Pelican Key, Sint Maarten Travel Guide

Discover Pelican Key, Sint Maarten's hidden gem with stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and thrilling water activities. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Pelican Key, located on the southwestern coast of Sint Maarten, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, this destination is an ideal spot for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Pelican Key is home to some of the island's finest resorts and vacation rentals, making it a popular choice for tourists looking to enjoy a luxurious getaway. The area is also dotted with charming restaurants and bars, where you can savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while enjoying the picturesque ocean views. For those seeking adventure, Pelican Key offers a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing. The vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs make it a paradise for underwater explorers. Additionally, the nearby Simpson Bay Lagoon provides excellent opportunities for sailing and boating. Whether you are looking to unwind on the sandy shores or explore the vibrant marine life, Pelican Key in Sint Maarten promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pelican Key.

Visit in the off-season (May to November) for fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations.
Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace, as public transportation is limited.
Don't miss out on the local seafood dishes at the beachfront restaurants.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs while snorkeling or diving.
Plan a day trip to nearby Simpson Bay Lagoon for sailing and boating experiences.

Top City Travel Guides in Pelican Key

The cities of Pelican Key, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Maho

Cole Bay

Sint Peters

Lowlands

Destinations in Pelican Key

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Maho Beach

Fort Amsterdam

Great Bay Beach

Cupecoy Beach

Little Bay Beach

Explore Pelican Key: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Tropicana Princess Casino

Discover excitement at Tropicana Princess Casino, a vibrant hub for gaming, entertainment, and nightlife in Cole Bay, Sint Maarten.

3.8

Mullet Bay Beach

Discover the serene beauty of Mullet Bay Beach, a tropical haven in Sint Maarten perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

4.6

Petites Cayes

Explore the tranquil beauty of Petites Cayes in St. Martin, a serene pilgrimage destination surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich natural beauty.

4.8

Jump Up Casino

Experience the thrill of gaming and vibrant nightlife at Jump Up Casino in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten - a must-visit for every traveler.

3.8

Best landmarks in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa

Experience luxury and excitement at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa, the ultimate Caribbean getaway with stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.

3.8

Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa

Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa, your ultimate getaway in Sint Maarten.

4.4

Loterie Farm

Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Loterie Farm, St. Martin's premier nature preserve with outdoor activities and delightful dining.

4.5

Buccaneer Beach Bar

Discover the essence of Caribbean dining at Buccaneer Beach Bar in Simpson Bay, where delicious grills and ocean views come together.

4.3

Best restaurants in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Pineapple Pete Restaurant

Experience delightful Caribbean cuisine at Pineapple Pete Restaurant in Cole Bay - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.4

Avantika

Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Avantika in Sint Maarten—where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Captain’s Rib Shack

Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at Captain’s Rib Shack in Simpson Bay – where delicious ribs and vibrant vibes await!

4.4

Topper's Restaurant & Bar

Experience delightful dining at Topper's Restaurant & Bar in Simpson Bay - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant setting.

4.3

Best bars in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Sunset Bar and Grill

Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Sunset Bar and Grill, where every meal is complemented by stunning sunset views and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

Buccaneer Beach Bar

Buccaneer Beach Bar: A Caribbean Grill Experience in the Heart of Simpson Bay with Fresh Flavors and Lively Atmosphere.

4.3

K Like Karakter - K Beach Club

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at K Like Karakter - K Beach Club, a must-visit destination in Sint Maarten.

4.4

Topper's Restaurant & Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Topper's Restaurant & Bar in Simpson Bay, where every meal is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Soggy Dollar Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical flavors at Soggy Dollar Bar in Sint Maarten, a perfect getaway for relaxation and fun.

4.4

The Red Piano SXM

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sint Maarten at The Red Piano SXM, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.

4.5

The Bar 3Angle formerly XLounge

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at The Bar 3Angle in Simpson Bay, where great food, live music, and karaoke await.

4.9

The Hole in the Wall

Experience the vibrant nightlife and breathtaking views at The Hole in the Wall, a premier bar in Sint Maarten's tropical paradise.

4.6

Best shops in Pelican Key

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Topper's Rhum Distillery

Experience the rich tradition of rum-making at Topper's Rhum Distillery in Sint Maarten, where flavor meets culture in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Kooyman Megastore Sint Maarten

Explore a vast selection of building materials and supplies at Kooyman Megastore Sint Maarten, your go-to destination for home improvement needs.

4.2

Sint Rose Shopping Mall

Discover an exciting shopping experience at Sint Rose Shopping Mall, featuring local and international brands in the heart of Philipsburg.

4.2

Jewels & Beyond

Explore Jewels & Beyond in Sint Maarten for exquisite jewelry, stylish beachwear, and unique souvenirs that capture the island's vibrant spirit.

5.0

Explore Pelican Key on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pelican Key, mapped for you.

Pelican Key Essentials

Pelican Key is located on the southern coast of Sint Maarten, in the Caribbean. The nearest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is approximately a 15-minute drive from Pelican Key. Direct flights are available from major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, shuttle service, or rent a car to reach Pelican Key.
Pelican Key is a relatively small area, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Car rentals are also a popular option for those who wish to explore beyond Pelican Key. Public buses operate on main roads and are an affordable way to travel around the island, though they may not always run on a fixed schedule.
The official currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Pelican Key and throughout the island, dispensing both USD and ANG.
Pelican Key is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, so keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. High-crime areas targeting tourists include parts of Philipsburg and some isolated beaches, so exercise caution when visiting these locations.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is Sint Maarten Medical Center in Cay Hill, approximately 20 minutes from Pelican Key. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear casual and comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Swimsuits should be reserved for the beach and pool areas. Avoid overly revealing attire in public places. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be patient, as buses may not run on a strict schedule. Don't be surprised if the bus stops frequently to pick up passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' A handshake is a common form of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary to leave a gratuity of 10-15% in restaurants.
To experience Pelican Key like a local, visit the local markets and try fresh seafood and island fruits. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don't miss the chance to snorkel or dive in the clear waters, which are teeming with marine life. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a sunset cruise or dine at one of the seaside restaurants offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

When is the best time to visit Pelican Key?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pelican Key

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pelican Key. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjou
  [Bawn-zhoo]
- GoodbyeOrevwa
  [O-reh-vwah]
- YesWi
  [Wee]
- NoNon
  [Non]
- Please/You're welcomeSouple
  [Soo-pleh]
- Thank youMesi
  [Meh-see]
- Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [Es-kee-zeh mwen]
- How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [Kee-zhan oo yay]
- Fine. And you?Mwen anfòm. E ou?
  [Mwen ahn-fohm. Eh oo?]
- Do you speak English?Eske ou pale anglè?
  [Es-keh oo pah-leh ahn-gleh]
- I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [Mwen pah kon-pran]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, souple
  [Mwen tah renn-men weh meh-nee ahn, soo-pleh]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [Mwen pah mahn-zheh vyahn]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [Sahn-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, souple
  [Mwen tah renn-men peh-yeh, soo-pleh]
- Help!Ede!
  [Eh-deh]
- Go away!Ale!
  [Ah-leh]
- Call the Police!Rele polis la!
  [Reh-leh poh-lees lah!]
- Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [Reh-leh yohn dok-teh!]
- I'm lostMwen pèdi
  [Mwen peh-dee]
- I'm illMwen malad
  [Mwen mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [Mwen tah renn-men ah-shtay...]
- I'm just lookingMwen ap gade sèlman
  [Mwen ap gah-deh sel-mahn]
- How much is it?Konbyen sa ye?
  [Kohn-bee-ehn sah yay]
- That's too expensiveSa a twò chè
  [Sah ah traw sheh]
- Can you lower the price?Eske ou ka bese pri a?
  [Es-keh oo kah beh-seh pree ah?]
- What time is it?Ki lè sa ye?
  [Kee leh sah yay?]
- It's one o'clockSe yonn èdtan
  [Seh yohn eh-tahn]
- Half past (10)Mi tan (10)
  [Mee tahn (10)]
- MorningMaten
  [Mah-ten]
- AfternoonApre midi
  [Ah-preh mee-dee]
- EveningSwa
  [Swah]
- YesterdayYè
  [Yeh]
- TodayJodi
  [Zho-dee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [Deh-mahn]
- 1Yonn
  [Yohn]
- 2De
  [Deh]
- 3Twa
  [Twah]
- 4Katre
  [Kah-treh]
- 5Senki
  [Senk-ee]
- 6Sis
  [Sees]
- 7Sèt
  [Set]
- 8Huit
  [Wheet]
- 9Nèf
  [Neff]
- 10Dè
  [Deh]
- Where's a/the...?Ki kote a/the...?
  [Kee koh-teh ah/the...?]
- What's the address?Ki adrès la?
  [Kee ah-dress lah?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [Es-keh oo kah mohn-treh mwen (soo kaht lah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kilè pwochen (otobis la)?
  [Kee-leh proh-shen (o-toh-bees lah)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [Yohn tee-keh (poo ....)]

History of Pelican Key

Pelican Key, like much of Sint Maarten, was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples. These indigenous groups lived off the land and sea, leaving behind artifacts that tell the story of their rich culture and traditions. Excavations have unearthed pottery, tools, and other relics that date back thousands of years, providing a glimpse into the island's pre-Columbian history.
In the 17th century, European powers began to take an interest in the Caribbean, and Sint Maarten was no exception. The Dutch and French eventually agreed to divide the island, with the Dutch taking the southern half, which includes Pelican Key. This period saw the establishment of plantations and the forced labor of African slaves, a dark chapter in the island’s history that still resonates today.
The waters around Pelican Key were once a haven for pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries. These buccaneers took advantage of the island’s strategic location and used it as a base to launch attacks on Spanish galleons laden with treasure. Legends of buried pirate treasure have long intrigued both locals and visitors, adding an air of mystery to the area.
The 20th century brought significant changes to Pelican Key, transforming it from a quiet fishing village into a bustling tourist destination. The construction of modern infrastructure and resorts began in the 1970s, driven by a growing global interest in Caribbean vacations. This development has turned Pelican Key into one of the most sought-after locations on the island, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Pelican Key is a true cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Sint Maarten over the centuries. The area boasts a unique blend of Dutch, French, African, and indigenous heritage, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and local traditions. Festivals, music, and art in Pelican Key celebrate this rich cultural tapestry, making it a vibrant and dynamic community.