Most people know St. Maarten because of Princess Juliana International Airport. It's here that airplanes land on Maho Beach, blowing sand above the bikini-clad bathers, making it one of the most photographed runways in the world. The Sonesta Ocean Point Resort lies just below the action and is where guests are treated to the show multiple times per day upon arrival.
This Sonesta bills itself as a "resort within a resort" and is situated on the westernmost point of the island, adjacent to the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino. Guests of Ocean Point can use amenities at both properties, but will feel perfectly content in the adults-only, five-star luxury accommodations. We checked in and here's what we loved most.
What's Hot: It's not your typical all-inclusive. Think of it more as a super luxe, adults-only boutique hotel where you'll never have to open a wallet. Here, eucalyptus-scented cold towels are passed out for a refresh, fresh fruit and popsicles rotate around the pool area, and suites are stocked with a few complimentary bottles of spirits for mixing in-room cocktails. There's fine dining, a fantastic cocktail menu, and an incredibly personal staff.
Best Feature: The Edge infinity pool that feels as if you're actually on the beach, which you kind of are. Since all beaches in St. Maarten are public, the property created their own private sandy beach, where the cliffside pool laps up to real sand. For a pool and beach-lover, it's the best of both worlds.
The Rooms: 129 suites make up the property, so this all-inclusive feels intimate. Here, beach-chic accommodations range from Junior Suites to Swim Out Suites (our favorite) to the Luxury Penthouse.
The Food: There's no shortage of restaurant options at the property, including Palms Grill, The Point, and Pizzeria Napoli, along with a host of bars and 24-hour room service. The most special, though, is Azul Restaurant, which is exclusive only to Sonesta Ocean Point guests. Perched upon cliff overlooking Maho Bay, the Mediterranean-influenced menu serves upscale cuisine throughout the day. It's here that you'll find guests sipping crisp white wine or a (really good) rose while overlooking the unbelievably blue waters.
Who Will Love It: Couples (we saw a lot of honeymooners), repeat guests, group vacationers, and people who prefer a beach vacation without children or worrying about handing over their credit card for each meal.
Who Might Not: Bed and Breakfast aficionados. The resort offers more of a beach-chic modern vibe with tons of amenities. That said, by the time you check out, everyone will know your name.
Nearby: Casino Royale is the largest casino on the island, boasting 21,000 square feet of gaming, including roulette, craps, blackjack, and poker, plus over 410 slot machines. The casino also has a private "high-roller" area with the highest table limits on the island. A ten-minute walk past the hotel lies Mullet Bay beach; visit on a weekday and you might have it entirely to yourself.
Deals and Special Offers: Download the app for the most up-to-date deals. The website list offers like the Fall into Savings special where guests can enjoy 35 percent off the best available rate for travel now through April 16, 2017, plus more.
Connect: Like on Facebook, and follow on Twitter and Instagram.
Getting There: Located just 1.4 miles from the Princess Juliana International Airport, the properties is located at 1A Rhine Road, Maho Bay.