Da Waterhole
The only watering hole you need at Mullet Bay Beach.
Why Go
Mullet Bay Beach is consistently rated among St. Maarten's most beautiful beaches — white sand, turquoise water, and enough space to spread out even on busy days. What it does not have is a lot of commercial development, which makes Da Waterhole a valuable find. Perched right where Mullet Drive meets Rhine Road at the beach entrance, this spot serves as the gathering point for everyone coming to or from Mullet Bay who wants a drink, a bite, or a reason to stay a little longer.
The Experience
Da Waterhole occupies prime real estate at the gateway to Mullet Bay Beach, which means its clientele is a rotating cast of beachgoers in various states of sun-soaked relaxation. The format is casual — think bar stools, open air, and a menu built for people who do not want to leave the beach zone to find food. Cold drinks are the primary draw, but the food offerings provide enough substance to turn a quick stop into a longer session. The Mullet Bay area was once home to a major resort that never recovered from Hurricane Luis in 1995, and the ruined golf course and abandoned hotel behind the beach give the area a unique atmosphere — beautiful and slightly wild. Da Waterhole leans into this character rather than fighting it, offering a venue that matches the beach's unpretentious beauty. Jet ski rentals and watersports operators are right next door, so you can punctuate your drinking with adrenaline if the mood strikes.
What to Try
Post-swim cold beer is the default order, but if they make a rum punch, that is always a solid beach-day companion. Timing matters: arrive before the afternoon beach crowd peaks (around 11 AM) or stay for the golden hour when the crowds thin and the light turns perfect.
Insider Tip
Mullet Bay Beach parking can fill up fast on weekends and holidays — arrive early to secure a spot. The beach itself has no shade structures, so Da Waterhole also functions as your escape from the midday sun. The walk from Maho Beach is about 15 minutes along the coast if you want to beach-hop.
The Practical Stuff
Location: Mullet Drive #1, Rhine Road, Mullet Bay, Dutch side. Vibe: casual beach bar. Payment: US dollars, check card acceptance. Hours: typically daytime through evening, weather dependent.
Pair It With
- Mullet Watersports Jet Ski Rental & Tours Guide — Jet ski adventure followed by drinks at Da Waterhole
- Mullet Bay Beach Guide — The beach itself — Da Waterhole is your base camp