Simpson Bay Lagoon

Cradled between the Dutch side of Sint Maarten and the French side of Saint Martin, Simpson Bay Lagoon is more than just a body of water—it’s the heartbeat of the island, a place where the whispers of history, the hum of daily life, and the spirit of adventure all come together in a beautiful symphony.

Imagine the lagoon at sunrise. The water, calm and mirror-like, reflects the soft hues of dawn as the first light breaks over the mountains.The air is fresh, carrying the scent of salt and the faint aroma of breakfast from the nearby villages. The day is just beginning, and so is the story of Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Long ago, before the luxurious yachts and bustling marinas, the lagoon was a quiet sanctuary. The indigenous Arawak people were the first to call this place home, finding nourishment in its abundant waters and solace in its serene beauty. As centuries passed, explorers and colonizers set their eyes on the island, drawn by its strategic location and natural harbor. The lagoon became a hub of activity, with ships anchored in its safe waters, bringing goods and stories from distant lands.

Today, the lagoon is one of the largest in the Caribbean, and while it has modernized, it still holds onto its rich past. It’s a place where old-world charm meets new-world luxury, where the past and present coexist in a delicate balance.

One of the most striking features of Simpson Bay Lagoon is its connection to the open sea. The Simpson Bay Bridge, Sandy Ground bridge and the Causeway Bridge are like the lagoon’s gatekeepers, opening and closing at specific times each day to allow boats to pass. There’s a certain magic to watching the bridge lift, seeing sleek yachts and colorful sailboats glide through, their sails catching the breeze as they venture out to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. For many visitors, this is a must-see moment, a perfect blend of engineering and maritime tradition.

Around the lagoon, the island offers a treasure trove of experiences. Just a stone’s throw away is the vibrant village of Simpson Bay. Here, the streets are lined with lively beach bars, world-class restaurants, and charming boutiques. The scent of grilling seafood wafts through the air as the sun sets, and the sound of laughter and live music fills the night. It’s a place where you can feel the island’s pulse, where locals and tourists alike come together to celebrate the simple pleasures of life.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, the lagoon is a playground. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore its hidden corners, where mangroves create a labyrinth of green tunnels and the water shimmers with the reflection of the sky. 

Or hop on a boat and take a tour around the island, discovering secluded beaches and snorkeling spots teeming with colorful fish and abundant coral.

Then there’s Marigot, the charming capital of the French side, just a short drive away. Here, the streets are lined with colorful Creole houses, and the market square buzzes with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Climb to the top of Fort Louis, an 18th-century fortress, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the lagoon, the island, and the endless horizon beyond.

Back at the lagoon, as the day draws to a close, the water transforms once again. The sky is painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple, and the lights from the surrounding hills twinkle like stars. The lagoon, now calm and reflective, holds the day’s stories within its depths, ready to share them with anyone who cares to listen.

Simpson Bay Lagoon is more than just a destination—it’s a living, breathing testament to the beauty of nature, the richness of history, and the joy of exploration. Whether you’re sailing its waters, strolling its shores, or simply sitting by its edge, you’re part of its story, and it, in turn, becomes part of yours.