St. Martin
 

I really had fun on St. Martin. There's a lot to do there, but you can also relax and have a little seclusion. The Marine Hotel, a sprawling complex, may be the best buy on the Nettle Bay hotel strip. Rooms and duplex suites are cheerfully decorated, most have a view of the water, and all have a kitchenette and balcony. Budget-conscious Europeans love this place because of the many extras, like a huge breakfast buffet and nightly local entertainment. There are shuttle (not complimentary) to Marigot, Philipsburg, and beaches. Have a good trip.

My husband and I went to St. Martin in Nov. '94 and had a great time. We stayed at Mullet Bay which I would highly recommend. It really is the best beach on the island. Accomodations are very nice, clean, fairly new. Casino on the property. Don't stay at Maho Beach-the planes come in right over the beach-kick up the sand and water. A really good day trip is the catamaran to Prickly Pear. Another good beach on St. Martin is Oyster Pond.

We have been to St-Martin twice. There are 37 beautiful beaches that can be reached by car. Rental can be as cheap as $25.US a day for a small four speed vehicle(no frills or A/C).
Snorkling and diving is good, water sports great. You can even find secluded beaches that let you take in the sun without the intervention of bathing suit material.ENJOY! :-)

We stayed at the Marine Hotel Simpson shortly after the hurricane in Nov. '95. It was an excellent bargain and the people were very nice. It's not on a great beach but within easy driving to a few and to Marigot which we loved. The island is quite small and easy to get around if you have a car. The French side has a nicer ambiance and the best croissants!

Is the Marine hotel suitable for children ages 8 and 9? Are any of the beaches within walking distance of the hotel ?
What about the availability of water sports, windsurfing snorkling etc from this location