With so many islands to choose from in the Caribbean, we wondered as we were boarding the plane – what made Sint Maarten so special? All that was revealed upon arrival at the Sonesta Resorts in Sint Maarten. There are no clear physical borders, other than one sign separating the Dutch side of the island from the French side of the island. However, launching a business, purchasing property, or being employed falls under the jurisdiction of that respective country. Speaking of properties, real estate prices are skyrocketing on both sides of the island, as it has become a very large tourist destination.
The laws on both sides of Sint Maarten couldn’t be more different. The French side of the island is known for their exquisite food and more stable lifestyle, under the more strict French law. Meanwhile, the Dutch side of the island provides the same liberties you’d find in Denmark, where there’s the nightlife, casino, and more. There are three Sonesta Resorts in Sint Maarten, all located on the Dutch side of the island and are the only 5-star luxury resorts on that side.
Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort and Casino
The Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort, Casino & Spa is Sint Maarten’s premier, adults-only, all-inclusive resort. Delivering a new level of sophistication and style, the elegant destination resort is situated on a white-sand beach overlooking the Great Bay. Amenities include three swimming pools, four restaurants, four bars and the Golden Casino.
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino
Immediately next to the airport, resides the family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, with their all-inclusive meals, drinks, Kids Club and scheduled activities. It offers exciting nightlife, a variety of accommodations and first-rate amenities. The property is located just a few minutes from the airport, in the center of Maho Village. It features a large pool area with a swim-up bar, cascading waterfalls, a kids pool, five restaurants and five bars, access to the Casino Royale, oceanfront wedding gazebo, over 24,000 square feet of meeting space and more.
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort and Casino
Of the three Sonesta Resorts in Sint Maarten, we stayed at the Sonesta Ocean Point Resort during our Sint Maarten trip, which sits on the westernmost point of the island, adjacent to the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino. The all-suite Sonesta Ocean Point features three pools including the Edge Pool with private zero entry cliff side beach, The Point Pool, and a Swim Out pool. Amenities also include the Sunset Lounge Bar, Martin’s Bar, and Azul Rooftop Bar, resort boutique, intimate gazebos, private cabanas, and a dedicated open-air wellness area. Apart from the exclusive amenities at Sonesta Ocean Point, guests gain full access to all services and facilities at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino.
Guests may dine without reservations at any of their restaurants. The Ocean Terrace is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a wide variety of buffet items. The Palms Grill offers a casual, al fresco dining with Caribbean grill specialties. Also, the Point is opened for dinner and offers an intimate atmosphere with a stunning ocean view.
The Ascot Pub & Sports Bar offers HDTV screens with international channels playing all major sporting events. Located across the Casino Royale in the Maho Village. Close by is Jing’s Kitchen offering a gourmet Chinese buffet and a la carte in a contemporary chic environment.
Entertainment
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort is walking distance to a promenade of shops, bars, restaurants and the Casino Royale. For club-goers, the Tantra Nightclub is the place to be, with theme nights during the week; featuring the latest music and guest DJs. Resort guests enjoy free admission and a complimentary drink before midnight.
For spa enthusiasts, luxuriate in the Maho Serenity Spa with an assortment of indulgent experiences. The spa features Sothys and Pevonia treatments including a variety of massages, body wraps, body scrubs, manicure, pedicure, and facials.
One of the best perks about Sonesta is the close distance to the airport. We also enjoyed watching airplanes fly overhead from the Maho and Ocean Point Resort.