We will be on SMX for 24 hours in Jan. 2007 on way to a week of diving in Saba. Looking for recommendations on a mid-range hotel/guesthouse on SMX that is close to both a good beach and a good restaurant. Please recommend restaurant too. Also, how much time should we allow for connecting from Winair to American at SMX on our way back? Is 40 minutes cutting it too close?
thanks in advance for advice.

As far as a mid-range hotel on a good beach that is close to restaurants, which side of the island are you looking to stay on. French or Dutch? I would recommend staying in Grand Case, but don't know if you want to venture to the French side for only an over-nighter.

As far as connecting from WIA to AA, 40 minutes is cutting it close. WIA has a one hour prior check in policy, not to mention their flights can be late to depart at times. I always give myself at least two hours or more when connecting from WIA to AA.

I meant to say that AA has a two hour check in policy for international flights. I'm assuming you're referring to your return connection from Saba into St. Maarten?

I would try to get on an earlier flight out of Saba if it were me and I make this connection from St. Eustatius (via Saba) all the time. As I said, WinAir does depart late at times and that could mean missing your AA flight, not to mention the lines can get really long checking in at AA.

Are you by any chance diving with Mike Myers at Saba Deep? If so, say hello to him & his wife, Sally for me.

yes, Statia, is right. I would allow plenty of time. AA requires check in 2 hours in advance of flight departure.
are you flying to Saba? do you want something near the airport?
try
http://www.turquoiseshellinn.com/
also
http://sxmreservations.com/royalturtle/guesthouse.html

Royal Turtle is not on the beach but is on the lagoon side, is close to the airport, and is quite nice.

there are many restaurants in the area..just a short taxi ride away.
Lee's Roadside Grill ( fresh grilled fish and ribs)
Pineapple Pete's ( a little bit of everything)
La Rosa's..Italian..Maho area
Halsey's..next to Lee's
just to name a few

We'll likely rent a car, so can stay on either Dutch or French side - priority is a good beach and good restaurant. Apologies for turning SXM into SMX - just starting our planning!