We are traveling to St. Martin for first time. Our criteria for where to stay is:
1. awesome beach that is part of the resort
2. walking distance to resaurants, beach bars, shopping etc
3. more lively and up beat (large pool, swim up bar etc.)
4. Although we love kids, we don't want to be over run by them
We are open to a condo/villa setting also. Thanks for any feedback!!

Hey!

Possibly many here will make suggestions and it's always good to have some guidelines:

How much do you want to pay?

French or Dutch side?

How long are you staying?

Renting a car?

Early to bed or late nighters?

Watch the forum....

BIGDEN

IMHO i would recommend Sonesta Maho - Mullet Bay a very short walk around the corner or the beach at the end of the runway, right in the heart of all the action, as I remember (it has been a few years since we stayed here) a good pool situation, kids certainly no problem

Yup I think it would fit

Thanks Bigden, we would like to spend no more than $300 per night. Also we would like to narrow our options down to a resort from each side of the island before we chose. We will be staying for 7 days in Feb.

sONESTA Maho Beach would be the number one choice but on the other side of the island Grand Case Beach Club would be the french side number one choice. I'd do Sonesta because I like being in the center of activity and at the same time being away from it all if i choose to be and Sonesta Maho give you that.

Hey Ozzie!

If you're going for the first time and want to avoid hassles in traffic etc. a number of spots on the Dutch side may fill the bill. The MAHO are offers shopping, dining, gambling and beaches.

A surprise for many first timers is the relative closeness of many activities. There are not as lot of excursions taking longer than 45 minutes from place to place ( French to Dutch side). For this reason MAHO/SIMPSON BAY is a choice that works for many.

SONESTA MAHO, well run resort hotel on a decent beach, great staff and within walking distance of many activities. Don't let the plane traffic bother you, it's really unobtrusive. Walk to Mullet, big beach with local food stands and parking if you need to drive. ( 5 mins)

MARY'S BOON RESORT: On Simpson Bay Beach, older,confortable, private and again about 10 minutes from MAHO shopping. Small pool but cozy. Beach is the kicker.

We don't stay on the French side so I'll leave that for others. ORIENT BEACH and the many Villas and Resorts would be my choice. Shopping is limited and night time entertainment and restaurants are about 10 minutes by car in some cases. ( Grand Case etc.) No casinos on the French side; they always provide entertainment for us.

You are going in high season and may be limited to choices of accomodation so book soon.

Everybody has their favorite and you'll get lots of suggestions here and on the other forum. Personally, I would avoid the Cupecoy area on my first trip because of lack of big beaches at your door and construction traffic, but you can always drive. Walk to Mullett is a bit tricky with construction.

Finally, many "first timers" never get to see all their choices, so take a day and explore. You may find the perfect spot for your next trip that suits you better. Most resorts/hotels will welcome you on their property for a look see.

Enjoy!

Denis

I am planning a trip to St. Martin as well in March of 2009 we are looking at staying at the Sonesta Great Bay. Can anyone share info on this area, we have never been to St. Martin and would be willing to take any advice.
Thanks
Jim

Hi Jim,
Sonesta Great Bay is sort of isolated. Certainly not walkable at night from anywhere and the walk to town in the sun is doable but why? If you can, try to switch to Sonesta Maho. Much more accessible area, lots of bars, restaurants, beaches etc. You wouldn't even need a car if you are only staying a week and don't want to drive around.
Good Luck
Cheers
irina

well, I disagree a little with irina. Sonesta Great Bay is certainly walkable to town and the walk along the boardwalk is very nice.
there is shopping and restaurants along the boardwalk and front street.
I agree..don't do it at night though.
the area at Sonesta Maho is more active as Irina says.
that area is the heart of the night life and the tourist area.
whatever you choose, do rent a car and don't do AI.

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