Saint Martin has 2 distinct sides (and names), with its northern end governed by the French Republic and its south – Sint Maarten – belonging to the Netherlands Antilles. No matter where you choose to stay, there’s plenty of world-class hotels, casinos, restaurants, and night-time spots to enjoy throughout your holiday. It’s also easy to explore both sections as there is no physical barrier between them and the whole island is one of the smallest of the Leeward islands.
The French side has beautiful beaches, most of which are clothing-optional – visitors tend to gravitate towards Orient Beach. Friar's Bay is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Saint Martin, thanks to its gentle waves for the kids and lounge chairs with umbrellas for the parents. Sint Maarten has just about everything you’d need for a tropical holiday in the Caribbean. Duty-free shopping is possible on Philipsburg’s Front Street, while beachfront dining is available along Great Bay Beach. A must-visit is Dawn Beach, where you can enjoy amazing sunrise views and snorkelling in clear water.
