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An aerial view of Marigot, Saint Martin.
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From the palm-lined shores of Mullet Bay Beach to the lush canopies at Loterie Farm, St. Martin or St. Maarten—depending on which part of the island you are on—offers visitors so many opportunities for fun and adventure.
Part of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean Sea, located just 190 miles east of Puerto Rico, it is actually two separate countries, divided between its northern French side, called St. Martin, and its southern Dutch side, St. Maarten.
If you plan to visit either side—or both—these are the best luxury hotels.
Hotel L’Esplanade
Hotel L’Esplanade
Imagine watching the sunrise over Grand Case Bay from your own private balcony, the sound of low-rolling waves serenading you in the distance as a fresh sea breeze washes over your body, lulling you into a state of pure bliss. If that sounds appealing, then the Hotel L’Esplanade is for you. Perched on a hill above the village of Grand Case on the French side of the island, it offers extreme luxury. Each of the hotel’s 24 rooms has a private terrace with stunning views of the bay. The tropical decor, including Balinese furniture, befits its surroundings (acres of gorgeous tropical gardens). Walk down the hillside to enjoy the Grand Case Beach, or sit by the outdoor pool and enjoy the spa, which specializes in treatments that provide balance for the mind, body and spirit.
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
Located on the eastern shore of the island, the all-inclusive, adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort offers plush accommodations, fine dining and lots of activities. The luxurious resort has 130 guest suites with amenities such as marble bathrooms and private balconies with sea views. The fitness center, 24-hour room service and complimentary cooking classes are also a part of the all-inclusive experience. Plus, it is just a short walk to either the beaches at Maho Bay or Mullet Bay.
Coral Beach Club
Coral Beach Club
Guests of the Coral Beach Club are greeted at the airport, driven in style to the resort and then welcomed by a delighted staff who offer you a basket full of goodies before escorting you to a luxurious villa, townhouse or condo. (That’s the norm at the Oyster Pond resort for those who are staying at least five nights.) The property is a short walk to Down Beach, Oyster Bay Marina and the Leeward Islands. The petite hotel has just 21 rooms with amenities such as a flat-screen TV in the living room and others in each bedroom, a washer and dryer, and spacious living and dining areas. The Coral Beach Club also has full concierge services, and a private chef is available upon request.
Le Petit Hotel
Le Petit Hotel
The Le Petit Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel that’s located right on Grand Case Beach. Its Mediterranean architecture, including the staircase that leads to all ten accommodations (nine rooms and one suite), is captivating. Those who are staying in the suite or the ground-floor studios have direct access to the beach—but all rooms have private balconies. A breakfast buffet is available each morning, and baskets are offered so you can fix what you want and return to the privacy of your room. The beachside Le Petit Hotel is also within walking distance of other great beaches such as Orient Beach and Happy Bay.
Belmond La Samanna
Belmond La Samanna
Celebrities (including Oprah Winfrey and Anderson Cooper) love the elegant Belmond La Samanna for its privacy and unparalleled luxury. Located on the Baie Longue on the western side of the island, La Samanna has eight deluxe villas, and 83 rooms and suites. Guests can dine in two onsite restaurants, a bar or a beach bar. The hotel also has an extensive wine cellar, and other notable amenities include tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center and a spa.
Grand Case Beach Club
Grand Case Beach Club
Located near the aptly named Happy Bay on the French side of St. Martin, the Grand Case Beach Club is an intimate, secluded resort near Mont Vernon, Leeward Islands, Orient Bay and Cul-de-Sac Bay. It has 71 apartment-style rooms with ocean and garden views. The resort also has two private beaches with plenty of water sports, including snorkeling, wakeboarding and waterskiing. This family-friendly resort also has babysitting services.
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