Best Beaches in St Maarten for Families: My Top Picks!
Paradise comes in many forms across St. Maarten’s 36 beaches, but finding the perfect spot for family fun requires a bit more than just picking a random stretch of sand. From sheltered coves with gentle waves to beaches with all the essential amenities, we’ve handpicked the island’s most family-friendly shores.
Think calm waters where kids can splash safely, beaches with convenient facilities, and spots where the whole family can make memories – from sandcastle building to snorkeling adventures. We’ll guide you to both the popular family favorites and those hidden gems that locals treasure.
Let’s explore the best beaches in St Maarten for families, where Caribbean charm meets practical comfort.
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Table of Contents
- 1 Your Ultimate Family Friendly Beach Guide
- 2 Additional Tips for Families Visiting St. Maarten
- 3 Plan Your Family Beach Adventure in St. Maarten
- 4 Author
Your Ultimate Family Friendly Beach Guide
Mullet Bay Beach: A Family Favorite
Why Families Love It
Mullet Bay Beach is a family favorite thanks to its perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. This crescent-shaped beach offers calm, shallow waters ideal for younger kids, and the gentle waves make it great for learning to surf. The beach is centrally located, easy to access, and surrounded by natural palm tree shade.
Top Activities at Mullet Bay Beach
- Beginner-Friendly Surfing: Mullet Bay is known for its gentle waves, making it an excellent place for families to try surfing together.
- Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic spot for kids and adults to explore.
- Picnics and BBQs: Vendors offer island-style barbecue, or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy by the beach.
Local Insight:
“A local surf instructor shared how Mullet Bay has become a go-to spot for families looking to introduce their kids to water sports in a safe and enjoyable way. It’s not just about the beach but about creating family memories.”
Insider Tip:
Arrive early to secure parking and a prime spot under the shade of palm trees, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season when the beach is busier.
Why It Stands Out:
Compared to other beaches, Mullet Bay is not only family-friendly but also offers a blend of relaxation and fun activities, making it a top pick for families of all ages.
Dawn Beach: Tranquil & Scenic
Why Families Love It
Dawn Beach, near the French border, offers a more tranquil experience. Families flock here for its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is known for its breathtaking sunrises and calm waters perfect for leisurely swims.
Top Activities at Dawn Beach
- Resort Kids’ Clubs: Nearby resorts often offer supervised kids’ activities, allowing parents some quiet time to relax and enjoy the beach.
- Snorkeling: The reefs here are teeming with fish, making this a great location for underwater exploration.
- Sailing Tours: Book a family-friendly sailing trip along the coastline for an unforgettable day on the water.
Local Insight:
“One local hotel manager recommends visiting early in the morning for the best views and a quieter experience. She describes it as ‘one of the island’s best-kept secrets for a peaceful family outing.’”
Insider Tip:
Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear—head to the northern end of the beach to see the best marine life.
Why It Stands Out:
Dawn Beach provides a quieter, more resort-like atmosphere compared to other beaches, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury, ideal for families seeking serenity.
Maho Beach: Plane Spotting Fun
Why Families Love It
Maho Beach is famous for its exciting plane spotting. With Princess Juliana International Airport just a stone’s throw away, planes fly just overhead, creating an adrenaline-pumping experience for kids and adults alike. The beach’s calm waters are perfect for building sandcastles or swimming after plane-watching.
Top Activities at Maho Beach
- Plane Spotting: The highlight of Maho Beach is watching large jets land just above your head—a thrilling experience for children and aviation fans alike.
- Swimming and Sandcastle Building: After the planes pass by, the calm waters are perfect for a dip.
- Beachfront Dining: Several restaurants nearby offer family-friendly meals, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
Safety Note:
While plane spotting is exciting, parents should supervise their kids closely near the runway fence and avoid the jet blast zone for safety.
Why It Stands Out:
Maho Beach offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t find at any other beach, making it a must-visit for families.
Great Bay Beach: Fun for Active Families
Why Families Love It
Great Bay Beach is vibrant and full of life. Located near the cruise ship port, it’s a bustling destination perfect for families who love both the beach and the convenience of nearby shops, restaurants, and activities. From watersports to shopping, there’s something for everyone.
Top Activities at Great Bay Beach
- Boardwalk Adventures: Rent a Segway or bike and explore the scenic boardwalk along the beach.
- Watersports Galore: Jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing offer adrenaline-filled fun for the whole family.
- Duty-Free Shopping: Nearby shops cater to families looking to pick up souvenirs or local crafts.
Local Insight:
“Great Bay is a local favorite for families who want to mix beach relaxation with a bit of shopping and sightseeing. It’s also one of the best places on the island to catch live local performances in the evening.”
Insider Tip:
Bundle water sport activities together for discounts and maximize your family’s fun.
Why It Stands Out:
Great Bay Beach is ideal for families who want a lively, action-packed day with everything you need in one place.
Little Bay Beach: Peaceful Spot for Families
Why Families Love It
Little Bay Beach is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Its calm waters are perfect for young children to swim and paddle, while the beach’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place for families to relax and recharge.
Top Activities at Little Bay Beach
- Rhino Safari Tours: Take a thrilling ride on a guided motorboat tour to explore the coastline.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Enjoy the tranquility of the beach while exploring on a kayak or paddleboard.
- Explore Historic Fort Amsterdam: For families looking for a dose of history, this nearby fort offers fascinating views and a glimpse into the island’s past.
Local Insight:
“A family from Texas shared their experience visiting Little Bay, where their kids enjoyed the rhino safari tour. They described it as ‘the highlight of our trip and the perfect way to experience St. Maarten away from the crowds.’”
Insider Tip:
For breathtaking views, hike the trail behind the beach, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island.
Why It Stands Out:
Little Bay Beach offers the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and historical exploration, ideal for families looking to escape the crowds while still having fun.
Additional Tips for Families Visiting St. Maarten
Seasonal Tips:
High Season (December–April): The beaches are busiest, but the weather is perfect for family beach days.
Low Season (May–November): Enjoy fewer crowds, though be mindful of occasional rainfall or hurricanes.
Hidden Gems:
Cupecoy Beach: Known for stunning sunset views and shallow tide pools, this beach offers the perfect opportunity to introduce kids to nature.
Simpson Bay Lagoon: A peaceful spot for kayaking and birdwatching, offering families a quieter alternative to more tourist-heavy locations.
Safety Tips:
Always keep a close eye on young children in the water, especially if currents are strong.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the vibrant marine life while snorkeling.
Plan Your Family Beach Adventure in St. Maarten
St. Maarten is a paradise for families, offering a wide range of beaches that cater to every type of family vacation. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping fun, a quiet day at the beach, or exciting opportunities to explore, this guide has something for everyone. Pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation on the best beaches in St. Maarten.
