Kim Sha Beach Simpson Bay
1 / 10

Kim Sha Beach Simpson Bay

4.5
·108 reviews·Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten

A vibrant Simpson Bay beach offering water sports, beachfront dining, and stunning Caribbean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Kim Sha Beach Simpson Bay

Kim Sha Beach Simpson Bay

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant Simpson Bay beach offering water sports, beachfront dining, and stunning Caribbean views.

4.5
(108 reviews)

"Beautiful beach with beachfront bar and restaurant. Soft sand and calm water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Availability

Plenty of car parking is available in the local area.

💰 Sunbed Rental Caution

Be aware that some vendors may pressure you to rent sunbeds; beaches are public.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Water Sports Galore

Water Sports Galore

Along the beach

Thrill-seekers can enjoy jet skiing, kayaking, and other exciting water activities.

Instagram+1
Beachfront Dining & Drinks

Beachfront Dining & Drinks

Roxxy Beach, Buccaneer Beach Bar, Greenhouse Restaurant

Sip cocktails and savor delicious food with stunning ocean views.

InstagramReddit
Relaxing Sands

Relaxing Sands

Main beach area

Enjoy the soft sand and calm, turquoise waters perfect for a leisurely day.

InstagramReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Costs

Kim Sha Beach can get busy, especially with cruise ship excursions. Consider visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder season for a more relaxed experience and potentially better prices on rentals and dining. Reddit

Understand Excursion Value

Some visitors find cruise ship excursions to Kim Sha Beach overpriced for what's offered. Research independent options or plan your own day to ensure you get the best value for your money. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Perfect for sunset cocktails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

what a gem!!! i’m team @airbnb over hotels until someone can prove me wrong! 😭❤️ @The Property Ink - St. Martin this was a GEM! // #stmaartenairbnb #sxmairbnb #stmartinairbnb #simpsonbay
@naechenina
18.9K likes • 150.9K views

🚗 Parking Availability

Plenty of car parking is available in the local area. Reddit

💰 Sunbed Rental Caution

Be aware that some vendors may pressure you to rent sunbeds; beaches are public. Reddit

girls night out in sint maarten 🥂💃🏽🪩 @The Captain's Ribshack #sintmaarten #sintmaarten🇸🇽 #sxm #Vlog #travelvlog #sintmaartenvlog #lotusnightclubsintmaarten #simpsonbaysintmaarten #captainsribshacksxm @hamidazl4
@hersheykesses
3K likes • 49.6K views
Welcome to Salon&Spa Milada❤️ 📍119 Welfare rd. # G ( second floor) Simpson Bay- we’re next to Kim Sha beach (I’m the same building with Levi’s store) ☎️ For appointment WhatsApp 7215880008 See you soon🥰
miladaspasxm
0 likes • 4 views

🍹 Beach Bar Vibes

Enjoy cocktails and food at beachfront spots like Roxxy Beach or Buccaneer Beach Bar. Instagram

🛶 Kayak Lagoon Tours

Explore the saltwater lagoon on a guided kayak tour starting from the beach. Instagram

Come with me to the beautiful Kim Sha Beach🏝️🌊 Discovering paradise at Kim Sha Beach, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten! 🏖️ Crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and endless sunshine, while enjoying your cocktail at @roxxybeach.sxm or @buccaneerbeachbar 🍹 Now, that’s life. 💙 Happy -day after Superbowl - Monday! 〰️〰️ Follow @allthingssintmaarten for daily reels and posts, all about the beautiful Caribbean...
allthingssintmaarten
237 likes • 3.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Availability

Plenty of car parking is available in the local area. Reddit

💰 Sunbed Rental Caution

Be aware that some vendors may pressure you to rent sunbeds; beaches are public. Reddit

🍹 Beach Bar Vibes

Enjoy cocktails and food at beachfront spots like Roxxy Beach or Buccaneer Beach Bar. Instagram

🛶 Kayak Lagoon Tours

Explore the saltwater lagoon on a guided kayak tour starting from the beach. Instagram

💆‍♀️ Nearby Spa Services

Salon & Spa Milada is conveniently located nearby for pampering. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(108 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kim Sha Beach is praised for its beautiful scenery, soft sand, and calm, turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with beachfront bars and water sports like jet skiing and kayaking. However, some find the beach and associated services, like chair rentals and excursions, to be overpriced, with a feeling of being taken advantage of by some vendors. Reddit

"Way too expensive to what it is offering. I am very disappointed with my experience at Kim Sha Beach. The Royal Caribbean excursion cost $104, but what was offered felt like taking advantage of tourists.

We were picked up by boat and then transferred to a big bus that drove us about 20 minutes to the beach area. During the ride, we received a short history talk about the islands. When we arrived, we were offered fruit punch served from a construction-style water bucket (the orange kind). We declined.

The beach chairs were extremely dirty and broken. For lunch, we were taken to the Greenhouse restaurant with a pre-set menu. It was stated that we could order one drink and one item from the menu, but the server told us there were no refills. On top of that, we were required to pay tips. I looked up their menu later, and the sandwich cost $32, which I personally think is overpriced.

So, for a 20-minute bus ride and broken beach chairs, it cost us $80 per person—plus we still had to pay for umbrellas. This felt like a complete rip-off and nothing more than taking advantage of tourists.

The beach itself is very beautiful, but honestly, all the beaches around St. Maarten are beautiful. Even on the bus, there was another sign reminding us to leave tips.

I’ve attached photos so you can see—this experience was definitely not worth $104."

Tatyana Chakir

"Beautiful beach with beachfront bar and restaurant. Soft sand and calm water"

Alyssa W.

"Nice beach with water sports, kayaking, diving, restaurants, bars and toilet facilities. The beach is kept tidy by the businesses based along it. You can hire beach chairs and umbrellas. Plenty of car parking in the local area."

Ian Thrasher

What People Like

Beautiful turquoise water
Soft sand
Water sports activities

What People Dislike

Overpriced excursions
Expensive rentals
Pushy vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kim Sha Beach is located in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten. If you're arriving by cruise ship, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked excursion. Many visitors rent cars to explore the island and reach the beach. Reddit

Yes, Kim Sha Beach is accessible from cruise ports in Philipsburg. Taxis are readily available, and some cruise lines offer excursions directly to the beach. Reddit

Taxis are common in Simpson Bay. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the area and reaching Kim Sha Beach. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of car parking available in the local area near Kim Sha Beach. Reddit

Some hotels, like Commodore Suites, are located right on or very close to Kim Sha Beach, making it easily walkable. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kim Sha Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. However, you may need to pay for amenities like beach chairs and umbrellas. Reddit

Rental prices for beach chairs and umbrellas can vary. Some visitors have reported them to be on the higher side, especially if not part of a package. Reddit

While some restaurants and water sports operators might offer packages, be cautious of cruise ship excursions, as they can be expensive for what's included. Reddit

Beach bars and restaurants typically operate during daylight hours and into the evening, with specific hours varying by establishment. Instagram

While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally expected that visitors will patronize the local businesses for food and drinks. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, kayaking, and other recreational activities. Instagram+1

The beach features soft sand and calm waters, making it suitable for swimming. InstagramReddit

Yes, toilet facilities are available, typically managed by the businesses operating along the beach. Reddit

Kim Sha Beach offers a lively atmosphere with beachfront bars and restaurants, alongside opportunities for relaxation and water sports. Instagram

It can get busy, especially when cruise ships are in port or during peak season. Visiting on weekdays can offer a less crowded experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are several beachfront restaurants and bars, including Greenhouse Restaurant, Roxxy Beach, and Buccaneer Beach Bar, offering various cuisines and drinks. InstagramReddit

Some visitors have found restaurant prices to be high. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand. Reddit

Many restaurants offer a mix of international and local Caribbean flavors. Asking locals for recommendations can be helpful. Reddit

You can expect a wide range of cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages at the beach bars. Instagram

Tipping is generally expected at restaurants in Sint Maarten, and some establishments may include it in the bill. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the turquoise water, the soft sand, and the mega-yachts in the nearby lagoon. The piers and beachfront bars also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the water. Instagram

Consider capturing the contrast between the calm beach and the impressive yachts in Simpson Bay Lagoon. Kayak tours also offer unique perspectives. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and lagoon. A waterproof camera or phone case is recommended for water activities. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kim Sha Beach offers a good mix of relaxation and activity for families. The calm waters make it safe for children to swim and play. Instagram There's also a playground available, adding to the family-friendly amenities. TikTok While some water sports might be more suited for older children or adults, the general beach environment is welcoming. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as restaurant prices can add up quickly. Reddit

For families staying nearby, hotels like Commodore Suites offer convenient access. Instagram+1 It's also worth noting that some cruise ship excursions might be geared more towards adults, so researching independent options or planning your own family day can be more cost-effective and tailored to your needs. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Kim Sha Beach offers beautiful scenery and activities, some visitors find it can be expensive, particularly regarding excursion packages and beach rentals. Reddit To save money, consider visiting on a weekday when crowds might be smaller, and explore options for bringing your own snacks and drinks. Reddit Instead of pricey organized tours, you might find it more economical to arrange your own transportation via taxi or rental car and pay for individual activities or food as you go. Reddit

Look for local eateries slightly off the main beachfront strip for potentially more affordable dining options. Reddit Remember that the beach itself is public, so focus on enjoying the natural beauty and swimming, which are free. Reddit

couples

Kim Sha Beach provides a romantic setting, especially in the late afternoon and evening. Enjoy sunset cocktails at one of the beachfront bars like Roxxy Beach, soaking in the beautiful Caribbean views. Instagram The calm waters are perfect for a leisurely swim together, or you could opt for a shared kayak adventure in the lagoon. Instagram+1

Consider staying at a boutique hotel like Commodore Suites, which offers a more intimate and upscale experience right on the beach. Instagram+1 Dining at one of the beachfront restaurants can be a lovely way to end the day, though it's wise to check menus and prices beforehand to suit your budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Water Sports and Activities

Kim Sha Beach is a hub for aquatic adventures. Visitors can rent jet skis for a thrilling ride across the Caribbean Sea or opt for a more serene experience with a guided kayak tour of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Instagram+1 These tours often provide insights into the island's history and the unique ecosystem of the lagoon, offering a different perspective beyond just the beach. Instagram The calm waters make it ideal for various activities, catering to both adrenaline junkies and those seeking a more relaxed engagement with the ocean. Instagram

Beyond the motorized and paddle-powered options, the beach is also a great spot for swimming and simply enjoying the water. The soft sand and gentle entry into the sea make it accessible for most visitors. Instagram Remember to check with local operators for availability, pricing, and any safety guidelines before embarking on your chosen activity. Instagram

Dining and Beachfront Experience

The stretch of Kim Sha Beach is dotted with vibrant beachfront bars and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere. Popular spots like Roxxy Beach and Buccaneer Beach Bar offer a prime location to enjoy cocktails and meals with a view of the ocean. Instagram The Greenhouse Restaurant is also a notable option, though some visitors have found its pricing to be on the higher side. Reddit

These establishments provide not only food and drinks but also amenities like beach chair and umbrella rentals. Reddit While the convenience is undeniable, it's worth noting that some visitors have felt pressured to rent these items, and the beaches are technically public spaces. Reddit For those looking to experience the local culinary scene, asking staff or locals for recommendations can lead to discovering hidden gems or authentic island flavors. Reddit

Accommodation and Proximity

For travelers looking to stay close to the action, Kim Sha Beach offers convenient accommodation options. Commodore Suites, a boutique hotel, is situated directly on Kim Sha Beach, providing easy access to the sand and sea. Instagram+2 Its location in Simpson Bay also places guests within close proximity to other attractions, including Simpson Bay Beach and essential amenities like the Market Garden Supermarket. Instagram+1

This proximity makes Kim Sha Beach an attractive base for exploring the southern part of Sint Maarten. Visitors can easily walk to the beach, enjoy water sports, dine at beachfront restaurants, and then retreat to their comfortable suites. Instagram The area is well-connected, with taxis readily available for further exploration of the island. Reddit