french Side Beaches -
Longue Baie
Long Bay or Baie Longue is one of the island’s most stunning stretches
of coastline. The silky waters here, at times aquamarine laced with
shades of turquoise, are among the Caribbean’s most beautiful. Long Bay
is lovely, but there’s a steep approach and can sometimes be rocky.
Baie Rouge
This small but lovely cove serves up majestic views of elegant villas.
Dramatic rock formations dot the coastline, and snorkeling is
unsurpassed. Two beach bars provide food and drink. (Photo on left)
Nettle Baie
This resort strip hosts two beaches and several large hotels. On the
lagoon side you’ll find several cafes and some thrilling island views.
On the beach side visit Layla's Restaurant for lunch.
Friar's Bay (Anse des Peres)
This is a special beach with powder-white sand on a cove that is
accessible through Cripple Creek. There are two restaurants on the
beach, which is a favorite of locals. Every full moon you’ll find an
all-night party here.
Grand Case (Petit Plage)
Shouldering a town known for its fine dining, Grand Case Beach is
perfect for sunning or strolling. The northern edge fringes Creole Rock,
the island’s premier snorkeling spot. Easy access, a gentle slope and
reasonably priced food at lolos — island barbecue stands — make this
beach perfect for families.
Anse Marcel
This beach borders Le Meridian Hotel and can be accessed through its
tropical gardens. The horseshoe-shaped cove harbors yachts, racing boats
and restaurants. Waters are shallow and there are places to catch some
shade.
Pinel Island
You’ll love the boat ride off the eastern coast to this small island,
which features several beaches and two restaurants. The ride takes just
a few minutes, giving you a whole day to explore the island. Shade is
limited, so remember to bring plenty of sunscreen.
Orient Beach
St. Martin's famous clothes-optional beach. This half moon-shaped
stretch of shore is the St. Tropez of island beaches, with festive bars
and more than a dozen charming restaurants, where you can sip an
ice-cold beer or a glass of chilled Chardonnay. Water sports range from
parasailing to water-skiing and windsurfing. Window-shop among beachwear
and souvenir boutiques.
Le Galion
This horseshoe-shaped beach stretches out for nearly 100 feet, but
waters won’t rise above your knees. There’s a windsurfing school here.
The best beach on the island, with a good bit of shade.
Dutch
Side Beaches -
Cupecoy
One of the island’s most photographed beaches, its white, craggy cliffs
have caves along the side and it borders the intense sapphire-blue sea.
On the far side is a clothing-optional area, where you can tan all over.
Limited shade and not particularly easy to get to, but a beautiful beach
nonetheless. On the southern end is the Cliffhanger Bar, a great place
to watch the sunset. Food, drinks and beach chairs available.
Mullet Bay
Bordering the golf course, this long stretch of beach offers gentle surf
and powder-white sand. It’s a favorite with locals. Easy access and
plenty of shade.
Maho (Airport Beach)
Popular Maho Beach has one of the most unusual locations you will ever
see. When planes land on St. Maarten they fly right over it. This is the
closest observation point in the world where the public can watch planes
as large as 747's land. The beach is surprisingly good, and the
snorkeling is great. The surf can sometimes be rough but it is a great
place to stop, take a quick dip and watch a few jets land right over
head. At one end is the Sunset Beach Bar a very popular cocktail hour
spot. A Word of Caution - Regardless of what other people do, stand off
to the side of the runway. The jet blast could toss a pebble back at you
at twice the speed of a magnum bullet. Also don't leave your clothes or
towels in the flight path or they will be blown out to sea.
Simpson Bay
This sickle-shaped beach is dotted with inns and villas, lining one of
the island’s traditional fishing villages. Undulating waves here gently
lap at the shore. The beach borders the airport runway and offers great
opportunities for swimming and walking. Shade is limited.
Great Bay
Recently widened, this long expanse of beach features a drop-off,
depending on the season. The water by Great Bay Hotel is calm and
smooth. Several beach bars and restaurants front the beach. Because it’s
so wide, this beach is great for a walk and water sports. Combine
shopping in Philipsburg with a day at the beach.
Guana Bay
At this exotic stretch of beach you’ll find a luxurious residential
community with no hotels. Known as one of the best surfing beaches on
the island, waves are wonderful and you have a magnificent view of Ile
Fourche and St. Barths. There’s a beach bar here at the far end of the
beach. Usually uncrowded.
Dawn Beach (Oyster Pond)
A
wide beach bordering a magnificent stretch of coastline, where
snorkeling is sublime and a dazzling offshore reef is easily accessible.
The point meets at the inlet to Oyster Pond and you have great views of
St. Barths. Kids love this untamed beach, but watch out for the surf,
which can be strong at times. Scavenger's Beach Bar and Mr. Busby's
offer beach chair rentals, food and drinks.
