St. Maarten Season Updates
What’s new between October and June – High Season Updates 2025 / 2026 from the St. Maarten
Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA)
Hotels & Villas
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Upgraded Rooms at The Atrium Beach Resort and Spa
Exciting updates are underway at The Atrium Beach Resort and Spa, an Ascend Collection Hotel. Over the past 9–15 months, the property has upgraded guest rooms with new sleeper sofas, modern kitchen appliances, and sliding glass balcony doors. The pool area has also been fully renovated for ultimate relaxation. Together with its recent rebranding and partnership with Choice Hotels, the resort now offers a more stylish and comfortable stay.
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Oyster Bay Collaborates with Sicilian / Pantellerian Top Chefs
Oyster Bay Beach Resort is excited to announce a special culinary collaboration this season! Beginning this November through Spring 2026, our oceanfront Infinity Restaurant will host a series of unique dining experiences inspired by Osteria Il Principe e Il Pirata from the Sicilian island of Pantelleria, which is recognized by the Michelin Guide.
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Sonesta Maho Improves Convention Center, Adds Packages & Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar
Sonesta Maho Resort continues to enhance the guest experience with exciting new offerings. Recent improvements include upgraded facilities at the Convention Center. Guests can enjoy the Ultimate Couples Package and a new Suite Honeymoon Package for unforgettable stays. The Cloud9 rooftop bar adds a luxurious adults-only space with stunning ocean views.
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Pasture Piece Plantation House to Officially Reopen
Pasture Piece Bed & Breakfast and Event Venue will officially reopen in December 2025, following an extensive restoration of the historic estate. The 1800s Richardson family home has been transformed into a boutique B&B, museum, and elegant event venue, offering overnight stays and curated cultural experiences. Guests can enjoy heritage-inspired accommodations, signature events like the Heritage Christmas Market and Afternoon Tea Parties, and private gatherings in a charming countryside setting. With upgraded guest rooms, amenities, and outdoor facilities, Pasture Piece blends history, culture, and Caribbean elegance.
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Dining & Pickleball at Villa Amalia
Villa Amalia is introducing several exciting updates for guests. The property now features brand-new menus highlighting fresh flavors and elevated dining experiences. A new pickleball court has been added, offering a fun activity with a view. Villa Amalia has also begun composting, supporting its commitment to sustainability.
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Pasanggrahan Boutique Hotel Reopens Restaurant
St. Maartens oldest hotel Pasanggrahan Boutique Hotel is reopening its restaurant in October 2025. Guests can look forward to a refreshed dining experience with updated menus and ambiance. The reopening promises a blend of local flavors and elegant presentation. It’s the perfect spot for both hotel guests and visitors seeking a memorable meal.
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Divi Little Bay Beach Resort Renovates
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort proudly unveils newly renovated beachfront hotel units. Guests can now enjoy refreshed accommodations with modern design and upgraded amenities. The renovations highlight comfort while embracing stunning ocean views. Perfect for a luxury Caribbean escape, just steps from the sand.
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Seaview Beach Hotel Opens DoubleDutch Coffeehouse
Seaview Beach Hotel is excited to announce several new offerings for guests and visitors. The property now features the brand-new DoubleDutch Koffiehuis, serving fresh coffee and treats daily. At the Seaview Beach & Pool Bar, guests can enjoy new day passes and private cabanas for added comfort.
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New American Flavors at Sapphire Beach Club Resort
Sapphire Beach Club Resort is unveiling a brand-new menu with an American style infused with French influence. Guests can now enjoy a fresh dining experience that blends classic favorites with elegant European touches. The new menu highlights quality ingredients and refined flavors in a relaxed beachfront setting. Perfect for both resort guests and locals, it offers something special for every palate.
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Get Fit At Commodore Suites
Commodore Suites has recently upgraded its rooftop open-air gym, giving guests a fresh new space to work out. The renovation includes a brand-new floor and mirrors, creating a modern fitness environment. Guests can now enjoy exercising with stunning rooftop views. Looking ahead, the hotel is preparing exciting announcements for 2026.
Culinary
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Big Bastards Beach Bar Adds All-Inclusive
Big Bastards Beach Bar & Patio is reopening on October 1 with a freshly renovated patio, now featuring a TV. Guests can look forward to all-inclusive beach packages designed for ultimate relaxation. Each package includes drinks and a delicious lunch by the shore. The upgrades promise a lively, comfortable space for both locals and visitors.
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Dutch Blonde Beach Bar Opens Speakeasy
Dutch Blonde will open its new air-conditioned speakeasy bar and restaurant, Dirty Blonde, at the end of October 2025. Guests can enjoy a unique dining and nightlife experience in a stylish, intimate setting. Dirty Blonde will also serve lunch, featuring fresh fish and a variety of local dishes. The venue combines exceptional food, cocktails, and a cozy speakeasy atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
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K Beach Club & Restaurant Upgrades Beach Experience with Menu, Chairs & Umbrellas
K Beach Club is unveiling exciting new additions this season, including fresh items on the menu for guests to enjoy. New beach chairs and umbrellas will soon be available, enhancing comfort and relaxation on the sand. Visitors can sip, dine, and unwind while taking in the beautiful ocean views in a refreshed setting. The upgrades reflect K Beach Bar’s commitment to creating a vibrant and welcoming beach experience.
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Artisanal Gelateria Luciano Opens New Cole Bay Location
Luciano Gelato is opening a new “gelateria” in the Opal Centre in Cole Bay. The grand opening will bring locally made, artisanal gelato flavors to the local community. Customers can enjoy a variety of handcrafted gelato, made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients. The store aims to create a warm, welcoming space for families and friends to gather and enjoy sweet treats.
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Pelikaan Brewery Opens Taproom
Pelikaan Brewery has opened its newly refinished taproom, now welcoming guests for tours. Visitors can enjoy freshly crafted beers in a modern, inviting space. The upgraded taproom highlights the brewery’s commitment to quality and local flavor. Tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
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(Your Own) Whole New Rum At The Rusty Parrot
The Rusty Parrot’s “Make Your Own Rum” workshop has quickly become a guest favorite. Visitors enjoy a hands-on experience blending unique flavors to create their own personalized rum. The workshop combines fun, education, and local tradition in a lively setting. It’s the perfect activity for both tourists and locals.
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June = St. Maarten Flavors Month!
St. Maarten Flavors, the month-long fixed price specials foodie program showing the culinary diversity of the island, is now planned for June! Come and sample signature dishes of over 30 restaurants!
Arts & Culture
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New St. Maarten / St. Martin Books by Les Fruits De Mer
Les Fruits de Mer Association will launch several new books about St. Martin this year, highlighting the island’s nature, heritage, and culture. Amuseum Naturalis at The Old House will also open a new exhibit this fall, focused on the fascinating snails of St. Martin. The book series will include oral history and poetry collections, as well as coloring and activity books designed for children. These releases aim to celebrate and share the island’s unique stories with both residents and visitors.
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National Institute of Arts to Highlight SHTA Events Calendar 2026
The National Institute of Arts has been chosen by a committee as Cultural Icon starring the 2026 edition of the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association Events Calendar. The multidisciplinary art academy will follow in the footsteps of cultural celebrities like choreographer Clara Reyes, steelpan artist Isidore “Dow” York, Calypsonian “King Beaubeau” Brooks, painters Roland Richardson and Ruby Bute, and last but not least 2025 icon of choice fashion designer Zillah Duzon-Hazel. Travel Agents and Writers can freely obtain copies at all times via the association.
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An Underwater Alley?
Adding to an already large mural scene in Philipsburg, local artists supported by the Be the Change Foundation have transformed the alleyway next to the Seaview Beach Hotel into an immersive “underwater alleyway” mural, highlighting the importance of protecting marine life. The project features educational boards and QR codes linking to the artists and @colormesxm, blending art with environmental awareness.
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New Book From “That Yoda Guy” Movie Exhibit
Star Wars designer Nick Maley and his wife Gloria’s new novel, Fangs: The Blood, a cinematic vampire tale, will be available this December, just in time for Christmas. Fans can meet the authors and get the deluxe first edition autographed at St. Maarten’s Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit. Nick’s celebrated cinema artwork, now hanging in 38 countries, is also featured, including his limited edition Star Wars prints, Galaxy of Dreams and Found Someone You Have. With only 95 prints available, these collectibles are expected to sell out before the end of 2026.
Activities
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Aqua Mania Adventures Adds Fourth Boat for its Pink Sunset Sail 10th Anniversary Celebration
Aqua Mania Adventures is proud to announce that the 10th Anniversary edition of the Pink Sunset Sail has officially sold out three boats, prompting the addition of a fourth vessel for the very first time in the event’s history. This year’s celebration takes place on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The Pink Sunset Sail has grown into one of the island’s most cherished traditions, raising vital funds for the Positive and Elektralyets Foundation’s breast cancer awareness and education programs.
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Private Yacht Charter Launches New Sunset Cruise
Private Yacht Charter is launching a new 2.5-hour sunset cruise starting November 1st, 2025. The cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastline and vibrant sunsets. Guests can relax on a luxurious yacht while sipping drinks and taking in the scenery. This new experience is perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a memorable evening on the water.
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Sail Renegades Opens Sailing Season with “Sexy Sea Legs”
Sail Renegades will open its 2025–2026 sailing season on November 1, running through August 31, 2026 with a new edition of its signature cocktail “Sexy Sea Legs”. This craft cocktail is a sought after product amongst its many loyal guests, including ingredients like ginger for those who have difficulty settling into life at sea. Guests can enjoy private, all-inclusive sailing packages designed to explore the best of St. Maarten and beyond. Special promotions and seasonal offers will be shared throughout the year on social media. Whether for a day trip or a longer adventure, Sail Renegades delivers a personalized luxury experience on the water.
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StMaartenAuction.com Relaunched
This spring, the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) relaunched its auction site StMaartenauction.com. It allows returning and new visitors and residents alike to bid on fun activities, hotel stays, retail items and dinners starting at 50% of market value.
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St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Prepares for Edition 46
The 46th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta will take place from March 5–8, 2026. Sailors from around the world will compete in thrilling races across the Caribbean waters. The event combines world-class sailing with vibrant onshore festivities for spectators. Fans can enjoy live music, food, and entertainment while watching the action unfold.
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SXM Padel Club Goes International
SXM Padel Club once again will be the venue for the 4 th time in a row of the International Senior Padel Tournament from 12/11-14. SXM Padel Group also continues expanding the sport of Padel to new locations at the endo of the month they are brining the first Padel Courts to Suriname. Las year they also installed the first courts in Lome, Togo, West Africa. After the opening of SXM Padel 4 years ago the sport has taken off on the island with 3 other clubs also opening and a few more on the drawing board.
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Now: Night Dives at Dive Sint Maarten
Dive Sint Maarten offers exciting underwater experiences for divers of all levels. Monthly night dives provide a unique chance to explore the island’s marine life after dark. Certified divers can enjoy thrilling 2- tank dives to St. Barths. Non-certified guests can try a Discover Scuba Dive and experience the thrill of diving safely.
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The Caribbean Multihull Challenge Returns
The 2026 Caribbean Multihull Challenge is set to return, bringing thrilling high-speed racing to the region. Sailors from around the world will compete in state-of-the-art multihull vessels. The event showcases both skill and innovation on the water, attracting fans and participants alike. Spectators can enjoy exciting races along scenic Caribbean coastlines.
Shopping
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Supermarket at Princess Juliana International Airport
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is opening a brand-new supermarket inside the terminal. Soon after, the airport will also unveil its upgraded FBO building, right on schedule for the busy high season. These new facilities are designed to enhance convenience and comfort for travelers and private jet guests. The supermarket will provide easy access to fresh goods, while the FBO building elevates the luxury travel experience.
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We Are SXM Starts T-Shirts Line
Tour organizer We Are SXM has officially upgraded from a home office to a brand-new office space in Cole Bay. The office is located at the back of the Opal Building on Red Plum Tree Drive #15, Unit 10-2. Visitors are invited to stop by for coffee, learn about collaboration opportunities, or check out the new “Friendly Island T-Shirts.” The move highlights We Are SXM’s continued growth and presence in the local community.
General Destination News
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Winair Turns 65 and Celebrates with New Ticket Office, Prime Service
National St. Maarten airliner Winair turns 65 in 2026! The airliner has relocated its ticket office to the airport departure halls, making it easier than ever for customers to manage their travel needs. The new booths are now open for all bookings and questions, with convenient airport parking available and the first hour validated by Winair. In addition, the airline has introduced a new fare system designed to better serve passengers. The Prime service offers maximum flexibility along with priority airport services for a smoother travel experience.
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A New Lighthouse at Bobby’s Marina
Bobby’s Marina is nearing completion of its new lighthouse, a landmark for visitors and boaters alike. The lighthouse will enhance safety and add a distinctive feature to the marina’s skyline. Following this, construction is beginning on the new pier to expand docking capacity. These upgrades reflect the marina’s commitment to improving facilities for guests and vessels.
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Southwest Airlines Arrives
Starting April 7, Southwest Airlines will begin flying to St. Maarten for the first time. The airline will offer nine weekly flights, connecting travelers from Baltimore and Orlando. This marks a historic new route, making the island more accessible than ever.
