Family-Friendly Caribbean Getaway on Private Beach

With tiny coves and shallow reefs, St. Maarten has earned a reputation as one of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling destinations. Among the dozens of white-sand beaches on the southern Dutch side of the island, Pelican Key Beach stands out for the clear turquoise waters of Simpson Bay, a gorgeous scene that has attracted resorts, outdoor bars, and 24-hour casinos. The low-slung buildings of Flamingo Beach Resort wrap around the sea, giving guests private access to their own stretch of beach and dazzling Caribbean views.

With St. Maarten’s temperatures hovering near 82 degrees all year, guests take full advantage of the lounge chairs, palapa huts, and blue-and-white-striped umbrellas scattered across the beach. An infinity-edge pool looks out to the ocean, where sailboats and cruise ships float by throughout the day. For a casual meal, head to the open-air bar, a poolside spot with small chalkboards that announce happy-hour specials and the day's homework assignment. Scavenger hunts, T-shirt painting, aqua aerobics, and other family-friendly activities take place throughout the week. The 750-square-feet studio rooms feature full kitchens and spacious living rooms, as well as a furnished balcony. Splashes of vibrant colors in the artwork, upholstery, and window treatments give the rooms a playful vibe.

St. Maarten: Snorkeling Sites and Lively Nightlife on Island's Dutch Side

Located in the northeast Caribbean, the 37-square-mile island of St. Maarten has been peacefully shared by the French and the Dutch for nearly 350 years, giving the island two very distinct yet harmonious personalities. Both parts of the island share crystal-clear bays filled with palatial coral structures and tropical fish. This underwater paradise can be viewed during guided snorkeling trips to Creole Rock’s reef-ringed boulders. Back on shore of St. Maarten, casual barbecue restaurants known as lolos line the beach and serve up heaping portions of creole ribs and rice complemented with guava-berry rum.

Dozens of clubs and casinos make up the active nightlife scene on the island’s Dutch side. Just a short walk from the hotel, the bars at Simpson Bay are filled with live music and neon lights, and when those close, locals and visitors alike can keep the party going at the 24-hour casinos.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.