Family-Friendly Caribbean Getaway on Private Beach
With its tiny coves and shallow reefs, St. Maarten has earned a reputation as one of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling destinations. The water is particularly clear for snorkeling at Simpson Bay, which is situated among dozens of white-sand beaches on the island’s southern Dutch side. Nearby, Flamingo Beach Resort occupies its own private stretch of beach, with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, where sailboats and cruise ships float by throughout the day. When you’re not exploring life under the sea, you can find a number of outdoor bars and 24-hour casinos along the waterfront.
Each of the resort’s 750-square-foot studio rooms features a full kitchen, a spacious living room, and a furnished balcony. Splashes of vibrant colors in the artwork, upholstery, and window treatments give rooms a playful vibe. Some rooms overlook the ocean.
Throughout the week, Flamingo Beach Resort keeps families occupied with T-shirt painting classes, aqua aerobics, and arts and crafts. But if you just want to relax, feel free to use the resort’s lounge chairs, palapa huts, and blue-and-white-striped umbrellas on the beach. There’s also an open-air bar by the pool where you can grab a drink.
Saint Martin: Scenic Shorelines, Lively Nightlife, and Boutique Shopping
The island of Saint Martin, located just south of Anguilla in the Caribbean, was ranked on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Islands in the World for its “soaring mountains and beautiful shorelines.” This gorgeous topography has been peacefully shared by the French and the Dutch for more than 350 years, giving the island two very distinct yet harmonious personalities. Both parts of the island, however, feature crystal-clear bays filled with fascinating coral structures and tropical fish. On the French side, it’s worth it to take a guided snorkeling trip through Creole Rock, which has a collection of boulders encircled by reefs. Dolphins, eagle rays, and barracudas are frequently spotted here.
The Dutch side is known for its quiet beaches and lively nightlife. Casual barbecue restaurants known as lolos line the shore; they serve up heaping portions of creole ribs and rice alongside guava-berry rum. The bars of Simpson Bay are filled with live music and neon lights, and when those close, locals and visitors alike keep the party going at 24-hour casinos.
Maho Village—also on the Dutch side—has its fair share of casinos as well. Nightclubs here host steel-drum bands and oceanfront bonfire parties late into the night. At the Maho Promenade, situated in the center of town, 40 duty-free boutiques sell fine jewelry, watches, and handsome handicrafts. Most shops, cafés, and restaurants stay open until 11 p.m., so you can enjoy a nightcap amid open-air patios as musicians and dancers perform nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to travel to the hotel from the airport? The best airport to fly in/out of is Princess Juliana International Airport (airport code: SXM). Travel distance from the airport to the hotel is approximately three miles. One-way taxi fare is approximately $15/person.
2. Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another Groupon? The standard occupancy of the studio and oceanview studio is 2; however, up to two additional people can be added for no additional charge.
3. Will I be approached to attend a timeshare sales presentation? Groupon customers are never obligated to attend a sales presentation. If you are approached and decline a presentation, you will not lose the value of your Groupon or have to pay additional fees.
4. Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits? Resort credits are not offered with this deal.
5. Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code? Reservations are not required but they are recommended on Thursdays, their busiest day. There is no dress code.
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