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. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. There are hundreds of duty free stores and the discounts are great. However, kindly note that this one is the furthest on this list from the cruise port. Report inappropriate content sxmlover Cupecoy Bay, St. Level Contributor 13,129 posts 18 reviews 50 helpful votes 9. 285 reviews. Maarten; Cruise Critic Community. Cruise visitors will arrive at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities just outside of Philipsburg on Great Bay. This beach is very popular with the locals during the weekends, but its also very tranquil and uncrowded during the weekdays. St. Maarten cruise docks. 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. St Maarten is loved by tourists and visitors to the island for its bustling night life, diverse dining options and its exciting duty free shopping experience. 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. This beach is about 30 minutes from the cruise port via taxi along Airport road. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. The ENTIRE beach however is public and all the amenities of the resort are available to the public. It is about seven miles north of the Philipsburg cruise port. It takes just a 20-minute stroll to get there, and the beach area and boardwalk. A taxi ride to this beach costs approximately $16 a trip. Pasanggrahan Royal Guesthouse. The swell is never too high thanks to its coral reefs. It is quite a bit more quiet these days. Re: Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten 5 years ago Save Hi Maria, The drive is about 20 minutes without traffic. Beaches In St Maarten Near Cruise Port (The Ultimate Guide), Living In The Caribbean (Pros & Cons Fully Explained). The Sunset Beach Bar is a popular destination amongst St.Maarten tourists and locals, other places in Maho are Driftwood Boat bar right on the beach great spot to catch the planes and a new bar called Sand bar. Dawn Beach offers spectacular views of sunrises. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten of 2023 (with Prices Orient and Maho are the most popular shore excursion beaches, but Great Bay is free and a short walk away. Baie Rouge is what youll expect what a Caribbean beach would look like. Alicia's Inn. Here are some of the best activities in St. Maarten. Took a water taxi from cruise port area $7 per person round trip. You can even take a short taxi ride into Maho to watch the planes take-off and land. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. The liquor is a rare combination of aged rum, sugar cane, and wild guava berries found in the central part of the island. Shops and food along the boardwalk. Dont miss out on visiting the different souvenir shops where you could snag some trinkets and memorabilia to remember your Caribbean Trip here in Great Bay Beach. Here you can dine at French, Thai, and Italian restaurants. Your email address will not be published. "All of St. Maarten has been hit hard by a hurricane followed by a pandemic. It's about a $50-$60 for the round trip but it all depends on how many passengers. Very pretty mountains around the bay and it's great to watch the ships come and go. St. Martin/St. Complete with the softest powdery coasts, turquoise waters, and the freshest breezes of cool air, this island is a breathtaking destination. Ships dock at the Dr. AC Wathey Cruise Facility in front of a sprawling outdoor pedestrian mall. 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. 2017 Scott S. Bateman. The water taxi ride costs about $4 per person. 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. Then travelled back on water taxi (very good ride!) Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simpson Bay Resort Marina & Spa, Indigo Bay Beach, Indigo Bay Dr, Simpson BaySint Maarten, NLD 1744. 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. Dont forget to bargain with the vendors. Competent swimmers should try this beach and swim out to the arch and enjoy the other hidden beach found at the base of the cliff. If this is something you would like to see and enjoy, then, by all means, visit Maho beach for this once in a lifetime experience. The Happy bay beach is also known as the best snorkel spot in St Maarten. St. Maarten Cruise: Best Cruises to St. Maarten - Celebrity Cruises This beach is found on the Dutch side of the island towards the southwestern ends. Few facilities or commercial establishments are available nearby. This Beach is a hidden gem found behind Divi resorts and makes for a perfect escape from the crowds. Carry snacks and drinks though there are vendors on the beach. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Want to have that french au naturel ambiance? If you are after a more local atmosphere and better bargains, try Back Street. The only problem was the ladies that would walk up and down the beach selling stuffed animals, massages , and hair braiding. Fondly known as Airplane beach, as planes usually have to approach the landing at an altitude of less than 100 feet. Tripadvisor gives a Travelers Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten - Tripadvisor Orient Bay is the most popular beach in St. Martin. Get a lounge chair and umbrella going for about $7, kick back and relax. Though it's not nearly as . The eateries are a hive of energy with an exciting atmosphere as many businesses, and VIP parties are held here. Get a waterproof case to protect your phone right here. Again, look for signs point the way. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. Shops, cafes, car rentals and restaurants are located nearby. This place is also less crowded and suitable for families looking for a spot for bonding and activities. In Phillipsburg, one of the best things to do is shopping on Front Street or Back Street or hang out in Wathey Square. 17 Best Beaches in St. Maarten Top Public Beach Spots! Right around the corner was the bar which was basically a guy pouring mixed drinks and coolers with beer, soda and waters. There are many places to shop around and search for deals. Beaches In St Maarten Near Cruise Port (The Ultimate Guide) How To Get From The Cruise Port To Great Bay Beach, What Costs Are Involved In Visiting Great Bay Beach, How To Get From The Cruise Port To Orient Bay Beach. #2 Best Value of 7 Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. As a result, it often draws large crowds. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. Great Bay Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Orient Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Cupecoy Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Its surrounded by perfect vistas of the ocean and lush hills. Just west of Philipsburg, this beach also pulls in its share of tourists, although it's a little less busy than Great Bay Beach. before joining cruise ship. 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. Pinel has two breathtaking beaches. Top Excursions in St. Maarten The Flying Dutchman Zip-Line Chairlift to Sentry Hill Racing on a Yacht 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. As such many individuals are fascinated with plane spotting in this area. Roatan, Honduras. Check out the list below for the top recommended Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. So get a taxi or car rental if you plan to see more than just the tourism district. 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. Otherwise, look for signs at the mall pointing toward the $5 water taxi. Therefore, depending on the time of year that you visit expect there to be a crowd. We were approached by multiple people right as we got off the water taxi and decided to pay $30 for two beach chairs, free wi-fi and five free drinks. What Attractions Are At Orient Bay Beach? Beforehand, youll see two small duty free stores on both sides of historically central St Martin of Tours church on the boardwalk. St. Thomas Beaches Near the Cruise Port - Caribeez.com 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. Orient Beach and the town of Marigot are two popular attractions on the French side of the island. Its also a very active beach offering waters sports such as snorkeling, boat rides, volleyball, and all other common water sports. 370 reviews. There are street bars, rum shacks serving ice-cold beer, and restaurants serving delicious food. Take a swim in the clear blue sea. Logo Store; Find Your Roll Call; Meet & Mingle; Guidelines; Community Help Center; . Running parallel to the boardwalk is Front Street, which has most of the shops in the city. You can access this beach by walking. Frequented by tourists from far and wide, this beach is an amazing destination for all ages. One beach faces Saint Martin and is a perfect stretch of sandbar with shallow, calm waters perfect for families with kids. For $7 you can get a water taxi round trip from the cruise port. Taking a bus is a less expensive option. Best for Crown Bay Cruisers: Emerald Beach (Lindbergh Bay Beach) Why go: Home to the Emerald Beach Resort, Lindbergh Bay has all the things you want in a beach, while being located close. We were there for happy hour from 1pm to 3pm and had 2 cocktails for $10 from the Nazca bar and restaurant. Which St Maarten Beaches Near Cruise Port Are Really Worth Your Time? The casino hours are 10am to 4am daily. 15 Best Beaches in St. Maarten | Celebrity Cruises Maho Beach is famous because it is located so close to the airport that landing planes will swoop so close over the heads of beachgoers that some of them get knocked off their feet. 10 Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. Martin I think you can also walk around to the beach instead of the water taxi. 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. "All of St. Maarten has been hit hard by a hurricane followed by a pandemic. Driving around parts of the Dutch side, especially around Simpson Bay, adds some risk of traffic jams and late returns to the ship. This lovely, well-sheltered beach offers crystal-clear calm, warm waters that are perfect for swimming. Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Playa Orient Bay. Marigot in French SXM was vibrant, by then, with Palm Sunday parades that gave way to the Carnival in 1970. Taxi rates are set according to more than 20 zones around the island. Otherwise, walk the boardwalk, and pick a spot on the beach and relax for the day, swim, drink, or tan. The powdery soft sand and coconut trees backdrop give it a magical atmosphere. Boutique hotel situated on Great Bay Beach in downtown Philipsburg. Usual beach, bars, restaurants, shops. Being on the Caribbean seaside, the beach has the advantage of calmer waters which are good for swimming and just enjoying the beach. Visit Orient Bay village, within walking distance of the beach. Since 1648, Philipsburg has been a site of settlement or port of call for travellers as well as slave ships past (see Lizzy Wade for Science 9 Mar 2015). Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port - Things to Do! - Gangwaze.com Check it out and enjoy your Caribbean adventure to the fullest! 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. St. Barth is frequented by the rich and famous. 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. 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. 29 Best St. Maarten Excursions | 93,000+ Verified Reviews Orient and Maho are the most popular shore excursion beaches, but Great Bay is free and a short walk away. It is generally not as interesting as the nightlife around Maho and Mullet Bay, a characteristic feature of the Dutch side, long after the U.S. military built the Princess Juliana airstrip by 1947 and development ensued in the 1960-70s. But traffic outside of the Boardwalk and Front Street is often heavy. If you walk it's a 15-20 min walk cruise port-beach or vv. 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. Little Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go You can take a tour of the nature reserve nearby as you explore the majestic beauty of the place. Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port Peaceful and serene. 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 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. Vans are also available, and prices vary depending on the number of people on board. 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. The water taxi stand at the cruise port is just a quick walk north of the docks. What restaurants are near Great Bay Beach? Beachfront resort located on Simpson Bay in Phillipsburg, St. Maarten. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available to rent. It features clear, calm crystalline waters with soft white sand and sprawling palm trees. Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten: Find 2106 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten on Tripadvisor. Alternatively, you can take a public transportation which costs USD $2.50 to go and USD$2.50 to return. Anyone visiting St. Maarten by cruise ship or to stay at the resorts should consider Orient Bay Beach as another one worth visiting. 10 Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. Martin 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. Log in. A weather forecasting app may help to ensure that your visit to the beach will be exquisite. 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. These cliffs are eroded to create perfect small coves that create small secluded romantic beaches on their own. A guide, complimentary refreshments and round-trip transportation from the . Car rentals. Find a Cruise. 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. Where on French side? Surfing is also one of the best things to do in St Maarten; Mullet bay has northern winds, making it an excellent spot for surfers. Little Bay rests at the base of Fort . At the far end #27 is Dutch Blonds pancakes and escape rooms; just look for the windmill. Its the perfect beach spot if you want a quiet place to go without the touristy vibe. Forums. The best beach near the St. Maarten cruise port is just a quick walk or taxi ride away. 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. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. The idyllic island of St. Maarten is well known for its stunning white-sand beaches, impossibly aquamarine waters, and incredible culinary scene. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel. Thats where Europeans set up shop and schooling for local children over a century ago. You only need to get to the port early. Each offers truly unique characteristics and there's a . Our Cousin is a very active- independent young man that is in a wheelchair- I think it's going to be fine, but wanted to check? There are several shops selling watches, jewelery, perfume and electronic gadgets nearby. TThings to do near the St. Maarten Cruise Port. Walk three fourths of a mile, ride in a land taxi or take a quick water taxi to the tourist district. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. Hence, the island of St. Maarten is one of the worlds top cruise port destinations. Taxis. 1. We suggest checking in to the lovely villas by the cliff, and youll surely enjoy your time with a majestic view of the blue waters. 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. niNice beach, water clean and lovely. 3-Hour Guided Jeep Tour Island Highlights and 1-Hour Relax by Beach, The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour, The Original Eco Tour Full-Day Around the Island of Sint Maarten, Private St Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour, Best Of St Maarten Private Nightlife Tour, Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour in Philipsburg with Pickup, @Philipsburg: calling all Sunbathers and shoppers. We visited Secrets Resort in Saint Martin a week ago. One of the more interesting beaches on St. Maarten is Cupecoy because of its white sand, sandstone cliffs and small caves along the shore. 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. #3 Best Value of 7 Philipsburg Cruise Port Hotels. This is the most affordable option. Calm and clear azure waters with an excellent view of the Ocean is what greets you at Grand Case Beach. Unfortunately, you may only get a glimpse of this gem of an island, I always recommend a proper vacation for a week or two. Its located on the northeastern coast of the French side. Riselle Celestina for Insider. The sunset in Cupecoy Beach is astounding, and we suggest you spend it at the bar while waiting for the vibrant ambiance at night. Some jet skis nearby filling up with fuel every 10 minutes which smelt terriblenot very safety conscious either as they were floating about in the water while filling up. Located in Philipsburg this shopping mecca is popular for jewelry shops. You can take off and walk the boardwalk and sightsee or just relax and work on your tan. There are so many things to do around the cruise port that you will never be bored but may be pressed for time. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. Burgeaux Beach, just beyond Simpson Bay, offers a cove and is a favorite of shell collectors and surfers. The island has a small number of narrow winding roads, so car rentals even for a day are quite commonso common that traffic jams are frequent. Reviews. Head to St. Martin, the French side of St. Maarten, where you'll find a peaceful environment. There are no full restrooms but there is a port-a-potty available and usually there is a crowd on weekends. If you're looking for the best time to visit St Maarten, you may find this guide helpful. If I wanted to go to the French side, what is the best/easiest/cheapest way to do so? The Water UFO is definitely good times, with family and friends. Easily one of our favorite destinations among the best beaches in St Maarten, Baie Rouge offers long extensive shores and pristine cool waters. Buses usually have a sign that says Maho beach and it takes approximately 20 minutes from the cruise port. After youve gone hiking, a replenishing meal is a definite try in the famous beachside restaurants in Friars bay. A smaller number of restaurants are on the French side in Marigot and Grand Case. Another beach that's one of the best beaches to visit during a cruise is one you can walk to from the cruise port, right? Heres a list of a few more suggestion in Phillipsburg: Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port. It takes one about 25 minutes to get to the beach. Philipsburg Cruise Port in Sint Maarten. I trust that you have found this information useful if your plans are to visit a beach while on a cruise to St Maarten. It has been quite a few years since I've been to St. Maarten. Are you looking for a unique experience by the beach thats accessible and convenient? This beach is found on the Dutch side of the island towards the southwestern ends. St. Maarten Beaches Near the Cruise Port - Caribeez coveneiet water taxi. The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. 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 sports are also an option for the group who looks for day thrills. Travel by water taxi is about 5 minutes and via taxi (car) about 8 minutes via Walter A Nisbeth Road. You have 3$ pp (one way) mini vans outside the cruise port to the beach. from the cruise ship pier shopping area to the center of Great Bay beach ($7 for unlimited tri 93% of travelers recommend this experience. All Inclusive. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. The beach is not far, and an affordable taxi ride takes you there. Check out the video below from In The Loop Travel that shares the walk from the cruise terminal to Great Bay Beach. Anyone who walks around the Philipsburg waterfront wont find much else to see other than the beach, boardwalk, shops and restaurants. Central town beaches usually aren't great, but that's not the case here. Another beach that is well loved by both locals and visitors to the island is Mullet Bay Beach. Deals. We left our cruise ship and headed for the water taxis -7 dollars return to the beach and back. A 10-15 percent tip for bus and taxi drivers is common. 2. Maarten for 20 years, and I'm sharing the best things on the island. Its named after a defeated captain who went after Saba and ran aground on the very same beach. It has beautiful white sand beaches and is reachable by ferry or excursion boat from Simpson Bay and Marigot. Its longer and broader than Great Bay Beach. Where they serve fresh fish and lobsters for lunch among others. Located at the northwestern coast of St Maarten, it is a great surfing stop for beginners due to its gentle waves. $$ - $$$ Caribbean Cajun & Creole Pub, Neighborhoods Points of Interest & Landmarks. 30 Things to Do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten During a Cruise Simpson Bay Beach is a long half-moon of white sand located by a fishing village. Free expert cruise tips and news from Cruise Hive! Two beach bars are located at either end of this beach being Sunset bar and grill and Driftwood boat bar respectively. But once found, its truly worthwhile. 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. It. The locals are also friendly and charming to the tourists, making Divi Beach a warm place to stay at. Friars Bay beach is a hidden gem amongst the best beach spots in St Maarten. 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).