St Maarten Cruise Port to Beach: Best Beaches Near the Ship
Caribbean Beaches Right Off The Gangway
Those who have visited St. Maarten know that, besides offering a record variety of things to do for cruise visitors per square mile, St. Maarten is also a port of call with a large number of beaches that are near or easily accessible from the port. With close to 40 beaches available from the cruise port, this guide will help you select the beach that best fits your ideal day with sand between your toes, while still making sure you return to the ship on time. Taxis waiting for you at the St. Maarten cruise port will help you customize any beach day to your needs, and buses can also assist you with getting to many beaches of choice.
1. Closest by: Great Bay Beach and Little Bay Beach
Great Bay Beach
When people talk about the “St Maarten Cruise Port Beach,” they are most likely referring to Great Bay Beach. This beach, located alongside the capital Philipsburg, is within walking distance of the cruise ship port and offers a great view of the large cruise ships anchored offshore.
It is no surprise that this beach is popular with cruise visitors, as it is one of the most convenient options for a beach day during your itinerary. The miles long boardwalk has dozens of beach clubs to choose from, many offering packages that include beach chairs, umbrellas, and drinks.
Great Bay Beach also combines perfectly with attractions, shopping, and museums on Front Street, located directly behind the boardwalk.
How to reach Great Bay Beach
Many cruise visitors choose to walk the mile between the St. Maarten cruise port and the beach. Ferries can also take you to Bobby’s Marina, Captain Hodge Pier, and Walter Plantz Square. A taxi ride of about five minutes is another option.
Time to get there
Walking from the port to “town”, as it is nicknamed on island, takes about 15 minutes. The ferry takes about 10 minutes, and a taxi takes only a few minutes.
Advised time to return to ship
Leaving one hour before your ship’s departure will give you enough time to walk back at a relaxed pace, browse for souvenirs along the way, and still arrive well before departure.
Amenities
With Philipsburg located directly beside the beach, all amenities are within easy reach, including supermarkets, beach clubs, restaurants, and museums.
Fun Fact
Great Bay Beach is arguably one of the most popular beaches in the Caribbean when considering both visitor numbers and the high praise given to St. Maarten as a cruise destination.
Little Bay Beach
Little Bay Beach is not only located opposite your cruise ship, but it also offers a completely different experience from Great Bay Beach.
While both beaches share calm waters and turquoise seas, Little Bay provides a more peaceful atmosphere compared with the lively city setting of Great Bay.
The beach is located alongside Divi Little Bay Resort but is open to all. Between you and the beach stands historic Fort Amsterdam, which is freely accessible and provides excellent photo opportunities of your cruise ship.
How to reach Little Bay Beach
Little Bay Beach has a walking route from Philipsburg, but reaching it on foot from the St. Maarten cruise port requires a longer walk. Considering the Caribbean heat, taking a taxi is often the better option.
Time to get there
Walking from the cruise port takes more than 40 minutes, especially if you stop along the way to explore Philipsburg’s stores and photo opportunities. A taxi ride takes about 15 minutes. At Divi Little Bay, taxis are available to bring you back.
Advised time to return to ship
If walking back, allow about two hours so you have enough time for a farewell cocktail in Philipsburg or some last minute souvenir shopping. By taxi, leaving one hour before departure should provide enough time to return comfortably.
Amenities
The beach has the Gizmo beach club to cater to your needs. A convenience store and souvenir shops can be found at Divi, while Aquamania offers beach packages and a variety of floating equipment.
Fun Fact
Little Bay was the first settlement on the Dutch side of the island and was directly protected by Fort Amsterdam’s strategic location. It was also the place where Peter Stuyvesant lost his leg during a siege in 1644.
2. Other Famous Beaches Within Reach From the Cruise Port
Maho Beach
Maho Beach might be St. Maarten’s most famous beach, although it is not necessarily a beach where many visitors spend an entire day relaxing. The reason is that this is not only a scenic beach, but also one where airplanes arrive and depart directly overhead. Many cruise visitors make a stop at this famous airport beach during their visit.
How to reach Maho Beach from the Cruise Port
Depending on your expectations, Maho Beach is not far from the cruise port by taxi, island tour or bus. It is approximately 12 kilometers away and takes around 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. However, it is not within walking distance like Great Bay Beach or Little Bay Beach.
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port, as well as near the Morgan Resort parking area on the eastern side of the beach. Many taxis display a “back to the ship” sign. If there is no taxi available when you are ready to leave, the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort nearby is another reliable place to find transportation.
Various boat tours like those of Eagle Tours and Private Yacht Charters include sailing experiences with views of the airport from the sea. Please note that these boats do not make a beach landing and must maintain a safe distance because of their mast height, but they are experienced in creating a great viewing experience.
The beach is also included in both standard and private island tours. These tours are planned around the arrival times of larger aircraft to provide visitors with the best possible spectacle.
Buses also travel to Maho Beach. From Emmaplein, which is about a 15 minute walk from your ship, you can take the Maho / Cupecoy minivan bus line.
Time to get there
During high season, the Simpson Bay area between Philipsburg and Maho becomes busy with resort visitors and megayachts. Several times a day, the Simpson Bay Lagoon Bridge opens to allow yachts to enter and leave the lagoon. This can affect traffic, but if you leave shortly after disembarking, the journey usually takes around 30 minutes.
Whatever means of transport you choose, ensure you look at the St. Maarten airport arrivals and departures first.
Advised time to return to ship
Because of possible traffic delays, keep enough extra time available after your visit to Maho Beach. This is especially important during late afternoon rush hour. Most visitors find that spending around one hour at Maho Beach is enough to enjoy the experience, unless you combine it with a lunch or a drink at the beach clubs.
A great option is to visit Maho Beach in the morning and spend the afternoon exploring Philipsburg, which is conveniently located close to the cruise port.
All St. Maarten cruise shore excursions, both private and ship organized, are operated by experienced providers who are committed to returning guests to the ship on time.
Depending on traffic and the number of stops included, tours and buses usually reach Maho Beach within approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Exit on the Maho roundabout.
Amenities
Maho Beach has several beach clubs nearby, making it easy to combine airplane watching with lunch, drinks, or a relaxing beach visit.
Fun Fact
Maho Beach is not only popular with visitors in person. Each year, millions of people watch the beach through the famous ShowMeCaribbean Maho Beach webcam located at Tortuga Maho Beach beach club. You can wave to hundreds of viewers from there.
Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay Beach is one of the best known beaches on St. Maarten and St. Martin. It is only a 10 minute walk from Maho Beach, making it easy to combine a visit here with some airplane spotting. However, Mullet Bay is a better choice for relaxing on the sand because it does not experience jet blasts from aircraft.
How to reach Mullet Bay Beach
Taxis, island tours, and buses on the Maho / Cupecoy route can take you there. If a bus only shows “Maho” on its sign, ask the driver if they can drop you closer to Mullet Bay. In most cases, they will be able to help.
Time to get there
Plan for approximately 40 minutes to reach Mullet Bay Beach by taxi or bus from the cruise port.
Advised time to return to ship
To avoid afternoon traffic, it is recommended to return earlier in the day and spend any remaining time exploring Philipsburg near the ship.
If you need a taxi back, the easiest option is to walk to Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, where taxis are usually available. If traveling by bus, you may also have a better chance of finding transportation from this area because not all buses continue all the way to Cupecoy.
Amenities
Mullet Bay has several beach clubs. For convenience store shopping, it is best to purchase supplies in Maho Village.
Fun Fact
Mullet Bay Beach is located alongside the island’s only golf course.
Orient Bay
Orient Bay Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the island. It is especially known for its many beach clubs, wide range of water sports, and its southern clothing optional section. Together with Grand Case Beach, it is one of the most popular beaches on the French side among cruise visitors.
Although the beach is located on the Atlantic side of the island, the nearby island of Caye Verte protects the bay from strong currents, creating a setting that feels like a true Caribbean beach.
How to reach Orient Bay Beach from the Cruise Port
Orient Bay is best reached by taxi or an island tour from the cruise port. The village is located within a gated community, and reaching the central area requires some local knowledge of the roads.
Time to get there
The drive to Orient Bay takes approximately 30 minutes. If you have some extra time, ask your driver to take the scenic route through the Baie Embouchure and Baie Lucas nature areas.
Advised time to return to ship
Traffic is usually manageable on this side of the island. However, it is always recommended to keep a two hour buffer to return to the Philipsburg area on time. If your cruise schedule allows, you can spend some additional time exploring Philipsburg before returning to your ship.
Amenities
Orient Bay has dozens of beach clubs and a wide variety of water sports activities. The central square also offers a supermarket and other shops.
Fun Fact
Orient Bay is one of the island’s most popular locations for kitesurfing.
Kim Sha Beach
Kim Sha Beach is located on the eastern side of Simpson Bay Beach and is a family friendly destination. It is popular with resort visitors staying nearby but also welcomes many cruise visitors throughout the year.
How to reach Kim Sha Beach
Kim Sha Beach is one of the first beaches you pass when traveling from Philipsburg toward Maho. You can reach it by taxi or by taking the Philipsburg to Maho or Cupecoy minivan bus route.
Time to get there
Depending on traffic, a taxi can take you from the cruise port to Kim Sha Beach in approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Allow extra time if you choose to travel by bus.
Advised time to return to ship
The road between Philipsburg and this part of the island can experience some traffic, especially during rush hour after 4 PM. It is best to enjoy Kim Sha Beach in the morning and leave after lunch, giving yourself time to explore Philipsburg before your ship departs.
Amenities
Buccaneer Beach Bar is a well known beach bar in this area, offering a kids’ zone and ice cream options. Coconut provides floaties and water toys for visitors.
Fun Fact
The name Kim Sha may sound exotic, and it is. The beach was named after a Chinese restaurant that operated on the island during the 1980s.
Grand Case Beach
Grand Case is an old fishing village located in the northwestern part of the island. It is famous for its excellent restaurants, charming atmosphere, and the nearby small French side airport L’Esperance. Grand Case Beach stretches along the village coastline.
How to reach Grand Case Beach
Grand Case is included in many island tours, and many cruise visitors also take a taxi there for lunch. If you prefer public transportation, take the Philipsburg to Marigot bus and transfer to another bus from Marigot. All French side buses depart from Marigot and stop near Grand Case.
Some catamaran cruises to Creole Rock also include a stop near Grand Case Beach. Make sure the tour schedule fits your cruise ship departure time.
Time to get there
The journey to Grand Case takes approximately 45 minutes by road.
Advised time to return to ship
Because Grand Case is located in the northern part of the island and requires traveling through the busy Marigot area, it is important to allow enough time for the return journey.
If Grand Case is your beach choice, it is recommended to visit in the morning, enjoy lunch afterward, and then return toward Philipsburg. This may still leave you time for additional sightseeing close to the cruise port.
Amenities
Grand Case Beach has several beach clubs, supermarkets, and souvenir shops along the main street next to the beach.
Fun Fact
Just like Maho Beach, small aircraft approaching the nearby airport fly directly over the beach.
3. Special, In The Know Beaches
The beaches mentioned above are among the most famous in the Caribbean. However, if you are looking for something quieter and less crowded, consider these more hidden beach options.
Indigo Bay and Cay Bay
Indigo Bay / Cay Bay is a hidden cove that is
among the closest beaches to the cruise port. These relatively small beaches are located within an exclusive residential area. The entrance gate will open when you explain that you are visiting the beach.
How to reach Indigo Bay / Cay Bay Beach
You will need a taxi to reach these beaches. Another option is to take the bus toward Marigot or Maho and Cupecoy, then walk approximately 15 minutes from the roundabout down to the beach.
Time to get there
By taxi, the journey takes around 15 minutes. By bus, expect approximately 20 minutes from the Emmaplein bus stop to the roundabout above the beach.
Advised time to return to ship
If returning by bus, allow approximately two hours to ensure you have enough time and can still enjoy some additional sightseeing in Philipsburg.
If you arrive by taxi, make sure your driver returns for you, as taxis are not usually waiting at this location.
Amenities
The beach has one beach club available for visitors.
Fun Fact
Indigo was one of the commodities exported from the island during the 18th century. Salt and sugar where however far more important.
Tintamarre
Tintamarre is an uninhabited island that was once home to a small settlement, and remnants of that history can still be found today. The island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and a beautiful white sandy beach on its western side.
How to reach Tintamarre
Tintamarre can only be reached through a scheduled excursion or private boat tour. Renegades, Eagle Tours, PYC, and Aquamania can provide information about available times and itineraries.
Time to get there
The travel time to Tintamarre depends on the excursion you choose.
Advised time to return to ship
All of the tour operators mentioned above are experienced in ensuring that guests return to the ship well before departure.
Amenities
There are no facilities on Tintamarre. Your excursion provider will prepare accordingly and usually provides water, drinks, and, depending on the length of the tour, lunch.
Fun Fact
Tintamarre was once known as a “kingdom” under its former owner, D.C. van Romondt, and even had its own currency.
4. More Beaches
This list of beaches lists just a few of the many island beaches. See further beach recommendations for tranquillity seekers, family friendly itineraries and the beaches blog for more inspiration.
If still in doubt, also see an in-depth comparison of the “big 5” beaches for your planning. If considering a tour, see if you can find one with a nice discount on the free VIP pass or bid in advance on excursions on auction.
Frequently Asked Questions About St Maarten Cruise Port Beaches
What is the closest beach to the St Maarten cruise port?
Great Bay Beach is the closest and most convenient beach to the St Maarten cruise port. It is located next to Philipsburg and can be reached by walking in approximately 15 minutes. Visitors can easily combine a beach visit with shopping, restaurants, and sightseeing along the boardwalk and Front Street.
Can you walk from the St Maarten cruise port to a beach?
Yes. Great Bay Beach is within walking distance of the cruise port. The walk takes about 15 minutes and is a popular choice for cruise visitors who want a simple beach day without arranging transportation.
What is the best beach in St Maarten for cruise passengers?
The best beach depends on what you are looking for. Great Bay Beach is the easiest choice for cruise passengers because of its location and amenities. Maho Beach is best known for airplane spotting, while Mullet Bay Beach offers a more relaxed beach experience. Orient Bay is popular for beach clubs and water activities.
How far is Maho Beach from the St Maarten cruise port?
Maho Beach is approximately 12 kilometers from the cruise port. By taxi, the journey usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. It is not within walking distance, so visitors should plan transportation carefully and allow extra time to return to the ship.
What is the safest beach near the St Maarten cruise port for returning to a cruise ship?
Great Bay Beach and Little Bay Beach are the easiest beaches for cruise visitors who want to stay close to the port. For beaches farther away, such as Maho Beach or Orient Bay, it is recommended to leave plenty of extra time because traffic can affect the return journey.
Is Maho Beach worth visiting from a cruise ship?
Yes, Maho Beach is one of St Maarten’s most famous attractions and is especially popular with visitors who want to watch airplanes fly directly overhead. Most cruise visitors spend around an hour there before continuing to another location or returning toward Philipsburg.
Which St Maarten beach is best for families?
Great Bay Beach and Kim Sha Beach are good choices for families because they offer easy access, nearby facilities, and options for food, drinks, and activities. Cars do not enter either.
Can I visit multiple beaches during a St Maarten cruise stop?
Yes. Many cruise visitors combine two or more beaches in one day. Popular combinations include Maho Beach and Mullet Bay, or Maho Beach with Great Bay Beach with Philipsburg shopping and sightseeing. Always plan your route carefully and allow enough time to return to your ship.
Do St Maarten beaches have beach chairs and umbrellas?
Many popular beaches, including Great Bay, Mullet Bay, and Orient Bay, have beach clubs that offer chairs, umbrellas, drinks, and food packages. More secluded beaches may have limited or no facilities, so visitors should prepare accordingly.
Do I need a cruise excursion to visit St Maarten beaches?
No. Many beaches can be visited independently by taxi, bus, or walking. However, organized shore excursions can be convenient because experienced operators plan around cruise schedules and ensure guests return to the ship on time.
How much time should I allow to return to my cruise ship in St Maarten?
A good rule is to allow at least one hour before departure when staying close to Philipsburg. For beaches farther away, such as Maho Beach, Orient Bay, or Grand Case, it is better to allow two hours or more to account for traffic and unexpected delays.
What should I bring for a St Maarten cruise beach day?
For a comfortable beach day, bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, water, a waterproof phone case, and some cash for taxis, beach chairs, or small purchases. If visiting a more secluded beach, bring extra drinks and snacks because facilities may be limited.
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