5 Best Beaches in St Maarten for Snorkeling You Must Visit!

Saint Martin, or Sint Maarten, is a paradise island in the Caribbean, famous for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or an experienced diver, this island has some of the most beautiful and accessible spots to explore beneath the waves. From turtles to rays and colorful fish, the island’s waters are teeming with life, making it a dream destination for anyone wanting to dive into nature’s wonders.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top five beaches in St. Maarten for snorkeling, with expert tips and local insights to help you make the most of your adventure. Ready to explore some underwater magic? Let’s go!

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Top Beaches for Snorkeling in St. Maarten

Happy Bay Beach

Location: Northwest of the island, between Grand Case and Friars Bay
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for less crowded conditions

Happy Bay Beach is often called the best spot on the island for snorkeling—and it’s not hard to see why! This tranquil, off-the-beaten-path beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters that are perfect for exploring marine life. Local fish species, sea turtles, and rays are just a few of the underwater delights waiting to be discovered. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seahorse or two, which is a rare but beautiful sight in the area.

What makes Happy Bay special is its secluded charm. There’s no commercial development here—no beach bars or big hotels—just raw, unspoiled nature. If you’re into photography, this spot provides some of the most stunning underwater shots, with sun rays filtering through the water. It’s a great place for underwater photographers to capture the vivid marine life in action. The best way to access Happy Bay is via a short, scenic hike from Friars Bay (only about 15 minutes). Trust me, it’s worth the walk!

Local Tip: If you’re into quiet, intimate experiences, visit during weekdays, especially in the off-season, to avoid the crowds. The beach feels like your personal tropical paradise during these times.

Mullet Bay Beach

Location: Between Maho and Cupecoy Beach
Best Time to Visit: Morning for the calmest waters and fewer people

Mullet Bay Beach is a local favorite and for good reason. Its wide, crescent-shaped bay is a visual masterpiece, framed by soft white sand and backed by towering cliffs. The water here is calm, making it an ideal spot for beginners. If you’re just starting out in snorkeling, this beach is a perfect introduction to the colorful marine world beneath. You can expect to see schools of tropical fish, including the lively parrotfish and butterflyfish, weaving through the coral beds.

What makes Mullet Bay unique is its natural beauty and accessibility. The beach is easy to reach, with a large parking lot and plenty of amenities nearby. On weekends, the atmosphere is lively with locals and families coming to barbecue, play beach volleyball, and swim. But don’t worry—during the week, the beach is peaceful, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the serenity of the sea. And for those who like to stay active, the beach also offers paddleboarding and kayaking for added adventure.

Local Insight: Mullet Bay is famous for its pristine waters, but did you know the area also has some of the island’s best sunset views? After your snorkeling session, grab a seat on the sand and watch the sky turn golden!

Little Bay Beach

Location: Near Great Bay
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to avoid the cruise ship crowds

Little Bay Beach is one of St. Maarten’s hidden gems. It’s a smaller beach compared to others on the island but just as beautiful, with soft, powdery white sand and calm waters that are perfect for snorkeling. The best part? The underwater world is home to fascinating wrecks and rocky formations, providing excellent opportunities for exploration. There are a few large sunken ships off the coast that have transformed into artificial reefs, providing habitats for countless marine species.

While the snorkeling is a major highlight, Little Bay also offers plenty of other activities. From parasailing to jet skiing, there’s something for everyone in the family. And don’t forget about the dining options! The beach is home to a couple of beachfront restaurants where you can grab a bite after your snorkeling adventure, making it a great place to spend the whole day.

Local Tip: If you want to avoid the cruise ship crowds (they tend to arrive around noon), try to visit Little Bay early in the morning. The water is calmer, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the underwater beauty.

Dive Into History: Snorkel Sint Maarten’s Stunning Underwater Sculpture Park!
Experience an unforgettable adventure at Little Bay’s Spirit of SXM Underwater Sculpture Park. Explore 300+ breathtaking sculptures that tell Sint Maarten’s story, celebrate its culture, and support marine life—all while snorkeling through crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss this unique blend of art, history, and vibrant aquatic life. Book your adventure now and be part of this magical eco-experience!

Dawn Beach

Location: On the East coast, stretching from Oyster Bay Beach Resort to the Westin Resort
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise—enjoy the best lighting for underwater photos!

Dawn Beach is one of the island’s most stunning spots, and it’s not just because of the amazing snorkeling. The beach also offers jaw-dropping views of the mountainous backdrop of St. Barth’s. It’s one of the few beaches where you can experience both sunrises and sunsets from the same vantage point, depending on where you are on the beach.

Under the water, you’ll find a healthy coral reef just a short swim from the shore, teeming with colorful fish, moray eels, and rays. The currents can be a little strong here, so it’s more suitable for experienced snorkelers who are comfortable with deeper water. But if you’re up for a challenge, this is the spot to see some of the most vibrant marine life in the area.

Pro Tip: The best snorkeling is a little further out from the shore, so be sure to bring your swim fins and snorkeling gear. The reward is worth it! If you’re a beginner, consider hiring a guide who knows the area.

Cupecoy Beach

Location: On the southwest side of the island
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon, for peaceful waters and stunning sunsets

Cupecoy Beach is famous for its dramatic rock formations and stunning cliffs, which make for a unique snorkeling experience. The underwater scenery is just as breathtaking as the cliffs above, with vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life. This is one of the more advanced spots for snorkeling on the island, thanks to the rocky terrain, caves, and strong currents. But if you’re comfortable with that, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most mesmerizing marine encounters, including colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and even the occasional stingray.

One of the coolest things about Cupecoy is that it’s a clothing-optional beach, which adds to its laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded experience. While it’s not the easiest beach to access (you’ll need to navigate a rocky path down to the sand), the reward is totally worth it.

Local Insight: The waters around Cupecoy are great for evening snorkeling, especially during sunset when the water reflects the golden hues of the sky. This is also one of the best spots for underwater photography—so bring your camera!

Sail and Snorkel in Seclusion: Tropical Catamaran Adventure

For an even more secluded and intimate snorkeling experience, consider the Tropical Catamaran Snorkeling, Sailing, and Beach Experience. Departing from Bobby’s Marina, this small-group tour takes you to hidden snorkeling spots and offers stunning views of St. Maarten’s coastline. With a buffet lunch, open bar, and snorkeling gear provided, it’s the perfect way to explore Cupecoy’s vibrant underwater world and beyond. Plus, the dingy service ensures easy access to even the most tucked-away beaches. Discover the Tropical Catamaran Snorkeling Experience

Conclusion

St. Maarten is a snorkeling paradise, offering everything from calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners to more challenging spots for seasoned snorkelers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful, secluded beach like Happy Bay or a lively spot like Mullet Bay, there’s something for everyone. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience with stunning marine life, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your snorkel gear, grab some sunscreen, and head to St. Maarten for your next adventure in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean!

Images created using PicLumen.