Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten Travel Guide

Discover Simpson Bay in Sint Maarten: A vibrant blend of stunning beaches, thrilling water sports, diverse dining, and lively nightlife in the Caribbean.

Simpson Bay in Sint Maarten is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Stretching along the southwestern coast of the island, Simpson Bay is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively atmosphere. Whether you are a sun-seeker, a foodie, or an adventure enthusiast, Simpson Bay has something for everyone. The bay itself is a haven for water sports activities. You can indulge in snorkeling, diving, sailing, and jet-skiing. The warm Caribbean waters are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for underwater explorers. For those who prefer to stay above water, the sailing and yachting opportunities are unparalleled, with numerous charters available for a day out on the sea. Simpson Bay is also a culinary hotspot. The area boasts a wide range of restaurants and eateries that offer everything from local Creole dishes to international cuisine. Fresh seafood is a highlight, and many restaurants offer waterfront dining with spectacular sunset views. Nightlife in Simpson Bay is vibrant and varied. From beach bars to upscale lounges, there is no shortage of places to unwind after a day of activities. Live music and DJ sets are common, adding to the festive atmosphere that Simpson Bay is famous for. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of boutiques and shops offering unique souvenirs, fashion, and local crafts. The area is also home to several casinos for those looking to try their luck. With its friendly locals and welcoming vibe, Simpson Bay is a destination that captures the essence of Caribbean hospitality.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds at popular beaches.
Try local Creole dishes at beachside shacks for an authentic culinary experience.
Book water sports activities in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Take a sunset cruise for a memorable evening and spectacular views of the island.
Explore nearby Simpson Bay Lagoon for a quieter, more serene experience.

Top City Travel Guides in Simpson Bay

The cities of Simpson Bay, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Maho

Destinations in Simpson Bay

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

Maho Beach

Explore Simpson Bay: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Simpson Bay

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Topper's Rhum Distillery

Explore the vibrant flavors and rich culture of rum-making at Topper's Rhum Distillery in Sint Maarten, a must-visit for all travelers.

4.6

Simpson Bay Beach

Discover the beauty of Simpson Bay Beach, where golden sands meet turquoise waters, creating a perfect tropical getaway in Sint Maarten.

4.7

Tours.sx

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beaches of Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, where history meets paradise for every traveler.

Best landmarks in Simpson Bay

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Topper's Rhum Distillery

Discover the art of rum-making at Topper's Rhum Distillery in Sint Maarten, where tradition meets flavor in every sip.

4.6

Kim Sha Beach

Experience the beauty of Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten— where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable beach getaway.

4.6

Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual ambiance of Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, a beloved landmark in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten.

4.8

Tahoma

Experience the tranquil beauty of Tahoma Beach in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten - perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable sunsets.

4.6

Best restaurants in Simpson Bay

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Pineapple Pete Restaurant

Discover a taste of Sint Maarten at Pineapple Pete Restaurant – where delicious cuisine meets vibrant island vibes.

4.4

Skip Jack's

Discover Skip Jack's in Simpson Bay - where fresh seafood meets Caribbean charm for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Sint Maarten Yacht Club

Discover exquisite dining and stunning marina views at Sint Maarten Yacht Club - where culinary excellence meets nautical charm.

4.5

Beirut Sxm

Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Beirut Sxm in Simpson Bay – where every dish is a celebration of flavor and culture.

4.3

Best bars in Simpson Bay

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Sunset Bar and Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors and breathtaking sunsets at Sunset Bar and Grill, the island's culinary jewel in Simpson Bay.

4.4

Buccaneer Beach Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Buccaneer Beach Bar, where every meal feels like a tropical getaway.

4.3

K Like Karakter - K Beach Club

Experience the vibrant ambiance and stunning views at K Like Karakter - the premier beach club in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten.

4.4

Topper's Restaurant & Bar

Experience the vibrant culture and culinary delights of Topper's Restaurant & Bar in Simpson Bay, St. Maarten, where food and fun come together.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Simpson Bay

Top-rated picks

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Soggy Dollar Bar

Experience the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere at Soggy Dollar Bar, a lively waterfront spot in Simpson Bay, perfect for cocktails and sunsets.

4.4

The Bar 3Angle formerly XLounge

Experience the best of nightlife at The Bar 3Angle in Simpson Bay, where karaoke, live music, and sports come together for unforgettable evenings.

4.9

Lotus Nightclub Sxm

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Lotus Nightclub SXM in Simpson Bay, where stunning design meets an electrifying atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

4.2

XO ST.MAARTEN'S NIGHTLIFE

Dive into the lively atmosphere at XO St. Maarten's Nightlife, where drinks flow and the music keeps you dancing until dawn.

5.0

Best shops in Simpson Bay

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Topper's Rhum Distillery

Experience the heart of Caribbean craft at Topper's Rhum Distillery in Sint Maarten, where tradition meets taste in every bottle.

4.6

La Sucriere

Discover the delightful flavors of La Sucriere, where every bite is a sweet celebration of local pastry artistry in Simpson Bay.

4.5

Market Garden Supermarket

Discover the vibrant flavors of Sint Maarten at Market Garden Supermarket, your go-to spot for fresh produce, local specialties, and international goods.

4.1

Kooyman Megastore Sint Maarten

Explore Kooyman Megastore Sint Maarten for all your building materials and home improvement needs in a welcoming and knowledgeable environment.

4.2

Explore Simpson Bay on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Simpson Bay, mapped for you.

Simpson Bay Essentials

Simpson Bay, located on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, is easily accessible via the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is just a few kilometers away. Direct flights are available from major cities in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Simpson Bay.
Within Simpson Bay, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and public buses. Taxis are widely available but can be more expensive. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and can be booked in advance. Public buses are an inexpensive option, although they may not adhere to a strict schedule. Scooter rentals are also popular for short trips.
The official currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Simpson Bay for cash withdrawals.
Simpson Bay is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. Areas around the airport and some isolated beaches may have higher instances of petty crime, so always stay vigilant.
In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number 911. There are several medical facilities and pharmacies in Simpson Bay. Princess Juliana International Airport also has medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly; beachwear is appropriate for the beach but not for restaurants or shops. Religion: Do respect religious customs. Some churches may require modest clothing. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't expect strict adherence to schedules. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good morning.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Don't refuse an offer of a drink or meal, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Simpson Bay like a local, visit the local markets and try fresh seafood and local dishes like Johnny Cakes and Conch Stew. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share tips and stories. Don't miss the Sunset Bar & Grill to watch planes land over Maho Beach. Enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Simpson Bay?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Simpson Bay

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 Simpson Bay. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjou
  [bawn-zhoo]
- GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-reh-vwah]
- YesWi
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nawn]
- Please/You're welcomeSouple
  [soo-play]
- Thank youMesi
  [meh-see]
- Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zeh mwahn]
- How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-zhan oo yay]
- Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. eh oo]
- Do you speak English?Es ou pale Anglais?
  [es oo pah-lay ahn-glay]
- 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 ren-men weh meh-nee ahn, soo-play]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pah mahn-zhey vyahn]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, souple
  [mwen tah ren-men peh-yeh, soo-play]
- Help!S.O.S!
  [ess-oh-ess]
- Go away!Ale ale!
  [ah-leh 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 ren-men ah-shteh]
- I'm just lookingMwen ap gade
  [mwen ahp gah-deh]
- How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kohn-byen sah koo-teh]
- That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah troh shay]
- Can you lower the price?Es ou ka bese pri a?
  [es oo kah beh-seh pree ah]
- What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee leh lee yay]
- It's one o'clockLi se yon èdtan
  [lee seh yohn eh-dahn]
- Half past (10)Dis èdtan
  [dees eh-dahn]
- MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
- AfternoonApre midi
  [ah-preh mee-dee]
- EveningSwa
  [swah]
- YesterdayYè
  [yeh]
- TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
- TomorrowDemain
  [deh-mehn]
- 1Youn
  [yoon]
- 2De
  [deh]
- 3Twa
  [twa]
- 4Katre
  [ka-tree]
- 5Senk
  [sank]
- 6Sis
  [sees]
- 7Sèt
  [set]
- 8Wit
  [weet]
- 9Nèf
  [neff]
- 10Dis
  [dees]
- 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)?Es ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es oo kah mohn-treh mwahn (soo kaht lah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kilè pwochen (bis la)?
  [kee-leh proh-shen (bees lah)]
- A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ...)
  [yohn tee-keh (poo ...)]

History of Simpson Bay

Long before European explorers set foot on the island, Simpson Bay was inhabited by the indigenous Arawak people. These early settlers thrived on fishing and farming, leaving behind archaeological evidence of their presence. The Arawaks were known for their craftsmanship and navigational skills, which played a crucial role in the development of the island's early culture.
In the 17th century, the Dutch and French arrived on the island, seeking to expand their colonial empires. Simpson Bay became a strategic point of interest due to its sheltered harbor and fertile lands. The Treaty of Concordia in 1648 established a peaceful division of the island between the Dutch and French, with Simpson Bay falling under Dutch control. This period marked the beginning of European influence on the local culture and economy.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Caribbean was a hotbed of pirate activity, and Simpson Bay was no exception. The bay's secluded coves provided the perfect hideouts for pirates and privateers. These seafaring adventurers would often raid passing ships, adding an element of danger and excitement to Simpson Bay's history. Stories of buried treasure and legendary pirates like Blackbeard continue to captivate the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Simpson Bay played a significant role in the island's salt industry during the 19th century. The bay's natural salt pans were utilized for salt extraction, which became a major export commodity. This industry attracted laborers from various parts of the Caribbean, contributing to the area's diverse cultural tapestry. Remnants of the salt industry can still be seen today, providing a glimpse into this important chapter of Simpson Bay's economic history.
World War II brought significant changes to Simpson Bay, as the island became a strategic location for the Allied forces. The construction of Princess Juliana International Airport in 1942 marked the beginning of Simpson Bay's transformation into a hub for aviation. The airport's proximity to the bay has made it one of the most famous in the world, known for its dramatic low-altitude landings over Maho Beach. This development spurred tourism and modernized the local economy.
The latter half of the 20th century saw Simpson Bay evolve into a premier tourist destination. With its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts, the area began attracting visitors from around the globe. The development of marinas and yacht clubs further cemented Simpson Bay's reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. The tourism boom has brought prosperity to the area while also presenting challenges related to sustainability and cultural preservation.
Simpson Bay, like much of Sint Maarten, has faced its share of natural disasters, including hurricanes. The most notable in recent history is Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused widespread destruction. The community's resilience and determination to rebuild have been remarkable, demonstrating the enduring spirit of Simpson Bay's residents. Recovery efforts have focused on restoring infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and enhancing disaster preparedness.