The Guava berry Emporium is the spot to taste and sample this locally made liquor. This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. But be aware that some people have been hurt by the jet blasts. Several beaches receive far fewer crowds than Orient or Great Bay and are worth seeing for people with extra time available. Happy Cruising!! Its also a very active beach offering waters sports such as snorkeling, boat rides, volleyball, and all other common water sports. THE 5 BEST Sint Maarten Cruise Port Hotels - Mar 2023 (with Prices Find a Cruise. 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. 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. Rates are $8-10 per person one way. Thats where Europeans set up shop and schooling for local children over a century ago. CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. How to Get from St Maarten Airport to Hotel? Maho Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Sea Palace Resort. Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world due to its location near the runway of the Princess Juliana Airport. It has become a popular destination for people ready to enjoy the sun rise and set while relaxing with a cocktail. 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. They guarantee a low waiting time of 10 minutes or less. The fact that its semi-secluded makes it a good spot for relaxation. Are you looking for a unique experience by the beach thats accessible and convenient? We were approached by multiple people right as we got off the water taxi and decided to pay $30 for two beach chairs, free wi-fi and five free drinks. Great food and lots of cold drinks to keep you refreshed while lounging in the sun. Its perfect for a lazy beach day. You have 3$ pp (one way) mini vans outside the cruise port to the beach. Clear waters, beautiful beach, and powdery sandy shoreswhat more could you ask for in Divi Beach? This beach is found on the Dutch side of the island towards the southwestern ends. There is a boat that brings people over and drops them at the dock. Note that it is clothing optional. 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. coveneiet water taxi. This brief video explains the best and worst times to visit St. Maarten. Some beach visitors get so close that the blast from the jet engines knock them over. Located at the northwestern coast of St Maarten, it is a great surfing stop for beginners due to its gentle waves. 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 swell is never too high thanks to its coral reefs. This Beach is a hidden gem found behind Divi resorts and makes for a perfect escape from the crowds. Marigot in French SXM was vibrant, by then, with Palm Sunday parades that gave way to the Carnival in 1970. This is the beach for you. We did end up getting some of our kids hair braided by two different people. 285 reviews. What is the best beach to go to from Cruise Ship - St Martin / St Boasting a fantastic marine life and youd get a glimpse of it if you opt to try snorkeling. View of cruise ship and stores. The Philipsburg and Simpson Bay restaurants cater to all tastes. Location You can find them at Airport Rd, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten Star Lite Car Rentals Star Lite Car Rentals are a local rental service provider in Cruise Port of St, Maarten. Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port - Things to Do! - Gangwaze.com A 15-minute taxi ride will get you to this beach. Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. niNice beach, water clean and lovely. Known to be a part of the Natural Reserve of Saint-Martin, this island is a famous snorkeling spot. As a result, it often draws large crowds. What part of the beach is the best to spend few hrs, coming via cruise plan to walk or take taxi. Maarten . 2022. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Take a swim in the clear blue sea. The waves may get too high on windy days; take note of this. Your email address will not be published. What's the best way to see Great Bay Beach? $$ - $$$ Caribbean Cajun & Creole Pub, Neighborhoods Points of Interest & Landmarks. The right portion is where families and children would bond through a number of recreational activities, and the left-most area is the adult division of the beach meant for nude sunbathing. 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. With palm trees leaning in, Do some hammock napping with your family. Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Took a water taxi from cruise port area $7 per person round trip. Swim shoes may come in handy when walking by the shore, and there may be small rocks you may encounter when walking in the waters. #2 Best Value of 7 Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg. Luckily, given the islands size, you can visit any beach within the few hours allowed in port. I myself have been frequenting the island since 1995 and still love watching the planes from Maho. You can also take a stroll to the nearby market for the local cuisine. Is there anything near the cruise port? Orient Bay, which is located on the French side of the island, is arguably the islands most famous and popular beach. The Great Bay Beach is a well-maintained destination complete with white sandy dunes and clear waters, which is why its among our top picks when it comes to the different nice beaches in St Maarten. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Commodore Suites, Divi Beach, Little Bay RdSint Maarten, NLD 1744. If you're wondering how to get from St. Maarten Airport to your hotel, I highly recommend pre-booking a private car transfer. Taxis. Take a chance at the slot machines and bingo games. If these beaches dont meet your needs, then try any of the 24 remaining beaches you are sure to find what you are looking for. One of the more famous and controversial attractions is the Maho Bay beach next to Princess Juliana International Airport. Show Prices. Feel free to browse our website for more content on St Maarten, the Dutch Caribbean and rest of the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. Maho Beach is usually a favorite of visitors to the island and it is a tiny beach. Have in mind last taxis back to cruise port depart around 5.30-6 PM, so if your ship departs late in the evening there's no point spending 7$ pp. Buses usually have a sign that says Maho beach and it takes approximately 20 minutes from the cruise port. You only need to get to the port early. 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). Few facilities or commercial establishments are available nearby. The beach is not far, and an affordable taxi ride takes you there. Right around the corner was the bar which was basically a guy pouring mixed drinks and coolers with beer, soda and waters. Mullet Bay is ideal for travellers who are looking for a lowkey beach with a relaxing ambiance. more. 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. Make sure to take some home with you. 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 The beach itself has suffered significant erosion due to the jet blast. St. Barth is frequented by the rich and famous. Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port 97% of travelers recommend this experience. The ride is only 10 minutes long. 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. It often gets ranked as one of the best in the Caribbean. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Esmeralda Resort, Burgeaux Beach, Burgeaux BaySint Maarten, NLD 1744. Travel to Maho beach and watch jumbo jets fly overhead to land at the nearby airport. Little Bay Beach is just right next to Great Bay Beach only separated by the Fort Amsterdam Peninsula. Royal Palm Beach Resort. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'stmaartenadventure_com-banner-1','ezslot_11',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-banner-1-0');Visit Little Bay Beach if youre looking for a beach thats close to the cruise port, about 7-minute cab ride. Great beach. Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in St Maarten, located near Princess Juliana Airport. 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 It. St. Maarten cruise docks. The chairs and umbrellas are $5 each. The popular cruise destination in the Eastern Caribbean has two sides and is known for being the smallest landmass to host two nations in one place. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. Two beach bars are located at either end of this beach being Sunset bar and grill and Driftwood boat bar respectively. 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. For tourists who want a quiet and relaxing vacation, this is the place to be. All Inclusive. This lovely, well-sheltered beach offers crystal-clear calm, warm waters that are perfect for swimming. Little Bay Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling activities. Its like a 3 min ride. Otherwise, look for signs at the mall pointing toward the $5 water taxi. Hotels near Philipsburg Cruise Port Terminal in St Maarten 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. These Are The Cruise Accessories Youll Absolutely Love! Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Villas at Simpson Bay Beach Resort and Marina, Little Bay Beach, Octavius L. Richardson Rd, PhilipsburgSint Maarten, NLD 1744. Children under 13 are free. Cars are available for self-driving or getting a driver instead. What restaurants are near Great Bay Beach? A smaller number of restaurants are on the French side in Marigot and Grand Case. 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. Then one thing to include in your list of things to do is to visit one of the islands finest beaches. One of the best beaches in St. Maarten is Mullet Bay Beach. The sunset is also breathtaking, like on most beaches in St Maarten. If youre coming with kids who love water activities, you could try out their snorkeling and underwater fun for a lower price than other beaches in St Maarten. Best Caribbean Cruise Destinations and Ports of Call - Thrillist Cruise Tips. One of the more interesting beaches on St. Maarten is Cupecoy because of its white sand, sandstone cliffs and small caves along the shore. Tourists should visit Rainforest Adventures, Seaside Nature Park, and Tintamarre island. Philipsburg Cruise Port in Sint Maarten. Theres so many places to check out you can get dizzy with a choice. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Case Beach Club, Also See:Top Beaches in The CaribbeanBeaches in Aruba, Orient Bay BeachSint Maarten, NLD 1744+31 6 83359253. We didn't find anywhere to snorkel that had anything to see. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg - Tripadvisor The residents rely heavily on tourists so I feel like the majority are super friendly and accommodating. 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. Its also the perfect spot if youre looking for long and extensive coastal beaches and crystal clear waters. How to Get from St Maarten Airport to Hotel? Stress Free! The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. Known to be a favorite spot among celebrities, this outstanding beach showcases a plethora of restaurants, hotels, and shops by the oceanfront, making it convenient for the tourists to go souvenir shopping. The Water UFO is definitely good times, with family and friends. Orient Bay is the most popular beach in St. Martin. Renting a car is usually much cheaper and it's what we would do. - Best is subjective as some prefer a cab, while others favour a Jinty Where on French side? Peaceful and serene. If you are after a more local atmosphere and better bargains, try Back Street. 4-stars Hotels in Sint Maarten; 3-stars Hotels in Sint Maarten; . 1. 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. From the comfort of your lounge chair under the sun . Wathey Square is where the boat taxis operate from. There is also a small souvenir flea market nearby, just keep walking straight in pass Back Street, its hard to miss. 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. The place is fabulous. Great Bay Beach is the closest beach to the cruise terminal in St Maarten. Why We Recommend This Beach This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. Maarten beaches. Show Prices. So, go there early to get a good spot on the beach. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. This beach is located on the French Side called St Martin and is about a 20 minute taxi ride from the cruise port. Shops and food along the boardwalk. It also has the massive cruise terminal nearby. Great Bay Beach is also a family beach which is kid-friendly so that the whole family can enjoy. The short runway forces planes to fly low over the beach. Snorkeling, swimming, and jet skiing are the reigning favorite things to do on Maho Beach. Its wide shoreline makes it a perfect spot for beach picnics and playing games on the shore. Required fields are marked *. This beachs convenience makes it a hot spot for many tourists who are looking to relax and have some fun. In the morning, the beautiful beach and the clear sand captivates the vacationers to take a dip. A weather forecasting app may help to ensure that your visit to the beach will be exquisite. Didnt feel too crowded and it was a great beach for kids to play and swim. Dont miss out on the golden opportunity to explore the aquatic beauty underneath the surface. Alternatively, you can take a 20 minute stroll to Great Bay Beach. St. Thomas/St. John Beach Guide - Cruise Critic Little Bay has perfect calm crystal clear waters resultant from the protection offered by the peninsula.