The smallest sea island in the world to be divided between two nations, gorgeous St Martin sits south of Anguilla, and is a brilliant beach destination, as well as a fun choice for foodies and history buffs. The southern part of the island, Sint Maarten, is Dutch, and known for its top-notch shopping and lively cruise ship crowds. French Saint Martin, to the north, is more tranquil, chic and food-focused. There are fabulous accommodation options on both sides of the border, ranging from simple guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Many of the best places to stay in St Martin are perched on its spectacular white sands, but some of our favourite hideaways sit inland, tucked amidst leafy gardens.

Sint Maarten’s capital, Philipsburg, is well worth a wander and boasts some intriguing colonial-era architecture. Buzzing Simpson’s Bay, on the other hand, offers excellent shopping, clubs and casinos, as well as marinas for smaller vessels. Some of the best eateries on the island are in Marigot, the French capital, and in trendy Grand Case. Expect a wonderful fusion of European, African and Creole dishes featuring fresh local produce — dining in St Martin is a real treat!

For hiking and outdoorsy adventuring, try Loterie Farm, the scenic surroundings of 400-year-old Fort Amsterdam, the Parrotte Ville Bird Sanctuary and Pinel Island. There’s sailing, wind-surfing, kayaking, snorkelling and diving to try, too. St Martin’s glorious beaches encircle much of the island — spend your days beach-hopping, sunbathing, sandcastle-building and striving to pick your favourite stretch of sand.

Whether you choose to unwind on the northern beaches or party the night away in the south, the best places to stay in St Martin promise an ideal base to rest and recharge in a very special corner of the Caribbean.

The Best Places to Stay in St Martin

For 5 Star Luxury

• Belmond La Samanna promises a sumptuous Saint Martin holiday in one of the Caribbean's most luxurious hotels. Choose from a collection of glamorous suites and three- to four-bedroom villas facing the ocean at Baie Longue, and spend your days unwinding at the spa, out on the water as a family, or enjoying exceptional cuisine at L’Oursin. Gorgeous.
• Coral Beach Club is an indulgent, all-villa resort on the island's east coast. Expect cool, contemporary interiors, space for families or groups, and private pools overlooking the ocean. The chic beach club is a stand-out, as are the seafood eatery and the watersports facilities. A 5 star treat.

For Families or Groups

• Esmeralda is a family-friendly beach hotel on beautiful Orient Bay. Spacious rooms face the ocean or the large swimming pool, and many offer additional beds for children as well as private kitchens. There's an appealing Caribbean feel to the prints and furniture. With friendly staff, multiple restaurants and easy beach access, this is a fun family choice.
• Hotel La Plantation promises a sophisticated stay in stylish rooms and suites set within colonial-style buildings in lush gardens. Multi-room villas are ideal for families, there are heaps of watersports at nearby Orient Beach, and the food is particularly good. For classic Caribbean luxury with family and friends.
• La Playa Orient Bay is a fabulous beach hotel with 56 recently-renovated rooms and suites featuring bold colours and a fresh, airy feel. Sofa beds create space for little ones. Kids will love the big swimming pool, beach access and fun food truck. Expect superb fresh seafood, too. An indulgent beach base.
• Divi Little Bay Beach Resort is a large seaside property on its own peninsula. With three restaurants, a soothing spa, three swimming pools — one just for kids — and a gorgeous stretch of beach, this is an idyllic family holiday choice.
• La Vista Beach Resort promises a quaint beach base in Pelican Key. The 18 studios and two-bedroom apartments are ideal for families or groups who can book multiple apartments, and the vibe is intimate and laid-back. There's an onsite swimming pool, as well as plenty to do in the area.
• Oyster Bay Beach Resort sits close to the eastern border between the Dutch and French sides of the island. Book a suite or studio — some have fully-equipped kitchens and balconies with BBQs — and enjoy access to myriad resort-style facilities for guests of all ages. A large, lively resort with an onsite nightclub.

For Couples

• L'Esplanade has a reputation as one of the Caribbean's top boutique hotels, and it's a wonderfully romantic choice for a couples' escape. The 24 elegant suites, lofts and studios feature Brazilian carved woodwork, Balinese pieces and French linens, as well as boasting lovely sea-facing balconies. Unwind with a yoga class at Ti Temple or a massage a Ti Spa. A real gem.
• Sol e Luna is an intimate little hotel with three rooms and three suites, tucked just inland of Orient Bay. The vibe is tranquil and the big draw is the gourmet restaurant, which is popular with both Saint Martin locals and visitors. A hip couples' pick.
• Orient Beach Hotel sits right on the white sands of Orient Bay, and all 35 suites boast beautiful ocean views. A fun couples' beach pick, this property has a swish, sophisticated feel with lots of natural rattan and pops of blue. There are plenty of good eateries within walking distance.
• LTC Hotel boasts a lively restaurant and cocktail bar on picturesque Grand Case Beach. There are also nine indulgent suites, perfect for foodie couples eager to base themselves on the beach. Small and stylish.
• Sonesta Ocean Point Resort offers an adults-only, all-inclusive beach stay in Simpson Bay. Pick this place for the extensive resort facilities — including three pools, a spa, watersports and three restaurants — as well as the lively party feel. Also a romantic honeymoon choice.
• Holland House is a chic historic hotel set right on the beach in Philipsburg. Some rooms and suites have space for families, but the vibe is more grown up. Highlights include the ocean lounge and the superb gourmet restaurant, which has a famously good wine list. For foodies and sociable couples keen to explore the city and the beach.

For a Tropical Hideaway

• Le Karibuni has eight suites and two larger villas, hidden amidst leafy gardens at Cul de Sac Bay, overlooking Pinel Island. Pick this place for the elegant interiors and the chance to relax with family and friends in one of the villas, or as a couple in a deluxe suite — some of which have private jacuzzis or plunge pools. The hotel's top-notch eatery is just across the water on Pinel Island, where you can swim and sunbathe before feasting on delectable dishes. A tropical haven.

For Great Value

• Hevea Hotel offers teb big and bright rooms in a restored Creole house, just 20 metres from the beach in Saint Martin's Grand Case. Stay in this relaxed guesthouse for a warm welcome and great rates. The sun-drenched terrace is a lovely spot to kick back.
• Bleu Emeraude has just 11 contemporary studios and one-bedroom suites facing the sea at trendy Grand Case. The two-bedroom suite is ideal for families. Expect simple, chic blue-and-white interiors, self-catering facilities and ocean views. The added independence is great for longer trips at a very reasonable rate.
• Mary's Boon has been a popular Sint Maarten hideaway since the 1970s. Cosy suites and studios offer self-catering options suitable for those on a budget, whilst the Simpson Bay setting ensures a great choice of nearby restaurants. Plus, you're steps from the sand!
• The Pasanggrahan Hotel is a cheerful Philipsburg guesthouse with attractive heritage interiors. Larger rooms and suites offer plenty of space for families. The oldest hotel on the island, it's right on the beach, very affordable and a brilliant choice for history buffs. Charming.
• The Horny Toad features just eight simple apartments on picturesque Sint Maarten's Simpson Bay Beach. A great value property in a striking location, close to bars, eateries and activities aplenty. The daily happy hour is a fun way to mingle with fellow guests. Intimate and family-run.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Princess Juliana Airport, in Dutch Sint Maarten, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• You'll find lots to explore by road on both sides of the island! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Balmy temperatures average between 25 - 28°C throughout the year, with the peak season lasting from December to mid-April. Be prepared for showers if you visit during the rainy hurricane season (June to November). To beat the crowds and make the most of great deals, time your trip for May or June, before the rains begin to fall in earnest.
• Note that much of the island sustained damage by Hurricane Irma in September 2017, and recovery in ongoing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Anguilla.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in St Martin