Sint Maarten beaches is among the best beaches in the region. Located near to the cruise port and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. If you want to experience one of the top Caribbean's beaches, this is the spot for you! See the below map of beaches to explore all your options for beaches in Sint Maarten.
St. Maarten is a sun-soaked paradise that feels tailor-made for families, where calm turquoise waters and powdery sands set the stage for unforgettable beach days. Great Bay Beach is a standout favorite, especially for those arriving by cruise—just steps from the port, it offers gentle waves, plenty of shade, and easy access to restaurants and shops. For a laid-back, kid-friendly vibe, Kim Sha Beach is a winner, known for its shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere where families can swim, snack, and unwind without a worry. Over at Simpson Bay Beach, you’ll find a long stretch of soft sand perfect for building sandcastles or taking sunset strolls, all while enjoying calm seas that make it ideal for younger swimmers.
For those craving a mix of excitement and natural beauty, Maho Beach delivers a one-of-a-kind experience—watch planes soar dramatically overhead as you lounge on the sand, a thrill that fascinates both kids and adults alike. Meanwhile, Mullet Bay Beach offers postcard-perfect scenery with crystal-clear water and a more spacious, serene setting, making it perfect for families who want room to spread out and relax. Whether you’re stepping off a cruise ship or planning a full island escape, St. Maarten’s beaches combine convenience, beauty, and a dash of adventure to create memories that linger long after the sand is gone from your shoes.
Whether you're planning a full family beach day, making the most of a few hours in port, or simply want everything taken care of before you arrive, browse the beaches below, choose your spot, and reserve online.
Getting to St. Maarten beaches from the cruise terminal
St. Maarten, a stunning Caribbean destination, is renowned for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and picturesque beaches. For cruise passengers disembarking at the Philipsburg cruise port, there's no shortage of beautiful beaches to explore. Taxis are readily available at the Phillipsburg terminal and operate on set island rates. The table below shows approximate travel times from the terminal to each Sandy Spot beach location.
| Beach | Island | Nearest Cruise Terminal | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Bay Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 5 min water taxi |
| Little Bay Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 10 min taxi |
| Kim Sha / Simpson Bay Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 15–20 min taxi |
| Maho Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 25–40 min taxi |
| Mullet Bay Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 30–45 min taxi |
| Dawn Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 20–30 min taxi |
| Cupecoy Beach | St. Maarten | Philipsburg Cruise Port | 30–40 min taxi |
St. Maarten is one of the most visited cruise destinations in the Caribbean, and the island's best beaches reflect that. On days when multiple ships are in port, demand for beach chairs at most of the beaches peaks early in the morning.
Reserving online through SandySpot before your trip means:
