Getting To Maho Beach From The Cruise Port - Fastest Way! 2. Day Passes at Caribbean Resorts | Cruise Critic Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Great Bay Beach is a cheap and easy option for your beach day in St. Maarten. St. Barth is frequented by the rich and famous. If youre feeling adventurous, you could go for a hike in Happy Bay, a local and tourist favourite. 10 Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. Martin How to Get from St Maarten Airport to Hotel? Not only will the beach take your breath away but also the view, including the sunsets and docked yachts, produce a postcard memory if you go on a trip in the Oyster Pond. Snorkeling and diving equipment are available for rent as well as jet skis. Show Prices. Clear waters, beautiful horizon, and the quiet ambiance of the Grand Case Beach makes it a worthwhile destination. Juliana Airport (SXM) Hotels near Esperance Airport (SFG) Hotels near Wallblake Airport (AXA) Tours; Add a . It's perfect for a lazy beach day. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Some of the ladies started harassing a guy because he said no to a massage for his wife. We visited Secrets Resort in Saint Martin a week ago. Little Bay has perfect calm crystal clear waters resultant from the protection offered by the peninsula. Its surrounded by perfect vistas of the ocean and lush hills. The Great Bay Beach is a well-maintained destination complete with white sandy dunes and clear waters, which is why its among our top picks when it comes to the different nice beaches in St Maarten. Dont forget to bargain with the vendors. Fondly known as Airplane beach, as planes usually have to approach the landing at an altitude of less than 100 feet. Beach chairs, umbrellas and jet-skis are available for a fee. Rainfall is a different matter. Usual beach, bars, restaurants, shops. Related:15 Things to Do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten During a Cruise. Do you need to book in advance to visit Great Bay Beach? Maho Beach is usually a favorite of visitors to the island and it is a tiny beach. Also Read:15 Best Cozumel Beaches You Should Experience. This beachs convenience makes it a hot spot for many tourists who are looking to relax and have some fun. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. There were multiple ships in port so you could probably negotiate a better deal on a less busy day. What Are The Pros & Cons of Living In Curacao, What Are The Pros & Cons of Living In Bonaire, Living In Aruba (Pros & Cons Fully Explained), Living In St Eustatius ( Pros & Cons Fully Explained), Living In St Maarten (Pros & Cons Fully Explained), Living In Saba Island (Pros & Cons Fully Explained), St Maarten Vs St Martin (Which Is Better For A Vacation), St Thomas vs St Maarten ( Which Island Is Better To Visit), Your email address will not be published. Arrived on cruise ship having read the reviews and took the $7 water taxi as advised. If you are after a more local atmosphere and better bargains, try Back Street. It is reasonably private and not crowded, giving you ample time for relaxation and sunbathing. Little Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go It creates a very magical experience. Enjoy a nice blood warming match of volley ball. As a result, it often draws large crowds. Competent swimmers should try this beach and swim out to the arch and enjoy the other hidden beach found at the base of the cliff. Though it's not nearly as . One of the more interesting beaches on St. Maarten is Cupecoy because of its white sand, sandstone cliffs and small caves along the shore. Maho Beach is also known as the airplane beach and is the most famous and favorite spot for locals and tourists. Best Family Beaches in St. Maarten for an Outstanding Time Check out the list below for the top recommended Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. As such many individuals are fascinated with plane spotting in this area. Enjoy an exciting experience with this unique water ride. Probably the most crowded beach during the cruise season is Maho Beach watching the planes land and take off, never gets old. St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour 36 Bus Tours from $40.00 per adult St Maarten Shore Excursion: Maho Beach and Orient Bay Sightseeing 23 Recommended Bus Tours from $35.00 per adult Calypso Tour 56 Recommended Bus Tours from $47.00 per adult Maho Beach Extreme Jet Blast 1 Bus Tours from $35.00 per adult Then it climbs to a high point for the rest of the year. With its beautiful calm waters and sandy shores, it truly is one of the top beaches in St Maarten. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. Cruise Port to Maho Beach, St Maarten - Tripadvisor Great Bay Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau This hidden gem is seldom crowded because its tricky to find. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. Great Bay Beach is also a family beach which is kid-friendly so that the whole family can enjoy. 2 sun beds, umbrella and table for $30. Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Little Bay rests at the base of Fort . The Guava berry Emporium is the spot to taste and sample this locally made liquor. Say Maho! when the planes fly over your head; its a tradition on the island! Great views of the cruise ships and the marina at one end and at the other end are great views of the mountains. We did end up getting some of our kids hair braided by two different people. Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Playa Orient Bay. We'll send you a weekly newsletter to your inbox. The powdery soft sand and coconut trees backdrop give it a magical atmosphere. Pinel Beach is found in an island lying just a few yards off the east coast of Sint Martin. 2017 Scott S. Bateman. Now, its a silent part of the busy beach leading to the cruise ship terminal, where tour operators await with open-air trucks to carry passengers to activities (USD cash accepted). Water sports are also an option for the group who looks for day thrills. It is very close to the cruise terminal and you can get there either by water taxi for $7 with a return ticket or pay $5 for a one way. Best for Crown Bay Cruisers: Emerald Beach (Lindbergh Bay Beach) Why go: Home to the Emerald Beach Resort, Lindbergh Bay has all the things you want in a beach, while being located close. Great Bay Beach Great Bay Beach is the closest beach to the cruise terminal in St Maarten. The beach is great for swimming but at times can be rough so definitely one has to be cautious with children. Located at the northern portions of St Maarten, Tintamarre Island is a secluded paradise unlike anywhere else. What's the best way to see Great Bay Beach? Maarten beaches. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Walk three fourths of a mile, ride in a land taxi or take a quick water taxi to the tourist district. Best Caribbean Cruise Destinations and Ports of Call - Thrillist Little Bay is located about a 10 minute drive from the cruise port. Even better, this white-sand, two-mile beach is right in front of Philipsburg, capital of the Dutch side of the island. Top 6 Car Rentals in St. Maarten Cruise Port "Everything was great, except check in because there's no place to park immediately until after you check in and pay the fees for the parking lot. 285 reviews. Little Bay Beach. Visitors should know in advance that restaurants and food stands are a bit expensive, so it pays to bring food along on the visit. However, kindly note that this one is the furthest on this list from the cruise port. Royal Palm Beach Resort. Its arguably famously known as the bikini beach as it entertains many lively parties and holds huge crowds of party people. A nice day trip is a jaunt from the Philipsburg cruise port over to Marigot, capital of the French side, or Grand Case. Kayaking is also available on this island where you get to paddle across the entirety of the waters, a must-try activity for all ages. Mullet Bay (Sint Maarten) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go This is the most affordable option. The islands rugged coastline features 37 beaches all around. The beach is not far, and an affordable taxi ride takes you there. The island has virtually no stop signs or stop lights. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 1 mile away from Friars Bay Beach is a walking trail that takes you right into the heart of the open beach and the black rock formation. Renting a car is usually much cheaper and it's what we would do. These cliffs are eroded to create perfect small coves that create small secluded romantic beaches on their own. A weather forecasting app may help to ensure that your visit to the beach will be exquisite. Take a swim in the clear blue sea. These are near the cruise port terminal for ease of access on the island. Kids can play on the sand and enjoy a splash in the calm water. When the clock hits at the time of sunset, thats where the flashing lights, livid atmosphere, and the nightlife starts. Great Bay Beach Great Bay Beach is a beautiful beach that stretches 2 miles (3.22 km) long that looks like a postcard from every angle. A certified PADI dive shop is located at the center of the beach. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'stmaartenadventure_com-banner-1','ezslot_11',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-banner-1-0');Visit Little Bay Beach if youre looking for a beach thats close to the cruise port, about 7-minute cab ride. before joining cruise ship. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'stmaartenadventure_com-leader-3','ezslot_8',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-leader-3-0');There are also cabs to take you to different destinations if you prefer to discover the island. Please note that some of the beaches mentioned were heavily hit by hurricane Irma and are still rebuilding. Daughter thought they were the best she has had this holiday. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa. Great Bay Beach, a long boardwalk and shopping on Front Street run side by side. Great Bay Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Orient Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, Cupecoy Beach; St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Just a short walk away you can enjoy some duty-free shopping, great food, and delicious cocktails. A 15-minute taxi ride will get you to this beach. Anse Marcel is one of St. Martins best kept secrets. The beach is certainly grand in Sint Maarten, and within steps from the port (unlike Cayman). In the morning, the beautiful beach and the clear sand captivates the vacationers to take a dip. Each offers truly unique characteristics and there's a . Clear waters, beautiful beach, and powdery sandy shoreswhat more could you ask for in Divi Beach? The water taxi stand at the cruise port is just a quick walk north of the docks. The liquor is a rare combination of aged rum, sugar cane, and wild guava berries found in the central part of the island. Start your shopping day at Front street in the heart of Philipsburg. When you get hungry, visit the popular Chez Raymond for grilled foods and drinks. Here you can dine at French, Thai, and Italian restaurants. The main St. Maarten cruise port is Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities at Philipsburg. It. This Is What You Need To Plan The Best Cruise With A Baby, How To Plan Awesome Family Cruise Shore Excursions Youll Love. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. They can walk a hundred more feet to reach many more restaurants and the ports extensive shopping district, most of which falls along the lengthy Front Street. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'stmaartenadventure_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'stmaartenadventure_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_13',113,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stmaartenadventure_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0_1');.mobile-leaderboard-1-multi-113{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}If youre into water sports, this is a one of a kind attraction in the Caribbean, great fun! This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Sonesta Ocean Point Resort- All Inclusive Adults Only, The Villas at Simpson Bay Beach Resort and Marina, Atrium Beach Resort and Spa St Maarten a Ramada by Wyndham, Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa, Marys Boon Beach Plantation Resort & Spa, 35 Best Places to Visit in August in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA. Alternatively, you can take a 20 minute stroll to Great Bay Beach. Numerous restaurants line the boardwalk; many more restaurants plus plenty of shopping lie only one block over on Philipsburgs popular Front Street. It is about seven miles north of the Philipsburg cruise port. Guana Bay Beach, located on the southeast coast of the island, offers great views of St. Barthelemy and is used for wind and kite surfing. Its longer and broader than Great Bay Beach. 1. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Commodore Suites, Divi Beach, Little Bay RdSint Maarten, NLD 1744. The high rocks block most of the wind, so its a good choice when the Caribbean trade winds are strong that day. Located about 20 minutes by taxi from the cruise terminal, this white sand beach is surrounded by lush green landscape. 29 Best St. Maarten Excursions | 93,000+ Verified Reviews How To Get From The Cruise Port To Great Bay Beach, What Costs Are Involved In Visiting Great Bay Beach, How To Get From The Cruise Port To Orient Bay Beach. Where they serve fresh fish and lobsters for lunch among others. I absolutely love cruising with my favorite ports of call being in the Caribbean. Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port - Things to Do! - Gangwaze.com Check it out and enjoy your Caribbean adventure to the fullest! There are several shops selling watches, jewelery, perfume and electronic gadgets nearby. The St. Martin French restaurants in Marigot are smaller and more casual. Find the right beach for you for spending your day in port. The nearby amenities and close proximity to the ship make it a very popular choice for cruise guests. The Sunset Beach Bar is a popular destination amongst St.Maarten tourists and locals, other places in Maho are Driftwood Boat bar right on the beach great spot to catch the planes and a new bar called Sand bar. There is a large Westin resort located on this beach. Enjoy the Caribbean Sea, and keep an eye on the time, time flies when youre having fun. The coral reefs offer snorkelers a peek into St. Maarten water inhabitants. A smaller number of restaurants are on the French side in Marigot and Grand Case. Beach bumming is the main activity here, but you can also try the locals favorite guava berry rum Coladas served at the little bars nearby. Shopping and Dining | Attractions | Getting Around | Beaches | Weather. You could visit the Rouge et Noir casino near the end of the beach strip. Very pretty mountains around the bay and it's great to watch the ships come and go. Frequented by tourists from far and wide, this beach is an amazing destination for all ages. If this is something you would like to see and enjoy, then, by all means, visit Maho beach for this once in a lifetime experience. Here are the best things to do while in Philipsburg, St. Maarten Cruise Port! Why We Recommend This Beach Here are 10 attractions near the cruise port to make planning easier for passengers. St Martin Beaches - St. Martin/St. Maarten - Cruise Critic Community Boutique hotel situated on Great Bay Beach in downtown Philipsburg. One of the best beaches in St. Maarten is Mullet Bay Beach. Once youre there you will be approached by vendors selling chairs and umbrella packages on the beach that include beer and Wi-Fi. Bicycles / scooters. If I wanted to go to the French side, what is the best/easiest/cheapest way to do so? It is located on the French side and is about a 20-minute ride from the port. It is quite a bit more quiet these days. What part of the beach is the best to spend few hrs, coming via cruise plan to walk or take taxi. Maho Beach Arguably the most popular beach that travelers on cruises to St. Maarten visit is Maho Beach, which is known for having the area's longest stretch of hotels and resorts. Fine sandy beach alongside a boardwalk. But dont take our word for it see for yourself. 10 Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten/St. Martin The beach strip has enough to offer during the day, though, and stores galore towards Achter Straatan enduring shopping destination! 3-Hour Guided Jeep Tour Island Highlights and 1-Hour Relax by Beach, The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour, The Original Eco Tour Full-Day Around the Island of Sint Maarten, Private St Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour, Best Of St Maarten Private Nightlife Tour, Modern Interactive Art MaShin Tour in Philipsburg with Pickup, @Philipsburg: calling all Sunbathers and shoppers. Getting To Maho Beach From The Cruise Port - Fastest Way! St Maarten is loved by tourists and visitors to the island for its bustling night life, diverse dining options and its exciting duty free shopping experience. Grand Case Beach. As a result, it is hugely popular with visitors taking photos and videos. It's about a $50-$60 for the round trip but it all depends on how many passengers. Known to be a favorite spot among celebrities, this outstanding beach showcases a plethora of restaurants, hotels, and shops by the oceanfront, making it convenient for the tourists to go souvenir shopping. This beach is located on the French Side called St Martin and is about a 20 minute taxi ride from the cruise port. Rates quoted by the St. Maarten Taxi Association are $10 per person each way for two passengers and $9 per person for three to five passengers. This beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling through the astounding coral reefs and bodies of water. There is also a small souvenir flea market nearby, just keep walking straight in pass Back Street, its hard to miss. Travel by water taxi is about 5 minutes and via taxi (car) about 8 minutes via Walter A Nisbeth Road. The place is fabulous. The locals are also friendly and charming to the tourists, making Divi Beach a warm place to stay at. 3. This beach offers a lively atmosphere that is perfect for beachgoers. It lies right in from of the city of Philipsburg. They should eat and drink at Emilio's, Come y Calla, Freedom Fighters Ital Shack, and Sunset Caf. The destruction and lack of money from tourism has resulted in most of the island being in some state of disrepair. This cruise port is huge, handling over 20,000 people at a time and up to 6 ships at once. Additionally, there is a clothing optional area on this beach. Once we got the the beach there are people there trying to rent you lounge chairs. If youre on a Caribbean cruise tour, Great Bay Beach is a fun stopover for daytrippers since it is located at the peak of Philipsburg. Great for: Beach time, diving, snorkeling, water sports. With palm trees leaning in, Do some hammock napping with your family. This destination is also known to be the safest beach for kids since the water is calm and aquatic activities are relatively available in the area. St. Maarten Beaches + Things to do near St. Maarten cruise port :: st Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in St Maarten, located near Princess Juliana Airport.