One Day St. Maarten Itinerary – Happy Family Day in Simpson Bay

January 2, 2026
St. Maarten / St. Martin Itinerary Blog, Uncategorized

Happy Family Day – One Day St. Maarten Itinerary

Overview: How to Spend Your Day in St. Maarten

This Happy Family Day itinerary is designed to help you make the most out of a single day on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. Starting with a delicious breakfast, you’ll enjoy local sights, great food, and an active water adventure in Simpson Bay and surrounding waters.

Morning Start: Breakfast at Zee Best

Why Zee Best is a Great First Stop

Begin your day at Zee Best in Simpson Bay, known for its freshly baked pastries, artisanal Frenchstyle breakfast, pancakes, omelettes, and strong Caribbean coffee — ideal for fueling up before a busy day of exploration. The cafe’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families.

What to Order

Choose from classic eggs and omelettes, sweet crepes, or fresh tropical fruit options. For a truly local start, try a freshly baked croissant or bagel paired with coffee and juice.

Located in Simpson Bay St Maarten, Topper's Restaurant & Bar display their rum and food cones on the counter

MidMorning Adventure: Explore Toppers

Discover Toppers Restaurant Rum Distillery

After breakfast, take a short walk or quick taxi/bus ride to Toppers Restaurant & Bar in Simpson Bay. Here, delicious food meets a storied rum distillery. You can explore local culture, sample signature rums, and enjoy waterfront views.

What to Do at Toppers

Enjoy wandering around the grounds, tasting housemade rum, or engaging with staff about St. Maarten’s rum traditions. Toppers also serves light snacks and beverages if needed.

Lunch: Al Pasha in Simpson Bay

A Tasty Lunch Experience

For lunch, head back toward central Simpson Bay to Al Pasha, a restaurant serving Lebanese, Mediterranean, and international dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. There are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available, making it perfect for families.

Menu Highlights

Fresh salads, grilled meats, falafel, hummus, and mezze platters are ideal for sharing. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed, social vibe.

Afternoon Adventure: 2 PM Kayak Snorkel Tour with TriSport

What to Expect on the Kayak Snorkel Tour

At 2 PM, join the TriSport Kayak Snorkel Tour departing from Simpson Bay. This includes guided kayaking through scenic waters and approximately 45 minutes of snorkeling among colorful marine life.

Tour Highlights

Guided kayaking through Simpson Bay
Snorkeling around lively coral spots with tropical fish
A brief beach stop with optional refreshments

Getting Around St. Maarten For This Itinerary

Buses

Buses connect key areas including Maho, Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Philipsburg. They can be flagged down anywhere along the route, and payment is made upon disembarking.

Taxis

Taxis are available island-wide and provide a quick way to get between stops. Agree on fixed rates before departure for convenience.

Tips

Simpson Bay is well served by both taxis and buses. If staying near the cruise port or hotels, taxis are usually the fastest way to reach each stop.

A view of KIm Sha Beach in Simpson Bay with yellow beach umbrellas and brown beach beds

Wrap Up Your Day

After your kayak and snorkel adventure, return to Simpson Bay Beach for a sunset stroll or visit nearby beaches like Maho Beach or Kim Sha Beach before dinner or an evening outing.

Are you looking for (a combination with) another St. Maarten / St. Martin itinerary? See our dedicated itinerary blog for more excursion and trip ideas around the island.