Best Beaches in Sint Maarten: 5 Must-Visit Spots for Crystal Clear Water & Island Energy
Sint Maarten is one of the most diverse beach destinations in the Caribbean. In less than 37 square miles, you get world-famous plane landings, calm turquoise bays, French-Caribbean beach clubs, secluded island escapes, and dramatic cliffside coves.
If you want a curated list of the best beaches in Sint Maarten / Saint Martin, these five deliver the full spectrum of the island experience.
1. Maho Beach – The Most Famous Beach in the Caribbean
No beach in Sint Maarten is more iconic than Maho Beach.
Located next to Princess Juliana International Airport, this stretch of sand is globally known for low-flying aircraft passing just overhead as they land. The experience is visceral — engines roaring, sand shifting, crowds watching.
Why it stands out:
- Unique plane-spotting experience
- Clear water and lively atmosphere
- Steps from beach bars and resorts
Best for: First-time visitors, energy, social vibe, unforgettable photos.
2. Mullet Bay Beach – Classic Caribbean Perfection
If you picture a postcard beach, you’re thinking of Mullet Bay.
Wide white sand, turquoise water, gentle waves, and space to breathe. It’s consistently ranked among the top beaches on the island for swimming and relaxing.
Why it stands out:
- Clean, soft sand
- Excellent swimming conditions
- Less chaotic than Maho
- Beautiful sunset views
Best for: Relaxed beach days, swimming, families, long sun sessions.
3. Orient Bay Beach – The French Riviera of the Caribbean
On the French side of the island, Orient Bay blends natural beauty with beach club culture.
You’ll find restaurants, lounge chairs, water sports, and a long stretch of sand framed by green hills. It’s often called the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.”
Why it stands out:
- Long, walkable shoreline
- Upscale beach clubs
- Calm morning waters
- Lively but refined atmosphere
Best for: Dining by the sea, stylish beach days, social afternoons.
4. Pinel Island – Secluded Island Escape
Pinel Island is a short boat ride from Cul-de-Sac and feels like a different world.
Car-free, quiet, and surrounded by shallow turquoise water, it’s ideal for disconnecting. The water is calm and shallow, making it perfect for snorkeling or a full day of unwinding.
Why it stands out:
- Crystal clear, shallow water
- Remote island feel
- Excellent snorkeling
- Beachside restaurants with relaxed vibe
Best for: Couples, low-key luxury, peaceful full-day escapes.
5. Cupecoy Beach – Dramatic Cliffs & Sunset Views
Cupecoy is visually different from most Caribbean beaches.
Golden cliffs frame small coves, and the sunsets here are among the best on the island. It’s quieter than Simpson Bay or Maho and attracts those looking for scenery over crowds.
Why it stands out:
- Unique limestone cliffs
- Excellent sunset views
- More private atmosphere
- Popular with photographers
Best for: Sunset lovers, scenic walks, quiet afternoons.
Which Beach in Sint Maarten Is Right for You?
- For adrenaline and spectacle → Maho Beach
- For classic Caribbean beauty → Mullet Bay
- For beach club culture → Orient Bay
- For seclusion and calm water → Pinel Island
- For dramatic landscapes → Cupecoy
Together, these five beaches represent the full identity of Sint Maarten / Saint Martin: dynamic, international, relaxed, and visually striking.
Whether you're visiting for a week or considering making the island home, start with these beaches. They define the experience.