Why go
The lagoon connects several island districts through a working maritime landscape. Simpson Bay and Sandy Ground mark different vessel entrances, while Mullet Pond offers a separate habitat focus. It is useful for understanding how marinas, surrounding settlements and remaining mangroves share the same sheltered waters across the French-Dutch boundary.
What to look for
- Yacht infrastructure around the lagoon's developed shores.
- Remaining mangrove habitat around Mullet Pond.
The full story
The border between Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten crosses the lagoon. Grand Ilet lies in its northern, French part, while Little Key is on the Dutch side farther south. Narrow channels connect the lagoon to the sea, giving boats access to an inland expanse close to Princess Juliana International Airport. The airport occupies the southern shore, one part of a much broader ring of developed districts. Mangroves and seagrass give the water another role: habitat for young reef fish. Mullet Pond retains red mangroves, linking this small corner to the lagoon's wider ecological importance. Habitat restoration also includes work for nesting birds. These natural functions sit alongside marine services and yacht activity, so the view is both an account of coastal development and a reminder of the habitats remaining within it.
Useful to know
- Select a verified shore access point or a specific boat excursion; the lagoon's centre is water.
- Plan Mullet Pond separately and check access arrangements; do not assume a continuous public waterfront circuit.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Outdoor visit · 30–45 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.