Aa a result of the volcanic eruption on St. Vincent, we were rescued by a cruise ship and taken to St. Maarten. Although we were sad to leave the stunning beaches of Union Island, we were excited to head back to the best beaches in St. Maarten. All in all it was an incredible experience and we are eternally grateful to have been saved. Even though there was zero planning involved, within 36 hours we found ourselves on the best beaches in St. Maarten.
This rather small island is actually 2 countries in one. St. Martin is the French side and St. Maarten is the Dutch. A number of years ago we had spent time in both areas of this island. However, due to COVID restrictions chose to stay on the Dutch side this time around.
St. Maarten beaches are quite stunning and are some of the top Caribbean Beach destinations. So of course we had to check them all out. Follow us to the 5 top beaches in St. Maarten.
1. Pelican Key Beach
After scouring many different hotels and resorts, we chose the Hilton Flamingo Beach Resort on Pelican Key Beach. It was incredibly quiet and the beach was white sand framing turquoise clear water. After all we wanted to be on the best beaches in St. Maarten. And Pelican Key Beach was definitely it!
2. Kim Sha Beach
Kim Sha Beach is located just south of Simpson Bay and north of Pelican Key Beach. Although most consider this area as party central, most days we had the beach to ourselves. Because there is a small reef nearby, swimming in this calm water is tranquil. Additionally there are restaurants, bars and water sport rental facilities on the beach.
3. Maho Beach
Maho is more than just one of the best beaches in St. Maarten! This beach is located at the end of the Princess Juliana International Airport. Therefore you get the beach and a show all in one! While most people come to this place to watch the planes, the beach here is stunning. Above all, the crystal clear water and white powder sand make this one of the best beaches in St. Maartin.
4. Cupecoy Beach
Cupecoy is a series of small beaches scattered below limestone cliffs. It is the first beach after crossing the western border from the French side onto the Dutch one. As a result, the sunsets here are mesmerizing. In addition, you can snorkel, swim and enjoy the caves. So far this area has been clothing optional. Therefore, beware if you plan on bringing children.
5. Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay is a very large stretch of beach. Given this, it feels quite spacious even on busy weekends. Due to the strong northerly winds this beach is a favorite with surfers. In addition, there are strong currents here. Therefore beware, especially with small children. Unfortunately there are no bathroom facilities on this beach. However, there is a snack bar.
Wrap Up – Best Beaches in St. Maarten
St. Maarten offers some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. While it reminded us of our beloved Antigua, it was a lot busier. Additionally it has a fun European feel to the island. Because of the Dutch and French influences there are many shops and restaurants that offer a level of variety that we had not seen on the islands. We will definitely be back!
Have you been to St. Maarten? Which one of the St. Maarten beaches was your favorite? Would love to hear from you!
