Big Bastard’s Ultimate Great Bay Beach Day for 2 offers a straightforward, relaxing way to enjoy one of Sint Maarten’s top beaches. For just $59 per group, you get a full day of reserved beach chairs, umbrellas, and access to a lively bar and food service, all located conveniently in Philipsburg. With over 43 five-star reviews and a rating of 5.0, this experience clearly hits the sweet spot for travelers craving a no-hassle, authentic beach day.
What we love most about this experience is how easy it is to secure your spot on the sand—no waiting, no stress—and the full control to wander into town or explore the water taxis without losing your shaded seat. The staff’s attentiveness and the prime location right in the heart of Philipsburg make this a dependable, value-packed choice. On the downside, the lack of signage near the water taxis might leave first-timers a little unsure where to go, but the friendly hosts make up for that. This tour suits cruise passengers, couples, or small groups eager for a relaxed, well-equipped beach day with the flexibility to explore.
Key Points
- Prime Location: Situated at 49 Front Street, just steps from the water taxi station, making it very accessible for cruise ship visitors.
- All-Day Reserved Seating: Peace of mind with your own chairs and umbrellas for the entire stay, ensuring comfort regardless of busy beach activity.
- Inclusive Service: Your package includes complimentary beverages, a full menu, and attentive staff, making it a true ‘beach bar’ experience.
- Flexibility: You can come and go as you wish, perfect for those who want to explore Philipsburg or relax in one spot.
- Excellent Reviews: Consistently praised for helpful staff, clean beaches, and good value, making it highly recommended by past guests.
- Convenient and Affordable: At only $59 per group, it provides a cost-effective way to enjoy a curated beach day with peace of mind.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
When we consider a beach day in Sint Maarten, the main question is often: how easy is it to relax without hassles? This tour answers that with a well-organized setup at Great Bay Beach, one of the island’s most central and beautiful spots. The location at 49 Front Street, right on the Boardwalk side of the Horizon View Hotel, means you’ll find it easily, especially if you’re arriving via water taxi—an especially popular option for cruise passengers.
Once you arrive, the process is straightforward. Your ticket is verified, and a friendly staff member guides you to your reserved beach chairs and umbrellas. The fact that your space is yours for the entire day is a major plus, especially in busy tourist spots. You can leave and return as desired, giving you the freedom to explore Philipsburg’s shops, cafes, or take another water taxi ride to nearby beaches.
The amenities are quite good for a beach bar setup. Guests rave about the comfortable chairs and umbrellas, making long stretches of sunshine more enjoyable. The full-service bar and patio offer food and drinks, with reviews highlighting the quality of the food and attentive, friendly staff. Many reviews mention the complimentary beverages, which add a touch of hospitality, and the convenience of ordering food directly from your seat.
What truly makes this experience stand out, according to reviews, is the staff. Several reviewers mention Jeremy and Anthony by name, praising their attentiveness, friendliness, and helpfulness. Guests feel well taken care of—whether it’s getting a drink promptly, having questions answered, or just feeling welcomed.
The beach itself is described as beautiful and clean, with some reviews noting the absence of seaweed that plagues other beaches on the island. The water is described as crystal-clear, ideal for swimming or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. The proximity of the bar and restrooms is a bonus: no long walks or searching for facilities when nature calls or hunger strikes.
A common highlight in reviews is the value for money. For $59, you get an entire day of comfort, shade, and refreshment. Considering how easy it is to secure your spot and the flexibility to explore, many guests feel this represents great value—especially compared to other options that don’t include reserved seating or amenities.
However, some travelers might find the lack of signage near the water taxis a small challenge. Since there’s no clear indicator, you might need to ask locals or the staff to find the exact spot. Still, the friendly demeanor of the team tends to make up for this minor inconvenience.
Overall, this tour suits cruise visitors, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, hassle-free beach experience. It’s perfect if you want a comfortable, well-organized spot to relax without the need to negotiate or search for amenities. If you love friendly staff, a central location, and inclusive service, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
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Why This Tour Works for Travelers
This experience excels when it comes to the balance of convenience and authenticity. It’s a simple setup—no gimmicks or over-the-top extras—but that’s exactly what many travelers appreciate. The full-day reserved seating means you can settle in, unwind, and enjoy the stunning views of Great Bay. The friendly, attentive staff create a welcoming atmosphere that’s quite rare in busy beach destinations.
Many reviews highlight that Jeremy, Anthony, and the rest of the team go out of their way to make guests feel appreciated. The cleanliness of the beach and the quality of the food and drinks keep visitors coming back. At the same time, the cost is reasonable, especially when compared to the potential hassle of finding your own chairs and umbrellas or paying for multiple drinks and meals on other beaches.
This tour is particularly suited for those who cruise into Sint Maarten and want a quick, reliable way to enjoy the island’s best features without the stress of navigating unfamiliar territory. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or small groups who value comfort and flexibility.
FAQ
- How do I find the meeting spot?
The location is at 49 Front Street, on the Boardwalk side of the Horizon View Hotel. It’s near the water taxi stop—just ask for the central courthouse and walk towards the water. - Is it easy to get to from the cruise port?
Yes, it’s very accessible. The water taxi station is nearby, and the setup is within walking distance or a short taxi ride. - What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers full-day reserved chairs and umbrellas, access to the beach, and complimentary beverages. Food and drinks are ordered from the menu as needed. - Can I leave and come back during the day?
Absolutely. Your reserved spot remains yours for the entire day, allowing you to explore Philipsburg or relax at your pace. - Are there bathrooms nearby?
Yes, washroom amenities are available at the beach bar and patio. - What about the service and staff?
Guests consistently praise the staff for being friendly, attentive, and helpful. Jeremy, in particular, is mentioned as a standout. - Is this suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
While the review details don’t specify accessibility, the location’s centrality and amenities suggest it’s suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with walking a short distance. - What should I bring?
Water shoes are recommended for the sand, which can have seashell fragments. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and your water bottle. - What if it rains?
The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can reschedule or cancel if the weather turns bad. - How do I book?
You can reserve via the provided link, and your mobile ticket will be verified on arrival. It’s quick and straightforward.
Final Thoughts
This full-day beach experience at Great Bay combines simplicity, comfort, and good value—making it a standout for travelers who want a dependable, relaxing spot without the fuss. The reserved seating, friendly staff, and central location turn a typical beach day into something special. Whether you’re on a cruise or just want to soak up Sint Maarten’s sunshine, you’ll appreciate the hassle-free setup and the chance to truly unwind.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-organized, fun-filled day by the sea, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who value good service and a lively atmosphere in a prime location. Just bring your flip-flops, a smile, and an appetite for a great beach day.