Little Bay Beach

Nestled on the southwest coast of Sint Maarten, right in front of the Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, Little Bay Beach is a sheltered bay that charms visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Although it directly borders the hotel grounds, access to the shoreline is fully public and free: you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy swimming, snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun.

The bay is well sheltered, so the sea is often very calm, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. The rocks lining the bay and the deeper areas are home to colorful marine life, easily observable with just a mask and snorkel. On site, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and several beach bars and restaurants let you grab a bite with your feet in the sand.

Little Bay’s true treasure lies beneath the surface: Under SXM, a one-of-a-kind underwater sculpture park. Over 300 submerged works, created from real-life figures, celebrate the history, culture and identity of Sint Maarten. This underwater art exhibition also serves as a refuge for marine life and strengthens the local ecosystem. Access is typically through a guided snorkeling or diving excursion, often departing directly from the beach.

Just behind the bay, on the small peninsula separating Little Bay from Great Bay, stands Fort Amsterdam, a 17^th-century fort built by the Dutch to defend the island. It’s a fascinating historical site to combine with a beach visit for a glimpse into Saint-Martin’s colonial past.