Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam – St. Maarten
Little Bay Beach and Fort Amsterdam sit side‑by‑side on a scenic peninsula just minutes from Philipsburg, offering a perfect blend of calm water, soft sand, and historic Caribbean views. It’s one of the easiest beach‑plus‑exploration combos for cruise visitors, giving you a relaxing shoreline and a short hike to one of the island’s most important historic sites.
Fun Facts & History About Little Bay & Fort Amsterdam
Fort Amsterdam was built by the Dutch in 1631, making it the first Dutch fort in the Caribbean. Over the centuries, it changed hands multiple times between the Dutch and Spanish, and today its stone walls and cannons overlook both Great Bay and Little Bay. The beach below the fort is known for its calm, clear water and protected cove, making it a favorite for swimming and snorkeling.
Where Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam Are Located
Both sit on a peninsula just west of Philipsburg on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. Little Bay Beach is at the base of the peninsula, and Fort Amsterdam sits at the top, offering panoramic views.
Why Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam Are Worth Visiting
This spot gives you the best of both worlds: a peaceful beach with gentle water and a short, scenic walk to a historic fort with sweeping views of the coastline. It’s ideal for cruisers who want a relaxing beach day with a little adventure and photography mixed in.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Little Bay Beach offers calm water, soft sand, and a quieter atmosphere than Great Bay. Resorts along the beach offer chair rentals, food, and drinks. The walk up to Fort Amsterdam takes about 10–15 minutes and rewards you with views of Philipsburg, Great Bay, and the open Caribbean. The fort itself is partially restored, with cannons still in place.
How to Get to Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam From the Cruise Port
It’s a short taxi ride from Port St. Maarten, usually 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Some visitors choose to walk, but the route is hilly and better suited for a taxi.
Best Time to Visit Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam
Morning and early afternoon offer the best lighting for photos from the fort and the calmest water at the beach. The area stays pleasant throughout the day, but the fort can get warm in midday sun.
Tips for Visiting Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam
- Wear sturdy sandals or sneakers for the walk up to the fort.
- Bring water — there are no vendors at the top.
- Chair rentals are available from nearby resorts.
- The beach is great for snorkeling thanks to its calm, protected cove.
- The fort is free to visit and open to the public.
Common Complaints About Little Bay Beach & Fort Amsterdam
- The walk to the fort is hot with limited shade.
- Some resort areas feel private, even though the beach itself is public.
- Limited amenities at the fort, so bring water and sunscreen.
- Chair rental prices vary depending on the resort.
- The beach can get narrow during high tide.
Final Thoughts
Little Bay Beach and Fort Amsterdam offer a perfect mix of relaxation and history just minutes from the cruise port. With calm water, scenic views, and one of the island’s most important historic sites, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for cruisers looking to experience more than just a beach day.
You can see the full list of top things to do in St. Maarten here.
