One island. Two cultures. St. Maarten and St. Martin pack a lot of diversity into one picturesque destination. And today, as visitor numbers rise, a variety of infrastructure improvements and new and renovated hotels are providing still more reasons to visit.
The news is decidedly positive from St. Maarten tourism officials, who report a surge of 16.9% in airport arrivals during the second quarter of 2025, as well as a 14% jump in cruise arrivals. Recent growth is a welcome contrast to the challenges the destination faced after Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the pandemic in 2020. And recent improvements are noticeable as soon as air travelers arrive, thanks to the new terminal at St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport that opened in 2024.
Travel designer Natascha Mali of travel agency Untamed Travelling praises the island’s progress.
“After Hurricane Irma and COVID-19, the island has been completely rebuilt, with lots of new accommodations, rooftop bars and beach clubs,” she said.
She notes that many hotels have recently undergone major renovations, including Holland House Beach Hotel, Karibuni, Divi Little Bay Beach Resort and La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel. In 2027, she adds, the first Leading Hotels of the World property on St. Maarten — Vie L’Ven Luxury Resort & Residences — will open, overlooking Indigo Bay on the island's southern coast.
May-Ling Chun, director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, says that recent upgrades and improvements tie in with what she describes as St. Maarten’s focus on “strengthening its position as a high-quality, sustainable and experience-driven destination."
Chun also notes that St. Maarten is modernizing its approach to boosting tourism.
“Digitally, we’re investing in smarter travel planning tools, including an AI-driven itinerary builder that will soon allow visitors to customize their trip with ease,” she said.
Something for Everyone
The island’s broad appeal is helping to drive growth, according to Chun of the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau.
“St. Maarten-St. Martin truly offers something for every type of traveler,” she said. “What makes our island unique is the balance between sophistication and authenticity. Couples are drawn to our romantic settings and dining scene; families appreciate the safe and friendly environment; and adventure seekers find endless options on land and sea — from hiking and sailing to diving and ziplining.”
The island is also attracting more luxury travelers, yacht cruisers and digital nomads, Chun adds, as well as repeat guests who “value connection and culture as much as comfort.”
Eddy Loomans, resort manager at Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten, confirms that the island satisfies a variety of traveler types.
Guests can relax at Maho Beach & Sonesta Resorts in St. Maarten.
Credit: 2025 Sonesta“It doesn’t matter your age or how seasoned a traveler you are — we cater to everyone,” he said. “Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, an island hopper, a beach fan, a yachting enthusiast or a plane spotter, there’s something here for you.”
Loomans also notes the unique qualities that set the island apart.
“St. Maarten-St. Martin is the smallest island in the world shared by two countries — the northern part being French, and the southern part an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands,” he noted, adding that the island also has 37 beaches in just 37 square miles and an incredible range of dining options, from French and Dutch specialties to Creole, Indonesian, Lebanese, Mediterranean and so much more.
Mali echoes the positive sentiment.
“There's something for everyone, and there are so many different types of accommodations,” she said. “The island has an impressive interior, a breathtaking coastline and vibrant marine life. Add in the rich cultural history, upbeat locals and culinary melting pot, and you have all the ingredients for a dream destination for foodies, adventurers, watersports fanatics, culture seekers and beach lovers.”
Shanice Powell-Hodge, sales and catering manager at the recently opened JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa, notes that luxury travelers in particular will find lots to love on the island — including couples, families, groups and wedding parties.
“Wellness-focused travelers also find the resort appealing, as our spa, fitness offerings and tranquil atmosphere align perfectly with a restorative retreat experience,” she said.
The island offers something for all kinds of travelers.
Credit: 2025 St. Maarten Tourism BureauPowell-Hodge adds that experiential travel and wellness-focused getaways are among the top trends in travel to the island.
“We’ve also seen a rise in multigenerational travel and small group gatherings, from milestone celebrations to very intimate weddings and proposals,” she said.
Experiencing Both Sides
The island’s dual identity means that travel advisors can easily help their clients create itineraries that blend diverse experiences.
“On the Dutch side, St. Maarten offers a lively Caribbean atmosphere with entertainment, nightlife, duty-free shopping and a diverse mix of resorts and attractions,” Chun said. “The French side, St. Martin, carries a more European character — refined, relaxed and rooted in gastronomy and nature. Together, the two sides create a seamless yet fascinating contrast, where visitors can experience the best of both Caribbean warmth and European elegance within a single destination.”
To make the most of what each side of the island has to offer, Loomans of Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten recommends a full-island tour — either guided or self-driven.
“What makes St. Maarten-St. Martin stand out is its unique binational and multicultural character, world-class cuisine, award-winning hospitality and the abundance of experiences available,” he said. “From soaring down the world’s steepest zipline to relaxing on one of the peaceful beaches, visitors can find adventure, tranquility and culture all in one destination. Add to that the vibrant events, festivals and scenic drives, and you have an island that truly offers the best of both worlds.”
