Location
France
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
December to May
About Cupecoy Beach
Cupecoy is a small beach in the Lowlands at the western tip of Dutch Sint Maarten close to the French border, with nearby resort development on the land above. It is known for its sandstone and limestone cliffs, which have been carved into overhangs, caves and small coves. Erosion has changed the beach a lot. A 2021 guide estimated that most of the sand had gone in recent years, leaving pockets of beach separated by rock outcrops, and the sand still shifts with the seasons and the tide. Cupecoy has long been the Dutch side's unofficial clothing-optional beach. Nude sunbathers use the semi-private coves among the rocks, and the beach draws a loyal regular crowd. There is no designated nude zone and no official recognition, so expect clothed visitors and residents from the nearby condos. Facilities are minimal. Guides have mentioned an informal beach bar with drinks and chair rental, while others say there are no facilities. The sea can be choppy, and the beach faces west, so sunsets are a draw.
Getting there
Cupecoy is in the Lowlands, on the road between Maho and the French border at Terres Basses. Parking is informal near the top of the cliffs, and stairs lead down to the sand. One guide warns that the stairs are in poor condition. Reaching the more private coves means scrambling around rock outcrops, which may be impossible at high tide. There is no wheelchair access.
What visitors say
Visitors describe Cupecoy as dramatic and unusual, thanks to its cliffs and caves, with nude sunbathing tucked into small, semi-private coves. Opinions on the beach itself are mixed. Many lament the erosion and the shrinking sand, and some find the access steps rough and the water choppy. Others enjoy the quieter atmosphere and loyal regular crowd. Guides advise discretion, no photography of other bathers, and checking the tide before heading to the coves.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Guides agree that Sint Maarten authorities have never formally designated Cupecoy as clothing-optional. There is no explicit ban on non-sexual nudity, but decency ordinances can be applied after complaints. Nudity has been tolerated by custom for decades (as of 2026).
Naturism at Cupecoy Beach sits under France's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: France public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 18.0505, -63.1357
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in France
Frequently asked questions
Is Cupecoy a legal nude beach?
Not officially. It is the Dutch side's traditional clothing-optional beach and nudity is tolerated, but it has never been formally designated.
Is Cupecoy on the French or Dutch side?
The Dutch side (Sint Maarten), in the Lowlands near the French border.
Where do people go nude?
In the small coves among the cliffs and rock outcrops, which give some privacy. There is no marked zone.
Are there facilities?
Very few. Some guides mention an informal drinks stand and chairs, but plan to bring your own water and shade.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…