The residents rely heavily on tourists so I feel like the majority are super friendly and accommodating. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. In the morning, the beautiful beach and the clear sand captivates the vacationers to take a dip. You can also enjoy the day at Great Bay Beach, Divi Little Bay Beach. Simpson Bay Beach is a long half-moon of white sand located by a fishing village. As such there is little vegetation. 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 access this beach by walking. In this post we will explore the top 5 beaches to visit if you are in St Maarten on a cruise. niNice beach, water clean and lovely. The beach is not far, and an affordable taxi ride takes you there. It takes just a 20-minute stroll to get there, and the beach area and boardwalk. Its wide shoreline makes it a perfect spot for beach picnics and playing games on the shore. Peaceful and serene. Maho Beach is usually a favorite of visitors to the island and it is a tiny beach. Roatan, Honduras. INDULGENCE BY THE SEA Photo courtesy of Indulgence by the Sea LITTLE BAY BEACH ST. MAARTEN TREASURE SEEKER Photo courtesy of Treasure Seeker WATHEY SQUARE Photo courtesy of Vacation St. Maarten WATER UFO ST. MAARTEN Photo courtesy of Water UFO SUNSET BAR AND GRILL These Are The Cruise Accessories Youll Absolutely Love! coveneiet water taxi. Grand case beach is a clean, tourist-friendly beach that you are bound to enjoy. Didnt swim, but its safe, I was told. 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. Some include Orient Bay, Red bay and Anse Marcel. Not only will the beach take your breath away but also the view, including the sunsets and docked yachts, produce a postcard memory if you go on a trip in the Oyster Pond. The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. It is located in the heart of the downtown capital Philipsburg and is about 3km from the cruise port. "All of St. Maarten has been hit hard by a hurricane followed by a pandemic. 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 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. It creates a very magical experience. Alternatively, you can take a public transportation which costs USD $2.50 to go and USD$2.50 to return. We took a water taxi to this beach. Alicia's Inn. We recommend booking Great Bay Beach tours ahead of time to secure your spot. Little Bay, located near Fort Amsterdam and Philipsburg, is a beach dive location with calm waters and rock beach breaks. Bring your full gear or opt to rent for snorkeling to ensure that youll catch the breathtaking views underwater in Dawn Beach. It takes about 20 minutes to arrive at this location. "All of St. Maarten has been hit hard by a hurricane followed by a pandemic. Undoubtedly, the most beautiful beach of St Maarten. The walk is about 10 minutes, goes three fourths of a mile and is not difficult on a warm day. If you are looking for a beach away from the hustle of the capital city with a Caribbean feel, then Orient Bay Beach is an amazing option to consider. 10 Indulgence by the Sea St. Maarten Photo courtesy of Indulgence by the Sea The Indulgence by the Sea Spa. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa. 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. Known to be near the Great Bay, you could make a side trip here to experience this beachs greatness. There are few chain restaurants. Temperatures stay in the low 80s Fahrenheit in the winter and reach the high 80s in the summer. One beach faces Saint Martin and is a perfect stretch of sandbar with shallow, calm waters perfect for families with kids. Heres a list of a few more suggestion in Phillipsburg: Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port. Swim shoes may come in handy when walking by the shore, and there may be small rocks you may encounter when walking in the waters. From the comfort of your lounge chair under the sun . Deals. 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. Water sports are also an option for the group who looks for day thrills. Just west of Philipsburg, this beach also pulls in its share of tourists, although it's a little less busy than Great Bay Beach. With all that said remember to carry good water shoes, lots of sunscreen, your bathing suit and enjoy your cruise vacation. Dont forget to bargain with the vendors. If you prefer to walk its about 20 minutes. Orient and Maho are the most popular shore excursion beaches, but Great Bay is free and a short walk away. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Didnt feel too crowded and it was a great beach for kids to play and swim. We paid $50 for 2 I believe. The roads are narrow and winding. Day and night, theres always a lively atmosphere in Kim Sha Beach, St Maarten. It has restaurants and bars, where you can get a bite or a drink from. Take a swim in the clear blue sea. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. The best beach near the St. Maarten cruise port is just a quick walk or taxi ride away. 1. Additionally, there is a nearby fishing village by the beach, giving a tranquil vibe that is different from the vibrant nightlife of other beaches in St Maarten. Seawater averages about three degrees cooler, which makes swimming good at any time. Other St. Maarten attractions include the Mont Vernon Plantation and the Butterfly Farm. The beach restaurants are currently closed due to hurricane Irmas damage, but rebuilding is taking place. Great food and lots of cold drinks to keep you refreshed while lounging in the sun. Maarten . Is there anything near the cruise port? Where they serve fresh fish and lobsters for lunch among others. Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world due to its location near the runway of the Princess Juliana Airport. The centuries-old liquor is a part of St. Maartens culture, there are songs and stories dedicated to the Guava Berry. Complete with the softest powdery coasts, turquoise waters, and the freshest breezes of cool air, this island is a breathtaking destination. Until the development of the new cruise terminal, Front Street ranked among one of the best shopping experiences in the Caribbeanalong with Playa Del Carmen, St. Thomas and Old San Juan. Beaches In St Maarten Near Cruise Port (The Ultimate Guide), Living In The Caribbean (Pros & Cons Fully Explained). Pasanggrahan Royal Guesthouse. The price for an entire day is $7 per person at the time of this writing. You could visit the Rouge et Noir casino near the end of the beach strip. Cruise visitors will arrive at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities just outside of Philipsburg on Great Bay. The Second Lady kept saying how awful my daughters hair looked and that it wasnt professional. 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. Beachfront resort located on Simpson Bay in Phillipsburg, St. Maarten. Located about 20 minutes by taxi from the cruise terminal, this white sand beach is surrounded by lush green landscape. Theres so many places to check out you can get dizzy with a choice. It has become a popular destination for people ready to enjoy the sun rise and set while relaxing with a cocktail. Beach chairs, umbrellas and jet-skis are available for a fee. Have a sizzling barbeque with family and friends. If I wanted to go to the French side, what is the best/easiest/cheapest way to do so? This is the beach for you. Now, its a silent part of the busy beach leading to the cruise ship terminal, where tour operators await with open-air trucks to carry passengers to activities (USD cash accepted). Maarten; Cruise Critic Community. Guana Bay Beach is on the route to Philipsburg, making it easy for day tourists to take a detour and have fun at this little beach. The short runway forces planes to fly low over the beach. St. Martin/St. Great Bay Beach is the closest beach to the cruise terminal in St Maarten. Orient Beach and the town of Marigot are two popular attractions on the French side of the island. 1. You can also walk from the port which takes 15-20 minutes. Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten: Find 2106 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten on Tripadvisor. Additionally, there is a clothing optional area on this beach. But dont take our word for it see for yourself. If you have a cruise vacation coming up in the Eastern Caribbean it might be worth finding out more about these stunning St.Martin/St. While it is useful to consider a rental car, bus or taxi, it is wise to avoid renting a bicycle or scooter. A 20minutes taxi ride from the cruise pier will get you to the beach. Authentic name brands like Armani, Versace, Gucci are just some designer brands you will find. If you would rather walk there, its only a 15-minute walk down the boardwalk, and you can enjoy music and some local bars and restaurants along the way. Its like a 3 min ride. Note that the beach is on the French side and therefore clothing is optional. The lush vegetation that surrounds the beach also adds to its charm. It also has the massive cruise terminal nearby. This mile-long stretch of soft, white-sandy beach runs parallel to a long promenade stretching its entire length. TThings to do near the St. Maarten Cruise Port. The island has gorgeous powdery sand beaches, charming. As a former crew member for Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line I can continue my passion by sharing my experiences with readers. Otherwise, walk the boardwalk, and pick a spot on the beach and relax for the day, swim, drink, or tan. They can walk a hundred more feet to reach many more restaurants and the ports extensive shopping district, most of which falls along the lengthy Front Street. Water Shoes might be good for a day on the beach when snorkeling, get yours here. There you have it, 13 of the best beaches in Saint Martin. Kayaking is also available on this island where you get to paddle across the entirety of the waters, a must-try activity for all ages. Most people visit the beach to see the Jumbo jets that fly over it at very close proximities when landing or taking off from the airport right next door. Boasting a fantastic marine life and youd get a glimpse of it if you opt to try snorkeling. Get a waterproof case to protect your phone right here. You can take off and walk the boardwalk and sightsee or just relax and work on your tan. 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. This beach is very popular with the locals during the weekends, but its also very tranquil and uncrowded during the weekdays. This beach is perfect for surfing and windsurfing. Pinel Beach is found in an island lying just a few yards off the east coast of Sint Martin. They called him cheap and and wouldnt leave him alone. Great Bay Beach Great Bay Beach is a beautiful beach that stretches 2 miles (3.22 km) long that looks like a postcard from every angle. We left our cruise ship and headed for the water taxis -7 dollars return to the beach and back. Just a short walk away you can enjoy some duty-free shopping, great food, and delicious cocktails. You can either take the watertaxi right to the center of this street or walk from the cruise terminal which will take you about 20 to 30 minutes. With its nice horizon, outstanding view, and superb restaurants to trythe Oyster pond is one of the prettiest beaches in St Maarten. Maarten for 20 years, and I'm sharing the best things on the island. There are no full restrooms but there is a port-a-potty available and usually there is a crowd on weekends. If you walk it's a 15-20 min walk cruise port-beach or vv. These beaches are unique and vary in features courtesy of the Caribbean and Atlantic sea that border the island on either side. You have 3$ pp (one way) mini vans outside the cruise port to the beach. Directly a few blocks inland from the duty free store, past the courthouse, the yellow and blue RBC bank building with automated teller machine is always open to tourists in need of cash for excursions / tipping. St. Maarten. Clean restrooms are available to visitors. This Is What You Need To Plan The Best Cruise With A Baby, How To Plan Awesome Family Cruise Shore Excursions Youll Love. It is larger than Maho beach and it a good option for beginner snorkeling as you can see fishes near the shoreline. This destination is also known to be the safest beach for kids since the water is calm and aquatic activities are relatively available in the area. St. Maarten is one of the most popular destinations for eastern and southern Caribbean cruises, so cruise visitors need to know that Great Bay Beach is one of the best beaches near the cruise port. Probably the most crowded beach during the cruise season is Maho Beach watching the planes land and take off, never gets old. We rented chairs with wonderful service from Jimmy from the love boat restaurant and beach service , chair rental and service right on the beach with food and reasonably priced drinks were exceptional.. could not have asked for a more pleasant day til, Convenient swimming with shopping and restaurants. 15 Best Cozumel Beaches You Should Experience, 15 Things to Do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten During a Cruise, Photos Reveal Progress at Carnival Cruise Lines New Port, Cunard Line Unveils Historical Photo ExhibitionFrom Past 100 Years, Royal Caribbean Cuts Back on Housekeeping Service, Fourth Carnival Cruise Ship Will Be Based Out of Galveston, Texas. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Note that it is clothing optional. You can take a tour of the nature reserve nearby as you explore the majestic beauty of the place. 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. I've lived on St. Martin/St. The beach is 18 minutes or five miles from the Havensight cruise docks. The high rocks block most of the wind, so its a good choice when the Caribbean trade winds are strong that day. Whether you prefer to be laid back or power shop, St, Maarten is the island for you and your family to enjoy it all. This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. Cheap property set in the centre of the city, walking distance from beach. There are so many things to do around the cruise port that you will never be bored but may be pressed for time. Rates quoted by the St. Maarten Taxi Association are $10 per person each way for two passengers and $9 per person for three to five passengers. However, kindly note that this one is the furthest on this list from the cruise port. A playground is still delightful for toddlers across from shops beside Holland House Hotel, where cruise passengers can purchase the Beach Special ($25 toilets, beach chair and shower with wifi). Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in St Maarten, located near Princess Juliana Airport. Once youre there you will be approached by vendors selling chairs and umbrella packages on the beach that include beer and Wi-Fi. In Phillipsburg, one of the best things to do is shopping on Front Street or Back Street or hang out in Wathey Square. The sunset of this destination is one of the most beautiful ones weve ever seen. The sunset seen from Cupecoy is majestic, with views of Saba in the distance. Forums. Top 10 St. Maarten Excursions Catamaran ($1599.99) Sonesta Day Pass ($88.99) Speedboat & Snorkel ($124.99) Highlights & Beach ($55.99) Sightseeing ($44.99) Attraction Park ($138.99) ATV HIghlight and Beach ($99.99) Beach Bum Combo ($44.99) Full Day Sailing ($134.99) Sky Explorer and Dutchman ($98.99) St. Maarten Cruise Excursions Reviews 4.8/5 Where they want to go often includes Philipsburg itself. 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. Great Bay Beach is one of the closest beaches to the cruise port terminal in Philipsburg. The eateries are a hive of energy with an exciting atmosphere as many businesses, and VIP parties are held here. It is located in the heart of the downtown capital Philipsburg and is about 3km from the cruise port. Riselle Celestina for Insider. Usual beach, bars, restaurants, shops. Time to ged inspired by these 13 stunning St. Maarten beaches you can experience during a cruise vacation in the eastern Caribbean. Anyone with an interest in diving might consider either Little Bay or Kim Sha beaches. Taxis. St.Barths is only 30 minutes away from this beach, and we suggest you take a side trip there to complete your ultimate Caribbean vacation. Re: Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten 5 years ago Save Hi Maria, The drive is about 20 minutes without traffic. The city of Philipsburg itself is one of the best attractions on the island because of its appealing and well-developed tourism district. It has been quite a few years since I've been to St. Maarten. Pinel has two breathtaking beaches. It is located on the French side and is about a 20-minute ride from the port. Top 5 Best Beach In St Maarten For Snorkeling Happy Bay Beach Happy Bay is a small beautiful beach that is located in the Northwest of the island between the Bay of Grand Case and Friars Bay. Rainfall is a different matter. They also give you free Wi-Fi so dont forget to ask for the Wi-Fi code, especially for your social media buffs. Very pretty mountains around the bay and it's great to watch the ships come and go. Its surrounded by perfect vistas of the ocean and lush hills. The overhead plane landing makes it one of the most popular beaches in St Maarten. Bicycles / scooters. With close to 45 miles of beautiful coastline, you'll find some amazing beaches near St Maarten cruise port. At least when you get hungry, you are within easy reach of a restaurant, or you can go back to the ship for lunch. 285 reviews. more. Anguilla is the most popular of the three and only 10 miles off the St. Maarten coast. water warm and lovely, beach clean. Orient Bay, which is located on the French side of the island, is arguably the islands most famous and popular beach. Located at the northern portions of St Maarten, Tintamarre Island is a secluded paradise unlike anywhere else. An exclusive shore excursion to Orient Bay costs about $70 per person. While your ship is in St Maarten's port, swim and lounge at Orient Beach and Maho Beach on this half-day shore excursion. Rates are $8-10 per person one way. After youve gone hiking, a replenishing meal is a definite try in the famous beachside restaurants in Friars bay. Had an enjoyable walk along the beach and a very good day. When you get hungry, visit the popular Chez Raymond for grilled foods and drinks. Located on the northeast coast of St Maarten is The Orient Bay Beach, the perfect vacation spot. Show Prices. Having your towels on your beach loungers will reserve them for the day. An invisible boundary divides the 37 km island into two countries. St Maarten port is one of the fastest-growing Caribbean cruise ports and the leading cruise port in the Eastern Caribbean. The Philipsburg St. Maarten cruise port has three major attractions: the massive John Craane cruise terminal, the nearby city and Great Bay Beach right beside it. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. Views remarkable. Whether youre looking for a nice day out on the beach, or a day filled with fun things to do, this place is definitely enjoyable. Walk three fourths of a mile, ride in a land taxi or take a quick water taxi to the tourist district. Very busy day when we went and so lots of sunbeds-a bit crowded together. Water taxis to Maho Beach from the cruise port is easy to find and cost about $20. Here you can dine at French, Thai, and Italian restaurants. Grab a beach chair and umbrella and enjoy your day in port at this lovely beach. We did end up getting some of our kids hair braided by two different people. St. Maartens average weather consists of warm temperatures year round that average in the mid 80s Fahrenheit. All Rights Reserved. What Attractions Are At Orient Bay Beach? Here, you could try the local cuisine and fill your appetite with the delicious food in the numerous restaurants available in the place. What's the best way to see Great Bay Beach? This beachs convenience makes it a hot spot for many tourists who are looking to relax and have some fun. Why We Recommend This Beach From there, cruise visitors can walk, take a water taxi or a taxi cab to Great Bay Beach. Located in Philipsburg this shopping mecca is popular for jewelry shops. Taxis, which also are usually SUVs, have a T at the beginning of the license plate. This beach is about 30 minutes from the cruise port via taxi along Airport road. 1 mile away from Friars Bay Beach is a walking trail that takes you right into the heart of the open beach and the black rock formation. I finally had to ask her to stop because my daughter was about to cry. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Atrium Beach Resort and Spa St Maarten a Ramada by Wyndham, Also See:Beaches in BermudaBest Beaches in JamaicaPhuket Beaches, Guana Bay, PhilipsburgSint Maarten, NLD 1744. A snorkeling excursion there costs about $75 per person including transportation. Some beach visitors get so close that the blast from the jet engines knock them over. The Philipsburg St. Maarten cruise port has three major attractions: the massive John Craane cruise terminal, the nearby city and Great Bay Beach right beside it. Otherwise, look for signs at the mall pointing toward the $5 water taxi. Show Prices. Clear waters, beautiful beach, and powdery sandy shoreswhat more could you ask for in Divi Beach? Visitors should know in advance that restaurants and food stands are a bit expensive, so it pays to bring food along on the visit. A guide, complimentary refreshments and round-trip transportation from the . These are near the cruise port terminal for ease of access on the island. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Villas at Simpson Bay Beach Resort and Marina, Little Bay Beach, Octavius L. Richardson Rd, PhilipsburgSint Maarten, NLD 1744. New restaurant Oleos had good food and amazing view. Oyster Pond is perfect if youre looking for a place that exudes tranquility. Where you can relax and just enjoy the beauty. - Best is subjective as some prefer a cab, while others favour a Jinty Enjoy a nice blood warming match of volley ball. It was easy to relax and get the drinks. For tourists who want a quiet and relaxing vacation, this is the place to be. Orient is a community beach where people mingle, lay in the sand, watch the sunset and the adjacent hills. Cruise Tips. The best beach near the St. Maarten cruise port is just a quick walk or taxi ride away. The Guava berry Emporium is the spot to taste and sample this locally made liquor. From the great restaurants to the funky music, you cant afford to not love this beach. The water taxi stand at the cruise port is just a quick walk north of the docks. Budget-minded walkers will go less than one mile or about 10 to 12 minutes to reach the beginning of the beach. 1. Other than the makeup of the countrys population, St. Maarten is also popular for its beaches. They guarantee a low waiting time of 10 minutes or less. You can get to this beach via a taxi or a bus. Once we got the the beach there are people there trying to rent you lounge chairs. It actually runs parallel to Front Street just one street over, do not miss out on the experience. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simpson Bay Resort Marina & Spa, Indigo Bay Beach, Indigo Bay Dr, Simpson BaySint Maarten, NLD 1744. As a famous tourist island, this place is accessible and will give you the well-deserved vacation you need. #2 Best Value of 7 Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg. Vacationers will find this place different from other St Maarten beaches because it is divided into smaller shores with surrounding limestone cliffs. 2. Any advice about St. Maarten beaches starts with three of themGreat Bay Beach, Orient Beach and Maho Beach. Alternatively, there are water taxis available from the cruise terminal for only USD$7 round trip. The casino hours are 10am to 4am daily. It features clear, calm crystalline waters with soft white sand and sprawling palm trees. Dawn Beach offers spectacular views of sunrises. Fondly known as Airplane beach, as planes usually have to approach the landing at an altitude of less than 100 feet. Two beach bars are located at either end of this beach being Sunset bar and grill and Driftwood boat bar respectively. A St. Maarten bus is often an SUV. The islands rugged coastline features 37 beaches all around. The locals are also friendly and charming to the tourists, making Divi Beach a warm place to stay at. Carry snacks and drinks though there are vendors on the beach.