Top reasons to visit Sint Maarten
- Stunning Beaches: Sint Maarten boasts beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage through local markets and traditional events.
- Thrilling Water Adventures: Engage in exciting activities like sailing, sunset cruises, and water sports.
- Idyllic Scenery: Enjoy picturesque bays and marinas that enhance the island's charm.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and resorts catering to every traveller's needs.
Find great hotels in Sint Maarten
For an unforgettable getaway in Sint Maarten, you'll discover a diverse selection of hotels and resorts that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you seek family-friendly amenities, adventure-filled experiences, or simply a serene beach retreat, the island offers quality accommodations with stunning views and excellent services. Explore hotel reviews and find the perfect spot for your memorable holiday in this tropical paradise.
- Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Sint Maarten, Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa is a 4-star resort that offers a beach and adventure-themed escape. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0, this property features direct access to the beach complemented by a natural hot spring. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports, including onsite boat tours, snorkelling, and nearby sailing and windsurfing activities. The resort caters to those seeking an active vacation experience while providing a serene environment for relaxation.
- Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten: This 3.5-star resort boasts a guest rating of 9.2 and is an ideal choice for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten features direct access to the beach, allowing guests to easily enjoy the sun and sea. The resort offers a range of exciting activities such as nearby waterskiing, windsurfing, and fishing opportunities, ensuring ample excitement during your stay. The welcoming atmosphere and excellent facilities make it a great retreat for those looking to explore the vibrant surroundings of Sint Maarten.
- The Villas at Simpson Bay Resort: Rated 4 stars with a guest rating of 9.2, The Villas at Simpson Bay Resort is perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts. Situated directly on the beach, this accommodation provides a variety of activities, including onsite parasailing and snorkelling, as well as nearby windsurfing and sailing. The property also offers family-friendly amenities such as a children’s pool, playground, and babysitting services, creating a hospitable environment for families while still catering to those seeking adventure.
Where to stay in Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten offers a delightful blend of stunning sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a holiday paradise getaway. Explore the vibrant local culture and indulge in romantic excursions along the picturesque oceanfront. From family-friendly activities to tranquil retreats, you'll find something for everyone in this idyllic destination. Discover hidden gems and enjoy the serene beauty that makes Sint Maarten an unforgettable vacation spot.
- Simpson Bay: Nestled within the vibrant confines of Sint Maarten, Simpson Bay is renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors flock here year-round, although the peak seasons occur in March to April and July. The bay's picturesque scenery offers a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, whether you’re lounging on the beach or exploring the local boardwalk. The area boasts several resorts and educational institutions, making it a hub for leisure and learning alike. Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking views of the bay, where you can relax and unwind in a tropical paradise.
- Philipsburg: As the capital city of Sint Maarten, Philipsburg is a bustling destination that offers a blend of cultural experiences and scenic beauty. The city sees a steady flow of tourists, peaking in March to April and July. Philipsburg is adored for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and educational attractions. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and various outdoor activities along the waterfront. The stunning bay views and lively atmosphere make Philipsburg a must-visit, providing a unique insight into the island's rich heritage and stunning landscape.
- Cole Bay: Located on the western side of Sint Maarten, Cole Bay is a charming city celebrated for its beautiful beaches and outdoor experiences. The area receives a consistent number of tourists throughout the year, with peak visits occurring in March, July, and September. Cole Bay features a mix of resorts and educational facilities, along with a scenic boardwalk perfect for leisurely strolls. The bay's picturesque surroundings offer visitors a tranquil escape, where they can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and vibrant local culture.
Things to do in Sint Maarten
Shopping
At Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, you can explore the Front Street for a variety of shops selling local crafts, jewellery, and clothing. The Ocean Plaza Shopping Mall offers a selection of duty-free stores, while the Sint Maarten Market showcases fresh produce and handmade souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Bliss Beach Resort Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and rejuvenating facials. For a refreshing outdoor activity, enjoy a yoga session on the beach, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waves and the gentle sea breeze.
Adventure
Explore the vibrant waters of Sint Maarten through exciting activities like snorkelling at Creole Rock, where colourful marine life thrives. For a thrilling experience, try zip-lining at Loterie Farm, offering exhilarating views of the lush landscape as you soar through the treetops.
Nightlife
In Sint Maarten, Maho Beach is renowned for its lively bars and beachfront parties, offering vibrant music and dancing. The Sunset Beach Bar provides a unique atmosphere with stunning views, while the nightlife at Philipsburg features a mix of casinos and local hotspots for a diverse evening out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sint Maarten
To save money on your trip to Sint Maarten, consider visiting between August and October when prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance often yields the best deals, particularly on Wednesdays, the cheapest day to stay. For spontaneity, check Expedia's last-minute offers. You can refine your search by budget and preferences, including eco-friendly options. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to utilise public transport for affordable travel around the island.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sint Maarten are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to March, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Sint Maarten about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sint Maarten is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Sint Maarten is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Sint Maarten with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is an idyllic destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning beaches, picturesque bays, and vibrant marinas. The island is rich in cultural experiences, making it perfect for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Notable activities include discovering the best beaches on St Maarten and Saint Martin, ensuring a memorable vacation filled with sun, sea, and local charm.
- Mullet Bay Beach: Mullet Bay Beach offers a picturesque stretch of soft sand and clear blue waters. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant beach vibes. The surrounding palm trees create a tropical atmosphere that invites relaxation.
- Great Bay Beach: Great Bay Beach is known for its lively ambiance, featuring a long shoreline lined with beach bars and restaurants. Visitors can indulge in water sports or simply enjoy the sun while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
- Mullet Bay: Mullet Bay boasts stunning scenery and outdoor vibes, making it a great location for scenic walks and photography. The bay's calm waters are perfect for swimming and offer a tranquil setting amidst natural beauty.
Best time to go to Sint Maarten
The best time to visit Sint Maarten can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sint Maarten falls in September, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Sint Maarten falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Sint Maarten
Flying into Sint Maarten is convenient via Philipsburg (SXM-Princess Juliana International Airport), located 6km from the island. Nearby accommodation options include the luxurious Sonesta Ocean Point All Inclusive, Adults Only Resort, situated 1km from the airport, and the Sonesta Maho Beach All Inclusive Resort Casino & Spa, just 966m away. The Morgan Resort Spa Village, also 966m from the airport, offers various transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle and complimentary transfers. These hotels provide easy access to the airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience for visitors.