The Beaches

St.Maarten has more than 37 different beaches and all of them are available to the public. There are several the vactioner would enjoy more than others, however, feel free to explore on your own. We have included a brief description of several of the most popular beaches.

But first some advice on beach etiquette. Throughout most of Europe topless beaches are common and nudity is not unusual. In the U.S. these sights are practically nonexistent. St.Maarten is an extension of France and Holland, thus topless sunbathing has become accepted just about everywhere on the island.

Nudity is usually confined to Orient Beach, Coconut Grove and Tintamere or Flat Island on the French side and to some extent at the far end of Cupecoy Beach on the Dutch side. Although you may encounter nude sunbathing on some of the more isolated beaches, it is adviseable to confine your experience to your private villa or the Orient Beach area.

The Caribbean sun is much more intense than what you are used to at home. There may be parts of your body that never have experienced intense sunlight. Many vacations have been ruined by sun poisoning and severe sunburn.
We can't stress enough how important it is to use a sunscreen or block at all times. A 15-25 block is recommended by most doctors to insure proper protection. Also, a cool breeze or a cloudy sky does nothing to inhibit the suns damaging ultra violet rays. Play it safe and avoid the sun between the hours of 11 am and 2 pm.

Go to the Dutch side beaches

Go to the French side beaches