Worth it even if you take just a dip. We walked from the port to the beach area around 20 mins and walked along the beach front stopping in and out of shops on routewe must have been offered sunbeds by at least 10 different people..most were polite enough when you said no but most were quite persistent and it was pretty irritating one after the other continuously. Report inappropriate content sxmlover Cupecoy Bay, St. Level Contributor 13,129 posts 18 reviews 50 helpful votes 9. Great Bay Beach is also situated near car rentals, restaurants, bars and cafes and is a fantastic beach for swimming. 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. Expect to pay anywhere between $7 and $35 to get to a zone. From there, cruise visitors can walk, take a water taxi or a taxi cab to Great Bay Beach. Water Shoes might be good for a day on the beach when snorkeling, get yours here. If tanning or water sports are not your thing, then you can take a walk around and enjoy the many restaurants, bars, and shops located in the area. Take a chance at the slot machines and bingo games. Therefore, be sure to gauge return time to the ship properly as there can be traffic jams on afternoons from this beach back to the port. Take a swim in the clear blue sea. Complete with the softest powdery coasts, turquoise waters, and the freshest breezes of cool air, this island is a breathtaking destination. Enjoy swimming in the water or lazing in the sun. 1. The uncrowded shore of Grand Case Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, will lure you in with its clear turquoise seas and long, expansive coastline. There are several beach bars such as Waikiki Beach, Kakao, Perch Bar & Grill, Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach in this area. The middle area of the beach is usually where teenagers, couples, and families would go. Anse Marcel is one of St. Martins best kept secrets. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Some of the ladies started harassing a guy because he said no to a massage for his wife. Is your upcoming Caribbean cruise docking in St Maarten? I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. The beach has rental chairs and umbrellas available for rent for the day. We paid $50 for 2 I believe. Beach 3 Snorkeling 4 St. Maartan Airport Tour 5 Catamaran Tour 6 4x4 Adventure 7 Dolphin Encounter 8 Butterfly Farm 9 Scuba Diving 10 Horseback Riding 11 ATV 12 Kayaking 13 Bicycle Tour 14. This white sandy beach is a sight to behold. Having your towels on your beach loungers will reserve them for the day. The main St. Maarten cruise port is Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities at Philipsburg. Some of the beds were very worn one or two broken so check that your bed is ok before sitting down. Check these impressive Beach Foot Pads, definitely worth packing for your cruise. Here you can dine at French, Thai, and Italian restaurants. The beach is certainly grand in Sint Maarten, and within steps from the port (unlike Cayman). When you get hungry, visit the popular Chez Raymond for grilled foods and drinks. St Maarten/St Martin Beaches Maho Beach - This famous beach is one of the main St Maarten attractions and is located a 25-minute drive (14 km/9 miles) from the cruise ship terminal. 2017 Scott S. Bateman. The sunset is also breathtaking, like on most beaches in St Maarten. Best Family Beaches in St. Maarten for an Outstanding Time We were there for happy hour from 1pm to 3pm and had 2 cocktails for $10 from the Nazca bar and restaurant. Each offers truly unique characteristics and there's a . Its the perfect beach spot if you want a quiet place to go without the touristy vibe. Had an enjoyable walk along the beach and a very good day. There is also a small souvenir flea market nearby, just keep walking straight in pass Back Street, its hard to miss. The island is also a famous spot for hiking and exploring the enthralling red cliffs scattered all throughout the area. Which St Maarten Beaches Near Cruise Port Are Really Worth Your Time? The beach restaurants are currently closed due to hurricane Irmas damage, but rebuilding is taking place. Orient Bay is the most popular beach in St. Martin. Alternatively, there are water taxis available from the cruise terminal for only USD$7 round trip. While your ship is in St Maarten's port, swim and lounge at Orient Beach and Maho Beach on this half-day shore excursion. "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. This beach presents a serene environment for laying back and just busking. Burgeaux Beach, located in the southwest heart of St Maarten, is the spot for surfers. 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. St. Maarten Cruise: Best Cruises to St. Maarten - Celebrity Cruises Cupecoy Beach is located on the southwestern tip of the island and is the last beach on the way to the French side. Clean restrooms are available to visitors. St. Maarten Cruise Port: Tips, Excursions and Weather - Caribeez Is there anything near the cruise port? A nice day trip is a jaunt from the Philipsburg cruise port over to Marigot, capital of the French side, or Grand Case. Clothing is optional because it is secluded and located by the French St. Martin border. Why We Recommend This Beach Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Driving around parts of the Dutch side, especially around Simpson Bay, adds some risk of traffic jams and late returns to the ship. They prob stop and ask about every 5 mins so it does get annoying. Which St Maarten Beaches Near Cruise Port Should I Visit? So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. Maarten for 20 years, and I'm sharing the best things on the island. This beachs convenience makes it a hot spot for many tourists who are looking to relax and have some fun. Reviews. It requires steering with your bodymovements, if you have 2 people riding you must lean in unison. You can access this beach by walking. Little Bay Beach. 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. Buses usually have a sign that says Maho beach and it takes approximately 20 minutes from the cruise port. View of cruise ship and stores. As a result, it often draws large crowds. An exclusive shore excursion to Orient Bay costs about $70 per person. Little Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go It consists of a small stretch of white sandy beach located next to the runway of Princess Juliana International Airport. St. Thomas/St. John Beach Guide - Cruise Critic Maarten; Cruise Critic Community. Vacationers will find this place different from other St Maarten beaches because it is divided into smaller shores with surrounding limestone cliffs. 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. Orient Bay Beach is the most popular beach in St Martin, so expect there to be a crowd. The clear crystal waters offer the perfect chance to snorkel, especially on the rockier shores. 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. Fondly known as the Friendly Island, St Maarten is unique in that it is the smallest landmass divided between two nations in the world. You can rent two chairs and umbrellas for $20 and relax the day away. I myself have been frequenting the island since 1995 and still love watching the planes from Maho. 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. In this spot, the beach and scenery look like a total postcard moment, a terrific place that will give you the best vacation ever. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. Its arguably famously known as the bikini beach as it entertains many lively parties and holds huge crowds of party people. One of the best beaches in St. Maarten is Mullet Bay Beach. Alternatively, you can take a public transportation which costs USD $2.50 to go and USD$2.50 to return. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. The short runway forces planes to fly low over the beach. If you prefer to walk its about 20 minutes. Its longer and broader than Great Bay Beach. Maarten beaches. Riselle Celestina for Insider. Check out the list below for the top recommended Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. What's Included: Three types of passes are available: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for $90, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. for $105 and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. (full-day pass) for $195. 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. There are hundreds of duty free stores and the discounts are great. We've found the most popular sights, attractions and shore excursions for a truly amazing day. We were family of 5 with late teens, beautiful day off a cruise ship. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. Several beaches receive far fewer crowds than Orient or Great Bay and are worth seeing for people with extra time available. St. Maarten cruise docks. From the small pebbles found on the shore to its magnificent coastlines, you are bound to fall in love with the beach as you take a long stroll. Here are 10 attractions near the cruise port to make planning easier for passengers. Holland House Beach Hotel. Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten: Find 2106 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten on Tripadvisor. Captain Bob Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour Including Lunch in St. Maarten (From $139.00) Half Day Snorkeling and Beach Tour/Excursion (From $89.00) Private Sailboat Charter in St Maarten; Anguilla and Prickly Pear Cays day trip (From $160.00) 3 Island Adventure with stop at Tintamarre to swim with Turtles (From $146.00) Burgeaux Beach, just beyond Simpson Bay, offers a cove and is a favorite of shell collectors and surfers. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. Dont forget to bargain with the vendors. Sit, relax, and work on your tan, sipping on cocktails, or you can enjoy some water sports such as jet-skiing, snorkeling, and much more. Easily one of our favorite destinations among the best beaches in St Maarten, Baie Rouge offers long extensive shores and pristine cool waters. Is this beach wheelchair friendly? We left our cruise ship and headed for the water taxis -7 dollars return to the beach and back. St. Maarten. The Guava berry Emporium is located on Front Street in Phillipsburg in an old townhouse, you cant miss the big liquor bottle at the entrance. It has BUS at the beginning of the license plate and the destination sign in the window. Your email address will not be published. You get 2 Beach Loungers and 1 umbrella and 6 beers all for approximately $25-$30 depending on which restaurant or bar you go to. Do the taxis going from the St. Maarten cruise port to great bay beach dock at a pier or beach? Its located on the northeastern coast of the French side. However, if you are looking for a quieter beach, then this isnt that beach, and you should probably try Mullet beach found nearby. Maho Beach Arguably the most popular beach that travelers on cruises to St. Maarten visit is Maho Beach, which is known for having the area's longest stretch of hotels and resorts. But they mainly represent low-end casual in one group and high-end seafood and steak in the other. Have in mind last taxis back to cruise port depart around 5.30-6 PM, so if your ship departs late in the evening there's no point spending 7$ pp. The chairs and umbrellas are $5 each. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Great Bay Beach, PhilipsburgSint Maarten, NLD 1744. You have detailed explanations in my Maho Beach review. Located in Philipsburg this shopping mecca is popular for jewelry shops. 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. more. Shopping in St. Maarten: Where to Go & What to Buy - Celebrity Current Pay a visit to the Maho Bay Beach which is situated right behind the Princess Juliana International Airport. The Second Lady kept saying how awful my daughters hair looked and that it wasnt professional. 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. I've lived on St. Martin/St. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Please note that some of the beaches mentioned were heavily hit by hurricane Irma and are still rebuilding. Taking a bus is a less expensive option. Its surrounded by perfect vistas of the ocean and lush hills. St. Maarten Beaches + Things to do near St. Maarten cruise port :: st The islands rugged coastline features 37 beaches all around. Didnt swim, but its safe, I was told. This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Great Bay Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Orient Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Cupecoy Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Water taxis dock at the pier which is right on the beach - not in the very central part, but 3 min walk from it. This beach is very popular with the locals during the weekends, but its also very tranquil and uncrowded during the weekdays. Hotels near Princ. It's about a $50-$60 for the round trip but it all depends on how many passengers. The centuries-old liquor is a part of St. Maartens culture, there are songs and stories dedicated to the Guava Berry. Wathey Square is where the boat taxis operate from. Its not easy elsewhere to find washrooms for public use, except at restaurants by the beach. Say Maho! when the planes fly over your head; its a tradition on the island! While the other is a rocky beach that faces the other side and is exposed to the rough side of nature but bears beautiful rock formations. Daughter thought they were the best she has had this holiday. 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. Great Bay beach is a lovely beach to sit and relax while soaking up the sun or enjoying the view of the ocean. 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. Excited about sunrise and sunsets? Travel to Maho beach and watch jumbo jets fly overhead to land at the nearby airport. The sand is indeed white, waves are crystal clear, and gives you a fun experience with the planes in the sky. Water taxis to Maho Beach from the cruise port is easy to find and cost about $20. You can get to this beach via a taxi or a bus. 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. The eateries are a hive of energy with an exciting atmosphere as many businesses, and VIP parties are held here. Sit on the pier with a great view of the cruise ships that have docked in the port. Read on for further details about St Maartens beautiful beaches with contributions from a native of the island. Undoubtedly, the most beautiful beach of St Maarten. niNice beach, water clean and lovely. You could visit the Rouge et Noir casino near the end of the beach strip. 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. This beach is perfect for surfing and windsurfing. We recommend booking Great Bay Beach tours ahead of time to secure your spot. The liquor is a rare combination of aged rum, sugar cane, and wild guava berries found in the central part of the island. Great Bay and Orient Bay are the best St Maarten beaches near the cruise port. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel. This is something extraordinary to write home about. From the great restaurants to the funky music, you cant afford to not love this beach. Children under 13 are free. You can take off and walk the boardwalk and sightsee or just relax and work on your tan. The sunset in Cupecoy Beach is astounding, and we suggest you spend it at the bar while waiting for the vibrant ambiance at night. 17 Best Beaches in St. Maarten Top Public Beach Spots! What's the best way to see Great Bay Beach? This was our second visit. 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. Vans are also available, and prices vary depending on the number of people on board. If youre on a Caribbean cruise tour, Great Bay Beach is a fun stopover for daytrippers since it is located at the peak of Philipsburg. The beach which starts at the end of Princess Juliana Airport Runway attracts airplane fanatics, thrill seekers and even photographers. Orient and Maho are the most popular shore excursion beaches, but Great Bay is free and a short walk away. before joining cruise ship. Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port - Things to Do! - Gangwaze.com We visited Secrets Resort in Saint Martin a week ago. Great for: Beach time, diving, snorkeling, water sports. 10 Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. Martin They dont tell you how much the braids cost till the end and this lady wanted $65 for some braids she put in my sons hair but my daughters cost $25. Drop off at the resort and walk in between the buildings to get to the beach behind it. There are street bars, rum shacks serving ice-cold beer, and restaurants serving delicious food. The calm waters on this beach justify its spot as the best beach for swimming in St Maarten. Getting To Maho Beach From The Cruise Port - Fastest Way! Walk three fourths of a mile, ride in a land taxi or take a quick water taxi to the tourist district. All Rights Reserved. Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Then it climbs to a high point for the rest of the year. We did end up getting some of our kids hair braided by two different people. Anyone with an interest in diving might consider either Little Bay or Kim Sha beaches. There is a boat that brings people over and drops them at the dock. Get a lounge chair and umbrella going for about $7, kick back and relax. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. Sonesta Ocean Point Resort- All Inclusive Adults Only, The Villas at Simpson Bay Beach Resort and Marina, Atrium Beach Resort and Spa St Maarten a Ramada by Wyndham, Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa, Marys Boon Beach Plantation Resort & Spa, 35 Best Places to Visit in August in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA. The St Maarten cruise terminal is located in Philipsburg, the Dutch part of the island, around 1.5 mi away from the city center.It boasts an impressive infrastructure that can accommodate a large number of cruise ships simultaneously, including the worlds largest cruise ships. The island has gorgeous powdery sand beaches, charming. St. Thomas Beaches Near the Cruise Port - Caribeez.com He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. It actually runs parallel to Front Street just one street over, do not miss out on the experience. It has been quite a few years since I've been to St. Maarten. Once youre there you will be approached by vendors selling chairs and umbrella packages on the beach that include beer and Wi-Fi. Sea Palace Resort. Visitors will find plenty of taxis at the docks ready to take them there. The Happy bay beach is also known as the best snorkel spot in St Maarten. It is easy to spend the day going back and forth between the beach and shopping or dining. Explore different ways to experience this place. This beach offers chairs and umbrellas by the shore, which is perfect when youre in the mood to get a tan and bask out in the sun! Anguilla is the most popular of the three and only 10 miles off the St. Maarten coast. Cruise visitors will arrive at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities just outside of Philipsburg on Great Bay. St. Maartens average weather consists of warm temperatures year round that average in the mid 80s Fahrenheit. This beach is found on the Dutch side of the island towards the southwestern ends. You can take a taxi which charges about $6 per person to the beach. Kim Sha beach is the place to be for party-goers who want the time of their life. The Philipsburg and Simpson Bay restaurants cater to all tastes. Make sure to take some home with you. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. Fine sandy beach alongside a boardwalk. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. Other than the makeup of the countrys population, St. Maarten is also popular for its beaches. Cheap property set in the centre of the city, walking distance from beach. One of the more interesting beaches on St. Maarten is Cupecoy because of its white sand, sandstone cliffs and small caves along the shore. St. Barth is frequented by the rich and famous. Tourists should visit Rainforest Adventures, Seaside Nature Park, and Tintamarre island. Hence, the island of St. Maarten is one of the worlds top cruise port destinations. #3 Best Value of 7 Philipsburg Cruise Port Hotels. Great beach. The water taxi stand at the cruise port is just a quick walk north of the docks. Rainfall is a different matter. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten of 2023 (with Prices Usual beach, bars, restaurants, shops. 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. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten (with Prices Before we get started, youre going to need to check all these beach accessories. The St. Martin French restaurants in Marigot are smaller and more casual. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The beach is seven miles west of the cruise port by Simpson Bay, which has a cluster of hotels, resorts and restaurants. Visitors who take a 20-minute hike from Cole Bay Hill will reach Cove Bay, located between Cole Bay and Little Bay. When the clock hits at the time of sunset, thats where the flashing lights, livid atmosphere, and the nightlife starts. St Maarten port is one of the fastest-growing Caribbean cruise ports and the leading cruise port in the Eastern Caribbean. The major cruise ships will dock in Philipsburg located on the Dutch side. But among this plethora of sandy dunes and pristine waters, we went ahead and narrowed down a list of the best beaches in St Maarten. Outside of Philipsburg, two of the most famous attractions on the island are beaches. You have 3$ pp (one way) mini vans outside the cruise port to the beach. What restaurants are near Great Bay Beach? 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. Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten - Tripadvisor St Maarten has one major road and it is not uncommon for there to be huge traffic congestion especially on afternoons. Calm and clear azure waters with an excellent view of the Ocean is what greets you at Grand Case Beach. There are many places to shop around and search for deals. Again, look for signs point the way. Be sure to pack some goggles or eye protective gear with you because when the larger planes take off from the airport, watch out for sand sprays on the shore may occur. Little Bay Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling activities. Shops, cafes, car rentals and restaurants are located nearby. With its nice horizon, outstanding view, and superb restaurants to trythe Oyster pond is one of the prettiest beaches in St Maarten. Marigot in French SXM was vibrant, by then, with Palm Sunday parades that gave way to the Carnival in 1970. Moreover, go for snorkeling and explore the underwater world. The casino hours are 10am to 4am daily. Though it's not nearly as . Front Street in Philipsburg. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa. For the vacationers who are early birds, they get to have a glimpse of a spectacular sunset, so be sure to set your alarms early. Boasting a fantastic marine life and youd get a glimpse of it if you opt to try snorkeling. Show Prices. 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. Re: Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten 5 years ago Save Hi Maria, The drive is about 20 minutes without traffic. Running parallel to the boardwalk is Front Street, which has most of the shops in the city. One of the best beaches in St. Maarten is Mullet Bay Beach. International brands such as Little Switzerland and Diamond International are easily accessible. 1. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. St. Martin/St. Beach bumming is the main activity here, but you can also try the locals favorite guava berry rum Coladas served at the little bars nearby. Orient Bay is a fairly quick drive by taxi, rental car or excursion bus from Philipsburg. Guana Bay Beach, located on the southeast coast of the island, offers great views of St. Barthelemy and is used for wind and kite surfing. Where they serve fresh fish and lobsters for lunch among others. This place is also less crowded and suitable for families looking for a spot for bonding and activities.