Where to stay in St Martin? A little guide about the different island areas

st martin top resorts

St. Maarten is renowned for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and various accommodations, ranging from 5-star resorts in St. Maarten to campgrounds.This guide will help you choose from the best this beautiful island offers. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, beachfront hotel, or a camping experience, St. Maarten has something for every traveler!

Comparison of the top accomodations St Maartin

Here is an updated table of accommodations in St Maarten:

AccommodationTypeDescriptionPrice (Approx.)Location
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort5-star Resort, All-Inclusive, Adults-onlyHigh-end resort ideal for couples or friends seeking luxury and exclusivity.$400–$600 per nightMaho Beach (Dutch Side), near the airport
The Morgan Resort & Spa5-star ResortChic, modern resort with a rooftop infinity pool, great for couples and business travelers.$300–$500 per nightSimpson Bay, near the airport
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & SpaAll-Inclusive Resort, Family-friendlyLively all-inclusive resort with activities, family-friendly amenities, and nearby nightlife.$300–$450 per nightMaho Beach, adjacent to Sonesta Ocean Point
Divi Little Bay Beach ResortBeachfront Resort, Family-friendlySpacious beachfront suites with multiple pools and water activities, ideal for families.$250–$450 per nightLittle Bay, near Philipsburg
Belmond La Samanna5-star Ultra-luxury ResortExclusive, luxurious resort with private villas, perfect for high-end travelers seeking privacy.$700–$1200 per nightBaie Longue (French Side), secluded location
Le Petit HotelBoutique Hotel, BeachfrontIntimate beachfront boutique hotel with personalized service, ideal for couples seeking a quiet getaway.$250–$400 per nightGrand Case Beach (French Side)
Esmeralda ResortFamily-friendly Beach ResortVillas with private pools, located near Orient Bay Beach, offering privacy and tranquility.$350–$550 per nightOrient Bay (French Side)
Pyratz Gourmet SailingPrivate Yacht ExperienceUnique luxury sailing experience with gourmet dining, tailored for small groups or couples.Custom pricingSailing around St. Maarten, Anguilla, St. Barths
Camping options (various spots)Campgrounds, Nature-focusedAffordable, nature-focused accommodations for adventure travelers.$20–$100 per nightDutch and French sides, near natural areas

 

 

Dutch side vs. French side

It’s important to understand the differences between the Dutch and French sides.

  • Dutch Side (Sint Maarten): Here you’ll find the heart of the island’s nightlife, with casinos, bars, duty-free shopping, and large all-inclusive resorts in St. Maarten.
  • French Side (Saint-Martin): Known for its calm, gourmet dining, and secluded beaches, this side is ideal for those seeking privacy and luxury during their vacation.

 

best hotels in st maarten
Beach near one of the hotels in st martin

 

Where to stay on the Dutch side of St. Martin

The Dutch side of St. Maarten is one of the most vibrant and tourist-friendly areas of the island. If you’re looking for where to stay in St. Maarten with access to activities, restaurants, and nightlife, the Dutch side is perfect.

 

Luxury resorts on the Dutch side for couples

  • Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
    One of the best 5-star resorts in St. Maarten, Sonesta Ocean Point Resort is adults-only and offers a luxury all-inclusive experience. With infinity pools, gourmet restaurants, and stunning views of Maho Beach, it’s ideal for couples or groups of friends looking for luxury and fun in an exclusive setting. Its proximity to Maho Village makes it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the nightlife.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Luxurious, all-inclusive, adults-only, ideal for couples seeking tranquility and privacy.– Proximity to the airport and Maho Beach can result in noise from airplanes and beach crowds.
– Stunning ocean views, infinity pools, and personalized butler service in premium suites.– Common areas can get crowded during peak seasons.
– Access to multiple dining options, including restaurants at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort.– Higher price compared to other all-inclusive resorts in the region.

 

  • The Morgan Resort & Spa
    This sleek 5-star resort is located near St. Maarten’s airport, making it a convenient and luxurious option. The Morgan Resort & Spa features an infinity pool, a full-service spa, and a sophisticated atmosphere for those looking to relax while staying close to Simpson Bay and Maho Beach.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Modern, stylish design with a rooftop infinity pool and ocean views.– Room sizes can feel small for the price point.
– Convenient location near Simpson Bay and the airport, ideal for quick access.– Limited dining options on-site compared to larger resorts.
– Great for couples and business travelers looking for a chic atmosphere.– Some guests report slow service in certain areas, such as the pool bar.

 

 

5 star hotels in st maarten
Views from one of the best St Maarten accomodations

 

Family resorts on the Dutch side

  • Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa
    If you’re looking for family-friendly resorts in St. Maarten, Sonesta Maho Beach is an excellent choice. It offers an all-inclusive atmosphere with activities for all ages, including a kids’ club, children’s pools, and direct access to Maho Beach. The resort also offers evening entertainment for adults, making it a great spot for both kids and parents.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Family-friendly, with a wide range of entertainment and activities.– Can become overcrowded during peak holiday seasons.
– Access to Casino Royale and lively nightlife nearby.– Buffet food quality may not meet expectations compared to local restaurants.
– Excellent for families looking for an all-inclusive option with children’s amenities.– Some rooms may feel dated, with reports of needing refurbishment.

 

  • Divi Little Bay Beach Resort
    Located on a private peninsula, Divi Little Bay Beach Resort is one of the best resorts in St. Maarten for families looking to relax on the beach. This resort offers water sports, restaurants, and activities for the whole family, from kayaking to snorkeling. It’s perfect for those seeking a balance between luxury and adventure.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Spacious beachfront suites with great access to water sports.– Some parts of the resort feel a bit outdated.
– Great location near Philipsburg, perfect for exploring both Dutch and French sides.– Limited dining options on-site, leading guests to venture outside for meals.
– Multiple pools and family-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for families.– Service can be slow at times during busy periods.

 

Camping on the Dutch side

Although luxury is the highlight on the Dutch side, adventurous travelers can also find options closer to nature. Camping in St. Maarten is an option for those wanting to enjoy the island’s natural beauty while staying near its main attractions.

best resorts in st maarten caribbean
Beach near of a family friendly resort in St Maarten

 

Where to stay on the French Side of St. Maarten

The French side is perfect for those seeking relaxation, gourmet dining, and quiet beaches. The best resorts in St. Maarten on the French side offer luxury and serenity in a more secluded, exclusive environment.

Luxury Resorts on the French side for couples 

  • Belmond La Samanna
    One of the most luxurious resorts in St. Maarten, Belmond La Samanna offers a 5-star experience with private villas, gourmet restaurants, and access to a secluded beach. It’s ideal for couples seeking privacy and luxury, and for those looking for an unforgettable romantic escape in the Caribbean.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Ultra-luxury resort with private villas, perfect for couples seeking exclusivity and tranquility.– One of the most expensive accommodation options on the island.
– Exceptional beachfront location with world-class dining options.– Limited nightlife or activities on-site, focused more on relaxation and privacy.
– Ideal for high-end travelers looking for a serene, luxurious experience.– Some guests mention that the level of service can fluctuate during peak seasons.

 

  • Le Petit Hotel
    Located on Grand Case Beach, Le Petit Hotel is a charming boutique hotel perfect for those seeking an intimate, elegant atmosphere. Its proximity to the best restaurants in Grand Case makes it an excellent choice for food lovers wanting a gourmet experience on the island.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Intimate, boutique-style hotel with a personal touch and beachfront location.– Fewer amenities compared to larger resorts, with limited on-site facilities.
– Perfect for couples seeking a quiet and romantic getaway, with easy access to gourmet dining.– The small size means fewer public spaces for guests to relax outside of their rooms.
– Located in Grand Case, close to some of the island’s best restaurants.– Some rooms may have limited views compared to other beachfront hotels.

 

Family resorts on the French side

  • Esmeralda Resort is located on Orient Bay Beach and is perfect for families looking to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Each villa comes with a private pool, and the resort offers easy access to water activities like windsurfing and snorkeling, ideal for active families.

 

Positive PointsNegative Points
– Spacious villas with private pools, offering privacy and a tranquil environment.– Some of the villas are a bit dated and could use refurbishing.
– Located near Orient Bay Beach, ideal for water sports and family activities.– A short walk is required to reach the beach from some villas.
– Excellent option for families seeking a quiet, beachside location with nearby activities.– Limited dining options on-site, although the location is near good local restaurants.

 

Camping on the French side

If you prefer staying close to nature, there are some camping options in St. Maarten on the French side. While not as common as resorts, campgrounds offer a unique way to experience the island’s natural environment without the luxury of resorts.

 

Where to stay in St. Martin for nightlife

If you love enjoying the nightlife, resorts on the Dutch side of St. Maarten are perfect for you. Sonesta Ocean Point Resort and Sonesta Maho Beach Resort are located near Maho Village, the epicenter of the island’s nightlife. Here, you’ll find bars, nightclubs, and the famous Casino Royale, ideal for those wanting to experience the island after the sun goes down.

where to stay in st maarten for nightlife
Nightlife near St Maarten

 

Complement your trip with Pyratz

Appart from eating in such an incredible restaurants as Lolo, for a more personalized luxury experience, consider chartering a yacht with Pyratz Gourmet Sailing. Pyratz is perfect for those seeking both luxury and adventure at the same time.

Contact us for more information!

Alisson is the co-founder of PyratZ. She’s an office guru and crew member at Pyratz Gourmet Sailing.

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