10 Best Beach Bars in St Maarten / St Martin

By Banita Sadhra on 25th September, 2023

St. Maarten / St. Martin, a Caribbean paradise, is home to some of the most enticing beach bars in the world. Whether you’re a sun-worshipper, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply seeking a laid-back island experience, the beach bars in St. Maarten / St. Martin have something to offer everyone. Read on as we take you on a journey to explore the 10 best beach bars in St Marteen/ St Martin!

Sunset Beach Bar – Maho Beach

Sunset Beach Bar in St. Maarten holds a coveted spot near Princess Juliana International Airport on the renowned Maho Beach, earning national media attention and top-notch reviews from a legion of satisfied visitors.

Sunset Beach Bar in St. Maarten offers a unique experience where you can watch commercial jets flying incredibly close overhead while enjoying cocktails in a tropical paradise. This combination of excitement and relaxation creates an unforgettable experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring St. Maarten due to its captivating appeal.

Karakter Beach Bar – Simpson Bay

Karakter offers daytime relaxation with comfy lounge chairs, shaded picnic tables, and excellent service – no cover charge required. By night, it transforms into a charming beachfront restaurant with candles, torches, and live music, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Karakter has great breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their tapas menu, available from 11am to closing, is remarkably diverse for its size, with global-inspired dishes like nachos, charcuterie platters, and homemade Indonesian meatballs – all served at your table or right on the sand. Don’t forget to sample their signature cocktails, like Ti’ Punch, Rum Punch, and other specialty drinks, to quench your thirst at this lively beach bar.

Pinel Island – Yellow Beach Bar

A petite fishing boat-style ferry departs every half-hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., commencing from Rue de Cul de Sac on St. Martin and journeying to Pinel Island. The brief one-way voyage spans 10 minutes, or if you prefer, take a leisurely 15-minute kayak or SUP ride from the beach.

Once on Pinel Island, the Yellow Beach Bar beckons as the perfect setting to while away your day. Revel in activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sun-soaking, all while clutching a delightful cocktail in hand. Make sure to reserve a table at the restaurant for a mouthwatering treat: grilled lobster, tantalizingly basted in your choice of Creole sauce or garlic butter.

Ocean Lounge – Philipsburg

Located in the heart of Philipsburg at the stylish Holland House Beach Hotel, this beach bar is the perfect place to take a break while exploring the capital. Ocean Lounge is known for its casually romantic atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to relax during your tour and soak in the stunning views of the turquoise waters.

Live music sets the tone here, featuring a diverse range of styles, from Caribbean salsa to reggae. Their drink menu includes a delightful selection of specialty cocktails alongside classic favorites like the “Ginger Splash” and their unique gin & tonic. Using only the freshest ingredients, the bartenders craft each drink to perfection, ensuring a delightful sip every time.

Buccaneer Beach Bar – Kim Sha Beach

Buccaneer Beach Bar, nestled on the south end of Kim Sha Beach at the heart of St. Maarten’s entertainment hub, welcomes families with its lively yet family-friendly atmosphere and entertaining evening activities.

Throughout the day, Buccaneer Beach Bar hosts a range of entertaining activities for both locals and tourists. From crab races to beachfront pig roasts, and Friday night children’s movies, there’s fun for the entire family to enjoy.

While you soak up the sun on their loungers and under the rented umbrellas, don’t miss their delectable frozen cocktails, best enjoyed at their shaded picnic tables. The kitchen opens at 10am, offering a menu featuring burgers, ribs, beloved American appetizers, pizzas, and fresh salads.

Driftwood Boat Bar – Simpson Bay

The Driftwood Boat Bar is a hit among both tourists and locals due to its affordable cocktails crafted solely from fresh fruit and its friendly, lively atmosphere. During Happy Hour, beer and rum cocktails are just $3, making it a popular post-work hangout for locals.

You can enjoy your drink, order food at picnic tables, or lounge on beach chairs while taking in the turquoise sea view. Their professional kitchen serves Caribbean and American meals for lunch and dinner, and local musicians and DJs frequently perform, ensuring you’re entertained as the amiable staff makes you feel right at home.

Indigo Beach Restaurant – Indigo Bay

Indigo Beach Restaurant invites you to a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of calm turquoise waters. The decor combines rustic weathered wood and elegant white canopies, setting the stage for an extensive wine list and a delightful array of classic beach cocktails and creative craft concoctions. Their menu is a fusion of Caribbean cuisine, catering to various tastes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and delectable desserts.

Located on the picturesque Indigo Bay along the Sint Maarten (Dutch) side of the island, this beachfront gem welcomes guests for daily lunches and dinners on Wednesday through to Sunday.

Kakao Beach Bar – Orient Bay Beach

Orient Bay Beach, situated on the French side of St. Martin, is the bustling hub for a myriad of activities, including dining, drinking, watersport rentals, and shopping. Among the many options available, Kakao Beach Bar truly stands out. It’s not merely a Caribbean beach bar; it’s a daytime resort in its own right.

Kakao Beach Bar boasts two well-appointed full-service bars, numerous plush beach lounge chairs and umbrellas available for rent, a tranquil massage room, and a boutique offering women’s clothing. Both of their bars serve up delightful Pina Coladas and Mojitos, complemented by an extensive selection of wines, cocktails, and beers.

Pelican Beach Grill – Simpson Bay

Pelican Beach Grill, at Flamingo Beach Resort, offers an upscale yet casual atmosphere with fantastic local DJ music for dancing. They serve American comfort food and are conveniently close to a casino for late-night gaming. It’s the perfect spot for a blend of relaxed upscale dining and lively nightlife.

This restaurant and bar are open to the public, so drop by anytime. Take advantage of the all-you-can-eat taco bar on Tuesdays and the annual November Caribbean Rum and Beer Festival.

Tortuga Beach Cafe – Maho Beach

Tortuga Beach Cafe, nestled on the picturesque shores of St. Maarten, is a beachfront haven that combines the essence of Caribbean relaxation with delightful culinary experiences. This charming cafe offers a respite from the sun-soaked sands, inviting visitors to unwind with refreshing drinks, delicious bites, and stunning ocean views.

Whether you’re sipping on a tropical cocktail, savoring a mouthwatering dish, or simply enjoying the soothing ambiance of the beach, Tortuga Beach Cafe captures the essence of the island’s laid-back lifestyle, making it a perfect stop for both tourists and locals alike. Make sure to enjoy Happy Hour everyday between 3pm-5pm and have a chance to spot the planes whilst dining on the beach!

SXM beach bars are as diverse as the island itself, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling plane-spotting experience, a family-friendly day at the beach, a secluded escape, a lively atmosphere, or a touch of elegance, St. Martin has a beach bar that will captivate your senses. So, when you plan your trip to this Caribbean gem, be sure to explore the best beach bars the island has to offer. We hope our guide has helped you find the 10 Best Beach Bars in St Martin! Cheers to unforgettable moments and breathtaking views in St. Martin / St. Maarten! 

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