Guana Bay Beach is one of St. Maarten’s best-kept secrets. The secluded stretch of coast is one of the most tranquil on the island. Very few tourists frequent this stretch of paradise, where you’ll find great surf and stunning views. Throw down your towel on your own stretch of sand and you might just find there’s not another soul in sight.
Arrive before dawn and watch the sunrise over the sea then spend the day relaxing in Guana Bay. Come prepared as there are no food or drink facilities on the beach. Stop at the convenience store between Philipsburg and Guana Bay to pick up any supplies you might need for the day. Bring towels and an umbrella for sun protection.
The wide beach stretches for more than 500 metres (1,500 feet) along the coast. Stroll along the sand to Guana Bay Point. When the weather is fine the headland on the south of Guana Bay offers views across the Caribbean Sea as far as St. Bathelemy, or St. Barts, a French island about 15 kilometres (10 miles) off St. Maarten.
Surfers flock to Guana Bay for the excellent swells that come off the Atlantic Ocean and provide great conditions for surfing. Go windsurfing or snorkelling off the beach. You’ll need to hire equipment in Philipsburg and bring it with you. Experienced swimmers will love catching waves but children and those with less confidence should stick close to the sand. There are often strong currents and big waves.
Get to Guana Bay by car from town or walk the 3-kilometre (2-mile) journey. If you’re coming on foot, there’s a bit of a climb over a small hill. The drive takes a few minutes and there is free parking. Make sure you take any valuables with you because there is no security monitoring the area.
