Philipsburg, St. Maarten · 25-45 min transfer plus ferry timing from Anguilla
Philipsburg’s main beach, lined by the boardwalk and close to shops, restaurants, and cruise activity.
Location
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Water type
Caribbean Sea — generally calm
Best time
Morning for calmer water; late afternoon for softer light
Ferry to here
25-45 min transfer plus ferry timing
Great Bay Beach Restaurant
Restaurant30 m
Busy lunch spot facing the cruise terminal
Chesterfields Restaurant
Restaurant400 m
Famous for lobster and waterfront views
Philipsburg Boardwalk
Attraction300 m
Shopping, restaurants, local crafts
Great Bay Beach typically offers sheltered, calm water suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Conditions vary by season — check locally before entering. No lifeguards on duty. Often calm enough for a quick swim, but water quality and activity can vary with port traffic and weather.
Wind
Light trades, 10–18 kph
Snorkeling
Coral and reef fish present
Safety
No lifeguard — swim with caution
Parking
Street and lot parking nearby
Food
Beach bars and cafés within walking distance
Getting there
Taxi or rental car from Princess Juliana International Airport
Area
Philipsburg · St. Maarten
Check the calmness score before choosing it for swimming, especially when trade winds are up.
