The main town on the Dutch side of the island, Philipsburg has museums, landmarks, and wonderful Caribbean restaurants to please any visitor. The following accommodations will suit your needs while keeping the island’s charisma at your doorstep. The beach offers two parking areas, one a short distance to the west and other near Cupecoy and Sapphire beach clubs; however, the cost of parking is $2. The beach provides a facility for a water taxi ride. Little Bay beach is located near to the west of Philipsburg and less busy than Great Bay Beach. See the large clippers come in at the times listed on the sign. The Simpson Bay beach is over a mile long, and the waters of the Caribbean Sea are quiet and calm most time of the year; that’s why it is suitable for snorkeling. Dawn Beach is suitable for snorkeling and swimming. This beach offers many restaurants, beach bars, and watersports activities for kids and families. The Best Nightlife in St. Maarten Dutch Side, 10 Best Restaurants In St. Maarten Dutch Side, Best Hotels in St. Maarten Dutch Side for a Wonderful Vacation, Getting To Maho Beach From The Cruise Port Quickly, Top 7 Things To Do In Simpson Bay St Maarten, The Caribbean Island of St. Maarten – Everything you need to know, St. Maarten Travel Guide – Your Ultimate Guide. The Dutch side is a very vibrant and lively area of the island. You can get a beach chair for $5 and enjoy the calm sparkling blue waters all day long. The difference is important to know for anyone planning a beach vacation there. There are many restaurants available near to the little bay beach where you can enjoy lunch. The most famous is of course the Maho beach where one can see the planes land, but equally popular is the Mullet Bay beach on the Dutch side and Orient Beach on the French side. Reserve today and choose from garden or ocean views, double, queen or king-size beds, and more. You can easily explore the two sides of this small and picturesque island, from the colonial-style architecture in Philipsburg on the Dutch side of the island to Fort St. Louis in Marigot on the French side, which was built by the famous French king Louis XVI. It really is a MUST when on the island. Pleasure. Seriously swooning. However, it’s crazy how close those planes get to the beach when landing… It is probably a really thrilling feeling to see those planes so close! This beach on the Dutch side may be a little difficult to get to, however, the trip is definitely worth it for the fine white sand and the snorkeling, considered some of the best on the island. Right across the street from the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort is the famous Casino Royale. St. Maarten: the Dutch side, which is a bit more “Americanized” than the island’s French side. Pinel Island is a fun little excursion just on its own! This is truly a perfect island for romantic couples . There is no shade and facilities on the beach, so if you plan to visit Guana Bay, make sure you have an umbrella, towels, and plenty of food and drinks. Visit St Maarten – Hotels. Enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep in a choice of either Doubles, Queen or King beds, coupled with whirlpool baths, amenities, and balconies fit for royalty. See more ideas about beach, sint maarten, martin st. It definitely looks like a romantic getaway. This is truly beautiful and obviously a perfect destination for romantic couples… I have seen some photos and videos of this crazy airport there – must be a unique experience. Slaves on the Dutch side of the island protested and threatened to flee to the French side to seek asylum. Those beaches do look so amazing, the colour of the sand!! This beach is a favorite spot for locals and tourists. However, the Dutch were able to move in promptly in 1631. Orient Beach - the biggest and best beach on the island is on the French side. The sea looks so beautiful..how romantic! She thrives on discovering her home province of Ontario and helping travellers experience the magic of a Disney Trip. In any case, St. Maarten looks like an amazing place to visit. 1- Sonesta Ocean Point, 5-Star All-inclusive. Kim Sha Beach is the best spot for families and kids. Maho Beach is the most famous and favorite destination for both locals and tourists. Burgeaux is a popular spot with surfers. Just steps away from gourmet restaurants and boutique shops, Great Bay Beach is located right in the heart of Philipsburg. Here are a few suggestions for that candlelit dinner by the beach, incredible views, or entertainment sure to put you in the mood. Full breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks each day in any of the resort’s restaurants, Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at all the bars including the swim-ups, Invitations to weekly cocktail parties and other hotel events, A gym, daily fitness activities, yoga and more, Activities including bocce, billiards, bingo for prizes, pool aerobics classes, beach activities and more, Passes to their sister resort the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort, Casino & Spa to use their facilities, Full breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks each day in any resort restaurants, Vouchers for local restaurants for a change of scenery and cuisine, Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at all the bars. Its remarkable reef, stunning views, soft pearly white sand makes it the best most visiting beach in St. Maarten. Cupecoy is Dutch St. Maarten’s semi-official nude beach. The Information Portal for the Caribbean Island of St. Maarten - St-Martin. The smallest island divided between two nations – France and the Netherlands – St. Maarten offers blend of cultures and landscapes to discover. Most interesting for me is actually is that the Northern 60% of the island is owned by the French and you can pay in EURO… that’s actually good to know. For me this powerful word is the feeling of joy, romance, happiness, carefree, and the omission of stress. In 1994, both the Netherlands and France signed a treaty for border control on the island to prevent illegal arrivals to the nation. Treat your sweetie outside of the all-inclusive resort restaurants! This white sand beach is ideal for swimming and suntanning when the waves aren’t too strong, it makes swimming experience more pleasant. The local Dutch authorities then freed the colonies' slaves. Dawn Beach has evolved as one of the attractive vacation places on the island of Sint Maarten. *. I’ve been to St. Maarten but it was so long ago I barely remember it now. "St. Martin" is the French side, covering 21 square miles. Water sports, Bingo, Yoga, classes, and many other amenities are available on site. 2018 update: St Maarten recently endured devastating damage from hurricane Irma in September 2017. It would be scary but kind of thrilling to be in the water as the plane flew over top. This beach is a family beach that offers many activities for kids. Simpson Bay beach is a long curve of white sand beach that is located near to the Princess Juliana airport. The standard of accommodations are very high and the views are to die for! The two co-existing nationalities bring a taste of Europe to the Caribbean. Although mostly dominated by the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, visitors are able to use the hotel’s beach chairs. It is a really thrilling feeling to see those planes so close! The Little Bay beach is a perfect spot to enjoy the weekend with family. An island so unique and special, Sint Maarten brings over 70 km of coastline and 37 beaches to its visitors. I love all inclusive resorts…takes all the stress away…doesn’t it? Martin offers 37 beaches to enjoy. A word that has many connotations, yet, still resonates well with the human race. What is is quite neat as well is it’s airplane arrival sign! SINT MAARTEN - SAINT MARTIN provides vacationers the opportunity to enjoy three distinct cultures on our tiny dot in the Caribbean sea. I also find the French side quieter with less night life. Visit St Maarten – Transportation. And since there is even a little Yoda museum – this truly looks like the perfect travel destination for me Sandstone cliffs give Cupecoy beach a dramatic golden backdrop, unlike any other beach on the island. Mullet fish swim freely and easily near you as you enjoy a swim in it wavy bay. The world is full of bucket-list destinations, which makes trying to narrow your next trip down to just one feel impossible. This hotel is perfect for couples seeking refuge from every day stress, a sanctuary away from work, and a romantic haven to rekindle the flame. This beach gives an iconic view of sunsets; most of the people wait for the evening to enjoy this beautiful view. Psst! Truly something to see between antes! There is no border crossing The only thing that is really different is the language spoken and currency. The climate and natural beauty make St. Maarten a perfect place to enjoy the many options for sports and recreation, or to simply explore the island’s natural splendor — including the 37 secluded, white sand beaches. Markets run on the weekends and buskers fill the atmosphere with fun steel drums and dancers. She has travelled to 40 countries, enjoys uncovering untold stories, and hasn't found a cupcake she doesn't like. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. However, the cost of per person ride is $4. In fact, cruises stop into the city to give passengers the opportunity to enjoy this side of the island as part of their vacation! If you click on the links, we may get a small commission (a million thank yous!) This beach has crystal clear water and offshore reefs, which makes it best for snorkeling. These are the best places for budget-friendly beaches in St Martin / St Maarten: Mullet Bay; Tintamarre Island; Grand Case Beach; Little Bay Beach; Happy Bay Beach; See more budget-friendly beaches in St Martin / St Maarten on Tripadvisor Just be aware of the sandblast warnings! I have to go to St. Maarten immediately. Great Bay beach is an ideal spot for those who are looking for some fun and relaxation. A fun evening for everyone, enjoy a burger, traditional Caribbean fare, and other signature dishes here. Its currency is the USD and capital city is, The Northern 60% of the island is owned by the French. Unspoiled and quiet are two words to describe the award-winning St Maarten beaches mixed with entertainment, friendly locals, and hospitality like no other. The Dutch side is Sint Maarten and the French side is Saint Martin. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Located close to Maho Beach, it is the quieter and bigger of the two. Simpson Bay is one of the most popular spots on St. Maarten. This 5-star luxurious all-inclusive resort rates top of our list especially in the romance department. The beach offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, but there are no facilities except a rare beverage vendor. Sint Maarten’s Dutch side, which is often misspelled as St Marteen is known for its casinos, jewelry-making, drinks made with guavaberry liquors (rum), and festive nightlife.The island’s French side is known for its stunning views, shopping, nude beaches, French Caribbean cuisine, and Loterie Farm.Let’s visit both sides and I will tell you all about it! It is also a perfect destination to admire and capture an iconic view of St Maarten sunset. I also want to see those planes landing . The lounges in the pool are what dreams are made of!! For that extra touch, butlers are available for your every need. Who wouldn’t want to spend some quality time here with their loved one? On this beach, there is no facility of restaurant or bar, but the locals come with food and drinks during the day. Ok, ok. St. Maarten/St. Burgeaux Beach, South West. (Submitted by Richard and Tanya Jeffries of Chesapeake) Caribbean / … at no cost to you. The Southern 40% of the island is owned by the Dutch. Great photos, cool post – was fun to read. This beach has beautiful palm trees that provide plenty of shades, and these trees line the shore. Does that mean you need to go through border control when crossing over from the north to the south part of the island? There are several destinations that cater to unwinding, relaxation, and ultimate luxury, while offering some exciting evening entertainment, casinos, night life and access to some of the most pristine St Maarten beaches on the island. Honeymoons are particularly popular here with the inclusive activities, services, and amenities at your fingertips. Exclusive 10-Day Trip to Budapest Departing in 2018! Its a very nice casino and the closest to the French side. The French side covers two thirds of the landmass even though it attracts far fewer vacationers. With private multi-room suites, exquisite cuisine, and incredible amenities, you will be all set for a holiday of pure romance. There are several destinations that cater to unwinding, relaxation, and ultimate luxury, while offering some exciting evening entertainment, casinos, night life and access to some of the most pristine St Maarten beaches on the island. Those beaches – especially Mullett – look so stunning. Cupecoy Beach is located on the island’s southwest tip on the Dutch side. This beautiful little Catholic Church welcomes visitors for service and prayer. After undergoing restoration work thanks to damage from hurricanes, the Sunset Beach Bar is a MUST to anyone staying on the Dutch side. Dawn Beach is the most famous beach due to its incredible underwater life, an amazing view of the sunrise, and some beautiful reefs immediately offshore. However, Happy bay beach is the best option to enjoy the weekend with family and kids. Thanks for sharing. In conclusion, St Maarten’s Dutch Side has everything for that luxurious vacation – sights, sand, shopping, and sangria. In 2010 Sint Maarten became an equal constituent country with all the other Dutch Antilles. Happy Bay Beach is the most popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. Not too much later, The French and British settled on the island as well and split it with the Dutch. I didn’t realize St Maarten was split between the French and Dutch. Another incredible resort on the Dutch side! I would love to relax, enjoy the sunshine with a drink on anyone of those beaches. deserted beach on Dutch St. Maarten S impson Bay beach by the Princess Juliana airport (SXM) is a long curve of white sand beach. After enduring your flight, a fresh towel is very welcoming. ), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). There is a large parking area at the eastern end of the beach and a small parking area on the beachside. Photographs of clippers mere metres away have flooded the internet since its technological debut in the late 90’s. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 best beaches on the Dutch side in St. Maarten. Here is our guide to “The Friendly Island’s” Dutch side and all it has to offer. After the show, put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the island sound of steel drums and reggae for that perfect island ambiance. Known as the "Friendly Island", it is the smallest island in the world that is shared by two nations. It is a white powdery sand beach that is located on the east coast of Sint Maarten. It has a reputation for its exciting runway that ends a few feet from the public beach. On the Western side, you will find a covered pavilion with picnic tables, restrooms, and grills. This delightful resort has everything a couple or family could want. Maho Beach, St Martin / St Maarten: "Is Maho beach on the Dutch side, or the French..." | Check out answers, plus see 5,423 reviews, articles, and 4,143 photos of Maho Beach, ranked No.3 on Tripadvisor among 16 attractions in St Martin / St Maarten. 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