Soggy Dollar Bar — Swim-Up Cocktails on Simpson Bay Lagoon
Arrive by boat, swim to the bar, dry your dollars later.
Why Go
The original Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke, BVI became famous because patrons had to swim ashore and pay with wet money. The St. Maarten version on Simpson Bay Lagoon captures that spirit — boats pull up, guests swim to bar stools set in the water, and the Painkiller cocktails flow. It is the Caribbean bar experience distilled to its essence.
The Experience
Soggy Dollar Bar sits waterside on Airport Road along Simpson Bay Lagoon, accessible by land or — more fun — by boat. The swim-up bar stools in the water let you literally sit in the lagoon while sipping cocktails, which is the kind of experience that defines a Caribbean vacation. The original Painkiller cocktail (rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, nutmeg) is the signature order, though the full cocktail program covers Caribbean favorites, cold beers, and creative specials. Food runs from fresh seafood and burgers to sandwiches and daily specials, served in a casual open-air setting with tables in the sand. Live music on select days adds atmosphere. Open daily from 11 AM, with extended hours on Fridays, it works for a lazy afternoon beer or an evening that evolves with the sunset. The yacht and boat crowd treats it as a mandatory stop on any lagoon cruise.
What to Try
The Painkiller is non-negotiable — order one first, then explore the rest of the cocktail menu. Fresh seafood changes daily based on the catch. If you arrive by boat, commit to the swim-up experience at the water bar stools. Friday evenings run late and tend to have the best energy.
Insider Tip
Arriving by boat is the authentic Soggy Dollar experience. If you do not have your own vessel, several boat charter operators in Simpson Bay include Soggy Dollar as a stop. By land, it is on Airport Road in Simpson Bay, but parking can be limited during peak hours. The swim-up bar area can get busy on weekends — arrive by early afternoon for the best seats.
The Practical Stuff
Located waterside on Airport Rd, Simpson Bay Lagoon. Open daily from 11 AM (Fri until late). Swim-up bar, Caribbean cocktails, food. Live music on select days. Boat-in and walk-in access. Moderate pricing ($$). Near Payless Car Rental and Pizza & CO.
Pair It With
- Taxi Jay Da Man Driving Guide — Taxi service for safe transport after afternoon cocktails
- Pizza & CO Guide — Late-night pizza nearby if the Soggy Dollar kitchen closes