
Great Bay Beach, Philipsburg (must see)
Great Bay Beach stretches along the length of Philipsburg and is one of the most inviting seaside spots on Sint Maarten. Its wide shoreline of soft, white sand and calm turquoise waters creates an ideal setting for both relaxation and recreation. Located directly in front of the capital, the beach combines the ease of city access with the laid-back atmosphere of the Caribbean, making it a natural first stop for visitors arriving by cruise ship or exploring the town on foot.
The beach’s central location allows it to blend seamlessly with Philipsburg’s lively boardwalk, where shops, cafés, and restaurants line the waterfront. This gives visitors the perfect balance between sunbathing and strolling for souvenirs, duty-free goods, or a refreshing drink. The boardwalk is also a prime spot for people-watching, as both tourists and locals gather here throughout the day, especially when the cruise ships are in port.
Great Bay Beach is known not only for its accessibility but also for its gentle waters, which make swimming and wading enjoyable for all ages. Water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling are available for those looking for more adventure, while beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented for those who prefer to simply soak up the sun. Its broad stretch of sand ensures that even on busier days, there’s space to unwind.
As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts into a more tranquil pace, with the lights from the boardwalk reflecting off the water and music drifting from nearby venues.
The beach’s central location allows it to blend seamlessly with Philipsburg’s lively boardwalk, where shops, cafés, and restaurants line the waterfront. This gives visitors the perfect balance between sunbathing and strolling for souvenirs, duty-free goods, or a refreshing drink. The boardwalk is also a prime spot for people-watching, as both tourists and locals gather here throughout the day, especially when the cruise ships are in port.
Great Bay Beach is known not only for its accessibility but also for its gentle waters, which make swimming and wading enjoyable for all ages. Water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling are available for those looking for more adventure, while beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented for those who prefer to simply soak up the sun. Its broad stretch of sand ensures that even on busier days, there’s space to unwind.
As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts into a more tranquil pace, with the lights from the boardwalk reflecting off the water and music drifting from nearby venues.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Philipsburg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Great Bay Beach on Map
Sight Name: Great Bay Beach
Sight Location: Philipsburg, St. Maarten (See walking tours in Philipsburg)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Philipsburg, St. Maarten (See walking tours in Philipsburg)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Create Your Own Walk in Philipsburg
Creating your own self-guided walk in Philipsburg is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Philipsburg Introduction Walking Tour
Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten, is a lively port town best known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boardwalk, and stunning beachfront views. One of its main highlights is Front Street, a bustling shopping hub where visitors can browse jewelry stores, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops, all at tax-free prices. Just steps away lies the famous Boardwalk along Great Bay Beach,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles