St. Martin Beach Tours
Discover 37 pristine beaches from French sophistication to Dutch party vibes
St. Martin/Sint Maarten boasts 37 stunning beaches spanning both French and Dutch sides - from Orient Bay's water sports paradise to Maho Beach's famous airplane landings, Grand Case's calm waters to Mullet Bay's perfect sand. Beach hopping tours showcase this incredible coastal diversity visiting multiple beaches experiencing different vibes, from clothing-optional French beaches to family-friendly Dutch shores, secluded coves to bustling beach clubs. Explore both sides of the island discovering each beach's unique character, enjoy water activities from jet skiing to paddleboarding, experience beach bar culture, and create memories at this dual-nation Caribbean paradise. Expert guides share insider knowledge about best beaches for different preferences creating comprehensive beach adventures showcasing why St. Martin is called the "Friendly Island" with beaches for every taste and style.
Why Choose Beach Tours in St. Martin?
37 Diverse Beaches
More beaches than any Caribbean island this size - incredible variety and choice.
French & Dutch Cultures
Experience European sophistication and Caribbean warmth on one small island.
Beach for Every Style
Party beaches, quiet coves, family-friendly, clothing-optional - something for everyone.
Year-Round Perfection
Consistent warm weather (80-85°F) and calm waters make every day beach day.
Types of Beach Tours in St. Martin
Island Beach Hopping Tours
Visit 3-4 best beaches on both French and Dutch sides.
Boat Beach Tours
Access remote beaches and coves only reachable by boat.
French Side Beach Tours
Focus on sophisticated French beaches and culture.
Dutch Side Beach Tours
Experience lively Dutch beaches and activities.
What to Expect on St. Martin Beach Tours
Duration
Half-day: 3-4 hours. Full-day beach hopping: 6-7 hours. Boat tours: 4-5 hours.
Beach Variety
White sand, golden sand, calm bays, surf beaches, clothing-optional, family beaches, party beaches.
Famous Beaches
Orient Bay, Maho Beach (airplanes!), Mullet Bay, Grand Case, Baie Rouge, Pinel Island.
Activities
Swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, sunbathing, beach bars.
Amenities
Beach clubs with loungers, restaurants, bars, water sports rentals, facilities at popular beaches.
Highlights
Airplane landings at Maho, turquoise waters, beach bars, dual-nation culture, stunning sunsets.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Orient Bay largest beach - water sports, beach clubs, restaurants
Maho Beach famous for low-flying plane landings - unique experience
French beaches often clothing-optional sections - heads up
Mullet Bay consistently voted best beach on island
Pinel Island (French side) accessed by water taxi - beautiful
December-May calmest seas and driest weather
Beach bars on Dutch side lively - great atmosphere
Early arrival at popular beaches gets best lounger spots
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is best beach in St. Martin?
A: Mullet Bay most acclaimed! Beautiful long beach, calm waters, powdery sand, mountain backdrop. Orient Bay also top - water sports, beach clubs, lively. Maho Beach famous for plane landings. Grand Case calm, family-friendly. Baie Rouge stunning red cliffs. 37 beaches means "best" depends on preference! All beautiful. Beach hopping lets you decide personal favorite!
Q:What is Maho Beach plane watching?
A: Unique phenomenon! Princess Juliana Airport runway extremely short - planes land/take off just feet above Maho Beach. Feel jet blast, see planes overhead up close. Thrilling and famous. Popular tourist attraction. Grab fence during takeoff for blast experience (hold tight!). Scheduled plane times available. Lunch at Sunset Bar & Grill perfect viewing spot. Absolutely must-do St. Martin experience!
Q:What about clothing-optional beaches?
A: French side has European attitude! Orient Bay has clothing-optional section (Club Orient). Baie Rouge topless common. French culture more relaxed about nudity. Clearly marked sections. Optional not required. Dutch side more conservative. If uncomfortable, many non-optional beaches available. Part of French Caribbean culture. Respect all beachgoers regardless. Choice available for all preferences!
Q:French side or Dutch side beaches?
A: Both excellent - different vibes! French: sophisticated, European feel, quieter, better food, clothing-optional options, Orient Bay, Grand Case. Dutch: lively, party atmosphere, casinos, Maho Beach planes, more English. No passport needed crossing. Rent car to explore both. Tours visit both sides. Experience complete island - best of both worlds!
Q:Are beaches free?
A: Yes! All beaches public and free. Beach chair/umbrella rentals available ($10-25). Beach clubs charge for amenities/service. Water sports extra. Parking at some beaches paid. Very affordable access. Tours include transportation and sometimes loungers. Independent visits budget-friendly. Lunch at beach bars expected if using facilities. Excellent beach access overall!
Q:Can I visit beaches independently?
A: Absolutely! Rental car or taxi to beaches. Small island - nothing far (30 minutes max). Many beaches well-signposted. However, tours offer: multiple beaches efficiently, local knowledge, boat access to remote coves, equipment, social experience. Mix independent and tours. Visit favorites independently after tour shows you options. Freedom to explore!
Q:When is best time for beaches?
A: Year-round excellent! Water temperature consistently warm (78-82°F). December-May dry season - calmer seas, less rain, peak season. June-November wetter but beaches enjoyable. September-October historically quietest (hurricane season but rare direct hits). Weekdays less crowded than weekends/cruise days. Always beach weather - tropical paradise!
Q:What should I bring?
A: Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimwear, beach towel, water, cash (rentals/food). Recommended: snorkel gear, beach umbrella/tent, waterproof phone case, cooler with drinks/snacks, flip-flops, beach bag. Tours provide some equipment. French side: euros accepted. Dutch: US dollars. Both take cards most places. Relax and enjoy!
Why Visit St. Martin?
Unique dual-nation experience (French and Dutch)
World-class dining and culinary excellence
Pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters
Duty-free shopping and vibrant nightlife
Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
Perfect blend of relaxation and excitement
Best Time to Visit
Weather
St. Martin enjoys tropical weather year-round with average temperatures of 82°F (28°C). The island has pleasant trade winds and occasional rain showers.
Best Months
December to April offers the best weather with minimal rainfall, perfect beach conditions, and ideal temperatures for all activities.
Peak Season
December to April brings peak tourist season with higher prices but guaranteed excellent weather and minimal hurricane risk.
Off Season
May to November offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though June to November is hurricane season with occasional storms.
Other Popular Tours in St. Martin
Plan Your St. Martin Trip
Transportation Tips
Rent a car for flexibility, use taxis, or take organized tours. The island is small and easy to navigate between French and Dutch sides.
Car Rental Deals in St. Martin
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your St. Martin adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in St. Martin
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