider Orient Bay Beach as another one worth visiting. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. Known to be a part of the Natural Reserve of Saint-Martin, this island is a famous snorkeling spot. from the cruise ship pier shopping area to the center of Great Bay beach ($7 for unlimited tri 93% of travelers recommend this experience. Dont miss out on the golden opportunity to explore the aquatic beauty underneath the surface. 2022. I finally had to ask her to stop because my daughter was about to cry. Here are the best things to do while in Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port! It is located right at the heart of Philipsburg. If youre coming with kids who love water activities, you could try out their snorkeling and underwater fun for a lower price than other beaches in St Maarten. St Maarten has 37 different sandy beaches that you could choose from, all equipped with their own vibe and quirks. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Great Bay Beach: Great Bay Beach, Philipsburg: Address, Great Bay Beach Reviews: 4.5/5. From water sports, swimming, sunbathingyoull never run out of things to do. It is about seven miles north of the Philipsburg cruise port. This lovely, well-sheltered beach offers crystal-clear calm, warm waters that are perfect for swimming. Great Bay beach is a lovely beach to sit and relax while soaking up the sun or enjoying the view of the ocean. Any advice about St. Maarten beaches starts with three of themGreat Bay Beach, Orient Beach and Maho Beach. "Everything was great, except check in because there's no place to park immediately until after you check in and pay the fees for the parking lot. Juliana Airport (SXM) Hotels near Esperance Airport (SFG) Hotels near Wallblake Airport (AXA) Tours; Add a . Visitors who take a 20-minute hike from Cole Bay Hill will reach Cove Bay, located between Cole Bay and Little Bay. Little Bay Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling activities. St. Martin is named as the French side and St. Maarten is named as the Dutch side. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Here you can dine at French, Thai, and Italian restaurants. If these beaches dont meet your needs, then try any of the 24 remaining beaches you are sure to find what you are looking for. Other than the makeup of the countrys population, St. Maarten is also popular for its beaches. With its mesmerizing blue waters, sunny beaches, and lively nightlifeSt Maarten in the Caribbean islands is lauded as a prime vacation spot, especially for those who are in need of travel inspiration. The overhead plane landing makes it one of the most popular beaches in St Maarten. Two beach chairs and an umbrella go for $20. Buses usually have a sign that says Maho beach and it takes approximately 20 minutes from the cruise port. As a result, it often draws large crowds. If you walk it's a 15-20 min walk cruise port-beach or vv. Rates include all on-property. There are villas located on the mountainous side, fun tours to try, and sightseeing activities on this island. When you get hungry, visit the popular Chez Raymond for grilled foods and drinks. Taking a bus is a less expensive option. Its turquoise blue waters hit the shorelines and leave a gushing atmosphere at its wake. They have Jet-Skis rentals and water sports equipment rentals. Great Bay Beach is also situated near car rentals, restaurants, bars and cafes and is a fantastic beach for swimming. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. Then one thing to include in your list of things to do is to visit one of the islands finest beaches. Maho Beach is also known as the airplane beach and is the most famous and favorite spot for locals and tourists. Arrived on cruise ship having read the reviews and took the $7 water taxi as advised. Nature lovers have additional reasons to love this beach, owing to the fact that its located near the Oyster pond marina. This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Very convenient. Sunscreen can be expensive on the cruise ship, get yours here. Show Prices. #2 Best Value of 7 Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg. With so many things to do and see in St. Maarten, you may need to come back and spend a weeks holiday to really enjoy the rest of the island. Both offer relaxing stretches of sandy beach and an array of restaurants and amenities to make your time in St Maarten a memorable one. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'stmaartenadventure_com-leader-3','ezslot_8',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-leader-3-0');There are also cabs to take you to different destinations if you prefer to discover the island. Located at the northwestern coast of St Maarten, it is a great surfing stop for beginners due to its gentle waves. Orient Bay is the most popular beach in St. Martin. We had a lovely day off the ship relaxing on the beach which wasn't busy at all even with 2 ships in. As a result, it is hugely popular with visitors taking photos and videos. The waves may get too high on windy days; take note of this. It is located on the French side and is about a 20-minute ride from the port. 3. Being on the Caribbean seaside, the beach has the advantage of calmer waters which are good for swimming and just enjoying the beach. You can also walk from the port which takes 15-20 minutes. However, the good news is that the beaches are there and your favorite restaurants and resorts are hard at work rebuilding. Mullet Bay has beautiful white sand with calm waters and amazing views and landscape. Cruise visitors will arrive at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities just outside of Philipsburg on Great Bay. The sunset seen from Cupecoy is majestic, with views of Saba in the distance. Boasting a fantastic marine life and youd get a glimpse of it if you opt to try snorkeling. This beach is found on the Dutch side of the island towards the southwestern ends. From there, cruise visitors can walk, take a water taxi or a taxi cab to Great Bay Beach. Holland House Beach Hotel. Family Destinations Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Fondly known as the Friendly Island, St Maarten is unique in that it is the smallest landmass divided between two nations in the world. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'stmaartenadventure_com-box-4','ezslot_3',104,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-box-4-0');There are many beach bars located in Maho such as Sunset Beach Bar, Driftwood Boat Bar, and the new Sandbar Beach Bar. The John Craane cruise terminal is a large open-air mall where visitors can shop, dine and head for their paid shore excursions. The top three excursions in St. Maarten are 1) The Flying Dutchman zip-line, 2) a chairlift to the top of sentry hill and 3) racing on a multi-million dollar America's Cup yacht boat. Located in Philipsburg this shopping mecca is popular for jewelry shops. Great Bay Beach is also a family beach which is kid-friendly so that the whole family can enjoy. So, go there early to get a good spot on the beach. Very energetic walkers can hike 2.5 miles to the other side of the bay to Little Bay Beach and the small ruins of Fort Amsterdam. Sint Maarten Beach Hotels; Sint Maarten Green Hotels; Sint Maarten Business Hotels; By Hotel Class. There are no full restrooms but there is a port-a-potty available and usually there is a crowd on weekends. Bicycles / scooters. Anyone with an interest in good beaches might instead consider a shore excursion to one of the neighboring islands, such as Anguilla, St. Barth or Saba. These cliffs are eroded to create perfect small coves that create small secluded romantic beaches on their own. It is a must-see stop for any southern or eastern Caribbean cruise and why 2 million cruise visitors come to the port every year. The best restaurants on the island are mainly concentrated in two areas. Visit Orient Bay village, within walking distance of the beach. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. Roatan, Honduras. The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. It is very close to the cruise terminal and you can get there either by water taxi for $7 with a return ticket or pay $5 for a one way. September and November historically have the highest rainfall and are the riskiest months to go there. Orient Bay Beach is the most popular beach in St Martin, so expect there to be a crowd. Little Bay, located near Fort Amsterdam and Philipsburg, is a beach dive location with calm waters and rock beach breaks. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'stmaartenadventure_com-box-3','ezslot_2',101,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-box-3-0');When youre on a Caribbean cruise, most likely you will end up stopping in Sint Maarten, the cruise capital of the Caribbean. They also have showers and restrooms that are all nearby and available for everyone to use. Get a waterproof case to protect your phone right here. With its nice horizon, outstanding view, and superb restaurants to trythe Oyster pond is one of the prettiest beaches in St Maarten. This beach is located on the French Side called St Martin and is about a 20 minute taxi ride from the cruise port. Marigot in French SXM was vibrant, by then, with Palm Sunday parades that gave way to the Carnival in 1970. Indigo Beach Bay offers a variety of activities. It's a nice swimming beach with gentle surf, but there are also jet ski rentals and a pier you can sit on to enjoy the view of cruise ships and sailboats.
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