Caribbean
Get Ready to Reset – Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten
By Karen Burshtein
There was a time when the only wellness most vacationers expected from an all-inclusive resort was a dose of vitamin D in the form of sunshine. Not anymore.
Today’s resort-goers crave a more balanced stay, where indulgence is tempered by healthy choices, dining is elevated, and activities go beyond aquafit and beach volleyball. Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten deliver on all these counts.
Located on Maho Bay, minutes from the Princess Juliana International Airport, the popular beachfront property encompasses two resorts: the luxury, adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort (130 suites); and the family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa (420 rooms).
Since the options are extensive and continually evolving, we’ve compiled a list of pairings to make the most of your stay.
A Tropical Smoothie and a Sky-high Playground
The new Morning Smoothie Station at Ocean Terrace Restaurant operates like a made-to-order omelette bar. It blends your choice of fresh, tropical fruit with a smorgasbord of healthy add-ins like chia seeds, spinach, ginger and protein powder. It’s just the fuel you need before heading to the new Pelican’s Nest Sky Deck. Spanning 5,481 square metres, this adventure and entertainment rooftop deck features rock climbing, water slides, mini golf, running track with workout stations, and multi-sports simulators designed for active fun and social connection.
An Exquisitely Crafted Mocktail and Plane Spotting at One Zero Pool Bar
Forget predictable virgin cocktails, Sonesta’s signature non-alcoholic elixirs are crafted with herbs, tropical fruit and immunity-boosting ingredients that taste as good as they look. Guests can sip on concoctions like Green Purity Elixir, Golden Immunity Reviver and Watermelon Garden Fizz. Enjoy one at the elegant Martin’s Bar, where contemporary Caribbean décor and artwork create a refined gathering space. Or just hang out at One Zero Pool Bar. Overlooking Maho Beach, this poolside nirvana is the perfect perch for end-of-runway photo opps of jets approaching the landing.
Elevated Caribbean Dining and Sunset Vistas
Sunset is the most magical time to admire the Caribbean as the sky fades from brilliant blue to coral and gold. Feast on the changing sky while indulging in dishes like local grilled lobster, miso-glazed sea bass and beef tenderloin at Azul, Ocean Point Resort’s
signature fine-dining restaurant. It’s one of more than a dozen dining options between the two resorts that range from Italian and Asian cuisine to beachfront Caribbean grills, casual pubs, pizzerias and cafés.
A Guavaberry Colada and Live Music
End the evening at Sunset Bar + Lounge or Cloud9 Rooftop Bar, the resort’s rooftop venue, where handcrafted cocktails like the island’s favourite Guavaberry Colada, and panoramic Caribbean views are accompanied by live music or DJ several nights a week. If your idea of fun is a little less laid-back, head to the Village Tavern where local musicians, sports on big screens and lively karaoke keep the party going. After all, wellness is also about balance.
Travel Planner
To start your luxury included island getaway, visit sonestastmaarten.com
