St Maarten has a surplus of terrific beach bars, a portfolio of watering holes that has helped turn the island into one of the most beloved destinations in the Caribbean.
But if you’re planning on beach-bar hopping in St Maarten, you’ll need to scope out the right spots, from chic beach lounges to toes-in-the-sand classics, from the bustle of Philipsburg to the magnificent sands of Simpson Bay and everywhere in between.
Here are our 10 favorite beach bars to visit in St Maarten right now.
Roxxy Beach St Maarten’s newest, hippest and best beach bar is this sparkling addition to the main stretch in Simpson Bay. The food is exquisite, the scenery is stunning and it’s got the best music and DJ scene on the island, too.
Indigo Beach Bar Another new addition to St Maarten, this is an upsacle spot on Cay Bay with a spectacular view and some seriously good food, too. (It’s also one of the best places for a ti’ punch in St Maarten).
Sunset Cafe There may be no more iconic beach bar in the Caribbean than the legendary Sunset Beach Bar, the Maho-area waterside destination that is the best place to watch the famous landings at Princess Juliana International Airport.
Karakter The new, reimagined Karakter still includes its famous school bus, but it’s gotten sleeker — while maintaining its wonderful, carefree vibe and a delicious menu.
Tortuga Beach Cafe Maho has a slew of great beach bars, and Tortuga is a modern, crisply-designed option that has a terrific menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner — meaning you can get started early or close out the night with a Maho sunset.
El Zafiro While it’s just a few minutes from the airport, this secluded beach bar on Simpson Bay has managed to stay something of a secret, with blindingly white sand, a great collection of beach chairs and a gregarious bartending staff.
Sint Rose Beach Bar Philipsburg is one of the most energetic beach towns in the Caribbean, and it’s worth it to come to the Sint Rose, grab a cold Amstel Bright and spend an afternoon people watching. This little beach bar is right in the middle of the action — but it still manages to be relaxing.
Dany’s Beach Bar This is the spot on scenic Cupecoy Bay, a laid-back place for cold beers, lazy afternoons and the feeling that you have the entire place to yourself.
Buccaneer Beach Bar One of St Maarten’s most beloved watering holes has a privileged perch right on Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay. It’s a buzzing bar, with a bustling energy and a fun-loving, party atmosphere just about all day long.
Driftwood Boat Bar The most eclectic bar in St Maarten is a must for beach bar aficionados, set just across the width of the runway from Sunset Cafe. There’s great food, great music and a selection of chairs right on the water’s edge.