After spending over six months living on the incredible dual-nation island of St. Martin/St. Maarten, I’ve had the chance to explore its beautiful beaches from coast to coast. Whether you’re looking for the lively, action-packed shores on the Dutch side or the quieter, more secluded spots on the French side, this island has a beach for every type of traveler. In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best beaches in St. Martin & St. Maarten, both sides of the island. I’ll also share some insider tips to help you make the most of your beach days. Trust me, you’re in for an unforgettable Caribbean experience!
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Table of Contents
Ultimate Best Beach Guide to St. Martin & St. Maarten
Tips for Visiting the Beaches of St. Martin & St. Maarten
To make the most of your beach experience on this stunning island, here are some practical tips from my time living here:
- Rent a Car – The best way to explore both sides of the island is by renting a car. It gives you the freedom to visit even the more remote beaches.
- Best Time to Visit – The ideal months for beach time are December to April when the weather is warm, and there’s less rain.
- What to Bring – Essentials include sunscreen, snorkeling gear, and plenty of water. Shade can be limited on some beaches, so consider a beach umbrella if you plan to stay long.
- Get Connected with Airalo e-SIMS – Stay online while beach-hopping with an Airalo e-SIM for affordable, hassle-free data.
- Parking Tips – Beaches like Orient Bay and Mullet Bay have ample parking, while more secluded spots may require a short walk.
- Safety – Pay attention to swimming conditions, as some beaches have strong currents. Always check for flags and swim in designated areas.
- Beach Etiquette – Many beaches, especially on the French side, are clothing-optional. Be respectful of local customs.
- Where to Stay – For easy beach access, stay near Orient Beach on the French side or Maho Beach on the Dutch side. Hotel recommendations:
- French Side: Grand Case Beach Club, La Playa Orient Bay
- Dutch Side: Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
Best Beaches on the French Side (St. Martin)
Orient Beach
Every time I come to St. Martin, I always find myself staying at Orient Beach. It’s my absolute favorite spot on the entire island, and for good reason. The beach is long, wide, and perfect for both relaxing and water activities. It’s definitely one of the best beaches in St. Martin.
What sets Orient Beach apart is the vibrant atmosphere—it’s lined with incredible beach bars, restaurants, and lively beach clubs. Whether you want to sip a cocktail with your toes in the sand or enjoy a delicious meal with ocean views, this area has it all.
The nearby hotels and guesthouses make it easy to stay right by the action, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tropical vibe of Orient Bay. From the upbeat energy to the beautiful scenery, this spot offers everything I love about island life.
- Recommended Places to Stay in Orient Beach:
- La Playa Orient Bay – A beachfront boutique hotel with chic rooms and a lively beach club.
- Esmeralda Resort – Private, luxurious villas set in a tropical garden, just steps from the beach.
- Hotel Palm Court – A charming hotel offering a laid-back vibe with comfortable rooms near the beach.
- Orient Beach Hotel – Modern rooms with direct beach access, perfect for those who want to stay close to the ocean.
Grand Case Beach
Grand Case Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the charm of French St. Martin. Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, this beach offers a more relaxed and local vibe compared to Orient Beach. As one of the best beaches in St. Martin, it’s not only famous for its stunning shoreline but also for its world-class dining scene.
The beachside village of Grand Case is lined with some of the best restaurants on the island, making it the go-to spot for foodies. After a day of lounging by the calm waters, you can easily transition to a gourmet meal just steps away. The beach is less crowded than others, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful day by the sea.
- Recommended Places to Stay in Grand Case:
- Grand Case Beach Club – A beachfront hotel offering breathtaking views, private beach access, and modern amenities.
- Le Temps des Cerises Hotel – A boutique hotel with chic decor and a laid-back beachside ambiance.
- Love Boutique Hotel – A charming small hotel with a cozy vibe, right on the beach, ideal for couples.
- Hevea Hotel – Located just a short walk from the beach, this is a quaint and peaceful option for travelers.
Pinel Island
Pinel Island is a little slice of paradise just off the coast of French St. Martin. It’s perfect for a day trip. Known for its calm, shallow waters and vibrant marine life, it’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the soft sand. If you’re looking for soft, powdery sand then these are best beaches in St. Martin for you!
You can reach Pinel Island by a short ferry ride from the Cul-de-Sac area. Once there, you’ll find two laid-back beach bars offering food and drinks. The island has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect escape from the more bustling areas. Since you can’t stay overnight on Pinel Island, many visitors base themselves in nearby areas like Orient Bay or Cul-de-Sac.
- Recommended Places to Stay Near Pinel Island:
- Karibuni Lodge – A serene boutique hotel in Cul-de-Sac, offering stunning views and quick access to the ferry for Pinel Island.
- La Playa Orient Bay – Just a short drive away, this stylish beachfront hotel is perfect for combining Orient Beach with trips to Pinel Island.
- Sol e Luna Hotel – Located in Mont Vernon, this charming guesthouse offers a cozy atmosphere with easy access to both Pinel and Orient Bay.
- Esmeralda Resort – A luxurious option in Orient Bay, just a quick drive to the ferry for Pinel Island adventures.
Anse Marcel
Anse Marcel is a hidden gem on the northern side of St. Martin. It’s perfect for those looking for a quiet, upscale beach experience. This beach is tucked away in a sheltered bay. The beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, making it great for families or couples seeking relaxation.
The surrounding cliffs create a scenic backdrop, and the secluded nature of the beach means it’s rarely crowded. Anse Marcel also has a few luxurious beachside restaurants and amenities. It’s the ideal spot for a more tranquil beach day away from the busier tourist hubs.
- Recommended Places to Stay in Anse Marcel:
- Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa – A luxurious all-inclusive resort offering beachfront rooms and top-notch amenities.
- Le Domaine Anse Marcel – An elegant resort offering stylish rooms with direct beach access and stunning ocean views.
Happy Bay Beach
Happy Bay Beach is one of the most secluded and serene beaches on the island. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Accessible via a short hike from Friar’s Bay, this hidden gem feels like a private paradise.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers soft sand, calm waters, and a quiet atmosphere ideal for unwinding. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in nature. Since it’s a bit off the beaten path, Happy Bay Beach remains largely untouched. It’s the perfect peaceful retreat for travelers seeking solitude in a beautiful setting.
Best Beaches on the Dutch Side (St. Maarten)
Cupecoy Beach
Cupecoy Beach is a stunning small stretch of golden sand framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches on the Dutch side of the island. Known for its beautiful sunsets and hidden coves, Cupecoy is popular with naturists and those seeking a quieter, more scenic beach experience.
The waters here can be a bit rough at times. The beach’s unique rock formations create plenty of nooks for sunbathing and enjoying the views. Cupecoy Beach is also conveniently located near several upscale resorts and casinos. It’s a great spot for those who want to combine relaxation with nearby nightlife and dining options.
- Recommended Places to Stay Near Cupecoy Beach:
- Sapphire Beach Club Resort – A beachfront property offering spacious rooms with ocean views, just steps from Cupecoy Beach.
- Sonesta Ocean Point Resort – A luxurious adults-only resort located nearby, featuring infinity pools and easy access to the beach.
- The Cliff at Cupecoy Beach – A high-end resort with stunning views, private beach access, and luxury amenities.
- The Towers at Mullet Bay – Located just a short drive from Cupecoy, this property offers spacious suites and great access to both Cupecoy and Mullet Bay Beach.
Maho Beach
Maho Beach is one of the most famous and unique beaches on the island, known for its proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport. Here, visitors can experience the thrill of watching planes land and take off just a few feet overhead, creating an unforgettable beach experience.
Beyond the aviation spectacle, Maho Beach offers a lively atmosphere with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by vibrant beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a great spot for those who enjoy a social scene. While it can get busy, Maho Beach’s one-of-a-kind setting makes it a must-see for any visitor to the Dutch side.
- Recommended Places to Stay Near Maho Beach:
- Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa – A large all-inclusive resort offering direct beach access, multiple pools, and plenty of dining options.
- The Morgan Resort & Spa – A modern luxury resort located just a short walk from the beach, offering upscale rooms and fantastic amenities.
- Royal Islander Club La Plage – A beachfront property with spacious suites and easy access to both the beach and nearby attractions.
- Alegria Boutique Hotel – Located close to the airport, this boutique hotel offers comfortable rooms and a more intimate atmosphere while still being near the action of Maho Beach.
Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg)
Great Bay Beach, located in the heart of Philipsburg, is one of the most popular beaches on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. With its long stretch of soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
The beach is backed by a lively boardwalk lined with restaurants, bars, and duty-free shopping, making it a convenient spot for cruise ship passengers and visitors staying in town. Great Bay Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment, with plenty of activities to enjoy both on and off the sand. Its central location makes it easy to explore the historic streets of Philipsburg after a day at the beach.
- Recommended Places to Stay Near Great Bay Beach:
- Holland House Beach Hotel – A modern beachfront hotel offering luxurious rooms with direct access to the beach and boardwalk.
- Divi Little Bay Beach Resort – Located on a nearby peninsula, this all-inclusive resort offers spacious suites, multiple pools, and stunning beach views.
- Sea Palace Resort – A comfortable and affordable option right on the beach, with easy access to both the sand and Philipsburg’s attractions.
- Ocean’s Luxury Residences – Offering upscale apartments with ocean views, this property provides a more private and luxurious stay in the heart of Philipsburg.
Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful and well-loved beaches on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. Known for its soft white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
The beach is popular with both locals and tourists, offering a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of space to spread out. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, especially near the rocky areas on the sides of the beach. Mullet Bay is close to the island’s only golf course, adding to its appeal for travelers who want to combine beach time with a round of golf.
With stunning views and a tranquil vibe, Mullet Bay is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of St. Maarten’s natural beauty.
- Recommended Places to Stay Near Mullet Bay Beach:
- The Towers at Mullet Bay – Offering spacious suites and great proximity to the beach and golf course, this property is perfect for beach lovers and golfers alike.
- Sapphire Beach Club Resort – A beachfront property with ocean views and easy access to both Mullet Bay and Cupecoy Beach.
- Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa – Located nearby, this all-inclusive resort offers excellent amenities and is just a short drive from Mullet Bay.
- Alegria Boutique Hotel – A cozy, intimate hotel located near Maho Beach, with easy access to Mullet Bay for those looking for quieter beach days.
How to Choose the Best Beaches in St. Martin/Maarten for You
With so many incredible beaches on both the French and Dutch sides of the island, it can be hard to choose where to go. Each beach offers something different, so here’s how to pick the best ones for your trip, based on what you’re looking for:
- For Relaxation: If you’re after peaceful, secluded vibes, head to beaches like Happy Bay or Anse Marcel. These quieter spots are perfect for unwinding away from the crowds.
- For Adventure: For water sports, snorkeling, or a lively atmosphere, Orient Beach and Maho Beach are great choices. Orient offers a variety of water activities, while Maho gives you the unique thrill of watching planes soar just overhead.
- For Families: Mullet Bay Beach and Grand Case Beach are excellent family-friendly options. Both offer calm waters for swimming and plenty of space for kids to play in the sand.
- For Foodies: Beaches near great dining spots include Grand Case Beach on the French side, famous for its gourmet restaurants, and Great Bay Beach in Philipsburg, where you can enjoy local flavors right on the boardwalk.
- For Snorkeling: Pinel Island and Mullet Bay Beach are fantastic spots for snorkeling, offering clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Whether you’re looking for action, tranquility, or great dining, there’s a beach on St. Martin/St. Maarten that’s perfect for your ideal vacation.
Conclusion
St. Martin/St. Maarten truly offers a beach for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a lively social scene. From the picturesque and serene coves on the French side to the bustling, activity-filled shores on the Dutch side, this island has it all. I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best beaches in St. Martin & St. Maarten!
After spending months exploring every corner of this paradise, I can confidently say that no matter which beach you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. So pack your sunscreen, grab your towel, and get ready to soak up the sun on some of the best beaches the Caribbean has to offer!
