St. Maarten tourism was built on small hotels—many of which are still operating today.
In the very early days of tourism, guests were welcomed into the mansions of government officials. As interest in other cultures and travel grew, “Pasanggrahans” were established throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands—small guesthouses that relieved officials of this duty. Additionally, local entrepreneurs founded their own hotels. Some were boarding houses, receiving students and business travelers from nearby islands.
As post-war tourism began to take shape, new and often very different boutique hotels were added to the mix, deliberately catering to visitors seeking small-scale indulgence and an unforgettable stay. Among others, Holland House, Horizon View and L’Esperance were part of this development in and around Philipsburg.
Though Philipsburg was the starting point of St. Maarten’s small hotel sector, the development of the Simpson Bay, Maho and Pelican areas further expanded the island’s boutique hotel offerings. Small properties such as Mary’s Boon, Azure Hotel and The Horny Toad offered new horizons on the western side of the island. Others did the same on the Atlantic side of the island.
Research over the years has shown that some of the factors that have created many repeat visitors are the high levels of hospitality, the variety of things to do on the island, and the island’s status as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” These factors are most appreciated by the free independent traveler, choosing their own itineraries and tastes on a day-by-day basis.
It is those followers of Seneca’s adage, “follow reason, not the crowd,” who often find a match with St. Maarten boutique hotels. They provide the freedom to roam the island and participate in their own discoveries.
Matching the high demands of these travelers is the seasoned and awarded hospitality of these properties. Many have been family-run businesses for decades, receiving a variety of guests over time, from foreign heads of state and dignitaries to loyal customers welcomed back every year. Whoever the guest may be, they can share personalized advice and local knowledge to help make a stay a great one. They often know the best and most affordable car rentals to suit individual needs, as well as nearby restaurants and beaches.
That does not mean choosing is easy within this variety. And that variety extends from area to area, as well as from high-end to budget accommodations.
For those wanting to explore the cosmopolitan vibe of the small capital of Philipsburg, consider one of the boutique hotels located between its bustling Boardwalk and famed shopping street, Front Street, such as Pasanggrahan, Seaview, Holland House or Horizon View.
During the high season (December through April), the town appeals to those who want to be part of the buzz and popularity of this Caribbean shopping mecca and important port. During the off-season, a more relaxed Caribbean atmosphere prevails, with peaceful days to explore the museums and activities in town at your own pace. In all cases, these properties provide an oasis of calm, even on the busiest winter days in the capital.
For those not looking to stay in town itself, but wanting a nearby springboard for island activities, L’Esperance near Little Bay provides a great base of operations. The same can be said for the petite Pasture Piece Inn if you wish to spend a night in a historic setting.
“Over the hill,” as locals say, lie the bustling tourism areas of Pelican, Simpson Bay and Maho. Alongside the resorts, yachting is omnipresent in these tourism centers. Yet boutique hotels have also carved out their own quiet havens for a tranquil stay. LaVista did so in a peaceful corner near Pelican Key Beach. Azure Hotel, The Horny Toad and Mary’s Boon each demarcated their own piece of paradise along Simpson Bay Beach, one of the largest and most charming beaches on the Dutch side of the island.
It is not only the location that matters, but also the type of hotel you are seeking. Are you looking for high-end or budget accommodations? A cosmopolitan or Caribbean atmosphere? Historic charm or modern comfort? See our selection of boutique hotels below and discover what attracts you most.
