Simpson Bay

Decades ago, Simpson Bay was home to a community of the island’s fishermen. Today, the fishing still continues but the area has changed quite considerably over the years. Simpson Bay is now a bustling hub for tourists with world-class restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs. Many people are attracted to this region because there are a wide choice of high end resorts are all within walking distance of the area’s entertainment.

The bay officially begins at the draw bridge and continues for half a mile towards Princess Juliana International Airport. The draw bridge is an access and exit point for boats and yachts into the lagoon from the open waters of the Caribbean Sea. The drawn bridge is opened 6 times a day, enabling boats to come and go as they wish. This area of Simpson Bay can get a little congested when the bridge is open. It would be wish to add 15 minutes to your travel time if you happen to be passing through this area when the bridge is due to open.

Numerous bars, restaurants, car rental agencies, shops and the occasional bank line the main road through the town. Situated right next to the bridge and the waterfront you’ll find the Simpson Bay Market. This is where local fisherman can present and sell their catch of the day. Restaurant owners, locals and tourists alike flock here every day to grab the best available fish produce on the island – a must-visit as far as we are concerned.

The residential area of the bay is mixed. In more recent years there has been an increase in high-class developments being built, along with small, but tastefully designed condos, perfect for holiday makers or long term rentals. Simpson Bay is also where many real estate agencies have their main offices, conveniently situated close to the main airport and within a busy area of Dutch Sint Maarten.