I was distracted from the moment I arrived at Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten — but in a good way. The views from nearly every corner of this two-hotel resort were so beautiful and exciting that I found it difficult to get much work done for the first several hours of my recent visit. But that was fine with me.
Perched in a prime location on Maho Bay, Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten appeals to diverse demographics with its two properties: the adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort and the family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. Together, they offer an impressive array of amenities, services and experiences — as well as stunning vistas of the turquoise waters of Maho Bay and the planes on approach to nearby Princess Juliana International Airport. As a lifetime travel and airline enthusiast, I was thrilled with the plane-spotting opportunities, as well as the walking-distance proximity to Maho Beach, which is famous for its end-of-runway photo opportunities when airliners are about to touch down.
The resort’s location is also a selling point when it comes to arrivals and exploring the destination. The complex is only minutes from the airport, making transfers wonderfully efficient, and the setting also makes it convenient for guests to walk off-property and explore the popular Maho area. This is an especially big draw for clients who want an all-inclusive stay without being isolated from the local scene. Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten is attractively landscaped, beautifully integrated into its natural setting and — as I discovered during my three-day stay — well-equipped to satisfy a variety of travelers.
Experiencing the Adults-Only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort
I stayed at the 130-suite Sonesta Ocean Point Resort and found its elevated, adults-only format well-positioned for couples, adult friends and families without kids. Sonesta describes it as the only adults-only, all-inclusive resort in St. Maarten, which gives it an even bigger competitive advantage.
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort is the only adults-only, all-inclusive resort in St. Maarten.
Credit: 2026 Sonesta Hotels & ResortsThe resort’s layout ensures that guests are never far from a picture-perfect waterfront setting, and after checking in at the spacious lobby (which is to be redecorated in September 2026), I headed to my spacious room, which featured a sitting area with couch and table, a minifridge and a generous balcony that became one of my favorite places to relax and enjoy views of the Caribbean and the occasional aircraft.
An important note about the plane watching: It’s thrilling but never intrusive, thanks to the limited flight schedules (no early morning or late-night arrivals). For travel enthusiasts, photographers and clients looking for eye-catching social media content, the hotel’s unique vista is a compelling highlight. (Insider tip: Check flight schedules online to catch the best sightings.)
Beyond its naturally beautiful location, Ocean Point offers a variety of enticing features, including three swimming pools, access to exclusive dining and full use of facilities at the adjacent Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, which is a nice plus.
Dining was a decidedly pleasant experience throughout my stay. Ocean Point is home to three a la carte restaurants and four bars and lounges, and the property also offers 24-hour room service and access to additional venues next door. I found the quality of the cuisine, ambience and service to be a step above the average all-inclusive.
Among my most memorable food-and-beverage moments were a delicious, Caribbean-inspired dinner at Azul Restaurant, contemporary Asian specialties at Bluefin Restaurant + Bar and Italian dishes at Portofino. Also topping my list was a cocktail reception at the Sunset Lounge + Bar, which — like just about every space at the hotel — offers gorgeous, photo-worthy Caribbean views.
The Family Side at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort
I also toured and experienced the 420-room Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, and found it to be an ideal complement to Ocean Point, since its family-friendly format and slightly lower price point broadens the appeal of the complex. The hotel’s large Oasis pool and swim-up bar, waterpark and separate clubs for children and teenagers make this a strong competitor in the island’s hotel scene.
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort offers an oasis pool, swim-up bar, waterpark and separate clubs for children and teenagers.
Credit: 2026 Sonesta Hotels & ResortsRooms at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort are comfortably designed and offer attractive views from both sides of the building. The crisp, modern decor includes colorful aquatic imagery, which helps to set the tone for a relaxed vacation.
Even as it offers plenty of amenities for families, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort can also be a smart option for grown-ups who want an adults-only setting at a more affordable price point than Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. The Ultimate Adults-Only Club, which occupies the ninth and 10th floors, provides an exclusive, tranquil enclave within the family resort, with access to a private lounge with snacks, as well as a rooftop bar.
Wellness, Feline Appeal and Other Diversions
Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten satisfies and surprises with some of its features. I indulged in an exceptional body wrap at Serenity Spa, which is located at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort. For an even more memorable experience, book clients a treatment at Serenity Point — a waterfront gazebo that offers dramatic views — or the Zen Garden, a peaceful, open-air space with a fountain. Together with Sonesta Ocean Point Resort’s well-equipped fitness center, yoga-friendly spaces and the complex’s full schedule of entertainment and activities, Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten offers an array of experiences on-site.
I was also intrigued by the variety of attractions and activities just a few steps from the resort entrance. Casino Royale serves up gaming and nightlife excitement for those who crave it, and I was especially impressed with something I had never seen at a resort development: a cat rescue center. Island Cat Rescue offers visitors a chance to meet its cute residents and even arrange for international adoption; the organization handles all the details.
Unique features such as these help position Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten as a one-of-a-kind choice on the island; a combination of the all-inclusive concept with views and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.
