Simpson Bay

Simpson Bay is the main hotel and restaurant zone of Dutch Sint Maarten, a long curve of sand between the airport and the headland at Pelican Key. Behind it lies Simpson Bay Lagoon, the largest inland lagoon in the Caribbean, shared with the French side and ringed by marinas that berth some of the world's biggest yachts. The bridge into the lagoon opens on a fixed schedule several times a day and the passing superyachts draw a small crowd each time. Airport Road carries most of the island's nightlife, with bars, casinos and seafood restaurants along its length. Sailing and fishing charters leave from here.