Cupecoy is the last beach on the Dutch side before the border: not one beach but a series of small coves at the foot of low, honey-coloured sandstone cliffs, facing due west towards the sunset and the island of Saba on the horizon.
It is the most dramatic piece of coast on the Dutch side and also the most changeable. In some months there are broad pockets of sand between the cliffs; after a winter swell the sea can reach the rock and leave almost nothing. Parts of Cupecoy have long been used as a clothing-optional beach. Above the cliffs are condominiums, a marina village on the lagoon side and a medical school, so the area feels residential rather than touristy.
Top things to do: Cupecoy Beach
Explore the coves and caves
Paths and steps lead down from the road to the different coves. At low water you can walk between some of them past small caves and arches worn into the sandstone. The rock is soft and undercut in places — do not sit directly beneath overhangs.
Stay for sunset
Because the coast faces west with nothing but sea in front of it, Cupecoy has one of the best sunsets on the island, with the cliffs turning deep gold in the last half-hour. Bring a drink and a torch for the walk back up.
Swim when it is calm
On settled days the water is clear and deep close in. When swell is running, waves rebound off the cliffs and getting in and out becomes awkward; on those days it is a place to look at rather than to swim.
See it from the water
Sunset sails from Simpson Bay pass along this stretch of the west coast, which is arguably the best way to appreciate the cliffs. See the sunset cruises in our tour list.
How to get to Cupecoy Beach
- From Maho / Mullet Bay: 3–5 minutes by car along the road towards the French side; the beach paths start opposite the condominium entrances.
- From Philipsburg: 35–45 minutes by taxi depending on traffic.
- From Marigot: about 15 minutes via the Terres Basses road — Cupecoy is the first Dutch-side beach after the border.
- Parking: small roadside areas above the cliffs. Do not leave valuables in the car.
Insider tips
- Check how much sand there is before you carry a cool-box down the steps: conditions vary enormously through the year.
- There are few or no services on the sand itself. Bring water; the nearest cafés are in the marina village across the road.
- Parts of the beach are clothing-optional by long custom. Choose your cove accordingly.
- After dark the paths are unlit. Leave as the light goes, or bring a torch.
Best tours for Cupecoy Beach
These well-reviewed experiences are the easiest way to see Cupecoy Beach:
Sunset sail from US$66 Sunset Sailing Trimaran Tour
For people who like the sailing as much as the sunset: two hours along the west coast on a trimaran, with drinks and snacks as the light goes.
- A real sailing trimaran
- The west coast at dusk
- Drinks and snacks on board
Sunset cruise from US$65 Bubbly Sunset Cruise with Prosecco & Snacks
A slightly longer and more generous sunset sail than the basic cruise: two hours on a big catamaran with an open bar and warm snacks.
- A 65-foot catamaran
- Open bar and warm snacks
- Two hours along the coast
