On the Dutch side of the dual-nation island of St Martin, Simpson Bay has grown into one of the Caribbean’s most easygoing yet energetic beach hubs. Wrapped around a broad, sheltered lagoon and fronted by a long golden arc of sand, it is the kind of place where you can start the day paddleboarding on glassy water, wander to a café for a late breakfast, stroll to the beach for an afternoon swim, then finish the evening with a barefoot dinner in the sand or cocktails at a waterfront bar as yachts glide by.
Getting Oriented in Simpson Bay
Simpson Bay curves along the southwest coast of Sint Maarten, a short drive from Princess Juliana International Airport. The area is essentially a strip of coastal neighborhood, with the Caribbean Sea on one side and Simpson Bay Lagoon behind it.
The main artery is Airport Road, which follows the shoreline and connects Simpson Bay to Maho to the west and Cole Bay and Philipsburg further east. Most accommodation, restaurants and bars cluster along or just off this road, with small lanes leading out to the beachfront.
The bay itself is divided into several distinct micro-areas. The central part of Simpson Bay Beach hosts a mix of low-rise hotels and classic beach bars. Farther east, near Beacon Hill, the sand narrows and becomes quieter and more residential.
Behind the beachfront, the lagoon side of Simpson Bay is a major yachting center, with marinas, charter docks and waterfront bars that look onto a forest of masts and catamarans. Each side of the bay has a slightly different rhythm, and part of the fun is drifting between them during your stay.
Unlike some Caribbean resort strips, Simpson Bay feels more like a lived-in coastal town than a gated enclave. You will find grocery stores, bakeries, laundromats, cheap local barbecue shacks known as lolos, and everyday traffic mixed in with resorts and vacation condos.
That blend of local life and visitor infrastructure is part of its charm. It also means you can spend your days either in beach-club comfort or exploring on your own, stocking your fridge and picnicking on the sand if you are keeping an eye on your budget.
Distances are short, but the sun is strong and sidewalks can be intermittent. Many visitors rent a car for at least part of their stay, especially if they plan to explore beaches like Mullet Bay, Orient Beach or Grand Case. Within the core of Simpson Bay you can walk between many restaurants, bars and small hotels, but traffic on Airport Road can be busy at peak hours. Taxis are plentiful, particularly in the evening, and can be a good option if you are planning to enjoy the island’s rum punches and frozen cocktails.
Where to Stay: Resorts, Boutique Inns and Apartments
The accommodation scene in Simpson Bay is diverse, ranging from waterfront resorts with full-service amenities to simple apartment-style stays. Large properties on or near the beach include Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa, which offers a village-like complex of hotel rooms and condo-style units, multiple pools and on-site dining.
It is popular with families and groups who appreciate having a kitchen and resort services in one place, as well as easy access to the bay and nearby bars and restaurants.
Another long-time favorite is Mary’s Boon Beach Resort & Spa, a more intimate property tucked directly on the sand. Its low-rise, almost hidden layout and direct beach access appeal to repeat guests who prefer a laid-back, slightly old-school Caribbean feel.
Rooms vary from simple units to larger suites, and the on-site restaurant has long been known as a casual spot to dine within sight and sound of the waves. For travelers seeking a mid-range stay with a clear sense of place, it is often high on the list.
For those who want the amenities of a hotel but at a slightly smaller scale, Commodore Suites, Baker’s Suites and the Atrium Beach Resort & Spa sit within or near the heart of Simpson Bay’s dining strip. These properties usually offer kitchenettes or full kitchens, small pools and easy walking access to shops, bars and the beach.
They suit couples and independent travelers who prefer to build their own days rather than rely on packaged resort activities. Many units cater well to digital nomads or longer-stay guests, with reliable Wi-Fi and work-friendly nooks.
Budget-conscious visitors and longer-term travelers often gravitate to self-catering apartments and guesthouses on or near the lagoon. Options such as Blue Sail Apartments and similar condo complexes give you more residential surroundings, often with simple but comfortable furnishings and parking.
You will trade direct beach frontage for lower rates, but the sea is usually only a few minutes’ drive or a modest walk away. For groups of friends, a two-bedroom condo with a balcony over the lagoon can offer excellent value, especially outside peak holiday weeks.
Choosing the Right Area for Your Style
Picking the right base within Simpson Bay can shape your entire trip. If waking up and stepping straight onto the sand is your priority, consider the core stretch of Simpson Bay Beach. Here you will find properties like Mary’s Boon and a handful of smaller beachfront inns and villas, each with loungers and umbrellas just steps away.
The vibe along this strip is relaxed and residential, with some beach clubs and bars dotted along the shore but plenty of quiet space between them, especially early in the morning.
Travelers who place nightlife and dining at the center of their plans might favor the area around the Simpson Bay Bridge and Airport Road. This is where many of the bay’s most popular restaurants and bars cluster, along with small hotels and suites.
You may not be directly on the sand, but you will be within a short walk of multiple spots for happy hour, live music, late-night cocktails and international dining. The trade-off is heavier traffic and a livelier streetscape well into the evening.
If you are more interested in boating and lagoon views, the marinas on the inland side of Simpson Bay offer a different atmosphere. Here, low-rise condo complexes and yacht clubs line the water, and you may find accommodation where the view from your balcony is a fleet of sailing yachts and catamarans.
This is particularly convenient if you are chartering a boat, joining a day-sail excursion or simply like the romance of marina life. You will usually be a short drive from the main beach, but in exchange you gain easy access to lagoon-based bars, sunset cruises and water-taxi services.
Finally, consider your tolerance for driving and walking. While the map makes everything look close, the reality on the ground is that most journeys along Airport Road involve sharing space with local traffic and limited sidewalks.
If you know you prefer to stroll out at night without thinking about taxis, focus on areas with dense clusters of venues, such as the central Simpson Bay strip or the fringe between Simpson Bay and neighboring Maho. If you are happy to hop in a taxi or rental car, you can widen your search to quieter pockets a few minutes away from the hub.
Eating and Drinking: From Beach Shacks to Bistro Tables
Simpson Bay is one of Sint Maarten’s primary dining districts, with restaurants that range from casual grills with plastic tables in the sand to polished bistros serving inventive Caribbean and European fusion.
Along the main road and tucked into side streets you will find stalwart names like Pineapple Pete, known for generous portions and a broad menu that runs from seafood and steaks to burgers and pastas in a relaxed, sports-bar-like setting. Nearby, Pineapple Pete’s sister spot Wasabi Charlie leans into Japanese-inspired dishes such as sushi and teppanyaki in a livelier, more contemporary room.
On the waterfront, beach clubs and bars provide a more toes-in-the-sand experience. Long-standing favorites on Simpson Bay Beach pair cushioned loungers and umbrellas with all-day menus of salads, wraps, grilled fish, burgers and Caribbean specialties, plus cold beers and rum cocktails.
These venues tend to transition from mellow by day to sociable by late afternoon, especially during happy hour when yacht crews and resort guests mingle. Certain spots are particularly popular with visitors who enjoy themed nights, live DJs or sundowner drink specials.
For travelers seeking more refined dining, Simpson Bay also hosts several chef-driven kitchens. Italian-style rooms such as Isola focus on fresh pastas, seafood and northern Italian classics, while contemporary Caribbean restaurants highlight local fish, regional spices and seasonal produce.
A steady stream of new openings in recent years has added small-plate concepts, wine-focused bistros and fusion menus to the mix, often run by chefs with experience in Europe or North America who have made Sint Maarten home. These restaurants typically recommend reservations in high season, particularly on weekends.
Dietary needs are increasingly well catered for. Health-conscious cafés and juice bars in and around Simpson Bay serve smoothies, vegetarian bowls and fresh juices, and spots like Top Carrot in nearby Cole Bay are noted for plant-forward, vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
Many of the island’s Indian and Thai restaurants, several of which are clustered in and around Simpson Bay, naturally offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, making this one of the easier Caribbean destinations for travelers avoiding meat or dairy. As always, it is worth explaining your requirements clearly to staff, who are usually happy to adapt where possible.
Beach Time and Water Activities
Simpson Bay Beach itself is one of the area’s main draws: a long ribbon of pale sand and generally calm water that invites long walks and lazy swims. The beach is public from end to end, and you are free to walk the full length regardless of where you are staying.
Many resorts and beach clubs set out loungers and umbrellas for their guests and day visitors, while quieter sections remain largely empty, especially earlier in the day. The water tends to be clear and warm, with a gentle slope that suits both casual swimmers and families.
Water sports are easy to arrange. Operators along the beach and around the lagoon rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and small sailboats, and can arrange jet skiing, tubing and wakeboarding for those who prefer a faster pace. The sheltered lagoon is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, particularly in the morning when the wind is often light and the surface glassy.
Out on the open Caribbean side, snorkeling from the beach can reveal small reefs and patches of seagrass with tropical fish, although for richer underwater life many visitors opt for boat trips to nearby coves and reefs.
Diving is well established around Sint Maarten, and several dive centers with bases in or near Simpson Bay offer PADI-certified courses, discovery dives for beginners and daily trips to local sites. Wrecks, reef walls and coral gardens lie a short boat ride away, and conditions are often favorable between December and April when visibility can be excellent.
Non-divers are not left out; many of the same operators run snorkeling excursions and half-day sailing trips that include stops for swimming, beach time and lunch on board.
Nearby beaches add variety to your sea-and-sand days. Mullet Bay, a short drive from Simpson Bay, is frequently cited as one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of sand, with translucent water and a lush backdrop. It has a couple of casual beach bars serving grilled fish, ribs and ice-cold drinks, and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Maho Beach, just beyond the airport, is famous for low-flying aircraft passing overhead before landing. It is a uniquely dramatic setting for an hour or two of plane spotting with a drink in hand, though most visitors treat it as a spectacle rather than a full beach day, as the shoreline is narrower and the experience more crowded and noisy than Simpson Bay itself.
Wellness, Relaxation and Slower Days
Simpson Bay is as well suited to unhurried days as it is to activity. Many of the larger resorts feature on-site spas offering massages, facials, body scrubs and beauty treatments, providing a convenient way to unwind without leaving the property.
There are also independent day spas and massage studios scattered along Airport Road and on side streets, some of which offer couples’ treatments and customizable spa days. It is wise to book ahead if you are visiting during peak holiday times or if you prefer specific therapists or time slots.
Yoga and fitness offerings have grown along with the bay’s popularity. Several studios and wellness spaces in the greater Simpson Bay and Cole Bay area offer drop-in yoga, Pilates and fitness classes, and some resorts host sunrise or sunset sessions on decks or lawns overlooking the water.
Outdoor exercise enthusiasts can also simply use the beach and lagoonfront for early-morning runs or walks, taking advantage of cooler temperatures before the midday heat sets in. A slow walk along the bay’s full length, with periodic stops to dip your feet in the water, can be its own kind of moving meditation.
For a different type of reflection, the Mary Star of the Sea Church in Simpson Bay offers a quiet spiritual anchor amid the bustle of the resort area. This Roman Catholic church has roots stretching back to a chapel founded in the late nineteenth century, and the present building, dedicated in the mid-1960s, serves both locals and visitors, with Masses offered in English.
Guests of any faith or none sometimes slip inside simply to sit for a few minutes in the cool, shaded interior, taking a break from the bright coastal glare outside.
When you need a pause from the sun and saltwater, café culture in and around Simpson Bay provides gentle transitions from active to idle. Coffee shops, pastry counters and smoothie bars give you a place to recharge with an espresso, fresh juice or a slice of cake while you review photos, catch up on messages or plan your next outing.
Many have shaded outdoor seating where ceiling fans turn lazily overhead and the soundtrack is a mix of conversation, local radio and the faint hum of traffic passing by.
Nightlife, Music and Atmosphere After Dark
As daylight softens and the heat eases, Simpson Bay shifts into a more social gear. Waterfront bars and marina-side spots fill with people gathering for happy hour, watching the sky turn pink and orange behind the masts. Many venues run daily drink specials in the late afternoon, making this a good time to sample everything from frozen daiquiris and local rums to Caribbean craft beers.
The atmosphere at this hour is more about relaxed conversation than loud music, with yacht crews, long-stay visitors and island residents trading stories about the day.
Later in the evening, certain bars and lounges step up the tempo. Simpson Bay has become one of the island’s main nightlife nodes, along with nearby Maho. Cocktail lounges and bar-restaurants introduce DJs, live bands or curated playlists as the night deepens, and spots like Lotus and Nova have earned reputations as places to dance, socialize and go late into the night.
These venues tend to draw a mixed crowd of locals, hospitality workers on their nights off and visitors from nearby resorts, giving the scene a cosmopolitan feel rather than a purely touristy one.
If your ideal night out is slightly quieter, you will find plenty of low-key options. Pubs and sports bars along Airport Road balance televised games, pool tables and casual bites, while wine bars and smaller bistros lean into conversation, playlists at background volume and thoughtful drink lists.
Live music is a frequent feature in Simpson Bay, whether in the form of an acoustic guitarist at a beachfront restaurant, a jazz duo at a wine bar or a classic rock band at a marina-side pub. Schedules shift with the seasons, so it is worth asking around once you arrive to see who is playing where.
Visitors who are sensitive to noise should factor the nightlife geography into their accommodation choices. Rooms that sit directly above or beside bars and late-opening venues can pick up bass and crowd noise until the small hours, especially Thursday through Saturday during high season.
If early nights and quiet sleep are a priority, look for lodging a short walk away from the central entertainment strip or on the quieter eastern or western fringes of the bay. A brief taxi ride home at the end of the evening may be a small price to pay for peaceful nights.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Simpson Bay Stay
Timing your visit can influence both the atmosphere and the cost of your Simpson Bay experience. The traditional high season runs from December through April, when the weather is usually driest and many North American and European travelers escape winter at home.
During these months, rates for accommodation rise, restaurants and bars are busier, and advance booking is strongly advised. Shoulder months in late spring and early winter can offer a pleasant balance of lower prices, fewer crowds and generally good weather, though showers may be more frequent.
Getting around is straightforward but benefits from a little planning. While you can absolutely spend several days within Simpson Bay on foot, especially if you choose a central base, a rental car opens up the rest of the island, including the French-side beaches and culinary hubs like Grand Case. Driving is on the right, and the road network is simple, essentially looping the island.
However, traffic can be slow during rush hours and on cruise days. If you prefer not to drive, taxis are readily available at the airport and around popular areas. It is common practice to confirm the fare before setting off, as there is no rideshare app infrastructure on the island.
Simpson Bay and the wider island use US dollars widely alongside the local currency, and cash is useful for beach bars, lolos and tips, even though most sit-down restaurants, supermarkets and larger bars accept credit cards.
ATMs are available around the bay, but it is sensible to withdraw at main bank branches or in daylight hours. Tap water is treated and generally considered safe, but many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, both widely sold in supermarkets.
Safety-wise, Simpson Bay is broadly considered one of the safer and more visitor-oriented parts of the island, but basic urban common sense applies. Avoid leaving valuables on the beach unattended, close and lock doors and windows when you go out, and be cautious walking along unlit stretches of road late at night.
The sun is another important factor; the Caribbean light can be deceptively strong, so high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, adequate hydration and periodic shade breaks are vital, particularly in the first days of your trip.
The Takeaway
Simpson Bay offers an appealing blend of Caribbean ease and modern convenience. It is large enough to provide choices at every budget level, from simple apartments to full-service resorts, yet compact enough that you can quickly feel you know your way around.
Its long beach, calm lagoon, yachting scene and evolving restaurant and nightlife landscape mean you can make your stay as tranquil or as lively as you wish, day by day.
Whether you are planning a long weekend, a milestone celebration or a working escape with a sea view, the ingredients are all here: reliable sunshine, swimmable water, a surprising range of food, friendly service and just enough bustle to keep things interesting.
Anchor yourself in the pocket of Simpson Bay that best matches your style, then let the days unfold at island pace, from first coffee on the terrace to the last glimmer of sunset over the Caribbean.
FAQ
Q1. Is Simpson Bay a good base for first-time visitors to Sint Maarten?
Yes. Simpson Bay is one of the best bases for first-time visitors because it combines a long, user-friendly beach, a wide range of accommodation, and some of the island’s densest clusters of restaurants and bars. It sits close to the airport and within easy driving distance of other highlights, so you can both relax locally and explore the wider island without long transfers.
Q2. Do I need to rent a car if I am staying in Simpson Bay?
You can get by without a car if you are content to focus on Simpson Bay itself, since many hotels, restaurants and bars are walkable or a short taxi ride apart. However, renting a car for at least a portion of your stay is highly recommended if you want to visit beaches like Mullet Bay, Orient Beach or towns such as Grand Case and Marigot at your own pace.
Q3. What is the best time of year to visit Simpson Bay?
The most popular period is from December to April, when the weather is typically sunny and dry and the island is at its liveliest. If you prefer fewer crowds and potentially better rates, consider late April to early June or November to early December. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest statistical risk in late summer and early autumn, but many visitors still enjoy trips during these months, watching forecasts carefully.
Q4. Is Simpson Bay Beach suitable for children and less confident swimmers?
In general, Simpson Bay Beach has a gentle slope and often calm conditions, which can be suitable for families and less confident swimmers. As with any natural beach, conditions vary with wind and weather, so it is wise to observe the water, heed any local advice and supervise children closely. Quieter morning hours can be especially good for easier swimming and wading.
Q5. How expensive is it to eat out in Simpson Bay?
Simpson Bay offers a wide price range. You will find upscale restaurants with prices comparable to major North American or European cities, mid-range bistros and beach bars with moderate prices, and simple local eateries and lolos where grilled fish or chicken and sides are relatively budget-friendly. You can control costs further by choosing accommodation with a kitchen and shopping at local supermarkets for some meals.
Q6. Are there good options for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes. Many restaurants in and around Simpson Bay are used to serving vegetarians and vegans and include suitable main dishes or can adapt plates on request. Health-focused cafés, juice bars and places like plant-forward eateries in nearby Cole Bay are especially well regarded for meat-free cuisine, and Indian and Thai restaurants in the area typically have several vegetarian and vegan choices as standard.
Q7. How close is Simpson Bay to the famous plane-spotting at Maho Beach?
Simpson Bay is only a short drive from Maho Beach and the end of the airport runway, typically 5 to 10 minutes by car depending on traffic. You can easily spend a relaxing morning on Simpson Bay Beach, then head over to Maho for an hour or two in the early afternoon to watch aircraft approach and land, before returning to the calmer sands of Simpson Bay.
Q8. Is Simpson Bay safe to walk around at night?
Simpson Bay is generally considered safe for visitors, and many people walk between restaurants and bars at night in the central area. Still, you should use the same common-sense precautions you would in any busy tourist destination: stick to well-lit routes, keep valuables out of sight, avoid walking long, dark stretches of road, and take a taxi if you feel unsure or have been drinking.
Q9. What should I pack for a trip to Simpson Bay?
Focus on light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate: swimsuits, cover-ups, shorts, T-shirts, sundresses and light evening wear. Add a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, comfortable sandals or water-friendly shoes and perhaps a pair of slightly dressier shoes for evenings in smarter restaurants. A light sweater or wrap can be handy for breezy nights in the cooler months, and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated.
Q10. How far in advance should I book accommodation and restaurants?
For travel between December and April, especially around Christmas, New Year and school vacation weeks, it is wise to book accommodation several months ahead to secure your preferred property and room type. Popular restaurants may also require reservations a few days or more in advance during these periods, particularly on weekends. In shoulder seasons, you can usually be more flexible, though booking ahead for top-rated venues is still recommended.