Simpson Bay Beach — Long Sandy Beach on the Lagoon Side
Calm water, long walks, and a local beach atmosphere.
Why Go
Simpson Bay Beach stretches along the western coast of the Dutch side, offering a long, sandy beach with calm Caribbean water. Less flashy than Maho and less crowded than Great Bay, Simpson Bay Beach is where residents swim, jog, and enjoy the island's quieter beach culture.
The Experience
Simpson Bay Beach runs along F. Alfie Heileger Drive on the western coast, providing a long stretch of sand that is popular with residents and visitors staying in the Simpson Bay area. The water is typically calm — the Caribbean-facing west coast is sheltered from the Atlantic swells that hit the eastern beaches. The beach has a local character: residents jog the shoreline in the morning, families set up for weekend afternoons, and guesthouses and small hotels along the road provide a steady but manageable flow of visitors. A few beach bars and restaurants dot the shoreline, but the overall vibe is more residential beach than resort beach.
What to Try
Long beach walks — the stretch is excellent for morning or sunset walks along the waterline. Swim in the calm, gentle surf. Watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea from one of the beachfront bars. The calm water makes it suitable for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Insider Tip
Simpson Bay Beach is the best beach for long walks on the Dutch side — the shoreline extends far enough for a proper exercise walk. Morning is best for jogging, golden hour for photography, and late afternoon for a swim followed by sunset drinks. The Horny Toad Guest House area is one of the quieter sections of the beach.
The Practical Stuff
Located along F. Alfie Heileger Drive, Simpson Bay. Free access at multiple points along the road. Street parking. A few beach bars and restaurants along the strip. No lounge chair rental at most sections. Bring your own gear. Calm water makes it family-friendly.
Pair It With
- Mullet Bay Beach Guide — The next beach north for a different swimming and sunset experience
- Maho Beach Guide — The famous plane-watching beach just around the corner