Cupecoy Beach is located on the southwestern tip of the island and is the last beach on the way to the French side. Saba is known for hiking and other ecotourism activities. 1. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. The French side shows more signs of wear (being hit hard by the 2017 hurricane) compared to Philipsburg. Little Bay is located about a 10 minute drive from the cruise port. However, kindly note that this one is the furthest on this list from the cruise port. You could choose to bring your umbrellas and mat for picnics and sunbathing, and you could save some money while still enjoying this beachs amenities. If you're wondering how to get from St. Maarten Airport to your hotel, I highly recommend pre-booking a private car transfer. Want to have that french au naturel ambiance? Enjoy swimming in the water or lazing in the sun. Great Bay Beach is also a family beach which is kid-friendly so that the whole family can enjoy. Anyone visiting St. Maarten by cruise ship or to stay at the resorts should consider Orient Bay Beach as another one worth visiting. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. The sand is indeed white, waves are crystal clear, and gives you a fun experience with the planes in the sky. 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. You can take a taxi which charges about $6 per person to the beach. While the Dutch side boasts of the closest beaches to the cruise port, the French side has some of the best. Due to traffic congestion on afternoons, remember to give yourself sufficient time to return to the ship. Are you looking for a unique experience by the beach thats accessible and convenient? It. Then it climbs to a high point for the rest of the year. Magens Bay has an entry fee of $5 for adults and children 13 and older. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. The only problem was the ladies that would walk up and down the beach selling stuffed animals, massages , and hair braiding. The island has virtually no stop signs or stop lights. 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. If walking isnt appealing, there are quite a few transportation options. Take a chance at the slot machines and bingo games. It offers convenient access and plenty to do right there by the port. Beach chairs, umbrellas and jet-skis are available for a fee. Why We Recommend This Beach The best beach near the St. Maarten cruise port is just a quick walk or taxi ride away. 4-stars Hotels in Sint Maarten; 3-stars Hotels in Sint Maarten; . Great Bay Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau Hotels near Princ. A St. Maarten bus is often an SUV. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten of 2023 (with Prices One of the more famous and controversial attractions is the Maho Bay beach next to Princess Juliana International Airport. Which St Maarten Beaches Near Cruise Port Should I Visit? St. Barth is frequented by the rich and famous. These are the best beaches near Saint Martin/Sint Maarten - USA TODAY Once we got the the beach there are people there trying to rent you lounge chairs. Rates include all on-property. A cab to the beach costs about $9 per person while a bus costs $2 per person. St. Maarten Cruise Port: Tips, Excursions and Weather - Caribeez Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. This place is also less crowded and suitable for families looking for a spot for bonding and activities. Its turquoise blue waters hit the shorelines and leave a gushing atmosphere at its wake. Time to ged inspired by these 13 stunning St. Maarten beaches you can experience during a cruise vacation in the eastern Caribbean. As a result, it often draws large crowds. 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! Where on French side? Didnt swim, but its safe, I was told. Orient Bay is the most popular beach in St. Martin. Is this beach wheelchair friendly? This area is family-friendly. Little Bay Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling activities. A St. Maarten cruise has great appeal simply because the island has one of the best cruise ports in the entire Caribbean. The chairs and umbrellas are $5 each. Known to be a part of the Natural Reserve of Saint-Martin, this island is a famous snorkeling spot. 1. 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? The Philipsburg boardwalk lies between the beach and the shopping district of the city. Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten - Tripadvisor Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten: Find 2106 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten on Tripadvisor. This Is What You Need To Plan The Best Cruise With A Baby, How To Plan Awesome Family Cruise Shore Excursions Youll Love. 5 Best Beaches In St. Maarten For Snorkeling Maho Beach is a bucket list item for most tourists visiting St. Martin. Family Destinations Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Charged 30 dollars(should have haggled) for two sunbeds and an umbrella plus 6 free beers! All sun protection wear can be found on Amazon by clicking here. Other St. Maarten attractions include the Mont Vernon Plantation and the Butterfly Farm. St. Maarten cruise port - Top rated port guide for cruise ship passengers Galion Beach is very popular with families and adrenaline junkies. The Happy bay beach is also known as the best snorkel spot in St Maarten. We did end up getting some of our kids hair braided by two different people. Seawater averages about three degrees cooler, which makes swimming good at any time. Do you need to book in advance to visit Great Bay Beach? The centuries-old liquor is a part of St. Maartens culture, there are songs and stories dedicated to the Guava Berry. Ships dock at the Dr. AC Wathey Cruise Facility in front of a sprawling outdoor pedestrian mall. 2. We visited Secrets Resort in Saint Martin a week ago. Walking to this beach from the cruise pier is easy and possible, and there is always the option of a water taxi. If I wanted to go to the French side, what is the best/easiest/cheapest way to do so? THE 5 BEST Sint Maarten Cruise Port Hotels - Mar 2023 (with Prices niNice beach, water clean and lovely. 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. It often gets ranked as one of the best in the Caribbean. Cruise visitors will arrive at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities just outside of Philipsburg on Great Bay. Anyone with an interest in diving might consider either Little Bay or Kim Sha beaches. From the comfort of your lounge chair under the sun . Best Family Beaches in St. Maarten for an Outstanding Time Fine sandy beach alongside a boardwalk. I've lived on St. Martin/St. Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten: Find 2106 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Cruise Port Hotels in Sint Maarten on Tripadvisor. 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). Getting To Maho Beach From The Cruise Port - Fastest Way! Fondly known as Airplane beach, as planes usually have to approach the landing at an altitude of less than 100 feet. It is popular with hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers. The extended stretch of fine white sand is great, and the swaying palm trees offer respite from the harsh sun. The calm waters on this beach justify its spot as the best beach for swimming in St Maarten. Some include Orient Bay, Red bay and Anse Marcel. Public bus. 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. With palm trees leaning in, Do some hammock napping with your family. Taxis. The locals are also friendly and charming to the tourists, making Divi Beach a warm place to stay at. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simpson Bay Resort Marina & Spa, Indigo Bay Beach, Indigo Bay Dr, Simpson BaySint Maarten, NLD 1744. As such many individuals are fascinated with plane spotting in this area. The beach itself has suffered significant erosion due to the jet blast. The beach is great for swimming but at times can be rough so definitely one has to be cautious with children. 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. News. You only need to get to the port early. St. Martin is one of the best shopping ports of the Caribbean. Its worth noting that shopping on Front Street has declined in recent years because much of it has moved to the John Craane cruise terminal. Indigo Bay Beach is famous because of its quality attributes, making it popular with tourists. There are no full restrooms but there is a port-a-potty available and usually there is a crowd on weekends. Alternatively, you can take a public transportation which costs USD $2.50 to go and USD$2.50 to return. The short runway forces planes to fly low over the beach. Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in St Maarten, located near Princess Juliana Airport. These cliffs are eroded to create perfect small coves that create small secluded romantic beaches on their own. It was easy to relax and get the drinks. Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. They should eat and drink at Emilio's, Come y Calla, Freedom Fighters Ital Shack, and Sunset Caf. Pasanggrahan Royal Guesthouse. 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. I trust that you have found this information useful if your plans are to visit a beach while on a cruise to St Maarten. Visitors will find plenty of taxis at the docks ready to take them there. The waters on this beach are very inviting. Had an enjoyable walk along the beach and a very good day. St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient, Maho Beach Half-Day Tour 2023 - Viator If you get bored and want to try a different scene, you can visit Happy Bay beach which is just a short distance away. There are many places to shop around and search for deals. Boutique hotel situated on Great Bay Beach in downtown Philipsburg. This is a very nice beach, with soft sand, and gorgeous turquoise water. 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. In the morning, the beautiful beach and the clear sand captivates the vacationers to take a dip. Dont forget to bargain with the vendors. It takes about 20 minutes to arrive at this location. We were there for happy hour from 1pm to 3pm and had 2 cocktails for $10 from the Nazca bar and restaurant. I finally had to ask her to stop because my daughter was about to cry. Philipsburg is big enough and developed enough to spend most of the day on foot. The beach is about 1/3 mile long. 17 Best Beaches in St. Maarten Top Public Beach Spots! Find the right beach for you for spending your day in port. Hence, the island of St. Maarten is one of the worlds top cruise port destinations. It consists of a small stretch of white sandy beach located next to the runway of Princess Juliana International Airport. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Views remarkable. Jet ski, paraglide or sail at Orient Beach, then grab a snack at one of the many bars and restaurants there. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel. Therefore, depending on the time of year that you visit expect there to be a crowd. Taxis, which also are usually SUVs, have a T at the beginning of the license plate. Is there anything near the cruise port? The beach is certainly grand in Sint Maarten, and within steps from the port (unlike Cayman). Food and drinks All this fun with family can make you hungry. There you have it, 13 of the best beaches in Saint Martin. Little Bay beach is located West of the capital (Philipsburg) making the beach a little less busy and less crowded. I think you can also walk around to the beach instead of the water taxi. It's perfect for a lazy beach day. Each offers truly unique characteristics and there's a . The middle area of the beach is usually where teenagers, couples, and families would go. The walk is about 10 minutes, goes three fourths of a mile and is not difficult on a warm day. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. "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. Maho Beach is also known as the airplane beach and is the most famous and favorite spot for locals and tourists. It is often moderate from January through July. There are hundreds of duty free stores and the discounts are great. International brands such as Little Switzerland and Diamond International are easily accessible. 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. It requires steering with your bodymovements, if you have 2 people riding you must lean in unison. For $7 you can get a water taxi round trip from the cruise port. The Second Lady kept saying how awful my daughters hair looked and that it wasnt professional. You can also take a stroll to the nearby market for the local cuisine. Bring your full gear or opt to rent for snorkeling to ensure that youll catch the breathtaking views underwater in Dawn Beach. Excited about sunrise and sunsets? Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Thats where Europeans set up shop and schooling for local children over a century ago. Where they serve fresh fish and lobsters for lunch among others. Best Caribbean Cruise Destinations and Ports of Call - Thrillist Whether you prefer to be laid back or power shop, St, Maarten is the island for you and your family to enjoy it all. But all in all, both sides offer some of the greatest beaches in the Caribbean. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. 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). You have detailed explanations in my Maho Beach review. 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. Great Bay Beach is a cheap and easy option for your beach day in St. Maarten. Report inappropriate content sxmlover Cupecoy Bay, St. Level Contributor 13,129 posts 18 reviews 50 helpful votes 9. So, go there early to get a good spot on the beach. While your ship is in St Maarten's port, swim and lounge at Orient Beach and Maho Beach on this half-day shore excursion. This beach is about 30 minutes from the cruise port via taxi along Airport road. 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. The coral reefs offer snorkelers a peek into St. Maarten water inhabitants. The best restaurants on the island are mainly concentrated in two areas. This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some excursion operators quote prices as low as $15 per person for a transfer from the cruise port to Maho Beach. Sint Maarten Beach Hotels; Sint Maarten Green Hotels; Sint Maarten Business Hotels; By Hotel Class. We were taken to two cushioned beach chairs one row back from the beach with umbrellas. 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. They are Philipsburg on the southern coast and Simpson Bay on the southwest coast because they have the cruise port and the airport. An invisible boundary divides the 37 km island into two countries. 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. Took a water taxi from cruise port area $7 per person round trip. Then one thing to include in your list of things to do is to visit one of the islands finest beaches. 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. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Ocean Point Resort- All Inclusive Adults Only. Cheap property set in the centre of the city, walking distance from beach. The sunset in Cupecoy Beach is astounding, and we suggest you spend it at the bar while waiting for the vibrant ambiance at night. After youve gone hiking, a replenishing meal is a definite try in the famous beachside restaurants in Friars bay. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. This beach is perfect for surfing and windsurfing. Say Maho! when the planes fly over your head; its a tradition on the island! The destruction and lack of money from tourism has resulted in most of the island being in some state of disrepair. Day Passes at Caribbean Resorts | Cruise Critic It did shelve quite quickly. Located on the French side, the beach is only 30 minutes away. Eat at one of many wonderful restaurants on the beach offering fantastic cuisine and refreshing drinks. A 10-15 percent tip for bus and taxi drivers is common. What Attractions Are At Orient Bay Beach? Luckily, given the islands size, you can visit any beach within the few hours allowed in port. Visit this beach to enjoy a great beach break on its soft white sands and when you get hungry grab a bite at the nearby restaurants. water warm and lovely, beach clean. What is there to do near the cruise port? Best way to get to French They also have many water sports that are available. Shopping and Dining | Attractions | Getting Around | Beaches | Weather. 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. THE 5 BEST Cruise Port Hotels in Philipsburg - Tripadvisor $$ - $$$ Caribbean Cajun & Creole Pub, Neighborhoods Points of Interest & Landmarks. - Best is subjective as some prefer a cab, while others favour a Jinty 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. Kim Sha is a popular starting point for dive and excursion boats. Located in Philipsburg this shopping mecca is popular for jewelry shops. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel La Plantation. As a famous tourist island, this place is accessible and will give you the well-deserved vacation you need. Dont miss out on the golden opportunity to explore the aquatic beauty underneath the surface. One of the more interesting beaches on St. Maarten is Cupecoy because of its white sand, sandstone cliffs and small caves along the shore. Hawkers in front of the cafes will sometimes offer them for free to visitors who buy food and beverages. Mullet Bay may get too busy on the weekends, so we suggest that you visit during the weekdays to maximize your relaxation by the beach. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. 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. 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. Always give yourself ample time for traffic, and theres always traffic in St.Maarten. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent and local foods can be found at Rosies Snack Bar. Reviews. Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Zafiro Boutique Hotel. St. Maarten Beaches + Things to do near St. Maarten cruise port :: st Another beach that is well loved by both locals and visitors to the island is Mullet Bay Beach. It has BUS at the beginning of the license plate and the destination sign in the window. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. This is an active beach with water sports ranging from kayaking to paddle boarding. Anyone who walks around the Philipsburg waterfront wont find much else to see other than the beach, boardwalk, shops and restaurants. Taxi rates are set according to more than 20 zones around the island. Log in. Rainfall is a different matter. They can rent umbrellas and chairs for a reasonable price and a lovely view of the bay. Grand case beach is a clean, tourist-friendly beach that you are bound to enjoy. Here are the best things to do while in Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port! What restaurants are near Great Bay Beach? The beach also features great restaurants like the Rainbow caf, popular for freshly caught fish dishes and cocktails. Its the perfect beach spot if you want a quiet place to go without the touristy vibe. Kim Sha beach is the place to be for party-goers who want the time of their life. It has been quite a few years since I've been to St. Maarten. They have Jet-Skis rentals and water sports equipment rentals. #3 Best Value of 7 Philipsburg Cruise Port Hotels. Two beach chairs and an umbrella go for $20. It has restaurants and bars, where you can get a bite or a drink from. From there, cruise visitors can walk, take a water taxi or a taxi cab to Great Bay Beach. If you prefer to walk its about 20 minutes. Located at the northern portions of St Maarten, Tintamarre Island is a secluded paradise unlike anywhere else. 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). What's the best way to see Great Bay Beach? 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. Anse Marcel is one of St. Martins best kept secrets. Great views of the cruise ships and the marina at one end and at the other end are great views of the mountains. They prob stop and ask about every 5 mins so it does get annoying. 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. 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.
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