World Travel Insider

St Maarten is an absolutely gorgeous island in the Caribbean.  It is part of the French West Indies and is actually divided between the Dutch and the French.  The two sides of the island are very different and both have some unique things to offer travelers.  I first went to St Maarten with 3 of my best girl friends for my high school graduation trip in 2004, wow I feel old.  I was there for 2 weeks and was not ready to leave, it truly is paradise at it’s finest.  I’ve been back twice in recent years and am still absolutely in love with this island.  The beaches, nightlife, cuisine and people make this an island you must make it to in your lifetime.

Loving me some St Maarten

Dutch Side vs. French Side

As I said the two sides of this island are very different and it really depends on what you’re looking to do while on the island.  The Dutch side is where I prefer to stay because it’s just easier for those that want to be able to relax in one area and not have to hassle with a car.  The best area for this is Maho due to it’s proximity to some great beaches, shopping, amazing restaurants, bars, and clubs.  My favorite restaurant in Maho is definitely Bajatzu, but there are others great ones such as Soprano’s and Bamboo Bernies.  The main hotel in the area is The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino and it’s right on the beach and super nice.  Another positive to staying on the Dutch side is that the plugs and voltage is in sync with America.  On the French side you have to worry about using converters and making sure you have the right adapters in order to use your electronics.  Also the national currency on the Dutch Side is the American Dollar, compared to the French side using the Euro.  The French side is also very nice, with gorgeous beaches, different cuisine, and a bit more laid back attitude.  There is a great mall in Marigot and is much more upscale compared to the Dutch shopping area, Philipsburg.  It’s quite easy to get around this small island if you rent a car, take the local buses, or hitchhike! I would only recommend the hitchhiking angle during the day, but most locals are super friendly and willing to help you out!

Enjoying some delicious sushi at Bamboo Bernie's with a great view of Maho

Beaches

Orient Bay on the French side is absolutely gorgeous and lined with tons of upscale bars and restaurants such as Waikiki and Kontiki.  These bars also have beach parties at night which are ridiculously fun, just prepare yourself for the mosquitoes because they will eat you alive! Locals claim that the best beach on the island is Happy Bay.  It’s a quick 25 minute walk over the hill but the hike is worth it when you see the breathtaking secluded beach.  One plus of the beaches on the French side is that tops are optional and many people do take advantage of this, but more times than not those people are ones we all wish would just keep them on.

Gorgeous Waikiki in Orient Bay

On the Dutch side there are also some great beaches.  My favorite is Mullet Bay because it’s super laid back, walking distance from Maho, and it’s not quite a “scene” as the beaches in Orient tend to be.  Also right in Maho there is Maho Beach which is nice, as long as you don’t mind the occasional roar of an airplane above you.  Dawn Beach is also pleasant, which is where the brand new Westin Hotel is located.  There are also many other beaches on the island for you to explore.  Below is a map of the beaches, bays, coves and cities of the island of St Maarten.

Where to Enjoy Some Cocktails and Party

St Maarten has some amazing places to sit back, relax and have yourself some amazing cocktails, notice the plural.  The attire is quite laid back for most the bars and clubs, but some clubs will deny you if you roll in looking like a beach bum.  Sunset Beach Bar is world famous due to it’s proximity to the airport and there isn’t anything quite like having a nice drink while feeling the blast of the planes overhead.  It’s right on the beach and they have great drink specials and of course a marvelous view.  Another place you have to  go to in Maho is Sopranos Piano Bar for some great drinks and amazing live music.  My absolute favorite club in St Maarten and one of my favorites worldwide is Bliss Nightclub.  The club, which is also a restaurant, is open air and located right on the water with amazing DJ’s and a great atmosphere. Tantra is another great club in the area and is above the Casino Royale.  For after hours everyone heads to The Platinum Room, which yes is a strip club, but it’s the only thing open super late and is always a lot of fun!

Lina, Dana and I enjoying ourselves at Bliss

Hope this was helpful for those of you that are planning a trip to St Maarten or I have managed to influence a few of you to take the trip to enjoy paradise in the Caribbean! Please comment with any questions or other things you might be interested in about this fabulous island! Also check out my Flickr account for more pictures!