St. Maarten, a tropical paradise in the Caribbean Sea, is a unique island divided between two nations – the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin). This enchanting destination offers visitors a perfect blend of stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant culture. From the bustling capital of Philipsburg to the secluded coves of Baie Longue, St. Maarten boasts an array of attractions that cater to every traveler’s desires, including world-class spas, chic beach clubs, and exciting watersports activities.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Belmond La Samanna
- ✨ 5-Star: Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Mary's Boon Beach Plantation Resort & Spa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Belair Beach Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Bleu Emeraude Hotel
- 🏢 Apartament: Orient Beach Hotel
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Studio Chic Saint-Martin
- 🏩 For Couples: Villa Terre Azure
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway at a boutique hotel with stunning ocean views or a family-friendly beach resort with spacious suites and swimming pools, St. Maarten has accommodation options to suit all preferences. Visitors can explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from the white sand beaches of Orient Bay to the lush hills of Loterie Farm. For those looking for adventure, the island offers excellent diving opportunities, while culture enthusiasts can delve into the rich history at the Sint Maarten Museum or Fort Amsterdam. With its year-round tropical climate and warm, friendly locals, St. Maarten truly is a slice of paradise in the Caribbean.
The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide
- 🏙️ For first-time visitors, urban explorers, and culture enthusiasts: Philipsburg
- 🏖️ For beach lovers, luxury seekers, and nightlife enthusiasts: Simpson Bay
- 🍲 For food lovers and French culture enthusiasts: Grand Case
- 🌴 For secluded beach enthusiasts and spa lovers: Les Terres Basses
- 🎨 For water sports enthusiasts and party-goers: Orient Bay
- 🏛️ For history buffs and budget travelers: Marigot
- 🚂 For nature lovers and adventure seekers: Loterie Farm area
- 🐬 For those seeking tranquility and pristine beaches: Dawn Beach
1. Philipsburg: Capital of Sint Maarten 🏙️
🛍️ Shopping Paradise: Philipsburg is renowned for its duty-free shopping, making it a haven for bargain hunters. Front Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with jewelry stores, electronics shops, and boutiques offering international brands at competitive prices. The Guavaberry Emporium, selling the island’s famous liqueur, is a must-visit for souvenir seekers.
🏖️ Beach and Boardwalk: Great Bay Beach, a long stretch of white sand, runs along the entire length of Philipsburg. The beach is complemented by a picturesque boardwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls or enjoying the sunset. Beach bars and restaurants dot the shoreline, offering refreshments and local cuisine with stunning ocean views.
🏛️ Historical Charm: Despite its modern amenities, Philipsburg retains its colonial charm. The town’s grid layout, designed by John Philips in 1763, features colorful colonial buildings and historical landmarks. The Courthouse, an iconic white wooden structure with a pineapple-topped clock tower, stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Fort Amsterdam: A 17th-century Dutch fort offering panoramic views of the bay.
- Sint Maarten Museum: Showcasing the island’s history and culture.
- Courthouse: The town’s most recognizable landmark.
- Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit: A unique museum featuring Star Wars memorabilia.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Ocean Lounge: Upscale dining with beachfront views.
- Chesterfield’s: Known for its fresh seafood and steaks.
- Greenhouse Restaurant: Offers a mix of local and international cuisine.
- Lazy Lizard: Casual beach bar with great drinks and snacks.
🚶♂️ Navigating the Area: Philipsburg is compact and easily explored on foot. The main attractions, shops, and restaurants are concentrated along Front Street and the Boardwalk. For those wanting to venture further, taxis are readily available, and car rentals can be arranged for island-wide exploration.
🏨 Where to Stay in Philipsburg
⭐ Best Hotels in Philipsburg
- Holland House Beach Hotel: This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of Great Bay and is located in the heart of Philipsburg. It features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities and some offer balconies with ocean views.
- Belair Beach Hotel: Situated on Little Bay Beach, this hotel offers comfortable apartments with kitchenettes, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. It’s just a short drive from the center of Philipsburg and provides easy access to nearby attractions.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Alicia's Inn: This affordable hotel is located in the heart of Philipsburg, just a short walk from the beach. It offers simple but comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and friendly service.
- The Castle: A budget-friendly option in Philipsburg, this hotel offers basic accommodations with a shared kitchen and lounge area. It’s conveniently located near the beach and shopping areas.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Calinago Friendly Family Sxm: This hostel offers affordable dormitory-style accommodations with a shared kitchen and lounge area. It’s located in a residential area of Philipsburg, just a short walk from the beach and local amenities.
- Appartement neuf en plein cœur de Philipsburg: These newly renovated apartments are located in the heart of Philipsburg, offering a comfortable and affordable stay for budget travelers. They feature fully-equipped kitchens and are just a short walk from the beach and shopping areas.
2. Simpson Bay: Beach Paradise and Nightlife Hub 🌊
🏖️ Beautiful Beaches: Simpson Bay boasts one of the longest and most beautiful beaches on the island. The crescent-shaped Simpson Bay Beach offers pristine white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is less crowded than some others on the island, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
🍹 Vibrant Nightlife: This area is the epicenter of St. Maarten’s nightlife scene. Simpson Bay is home to numerous bars, casinos, and nightclubs that come alive after dark. From laid-back beach bars to high-energy dance clubs, there’s something for every night owl.
✈️ Proximity to Airport: Simpson Bay’s location near Princess Juliana International Airport makes it a convenient base for travelers. The area offers easy access to other parts of the island while providing a range of accommodation options from luxury resorts to boutique hotels.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Mullet Bay Beach: A picturesque beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Maho Beach: Famous for plane spotters watching low-flying aircraft.
- Kim Sha Beach: A popular spot for water sports and beach bars.
- Carousel Gelateria Bar: A unique bar with a working carousel.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Pineapple Pete: Known for its diverse menu and lively atmosphere.
- Toppers Restaurant: Famous for its ribs and rum punch.
- Karakter Beach Bar: Offers beachfront dining with a varied menu.
- The Greenhouse: Serves fresh seafood and international cuisine.
🚗 Getting Around: Simpson Bay is spread out along the coast, so while some areas are walkable, having a car or using taxis is recommended. Many hotels offer shuttle services to popular spots, and car rentals are readily available for those wanting to explore the island independently.
🏨 Where to Stay in Simpson Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in Simpson Bay
- The Villas at Simpson Bay Resort & Marina: These luxurious villas offer spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and access to the resort’s amenities, including multiple pools, restaurants, and a spa.
- Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa: This expansive resort features a variety of suites, six outdoor pools, a casino, and several dining options. Its prime location on Simpson Bay Beach makes it a popular choice for travelers.
- Mary's Boon Beach Plantation Resort & Spa: This charming beachfront resort offers comfortable rooms with kitchenettes, a restaurant, a bar, and a pool. Its intimate atmosphere and excellent location make it a favorite among guests.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hilton Vacation Club Royal Palm St Maarten: This Hilton property offers spacious suites with full kitchens and impressive ocean views. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, including restaurants, a spa, and a private beach.
- New* Tropical Modern Townhouse in SXM: This newly built townhouse provides a comfortable and affordable option for those looking for a home-away-from-home experience in Simpson Bay.
- The Morgan Resort Spa & Village: This resort offers a range of accommodations, from rooms to suites and villas, along with a spa, multiple dining options, and a prime location near Simpson Bay Beach.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- CocoVaa Beach Boutique Hotel: While not a traditional hostel, this boutique hotel offers affordable accommodations just steps from Simpson Bay Beach. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, a private beach area, and a terrace.
- SXM Spotters Paradise: This budget-friendly option is perfect for aviation enthusiasts, as it’s located near the famous Maho Beach, known for its close-up views of planes landing at Princess Juliana International Airport.
- Charming 1-Bed Studio in Simpson Bay - Beacon Hill: This cozy studio apartment offers a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to stay in the Simpson Bay area, with easy access to nearby beaches and attractions.
3. Grand Case: Culinary Capital of the Caribbean 🍽️
🍴 Gourmet Paradise: Grand Case is renowned as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. The main street is lined with an impressive array of restaurants, ranging from high-end French establishments to local Creole eateries known as “lolos”. This gastronomic diversity has earned Grand Case the nickname “Restaurant Row”.
🏖️ Charming Beach: Grand Case Beach is a long, narrow stretch of sand with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers stunning views of Anguilla and is less crowded than some of the island’s more popular beaches, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
🎨 Cultural Charm: The village exudes a quaint, French Caribbean charm with its colorful wooden houses and art galleries. Tuesday nights during high season feature “Harmony Nights,” when the main street becomes a pedestrian zone filled with local artisans, musicians, and food vendors.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Grand Case Beach: A beautiful, less crowded beach.
- Tijon Parfumerie: Create your own perfume in this unique attraction.
- Pic Paradis: The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views.
- Loterie Farm: A nature reserve with hiking trails and a treetop adventure course.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- L’Auberge Gourmande: High-end French cuisine in a charming setting.
- Le Pressoir: Gourmet dining in a converted Creole cottage.
- Lolo’s Cynthia: A popular lolo serving delicious local BBQ.
- Ocean 82: Seafood restaurant with stunning ocean views.
🚶♂️ Exploring the Area: Grand Case is a small village, easily explored on foot. The main street, where most restaurants and shops are located, is about a mile long. Taxis are available for trips to other parts of the island, and car rentals can be arranged for those wanting more flexibility.
🏨 Where to Stay in Grand Case
⭐ Best Hotels in Grand Case
- Grand Case Beach Club: This 4-star hotel is located on the white sands of Grand Case Beach and Petit Plage. It offers spacious modern rooms with kitchenettes and balconies, many with ocean views. Amenities include a rooftop infinity pool, open-air restaurant, free water sports equipment, and a fitness center. Its prime location and excellent facilities make it a top choice in Grand Case.
- Bleu Emeraude Hotel: This small boutique hotel has a relaxed vibe and a great beachfront location in Grand Case. Guests praise the spacious, quiet apartments with beautiful balcony views. The friendly service and proximity to shops and restaurants are also highlights.
- Sunshine SXM Studios: While limited information is provided, this property likely offers studio accommodations in the Grand Case area.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Текст кнопки: This residence offers sea view apartments and studios, providing a more affordable option for staying in Grand Case.
- Grand Case Palace: Located just 1,000 feet from the center of Grand Case, this hotel offers double rooms, a swimming pool, and a private beach area. It’s a popular choice for families seeking a budget-friendly stay.
- Pavillon Beach 9, feet in the water in Grand Case: As the name suggests, this property offers accommodations right on the beach in Grand Case, likely at a moderate price point.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Pierre's Place Grand-Case: While not a traditional hostel, this property seems to offer budget accommodations in Grand Case.
- Watalibi Apartment / Beach Front - Grand-Case: This beachfront apartment in Grand Case may provide a hostel-like experience for budget travelers.
- Très jolie 3 pièces à Gd Case les pieds dans l'eau: Translating to “Very nice 3 rooms in Grand Case with feet in the water,” this property likely offers affordable waterfront accommodations.
4. Les Terres Basses: Exclusive Luxury and Seclusion 🌴
🏝️ Private Beaches: Les Terres Basses, also known as the Lowlands, is home to some of the most secluded and pristine beaches on the island. Baie Longue, Baie aux Prunes (Plum Bay), and Baie Rouge offer stunning white sand shores and crystal-clear waters, often with very few visitors.
🏘️ Luxury Villas: This area is renowned for its high-end, exclusive villas. Many of these luxurious properties offer private pools, stunning ocean views, and direct beach access, providing the ultimate in Caribbean luxury and privacy.
🧘♀️ Tranquil Atmosphere: Les Terres Basses offers a peaceful retreat away from the more bustling areas of the island. The serene environment, coupled with lush tropical landscapes, makes it perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Baie Longue: A long, pristine beach perfect for peaceful walks.
- Baie Rouge: Known for its reddish sand and clear waters.
- La Samanna Resort: A luxury resort with beautiful grounds open to visitors.
- Cupecoy Beach: A series of small coves with dramatic cliffs.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- La Cigale: Upscale French cuisine with a Caribbean twist.
- Dreams: Beachfront dining with a varied international menu.
- Baie Longue Beach Bar: Casual beachside dining at La Samanna resort.
- Bamboo Bernie’s: Sushi and Asian fusion in a trendy setting.
🚗 Traversing the Area: Les Terres Basses is a residential area best explored by car. Most villas and resorts offer car rental services or can arrange taxis for guests. The secluded nature of the area means that having your own transportation is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility.
🏨 Where to Stay in Les Terres Basses
⭐ Best Hotels in Les Terres Basses
- La Perla Bianca - 1 BR Beachfront Luxury Villa offering utmost privacy: This luxurious one-bedroom villa offers a private beach, stunning views, and a romantic atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples seeking a secluded and upscale getaway in Les Terres Basses.
- Villa Solis, 7 bedroom Midcentury villa with amazing views: This spacious seven-bedroom villa boasts incredible views and a stylish midcentury design. It’s ideal for large groups or families looking for a luxurious and private retreat.
- Villa Terre Azure: While limited information is provided, this villa likely offers a high-end stay experience in Les Terres Basses.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Sunny vacation Villa 38: This villa offers a more affordable option for those seeking a comfortable stay in Les Terres Basses.
- Coco Lodge: While specific details are limited, this property likely provides a budget-friendly lodging option in the area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- O SUN: This property offers accommodations for up to 7 guests in a 3-bedroom villa. It features a private pool and terrace, providing a hostel-like experience with added privacy and amenities.
- Casa la Playa: While not a traditional hostel, this property may offer a more affordable and communal stay experience in Les Terres Basses.
5. Orient Bay: Water Sports Haven and Beach Paradise 🏄♂️
🏖️ Stunning Beach: Orient Bay is home to one of St. Martin’s most famous beaches. The long, wide stretch of white sand is lined with beach bars and restaurants, offering a lively atmosphere. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and various water activities.
🚤 Water Sports Central: This area is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities including jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Equipment rentals and lessons are readily available along the beach.
🍹 Beach Club Scene: Orient Bay is known for its vibrant beach club culture. Numerous establishments offer sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside service, allowing visitors to enjoy the beach in comfort and style.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Orient Bay Beach: The main attraction with its stunning white sand.
- Pinel Island: A small island accessible by boat, perfect for snorkeling.
- Butterfly Farm: A tropical garden filled with exotic butterflies.
- Mount Vernon: A charming neighborhood with panoramic views.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Kontiki: Beach bar and restaurant known for its pizzas and cocktails.
- Coco Beach: Upscale beach dining with a French-inspired menu.
- Le Piment: Caribbean and French fusion cuisine.
- Palm Beach: Casual beachfront dining with a varied menu.
🏍️ Maneuvering the Vicinity: Orient Bay is a relatively compact area, and the beach itself is easily walkable. Many visitors rent scooters or cars to explore the surrounding areas. Taxis are also readily available, especially to and from the main tourist areas.
🏨 Where to Stay in Orient Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in Orient Bay
- La Playa Orient Bay: This colorful beachfront property offers tropical suites with an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant. Its prime location on Orient Bay Beach and range of amenities make it a popular choice for travelers.
- Esmeralda Resort: A 4-star resort located just 500 feet from the beach, offering double rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a pool, restaurant, and various activities such as snorkeling, diving, and horseback riding.
- Hotel La Plantation: This 4-star hotel is situated 1,150 feet from the center of Orient Bay and the nearest beach. It features 6 restaurants, a pool, and a wide range of activities including water sports, live music, and spa treatments.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Orient Beach Hotel: This hotel offers a more affordable option in Orient Bay, with a great location and positive guest reviews.
- PALM COURT RESIDENCE 4 Stars: A lively hotel with bright, airy rooms, tropical gardens, an outdoor pool, and free breakfast. It provides a comfortable stay at a moderate price point.
- Eden Bleu, direct access to Orient Bay beach, swimming pool: This property offers direct access to Orient Bay Beach and features a swimming pool, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Lovely one bedroom holiday home by the beach: While not a traditional hostel, this holiday home near the beach may offer a more affordable and intimate stay experience.
- Blue BO: This apartment with sea views could provide a hostel-like experience for budget travelers.
- Princess Anouk Beachfront Orient Bay Deluxe 3 BDR: A beachfront property offering a 3-bedroom unit, which may be suitable for groups seeking a more affordable stay.
6. Marigot: French Capital with Historical Charm 📜
🏰 Historical Sites: As the capital of French Saint Martin, Marigot is steeped in history. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including Fort Louis, which offers panoramic views of the bay and neighboring islands. The architecture reflects the town’s colonial past, with charming Creole houses and vibrant street art.
🛍️ Local Markets: Marigot is famous for its open-air markets, particularly the Marigot Market. Here, visitors can find fresh local produce, spices, handmade crafts, and authentic Caribbean souvenirs. The Wednesday and Saturday markets are especially lively, offering a true taste of local culture.
⛵ Marina Atmosphere: The town’s picturesque marina, Marina Port La Royale, adds to its charm. Lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or to watch luxury yachts come and go.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Fort Louis: 18th-century fort with stunning views.
- Marigot Market: Vibrant open-air market selling local goods.
- Rue de la République: Main shopping street with duty-free shops.
- Roland Richardson Art Gallery: Showcasing works by the famous Caribbean artist.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Sarafina’s: Popular French bakery and cafe.
- Le Bistrot Nu: Charming bistro offering French cuisine.
- Tropicana: Waterfront restaurant known for its seafood.
- La Villa: Upscale dining with a mix of French and Caribbean flavors.
🚶♂️ Exploring the Vicinity: Marigot is a compact town, easily explored on foot. The main attractions, shops, and restaurants are concentrated around the waterfront and central area. For those wanting to venture further, local buses and taxis are readily available, and car rentals can be arranged for island-wide exploration.
🏨 Where to Stay in Marigot
⭐ Best Hotels in Marigot
- Grand Studio « Blue Sunset » mer, plage, piscine.: This studio offers sea views, a beach, and a swimming pool. It’s located just an 11-minute walk from Nettle Bay Beach and 0.9 miles from Baie de la Potence Beach in Marigot.
- Le Sea-Breeze - Beau studio piscine VUE LAGON: A beautiful studio with a pool and lagoon views, providing a comfortable stay in Marigot.
- The Happy Place: While limited information is provided, this property likely offers a pleasant stay experience in Marigot.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Studio Chic Saint-Martin: This stylish studio offers an affordable stay in Marigot. It features a terrace and is rated 8.0 for its facilities.
- Deja Blue - Comfortable Beachfront condo: A beachfront condo providing a comfortable stay at a moderate price point.
- Studio Bougainvillier Style Bohème: A bohemian-style studio with sea views, ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway in Marigot.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Shrimpy's Hostel, Crew Quarters and Laundry Services: This hostel offers affordable accommodations and laundry services, catering to budget travelers and yacht crews. It’s located just 650 feet from the nearest beach.
- Studio Moderne, Centre Ville Marigot: A modern studio in the heart of Marigot, providing a budget-friendly stay for travelers.
- Appartement entier: chambre, cuisine + terrasse au calme sur jardin.: This entire apartment offers a bedroom, kitchen, and a quiet terrace overlooking a garden, providing a peaceful and affordable stay in Marigot.
7. Loterie Farm Area: Nature Lover’s Paradise 🌿
🌳 Lush Wilderness: Loterie Farm is a 135-acre nature reserve nestled in the hills of Pic Paradis, the highest point on Saint Martin. It offers a stark contrast to the island’s beaches, with its lush rainforest, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.
🧗♂️ Adventure Activities: The area is a hub for eco-adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy zip-lining through the treetops, tackle challenging hiking trails, or experience a thrilling treetop obstacle course. These activities offer a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty.
🏊♀️ Hidden Oasis: At the heart of Loterie Farm lies a hidden spring-fed pool, surrounded by tropical vegetation. This secluded spot offers a refreshing retreat after a day of activities, complete with a poolside lounge and bar.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Pic Paradis: The highest point on the island with panoramic views.
- Loterie Farm Treetop Adventure Course: Zip-lines and obstacle courses in the canopy.
- Hidden Forest Cafe: A treehouse-style restaurant in the heart of the farm.
- Spring-fed Pool: A natural oasis perfect for cooling off.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- L’Eaulounge: Upscale dining by the spring-fed pool.
- Ti Case: Casual creole cuisine in a rustic setting.
- The Tree Lounge: Cocktails and light bites with treetop views.
- Emilio’s: Farm-to-table restaurant using local produce.
🚗 Navigating the Terrain: Due to its location in the hills, accessing Loterie Farm and the surrounding area is best done by car or organized tour. Many hotels offer shuttle services to the farm. Once there, the area is explored on foot via marked trails, or through guided tours for the adventure activities.
🏨 Where to Stay in Loterie Farm Area
⭐ Best Hotels in Loterie Farm Area
- Belmond La Samanna: This luxurious 5-star resort is located in the exclusive Terres Basses area, about a 15-minute drive from Loterie Farm. It offers elegant rooms and suites, a spa, fine dining restaurants, and a private beach.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Akunamatata Guest House Grand Case: Located in Grand Case, about a 20-minute drive from Loterie Farm, this guest house offers a more affordable option. It’s just 150 m from the nearest beach and 750 m from the center of Grand Case. Guests praise its cleanliness, friendly staff, and proximity to restaurants.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- APPARTEMENT MAREWA: While not a hostel, this apartment is located in Marigot, about a 25-minute drive from Loterie Farm. It offers an affordable stay for budget-conscious travelers.
8. Dawn Beach: Tranquil Retreat with Stunning Views 🌅
🏖️ Picturesque Beach: Dawn Beach is a beautiful, less crowded beach on the eastern coast of Sint Maarten. Known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. The beach offers stunning views of neighboring St. Barths on clear days.
🐠 Snorkeling Paradise: The waters off Dawn Beach are teeming with marine life, making it one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The coral reef close to shore is home to a variety of colorful fish and sea creatures.
🌄 Sunrise Spectacle: As its name suggests, Dawn Beach is famous for its breathtaking sunrises. Early risers are rewarded with spectacular views as the sun emerges from the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Dawn Beach: The main attraction with its pristine sand and clear waters.
- Oyster Pond Marina: A charming marina with restaurants and shops.
- St. Barths View Point: Offering panoramic views of the neighboring island.
- The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa: Luxurious beachfront resort open to day visitors.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Mr. Busby’s Beach Bar: Casual beachfront dining with a varied menu.
- Big Fish: Upscale seafood restaurant with ocean views.
- Canoa: Caribbean fusion cuisine in a romantic setting.
- Daniel’s By The Sea: Italian cuisine with a Caribbean twist.
🚕 Getting About: Dawn Beach is a bit removed from the main tourist areas, so having a rental car or using taxis is recommended. The beach itself and the immediate area are easily walkable. Many visitors choose to stay in the area for a more secluded and relaxed experience, venturing out to explore other parts of the island as desired.
🏨 Where to Stay in Dawn Beach
⭐ Best Hotels in Dawn Beach
- Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel: This luxurious condo hotel offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and Dawn Beach. It features spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, an infinity pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Guests praise its cleanliness, friendly staff, and excellent location.
- Oyster Bay Beach Resort: A polished beach resort offering free parking, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling equipment, plus a spa and dining options. It boasts a beautiful beachfront location, multiple pools, and a range of activities for guests to enjoy.
- JW Marriott St Maarten Beach Resort & Spa: This premium 5-star resort features 2 restaurants, 2 bars, a beachfront infinity pool, and a spa. Its luxurious amenities, prime location, and exceptional service make it a top choice for discerning travelers.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- 702 w/ a view at Princess Heights: A budget-friendly option within the Princess Heights complex, offering a comfortable stay with stunning views.
- Dawn Beach Club 2 Bedroom Villa with Swimming Pool And Beach Access: This villa provides a more affordable option for families or groups, with access to a swimming pool and the beautiful Dawn Beach.
- Villa Twin Palms 3 bedrooms: Located in the Dawn Beach Estate, this 3-bedroom villa offers a budget-friendly stay for larger groups or families.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Dawn Beach Club: While not a traditional hostel, this property offers affordable accommodations near Dawn Beach, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Where to Stay in St. Maarten
St. Maarten offers a diverse array of experiences, from the bustling shopping streets of Philipsburg to the tranquil shores of Dawn Beach. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife in Simpson Bay, culinary delights in Grand Case, or the serene luxury of Les Terres Basses, this Caribbean gem has something for every traveler. Adventurers will find their haven in the lush landscapes of the Loterie Farm Area, while history buffs can explore the charming streets of Marigot. Each district provides its unique allure, ensuring an unforgettable stay on this beautiful island.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit St. Maarten?
The best time to visit St. Maarten is between December and April, during the dry season when the weather is most pleasant and there are numerous events and festivals.
How do I get around St. Maarten?
St. Maarten is best explored by renting a car, which provides the flexibility to visit various parts of the island. Taxis and local buses are also available for shorter distances.
What are the must-try foods in St. Maarten?
Be sure to try local Creole dishes, fresh seafood, and the island’s signature guavaberry liqueur. The “lolos” in Grand Case offer authentic Caribbean flavors.
Is St. Maarten safe for tourists?
St. Maarten is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.
Can I visit both the Dutch and French sides of the island?
Yes, you can easily travel between the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin) without any border restrictions, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
