I didn't read all the replies, so forgive me if I'm repeating what others have said. We stay at La Vista Beach, which is right over the hill from SBR, and we find the area to be very convenient. That said, we always travel to different beaches during the day, as we prefer those on the French side for the most part. Still, returning to the Simpson Bay area in the evening allows for convenient access to a plethora of restaurants, many of which I find to be quite unique (sorry Rosemary, but I have to disagree with you on that one). You can find just about any cuisine you want within a ten minute drive of SBR, and plenty of choices if you prefer to just walk.