SXM Top Spot – A Perfect Day in Simpson Bay & Maho | Sun, Fun, and Spectacular Views (February – March 2026 Visitor Travel Guide)
Ah, Simpson Bay & Maho, where the days are long, the drinks are cold, and the sunsets are unforgettable.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island hopper, this corner of paradise has something for everyone. Let me take you on a light-hearted journey through the perfect day in this vibrant slice of Sint Maarten.
Morning: Yachts and Yums
Start your day with a visit to the Simpson Bay Yacht Club (SBYC) for the morning bridge opening. Watching the majestic yachts glide through the narrow channel is a sight to behold. Check the local bridge schedule to catch this nautical parade, typically best seen around 8:30 AM.
After you’ve marveled at the boats, head over to Del Mar for some retail therapy. This chic boutique offers a selection of vacation wear that will have you looking island fabulous in no time. Next, stroll to the Art Box Gallery where you can peruse local art and maybe even pick up a unique piece to commemorate your trip.
Midday: Planes and Plates
By now, you’ve worked up an appetite. Make your way to Tortuga for an early lunch. Situated near the famous Maho Beach, this spot not only serves delicious Caribbean fare but also provides a front-row seat to one of the island’s most thrilling attractions: planes landing at Princess Juliana International Airport.
For the best times to see the big jets swoop in low over the beach, aim for mid-afternoon when the largest flights tend to arrive.
After lunch, take a stroll along the beach and soak in the stunning views. Don’t forget to capture some photos of the planes for a truly unique souvenir.
Afternoon: Culture and Chill
With lunch behind you and adrenaline high from the plane landings, dive into local culture at the We Culture museum to explore Sint Maarten’s rich heritage. Feeling inspired, head back to the beach.
Choose any beach bar like Dinghy’s, Mary’s Boon, or K, and relax on a sunbed with a tropical cocktail as the waves lull you into bliss.
For lunch, visit Tortuga near Maho Beach for delicious Caribbean fare and a front-row seat to planes landing at Princess Juliana Airport, especially mid-afternoon when the big jets arrive.
Late Afternoon: Unique Local Experiences
As the day begins to cool, consider a unique local experience like cheese tasting sessions at a nearby specialty shop.
Indulge in a variety of local and imported cheeses, paired perfectly with wines or other accompaniments, making for a delightful culinary adventure.
Alternatively, join a tour at Topper’s Rhum Distillery to see how local rum is crafted.
Learn about the distillation process, from the selection of ingredients to the aging in barrels, and enjoy the opportunity to sample their exquisite rums.
Don’t forget to buy a bottle or two to take home as a delicious reminder of your visit to Sint Maarten.
Evening: Sips and Sounds
As the sun dips below the horizon, it’s time to think about dinner. Simpson Bay & Maho are teeming with casual dining spots perfect for winding down after a sun-soaked day. If you’re still in your beachwear, no worries! Sandbar is a fantastic choice with early live music setting the perfect ambiance.
If you’re in the mood for something different, consider Pizza & Co for some of the best pies on the island, or indulge in the flavors of the Middle East at Beirut. Little Jerusalem is another gem, serving mouth-watering shawarmas that are hard to beat. For a more intimate setting, The Palms offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu that’s sure to delight.
Nightcap: Under the Stars
End your perfect day with a nightcap under the stars. The gentle island breeze, the sound of the waves, and the twinkling lights of the bay create a magical setting. Whether you choose to linger at one of the beach bars or find a quiet spot to reflect on the day, there’s no better way to close out your Simpson Bay & Maho adventure.
From sunrise to sunset, Simpson Bay & Maho offer a delightful mix of activities that cater to every taste. So pack your beach bag, put on your best island wear, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. Cheers to the perfect day in paradise!
Written by: Chanaz Kokkelmans, Final edit by: Marina Brunet
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All things in Cole & Simpson Bay
Restaurants
Sunset Gourmet Dinner Cruise with 5% discount using promo WE ARE SXM! Outstanding food, drinks and service on a very comfortable Catamaran.
A side of Zen with your dinner. A splash of pizzazz in your cocktail. Multiple sensations for the mind. Palapa in Simpson Bay is more than “just dinner”!
Combines the delicate taste of the French-side with fun-loving Dutch-side vibes. Intimate family-style venue & an authentic local experience in Cole Bay.
Up in the hills of Cole Bay in a restored 19th-century Sugar Mill | Bamboo’s World-Class chefs have been redefining Sushi in SXM for over 20 years!
Visit Joelle & Gregg in Simpson Bay | A place to relax, sit back, enjoy approachable service, and a home-cooked meal full of Caribbean flavor!
Discover Beachside Bliss at this Simpson Bay Beach Club – Where Casual Elegance Meets Culinary Innovation and Entertainment.
A romantic ocean front restaurant with Caribbean food, fresh cocktails, and music. Tucked away inside Mary’s Boon on Simpson Bay Beach.
Beach location with multinational influences, great food & drinks right on Kim Sha beach. Can be lively or laidback: the choice is all yours!
High-End cuisine with a Caribbean & Indian twist create a culinary adventure in Simpson Bay. An original alternative full of flavor!
Colorful, air-conditioned, diner serving American classics with Caribbean flavors. Known for its nightly karaoke and weeky dinner dance show!
St Martin Yacht Club at the Simpson Bay Bridge | where sailors, yachties & maritime lovers unwind. The #1 Spot to see Super Yachts up close!
Locally owned and run, this place in Simpson Bay shows that you really can do Tapas with Caribbean snacks, drinks and service! Go Locals!
Dopsie’s | Entertainment at its best, an elegant night out with Italian cuisine, sharables, steaks, and tunes by the best Jazz & Blues artists.
Craving an epic burger in St. Maarten? Big Daddy’s serves up juicy 1/3-pound patties, loaded fries, milkshakes & more! Next to Carrefour.
A Fun for All place in Beacon hill, on Simpson Bay Beach to enjoy good times, Tasty Homemade Food & cocktails without breaking the bank!
Middle Eastern Restaurant in Simpson Bay: Grilled Meats, Fish, Vegan & Vegetarian; Kofte, Kebab’s, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Salads, etc.
Built-your-own Burgers in Cole Bay with FREE TOPPINGS, Booze & draught Beers. Affordable food & amazing Happy Hours!
A hidden gem located in Paradise Mall, a fun night with Eduard serving South American-inspired Tapas and incredible wine and beer choices!
Breakfast
A fun, modern, eclectic city-vibe restaurant in the middle of Simpson Bay. Serving great sandwiches, bagels, pancakes, crepes, and waffles.
Cole Bay | The place for Freshly baked goodness; Pastries, Baguette, Sandwiches, Croissants, Bagels, Coffee, Tea, Fresh Orange Juice, etc.
One of island’s favorite breakfast & lunch places in Simpson Bay. With fresh pastries, artisanal breads & famous dishes such as the “Zee Bagel”.
St Martin Yacht Club at the Simpson Bay Bridge | where sailors, yachties & maritime lovers unwind. The #1 Spot to see Super Yachts up close!
A romantic ocean front restaurant with Caribbean food, fresh cocktails, and music. Tucked away inside Mary’s Boon on Simpson Bay Beach.
Isola Ristorante | Italian food made by an Italian chef with carefully selected ingredients shipped from Italy and fresh from the Caribbean.
Panini’s, Sandwiches, Smoothies & Coffee. Tourists relax, professionals unwind, strangers become friends & friends meet… Over Coffee.
The local’s choice for fresh loaves of bread, sandwiches, cakes, patties and lots more, breakfast/lunch Café in Philipsburg and Cole Bay.
Discover TJ Cassava Coal Pot in Sucker Garden, St. Maarten, where authentic Creole cuisine and warm hospitality await. Savor delicious dishes
Activities
Home of the “Topper’s Rhum” which won over 25 international awards: handmade, bottled & packaged with precision right here in St. Maarten!
Culinary workshops designed to transfer the joy of cooking & mixology – Cuisine choices: Creole, Sushi, Vegan, Indonesian, French Bistro…
Explore SXM by Bike, Hike, or Kayak, Tri-Sport offers Rentals & Tours by trained guides. Check out the store for Sports equipment & bike repairs.
Everyone wants to be a social media star. Bring your photography to the next level, Inspired Selfie in Cole Bay can make anyone an influencer.
Niki provides professional Yoga, Pilates, Fitness and Dance Classes. Don’t leave your fitness routine behind, stay fit and in shape!
A true Rib Adventure offering a true speed experience in Sint Maarten – Feel the thrill, embrace the speed & explore Sint Maarten from the water!
Join the Pub Crawl to explore SXM’s best bars and restaurants (Cole Bay, Simpson Bay & Maho) with a great group of people. Party-time!!!
Join this Island Tour to experience the streets of SXM, with sightseeing, many murals & street art, a variety of local food, drinks and fun!
Adventure Island Tour in Saint Martin offers an exhilarating adventure through breathtaking landscapes and cultural discoveries.
Hotels / Stay
Boutique Resort & Spa located right on calm Simpson Bay Beach, yet in the center of SXM. An island escape with history, charm & romance!
Unique 6 Bedroom Villa directly on Simpson Bay beach and close to the vibrant Island central. A wonderful luxury stay in Dutch St. Maarten.
A home away from home in Pelican Key. With an infinity pool, ocean view & friendly staff, experience why everyone becomes family!
Quaint boutique hotel in the heart of Simpson Bay. Everything within seconds of your stay! Beach(es), Restaurants, Nightlife, Shopping, etc.
Fall asleep or sip wine listening to the sounds of the Caribbean Sea at this charming boutique hotel & Art studio. A real Beach vacation!
Experience the best head spa in St. Maarten at Alma Spa in Pelican Key, blending Japanese scalp rituals with Moroccan hammam wellness.
Centrally located Bed & Breakfast in the quiet residential neighborhood of Cole Bay, right above the bakery and close by to all the happenings.
Boats
Cruise around the crystal clear waters of St. Martin, Anguilla & St. Barths! A fun private charter with Captain Morgan as the man of the hour!
Outstanding food, drinks and service on a very comfortable Catamaran. Your own yacht without the price tag, exclusive 10% discount dinner cruise!
Board Neil’s “Enigma”, this Lagoon 62 luxury catamaran brings you around SXM or surrounding islands with great service, food & in total comfort!
A family affair with Renegades! Sometimes when you go on vacation, the very best experience is one that feels like traveling with friends.
SXM is known as the friendly island and Random Wind Charters has the Spirit of SXM. Join this Catamaran charter with exclusive 10% discount!
This 26ft powerboat “Bandit” operated by Charter Our Boat is your Ticket to Adventure. The best BUDGET private charter in SXM & Anguilla.
Discover the essence of St. Maarten with Aqua Mania Adventures: pristine dives, breathtaking beaches, and unforgettable moments.
Tame your own Rhino Rider watercraft; sturdy, safe, and fun for all ages! Voted the best tour of SXM and #1 Water Activity many years in a row.
Scheduled tours, private and overnight charters. Family-friendly & perfect for special events! Catering to both Island and Cruise Ship Guests.
Mirian & Pieter are lifelong sailors, making this a business of passion for the sailing sport! Day Sail, Tintamarre Sail or Sunset Sails.
Submit your review | |
Beautiful clean property, lovely hosts that gave good advice and recommendations. Great breakfast including home made bakes. Would unreservedly recommend staying here. The view is also incredible!
Great as always. Everything runs smoothly. The best asset is definitely the staff! Beach service is very nice. I will definitely recommend La Samanna to anyone wanting to escape to paradise. Great job!