Cole Bay

Saint Martin & Sint Maarten, The Caribbean

Cole Bay offers a vibrant blend of Dutch and French cultures, beautiful waterfront views, and a lively atmosphere. Known for its stunning beaches, boutique shops, and delectable dining options, it is the gateway to many water sports and yacht excursions. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife or relax at the beach bars, making it an ideal spot for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind in paradise.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Princess Juliana

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Cole Bay

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Maho Beach

Famous for planes landing overhead, a must-visit!

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Simpson Bay

Charming waterfront with shops, bars, and restaurants.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the St. Maarten Museum

Showcases the island's rich history and culture.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go snorkeling at Pinel Island

Vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs await.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Dine at The Diners

Unique dining experience with local Caribbean cuisine.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a sunset cruise

Relax on a boat while watching the sunset.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike the Pic Paradis

Challenging hike with breathtaking views at the top.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Fort Louis

Historic site with panoramic views of Marigot Bay.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Marigot Market

Local market with crafts, food, and souvenirs.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Grand Case Village

Known for its culinary delights and vibrant culture.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience the nightlife in Simpson Bay

Bars and clubs for an unforgettable night out.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Butterfly Farm

Get up close with beautiful butterflies and nature.

No booking required
13

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Loterie Farm

Adventure park with zip-lining and hiking trails.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

No data

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Callaloo Soup

VE

Creamy soup made with callaloo leaves. (National dish)

Johnny Cakes

VE

Fried dough cakes, often served with meals.

Conch and Dumplings

Dumplings served with tender conch meat.

Crab Backs

Crab meat stuffed in shells, baked or fried.

Whelk Soup

Rich soup made with whelk, a type of sea snail.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)