Orient beach - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

packard89 · 05-06-2008, 07:21 PM

I know that there is a "clothing optional" section on this beach. I am traveling with an 11 & 12 year old boy, is that section of the beach secluded? I'm trying to decide which beach to go to, I want to go where there are activities for these boys and some adult fun too!

Also, are there plenty of taxi's there as well? We plan on going on our own.

Cruise Planner · 05-06-2008, 08:25 PM

There are basically two parts to Orient Beach; the clothing optional area is by the resort and you'll see mostly totally nude. The rest of the beach you'll see topless and an occasional nude. The two areas are seperated by a stone jetty and there's a big sign warning people of the clothing optional area.

There are other beaches on the Dutch side of the island where you won't see any nudity if you prefer.

As for taxis, there are plenty to go around, but renting a car and driving around the island is fairly cheap and easy. Cars run about $45 - $75 for a brand new Toyota Corolla, depending on the time of year. The roads are fairly nice, traffic is not bad, people are friendly, and you won't have any problems. Keep your doors locked and your valuables in the trunk when you leave the car - just like any other city for that matter.

When you get off the ship, turn right at the end of the pier and there will be several car rental agencies ready to set you up. We rent a car every time we've been to St. Maarten and have never had any problems.

By the way, if you like beer, I highly recommend Carib when in the islands. It's a wonderful beer!

Pete

packard89 · 05-07-2008, 12:25 AM

Oh, I didn't know that both sides have nudity. Scratch that one! It just seemed like it was a popular beach with a lot of activities. Just not "kid friendly" activities evidentally!! lol

What beach is best for families?????????

LuLu · 05-20-2008, 04:47 PM

Kristen ... No Problem! Just stay on the Dutch side (you'll dock on the Dutch side) ... everyone is always covered there.

I've heard some good reports from many on Divi Little Bay Beach. Noticed you're sailing on Royal Caribbean. They offer a shore excursion called "Divi Little Bay Beach Experience". Could be something you'd consider....

Humility · 09-09-2008, 10:28 PM

A very nice family beach on the dutch side would be Mullet bay it is also 7 minuets away from the most exciting Maho beach were i know your Children would have fun getting themselves taped under those 747 just like on You Tube.

although nudity is not legal on the dutch side some visitors sometimes try to go topless on the beaches if ask nicely or told to a security they would have to put there tops on.

There is also a beach on the other side of Orient it is called La Galion the water stays thigh deep for a very long way out nice for smaller children

Taxi's is always on Orient but you can always arrange with your Taxi driver who brought you there to return at a certain time to pick you up.

tutak · 10-28-2008, 01:44 PM

I own a mirrored sunglasses concession at Orient Beach. They are really a must if you are into people watching.

bgsimp · 10-28-2008, 04:18 PM

We stay in St.Maarten alot. We have a timeshare there. There is topless allowed on the Dutch side. Even when you go to town at the beach right there, you'll see gals without tops. I just read an earlier post that said traffic is not bad. Not sure the last time you went, but the traffic is getting awful. We've seen stop & go almost the whole way from town to Simpson Bay. They are doing so much building on the island. Parking has always been a problem, but now it's really bad.