Guest Experience
SXM Nightlife: Your Guide to Island After-Dark Adventures
Apr 24, 2025
Quick Summary
It’s Carnaval season in Sint Maarten, and the island is pulsing with life from colorful parades to high-energy concerts in Carnaval Village. But when the last soca track fades and the costumes come off, the celebration doesn’t stop. Year-round, Sint Maarten boasts one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic nightlife scenes. Whether you’re here for the Carnaval festivities or planning a future visit, this guide will lead you to the island’s best beach bars, clubs, lounges, and after-dark experiences that keep the SXM party going.
Best Bars & Clubs in Sint Maarten
Looking for a place to grab drinks, meet new people, or dance the night away? Here are the island’s hottest spots:
French Side
- Rainbow Café (Grand Case) : This beachfront hotspot transforms into a lively night club on weekends. From 4PM to 10PM (sometimes 11PM). Saturdays lean toward shatta and bouyon music, while Sundays are more electro/house. Dress code: somewhere between barefoot beach party and stylish night out. Picture showcases the Rainbow Café Saturday Party.
- Le Club Amb (Anse Marcel) : A sophisticated beach restaurant that turns into a nighttime lounge/club. Think candle-lit tables turning into dance floors. Perfect for a refined evening. (Details coming soon)
- Loterie Farm Pool Party (Pic Paradis) : Every last Saturday of the month, Loterie Farm explodes into a massive jungle pool party from 12PM to 8PM. Shatta and bouyon beats, gorgeous scenery, and a wild-but-chill crowd. Wear something waterproof and fabulous.
Dutch Side
- Electropic/Sol e Luna (Rainforest Adventure Park) : One of the most unique parties on the island, taking place every first Saturday of the month. Overlooking Simpson Bay with panoramic views, this event brings electro/house lovers together in full festival attire. Picture showcases sunset during this incredible party.
- Lotus (Simpson Bay) : An island favorite open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10PM to 4AM. Known for high-energy DJ sets, dancing, and a crowd that keeps the party alive all night.
- White Rabbit (Maho) : This intimate, cozy venue is open Friday to Sunday, starting at midnight. Expect strong cocktails, fun themed nights, and a slightly underground vibe.
- District 721 (Simpson Bay) : A hybrid space that starts the night with dinner and cocktails, and gradually shifts into a lively club. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 6PM to 3AM. Perfect for a full night out in one place.
Bars Worth the Buzz
Whether you're after a fun game night, live music, or craft cocktails, these bars deliver unforgettable evenings:
- Ratafia (Cupecoy): A new rooftop bar with incredible cocktails.
Open Monday - Saturday from 6PM-2AM. - Blue Martini (Grand Case) : Lively spot with live DJs and a super social vibe. You’ll also find fun games like pool, chess, and giant Jenga.
Open Monday till Saturday from 6PM to 3AM - PeterMcCool (Orient bay) : A newer and energetic venue with a creative menu and themed game nights like blind test.
Open everyday from 4PM to 1AM - Nowhere Special (Simpson Bay) : Chill, local, and perfect for craft cocktail lovers. Great music and an easygoing crowd.
Open everyday from 11AM to late - The Pearl (Simpson Bay) : Sleek and stylish, ideal for a classy night out with well-crafted cocktails and upbeat music.
Check their Instagram @thepearl_sxm for hours and events - Beer Garden (Maho) : A casual, outdoor beer spot with a wide selection of brews.
Open everyday from afternoons to late. - Mimosa Sky-Lounge ( Maho) : Known for its classy drinks and friendly, social vibe. Great for groups and pre-club drinks.
Open evenings from 6PM to 2AM
Beach Parties
In Orient Bay (French side)
- Aloha : Famous for its wild Sunday beach parties
- Joa : Trendy beachfront spot with signature cocktails and occasional events including DJ (techno/house music).
- Bikini & Kontiki : Sometimes host lively beach parties and themed nights.
Read more about our Orient Bay recommendations in Orient Bay a Vibrant Paradise
In Grand Case (French side)
- Captain Frenchy : Live music, great food, and a gorgeous oceanfront setting and once a montha DJ comes to the beach party (shatta/bouyon music).
- Rainbow Café : Always a good time, with their big beach parties on Saturdays.
Do not forget to make a reservation for beach chairs before planning to go here.
Karaoke
- Madison Bar Karaoke (Maho) : Let loose and sing your heart out!
- Toppers (Simpson Bay): Known for a welcoming crowd and relaxed karaoke nights.
- Yellow Sub (Orient Bay) : Saturday karaoke draws in a loyal local crowd.
Music Events Worth Traveling For
- Carnaval (Dutch side): April 21 - May 5, 2025.
The island erupts to the beat of calypso, soca, reggae, and dancehall. Local troops fill the streets in their colorful costumes in local parades. Schedule here. - Soul Beach Festival 2025: May 21-26, 2025
A massive R&B and soul party week Schedule here - Oualichi Festival: Usually in August.
Local music, dancehall, and Caribbean vibes - August Monday in Anguilla: August 4, 2025
Want to take the party offshore? Rent a boat and cross over for one of the region’s biggest beach parties. - Festival de la Gastronomie: November 11-22, 2025
Discover local restaurants and local food with live music. - St. Maarten Heineken Regatta 2026: March 5-8, 2026
International Sailing Event with big concerts and international artists at Port de Plaisance. - SXM Festival 2026: Usually in March.
Underground electronic music paradise on Happy Bay Beach - Carnaval (French side): End of February till March.
Colorful parades, Live music, local food.
Don’t Want to Leave the Villa?
Planning a celebration or just want a chill night in with friends? Our guest experience team can organize cocktail workshops, rum tastings, or a private bartender, all from the comfort of your villa. Perfect for birthdays, girls' nights, or romantic evenings.
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Night Out
- Dress smart: Some clubs and lounges have dress codes, check their socials to match the vibe, leave the flip-flops for the beach.
- Stay safe: The island is generally safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
- Drink responsibly: Caribbean cocktails can be strong! Stay hydrated and pace yourself.
- Plan transportation: Taxis are your best friend for late nights. If you’re renting a car, have a designated driver.
- Double-check schedules: Some parties and events are seasonal or shift week to week, ask your Guest Experience Specialist for the latest updates or check on social media.
Sint Maarten nightlife is more than just an after-hours scene - it's a celebration of life, music, and island culture, every night of the year.
Planning your trip to paradise? Discover our handpicked collection of luxury villas in St. Maarten/St. Martin perfectly located for nightlife lovers and beach dreamers alike.
Since 1999, St. Martin Sotheby's International Realty has been a leading provider of vacation rentals and real estate services in St. Martin. Be sure to contact our team of experts today to begin planning your next Caribbean vacation.