Cupecoy and Dawn Beach: The Island's Most Scenic Hideaways

Beyond Maho’s spectacle and Orient Bay’s crowds, Sint Maarten hides quieter, more dramatic coastlines for those willing to explore.

Cupecoy Beach

Cupecoy sits on the southwestern Dutch side, where dramatic limestone cliffs drop to a series of small coves. The beach varies with the tides — sometimes wide, sometimes reduced to a narrow strip against the cliff base. The cliffs provide morning shade and create striking shadow photography opportunities.

Practical: Clothing-optional section at the northern end. No facilities. Access via path from the cliff-top parking area.

Dawn Beach (Orient Bay area, French side)

Dawn Beach faces the Atlantic on the French side near Orient Bay. It catches consistent trade winds and swells, making it favored by windsurfers and kitesurfers. The offshore reefs create calm swimming areas while generating good surfing conditions beyond.

The nearby Oyster Bay Beach Resort has a public restaurant if you need refreshments after a beach session.

Sunset at Mullet Bay

Mullet Bay, adjacent to Maho, offers one of the island’s most spectacular sunsets — the sun descends directly over the Caribbean sea with no obstructions. Arrive by 5:30pm to secure a spot on the beach.

Baie Rouge (French Side)

Baie Rouge is consistently voted the island’s most beautiful beach: a wide crescent of pale sand backed by low dunes, with crystalline water in shades from turquoise to deep blue. The beach bar serves cold Lorraine beer and fresh grilled fish.