Experience the Dutch side of paradise at JW Marriott St. Maarten, a family-friendly resort designed for both relaxation and adventure. From ocean and pool views to dining highlights and room tours, my in-depth review covers everything you need to know before you go.
Special thanks to St Maarten Tourism and some local businesses featured in this post for supplying some activities and restaurants to review. All opinions are my own.
Looking for a travel agent for St Maarten? Contact me with details and I can help you out!
From lounging at the JW Marriott St Maarten resort pool to exploring local beaches, day trips, and must-try eats, this guide has all the insider tips for a fun and relaxing Caribbean getaway.
Check out this video of the hotel…
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS FAMILY-FRIENDLY ST MAARTEN HOTEL
I’m excited to share with you my latest installment of the St Maarten travel guide series on Sip Bite Go. In June, I spent 9 days at this property and have a ton of photos and tips to share!
Things to love:
- Gorgeous oceanfront location with a private beach vibe.
- Spacious pool area perfect for lounging all day
- On-site dining with Caribbean flavors + cocktails.
- Modern, comfortable rooms with dreamy views
- Easy access to nearby beaches + island day trips.
- On the Dutch side, minutes from the French side.
Getting There: Princess Juliana Airport to JW Marriott
The main airport on the island is Princess Juliana Airport (SXM), famous for its breathtaking runway approach over Maho Beach. From the airport, it’s roughly 10 miles to the JW Marriott—about a 30-minute drive.
Tips for your trip:
- Rent a car: Free parking at the resort and small vehicles are ideal for the narrow, windy roads. Prices can be as low as $30/day.
- No Uber on the island: Cabs are available but limited, so having your own car gives you freedom to explore.
Wondering where to eat near the JW Marriott St Maarten? See my full list of where to eat in Oyster Pond St. Maarten.
Rooms & Suites: Comfort with a View
The JW Marriott offers accommodations ranging from deluxe guest rooms to private suites with plunge pools.
Deluxe Guest Room (Resort View): Spacious, modern, and spotless with king or two queen beds.
Bathrooms feature double sinks, large showers, and soaking tubs—perfect for families.
Luxury Suites: Multiple bedrooms, extra bathrooms, dining spaces, patios with ocean views, and some with private plunge pools—ideal for groups or multi-family travel.
Extra perks include robes, ample closet space, coffee stations, and thoughtful lighting under the bed for nighttime navigation.
Next tour the beach-front hotel Holland House in Philipsburg, St Maarten.
Pool vs. Beach: The Resort Experience
While the resort has beach access, it’s truly a pool-focused resort.
The huge pool is perfect for kids with pool toys and a pool bar.
The beach (Dawn Beach) is ideal for walking and enjoying the scenery. (Note: Sargassum seaweed can appear here (or anywhere during certain seasons) but but the resort clears it regularly.)
Whether you’re a beach lover or pool lounger, this resort has you covered.
Up next: tour a dreamy St. Maarten hotel stay with full kitchens.
Dining at JW Marriott St Maarten & Nearby Restaurants
Dining on-site includes:
JW Marriott Café: Grab breakfast sandwiches, salads, and coffee to eat at the cafe or take back to your room—arrive early, as items sell out.
Liguria Restaurant: Indoor/outdoor dining with fresh salads, spring rolls, tender chicken, and decadent desserts.
Off-site restaurants near the JW:
- Tortuga at Maho Beach: A 20-minute drive to upscale dining with filet mignon, fried fish, and amazing desserts.
- Oasis Restaurant: A 10-minute drive on the French side with beautiful French cuisine from seafood platters to beef stews. And they serve pizza, too!
- Mama Pizza, Pasta & More: A 5-minute drive that is very casual on the French-side with patio dining. I love the pepperoni pizza and chicken parmesan.
And the JW Marriott St Maarten has poolside dining and room service, which is brought to you piping hot, too!
Day Trips & Excursions: Explore St. Martin
Pinel Island (French Side)
- Take a 10–12 USD ferry from the French side for beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and lunch at Karabuni.
- Pro Tip for Foodies: Don’t miss the local grocery stores on the French side on the way back to the hotel. Grab fresh baguettes, Brie, French butter, and local wines—perfect snacks to enjoy on your balcony.
Orient Beach
- Stop at Good Morning Café for baguettes and breakfast sandwiches.
- Enjoy umbrellas, water sports, and jet ski rentals for an exciting day by the ocean.
- See more family-friendly things to do at Orient Beach.
Phillipsburg (Dutch Side)
- Explore the capital’s beaches, bars, and Creole Culinary Classroom for a hands-on cooking experience.
- Check out local markets for French butter, pastries, and spiked punches to bring home.
I also recommend building in a resort day or two during your trip to enjoy the amenities from pool time to pickleball or time for kids in the children’s center.
This is the view from a balcony looking towards Dawn Beach at the JW Marriott St Maarten.
Can’t Wait to Hear About Your Trip!
When you snap photos in St Maarten, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @sipbitego!
Explore More St. Maarten Travel Guides
Want more travel guides with beautiful photos? See my library of St. Maarten travel guides packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and delicious eats.
Looking for a travel agent for St Maarten? Contact me with details and I can help you out!
Check out my collection of St. Maarten travel videos on YouTube.
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