Mary's Boon Beach Resort & Spa

Mary's Boon Beach Resort & Spa is a family-run address opened in the early 1970s, set directly on the sand of Simpson Bay, on the Dutch side. It is one of the island's oldest boutique hotels, nicknamed by regulars Sint Maarten's little secret, with an authentic Creole vibe, wooden-balustrade buildings and personalized service.

The resort offers around thirty rooms and suites spread across small buildings on the beach and around the garden. Categories range from Garden Studios to Beachfront 2 Queen, Deluxe Studios, Deluxe Loft and Deluxe One Bedroom with living room, up to renovated Premium Luxury Beachfront Studios. Every room includes air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, private bathroom, fridge, coffee maker, and most open onto a sea-view terrace or balcony.

The heart of the address is its Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant, open all day and turning into fine dining in the evening with Creole and international cuisine, sun loungers and tables on the sand, and long sunsets over the bay. The Mary's Boon Spa offers massages, facials and body treatments in suite or beachside. The hotel has no pool, but Simpson Bay's 3 km of white sand sits right outside the door.

The location is ideal for travelers looking for relaxed beach life, water activities (kitesurfing, paddle, jet ski, boat trips) and quick access to Simpson Bay restaurants and bars. Princess Juliana Airport is right next door: it is also one of the best close-up spots to watch planes land at Maho, which can mean some daytime noise but is much appreciated by aviation fans.