St. Maarten | St. Martin: ultimate drinking guide 2024
Drinks & Caribbean cocktails you must-try when vacationing in SXM.
With two countries sharing one island and an immense amount of cultures, this also brings lots of variety in drinking options. We (We Are SXM) put together a list of the best Caribbean cocktails and beach refreshments, island rums, wines, beers, and unique dutch liquor. Enjoy a vacation full of tax-free alcohol and headaches, one for rum and rum for all!
Make sure you always explain to the bartender if you’re more a sweet tooth or prefer drinks more on the sour side. Furthermore, you can let them know if you like savory, spicy or smoky. With the liquor, lime/lemon, sugar syrup, and several other ingredients, our island pro’s can make each drink to your liking, or give it a personal twist.
Let our Island bartenders surprise you!
Caribbean cocktails & Beach drinks:
- Guavaberry Colada: Guavaberry rum, pineapple juice and coconut cream (on the rocks or frozen)
- Moet Ice: champagne on ice served with fresh fruits
- Pina Colada: rum, pineapple, coconut, and rum (on the rocks or frozen)
- Planter’s Punch: dark rum, pineapple & orange juice, lemon, grenadine, and a dash of angostura (optional)
- Mojito: rum, lime, mint, sugar, and sparkling water
- Dark and Stormy: dark rum, ginger beer, and lime
- Margarita: tequila, lime, sugar, triple sec (on the rocks or frozen)
- Daiquiri: rum, lime, sugar, and endless flavor variety, banana, coconut, strawberry, mango, pineapple, etc. (on the rocks or frozen)
- B.B.C.: no, it’s not Big Black….., but baileys, banana, and coconut (frozen)
- T-Punch: White rum (agricultural), lime and cane sugar
- Cuba Libre: straightforward rum, lime & coke
Local Island liquor, beers & wines:
- Rum: there’s Islands Toppers Rhum & Guavaberry Rum but we also recommend you to try the many world-class rums from the Caribbean; Diplomatico, Plantation XO, Ron Zacapa XO, Clément, Don Papa, Rhum J.M. V.S.O.P., and Mount Gay X.O. (My personal favorite is Ron Zacapa)
- Jenever: “the mother of gin”, Dutch Jenever; Van Wees, Ketel 1, Bols Korewijn
- Beer: try Amstel Bright, Carib, San Martin Beer, SXM Beer, Lost Beer, Pelikaan Beer, and their flavors. All only available in the Caribbean!
- Wines: if there’s one country knowing about wine, then its France. In the fine-dine restaurants, trust the sommelier with a wine-pairing for your meal. Here you can try wines from world-class french wineries; Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Lafleur, Petrus, Château Trotanoy, Domaine Jean Grivot, Henri Bonneau & Fils, Château de Beaucastel and many more….
Handcrafted cocktails from around the globe:
Trust the bartenders to make you that extraordinary mix-drink with fresh fruits or even vegetables. Try the following all with top-shelf liquor for the best result.
- Gin & Tonic: Hendricks Gin, tonic, slices of cucumber
- Basil Martini: Absolut Elyx vodka, basil, lime, sugar
- Espresso Martini: Ketel 1 vodka, Coffee Patron, espresso, sugar syrup
- Moscow Mule: vodka, lime, ginger beer
- Jalapeño en Jalisco: Don Julio Blanco, Health-Ade Jalapeño Cucumber & Kiwi, Union Mezcal, Fresh Lime Juice, Agave Nectar
- Pisco Sour: Pisco, sugar, egg white, lime, and angostura bitters
- Spiced Old Fashioned: Bourbon, habanero infused sugar syrup, orange rim, angostura bitters
Other drinks worth a mention:
Trese are some drinks that are more popular on other Caribbean Islands but you can definitely get them on SXM, these deserve a mention:
- Zombie: white & dark rum, lime juice, pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine. Garnish with cherries and mint
- Painkiller: dark rum, pineapple & orange juice, and coconut cream. Garnish with nutmeg
- Goombay smash: Aged rum, coconut rum, apricot brandy, pineapple, orange & lime juice, dash of angostura
- Caribbean Breeze: orange vodka, raspberry vodka, coconut rum, orange & pineapple juice, grenadine
- Mudslide: vodka, coffee liquor, irish cream liquor, heavy cream
- Coco Loco: fresh coconut, tequila, melon liquor, coconut rum, pineapple & lime juice, sugar syrup
Learn to make your own Caribbean Cocktails:
Where to enjoy Caribbean cocktails & beach refreshment in SXM
A must-visit in the heart of Philipsburg, with great food all day, comfortable Beach Chairs, a Shower and, Moet ICE Champagne.
A chic beach club serving fine French cuisine right at the water’s edge of Grand Case Beach. Open for a Beach Day, Lunch or Dinner!
This Gourmet Restaurant is a high-end culinary destination, a beach & food lover’s Paradise located on the famous Orient Bay Beach in Saint Martin.
The ultimate relaxing spot on Simpson Bay Beach with Caribbean food, fresh cocktails, and music. Tucked away inside Mary’s Boon.
There is a new Dutch blonde in town; Comfort food, Local Beers & Dutch pancakes in this gorgeous Beer Garden in Philipsburg.
Mullet Bay Beach can now be a full-day destination! Caribbean BBQ and services like a Changing Room, Shower, Toilets, & Lockers.
A laidback, family style, French beach restaurant with great food, cocktails and full service right on Grand Case Beach.
Open-air, casual restaurant right on Maho Beach. The best spot for lunch & plane spotting, or a romantic oceanfront dinner.
Beach bar & kitchen in Maho. Daily LIVE MUSIC events, combined with great Happy Hours, and amazing Sunset in this colorful place!
Looking for delicious, breathtaking, and away from the crowds & organized tours? Visit Indigo for French cuisine on the beach!
Voted Best Restaurant in St Martin located in Orient Bay; family-style, personal, and serving food made with love. Amazing Seafood!
Located on Mullet Bay Beach | High-quality food, great drinks, friendly faces serving, and all at a very reasonable price.
A little paradise in Grand Case with sharable Mediterranean food & craft cocktails. Welcoming Beach Club, Lounge & Restaurant.
A green escape right on the Beach with Bohemian and unique Festival deco, nestled along the pristine shores of SXM’s Nettle Bay Beach.
Beach location with multinational influences, great food & drinks right on Kim Sha beach. Can be lively or laidback: the choice is all yours!
Known for Live Lobster & Fresh Local catch, have lunch overlooking the turquoise blue waters and white beach of secluded Pinel Island!
This cozy Beach Bar & Restaurant right on Orient Bay beach spreads the aroma of Caribbean charcoal grilled dishes since 1977!
French Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner right on the beach of Grand Case! On a sunbed or in their stunning ocean front restaurant. Bon Appetit!
Located on the lagoon side beach in Nettle Bay. Rewarded two toques by Gault & Millau in 2020, one of the finest French restaurants in SXM!
Where to try local spirits and beers in Sint Maarten | Saint Martin
Caribbean Brewing Company: Taste paradise with San Martin Island beer, brewed and bottled on SXM! Join the Brewery Tour to learn about this local beer!
There is definitely a new naughty blonde in town; Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. Enjoy local Beers in this gorgeous Beer Garden located on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg!
Topper’s Rhum Distrillery: Home of the “Topper’s Rhum” with over 25 awards: handmade, bottled and packaged with precision right here in St. Maarten!
A quality Caribbean Rum Aged over 10 Years in Bourbon and Bordeaux Barrels. Taste and learn more, visit the aging room in French Cul de Sac.
Lagoonies in Cole Bay combines the delicate French taste with fun-loving Dutch side vibes. Home of all 4 flavors of the locally made Pelikaan Beer.
A sexy rooftop sky lounge in Maho serving Craft Cocktails from award-winning bartenders. Deep House vibes & the zen of the cherry blossoms.
A typical Dutch “Bruin Café” in Madame Estate, serving the largest selection of Belgium Beers, over 70 Whiskeys, Rhums, and real Dutch snacks & dishes!
Beer Bar & Restaurant: lots of craft beers, sailors and real food, what you see is what you get! Be prepared for raunchy bartenders and an obnoxious owner.
This Rusty Parrot in St Maarten | St. Martin, has its own rum with hibiscus that will make you feel like a true Pirate! Fun for young and old, Arrrrr…..
Nowhere Special in Simpson Bay – Locally owned and run, and with happy hour on every drink. Making this a great place to try some local spirits!
Emilio’s is located on a historic 18th century sugar cane plantation. The bar has a huge selections of Rums, Whiskeys and makes classic Caribbean cocktails.
Gourmet french dining on the square in Orient Bay Village Square with world-class French Rhums, balanced Cocktails & Top French Wines. Vive la France.
Topper’s Bar & Restaurant has nightly Karaoke and a Dinner-Dance show set in a fun, air-conditioned, Caribbean cottage. An Island landmark!
Where to try the best wines in Sint Maarten | Saint Martin – Places with a connoisseur
A hand-picked selection of unique, high-quality Goat, Sheep & Cow cheeses from small farms across Italy, the Netherlands, & mainly France.
Located in Mont Vernon you find the #1 fine dining experience on the Island, and one of the finest restaurants in the entire Caribbean!
Traditional French restaurant with Caribbean & Asian influences. Recognized as Warm, friendly & delicious. At “The Cliff” in Cupecoy.
Located in Nettle Bay and rewarded two toques by Gault & Millau in 2020, this is one of the finest French restaurants in St. Martin!
Gourmet French dining on the square in Orient Bay Village, with world-class meats and locally sourced fish, paired with balanced Cocktails & Top Wines.
This oceanfront Caribbean restaurant in Philipsburg is a quintessential eatery on the Boardwalk, looking out to Great Bay’s crystal blue water.
Located in Grand Case | Lara & Ciro share the flavors & hospitality of Italy! A genuine fine dining experience with authentic Italian cuisine.
A side of Zen with your dinner. A splash of pizzazz in your cocktail. Multiple sensations for the mind. Palapa in Simpson Bay is more than “just dinner”!
The World-class Chef gives a classic steakhouse a new attitude. JAX in Maho is a sexy fusion of taste & style laid out in mahogany and leather.
Located on a historic 18th century sugar cane plantation. Chef Sidney brings a combination of high-end dining with classic Caribbean cuisine.
Terrace style dining located in the village of Porto Cupecoy. Enjoy French & Italian cuisine prepared with only the freshest ingredients.
Up in the hills of Cole Bay in a restored 19th-century Sugar Mill | Bamboo’s World-Class chefs have been redefining Sushi in SXM for over 20 years!
A chic beach club atmosphere right Grand Case Beach. Rainbow changes into a party after dinner with DJ’s, Live Music, striptease night and more!
The best traditional Japanse Sushi located in Maho, Dutch SXM. Alina is a One A Kind dining experience and Chef Ken will create a Culinary adventure!
Caribbean & Fish restaurant in Oyster Pond, chef Leslie Martina prepares delectable dishes and Michael cold drinks. Visit their new Cigar lounge!
French creative cuisine in the village of Orient Bay. Famous for their slow-cooked meats, french cheese and the great price/quality!
A Caribbean twist on Indian classics create a culinary adventure in Cole Bay. An original alternative to Traditional island dining!
A hand-picked selection of unique, high-quality Goat, Sheep & Cow cheeses from small farms. Pair with good wine “et Voila”.
Bold Buddha brings a unique combination of Asian, Indian, and Caribbean flavors together right here on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg.
A hidden gem located in Paradise Mall, a fun night with Eduard serving South American-inspired Tapas and incredible wine and beer choices!
One of the sexiest Rooftop Sunset Restaurants in St Martin is located on top of the West Indies Shopping Mall in Marigot – Serving French fine Cuisine!
The best Dutch Cheeses & tasty wines from France. With the Wine & Cheese tasting events you get to enjoy the best of both sides!
Where to enjoy hand-crafted cocktails in St. Maarten – St. Martin
Ludovica Telese (28) | Italian born professional Bartender/Bar Consultant living in St. Martin will teach & inspire you to make your very own cocktails!
Located in Mont Vernon you find the #1 fine dining experience on the Island, and one of the finest restaurants in the entire Caribbean!
A must-visit in the heart of Philipsburg, with great food all day, comfortable Beach Chairs, a Shower and, Moet ICE Champagne.
A side of Zen with your dinner. A splash of pizzazz in your cocktail. Multiple sensations for the mind. Palapa in Simpson Bay is more than “just dinner”!
A chic beach club serving fine French cuisine right at the water’s edge of Grand Case Beach. Open for a Beach Day, Lunch or Dinner!
A sexy rooftop sky lounge in Maho serving Craft Cocktails from award-winning bartenders. Deep House vibes & the zen of the cherry blossoms.
The World-class Chef gives a classic steakhouse a new attitude. JAX in Maho is a sexy fusion of taste & style laid out in mahogany and leather.
A Caribbean French & American fusion menu located behind the original Grand Case. Friendly staff, and cozy ambiance always attract a fun crowd!
Escape in the nature of St Martin. Great food, with a French – Caribbean cuisine, top cocktails and the most beautiful pool you will ever find.
Gourmet French dining on the square in Orient Bay Village, with world-class meats and locally sourced fish, paired with balanced Cocktails & Top Wines.
Located on Mullet Bay Beach | High-quality food, great drinks, friendly faces serving, and all at a very reasonable price.
Up in the hills of Cole Bay in a restored 19th-century Sugar Mill | Bamboo’s World-Class chefs have been redefining Sushi in SXM for over 20 years!
A chic beach club atmosphere right Grand Case Beach. Rainbow changes into a party after dinner with DJ’s, Live Music, striptease night and more!
This Gourmet Restaurant is a high-end culinary destination, a beach & food lover’s Paradise located on the famous Orient Bay Beach in Saint Martin.
The best traditional Japanse Sushi located in Maho, Dutch SXM. Alina is a One A Kind dining experience and Chef Ken will create a Culinary adventure!
Combines the delicate taste of the French-side with fun-loving Dutch-side vibes. Intimate family-style venue & an authentic local experience in Cole Bay.
Visit Joelle & Gregg in Simpson Bay | A place to relax, sit back, enjoy approachable service, and a home-cooked meal full of Caribbean flavor!
Located on a historic 18th century sugar cane plantation. Chef Sidney brings a combination of high-end dining with classic Caribbean cuisine.
A Caribbean twist on Indian classics create a culinary adventure in Cole Bay. An original alternative to Traditional island dining!
Located in Nettle Bay and rewarded two toques by Gault & Millau in 2020, this is one of the finest French restaurants in St. Martin!
Caribbean & Fish restaurant in Oyster Pond, chef Leslie Martina prepares delectable dishes and Michael cold drinks. Visit their new Cigar lounge!
Located in Grand Case | Lara & Ciro share the flavors & hospitality of Italy! A genuine fine dining experience with authentic Italian cuisine.
A little paradise in Grand Case with sharable Mediterranean food & craft cocktails. Welcoming Beach Club, Lounge & Restaurant.
French creative cuisine in the village of Orient Bay. Famous for their slow-cooked meats, french cheese and the great price/quality!
A hidden gem located in Paradise Mall, a fun night with Eduard serving South American-inspired Tapas and incredible wine and beer choices!
The ultimate relaxing spot on Simpson Bay Beach with Caribbean food, fresh cocktails, and music. Tucked away inside Mary’s Boon.
A romantic ocean front restaurant with Caribbean food, fresh cocktails, and music. Tucked away inside Mary’s Boon on Simpson Bay Beach.
Voted Best Restaurant in St Martin located in Orient Bay; family-style, personal, and serving food made with love. Amazing Seafood!
A classy Cocktail Lounge & Restaurant in the heart of Maho Village. Serving till late at night with a multinational cuisine and great Tapas to share.
One of the sexiest Rooftop Sunset Restaurants in St Martin is located on top of the West Indies Shopping Mall in Marigot – Serving French fine Cuisine!
Locally owned and run, this place in Simpson Bay shows that you really can do Tapas with Caribbean snacks, drinks and service! Go Locals!
There is a new Dutch blonde in town; Comfort food, Local Beers & Dutch pancakes in this gorgeous Beer Garden in Philipsburg.
A green escape right on the Beach with Bohemian and unique Festival deco, nestled along the pristine shores of SXM’s Nettle Bay Beach.
Mullet Bay Beach can now be a full-day destination! Caribbean BBQ and services like a Changing Room, Shower, Toilets, & Lockers.
Known for Live Lobster & Fresh Local catch, have lunch overlooking the turquoise blue waters and white beach of secluded Pinel Island!
A laidback, family style, French beach restaurant with great food, cocktails and full service right on Grand Case Beach.
Open-air, casual restaurant right on Maho Beach. The best spot for lunch & plane spotting, or a romantic oceanfront dinner.
Beach bar & kitchen in Maho. Daily LIVE MUSIC events, combined with great Happy Hours, and amazing Sunset in this colorful place!
French Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner right on the beach of Grand Case! On a sunbed or in their stunning ocean front restaurant. Bon Appetit!
Where to get fresh juices and smoothies in SXM
Exodus Juice Bar in Marigot or Sandy Ground | Caribbean smoothies and Healthy juices – Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Power Foods.
A chic beach club atmosphere right at the water’s edge of Grand Case Beach. Open for a Beach Day, Lunch or Dinner paired with delicious cocktails!
A night out in the Capital starts at Ocean Lounge! In a romantic setting overlooking the Boardwalk & Great Bay you enjoy unique cocktails & top-class wines.
At Le Temps des Cerises you enjoy Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner right on the beach of Grand Case! On a sunbed or in their stunning ocean front restaurant. Bonne Appetite!
Your escape in nature! Join the monthly Tree-Hab pool parties and nightly events with top cocktails in the most beautiful entourage on SXM. A MUST VISIT.
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