This sprawling resort opened in early 2007. Its colonnaded beachfront facade is elegant and charming. The freshwater infinity pool is lovely. The lobby has a spiffy Frank Lloyd Wright feel, and is adjoined by a clanging casino. The 310 mostly oceanview guest rooms (and 15 suites) have all the state-of-the-art trappings you’d expect from a high-end chain like Westin in the Caribbean, including its trademark Heavenly Bed mattresses — and the rates cover a range of budgets. Facilities include a full-service, European-style Hibiscus Spa, fitness center, retail shops with duty-free shopping, two oceanfront restaurants, watersports, and meeting facilities. Kids get the royal treatment at Westin Kid’s Club — Camp Scallywag. All the rooms are nonsmoking.

The Westin Resort and Spa is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten but just a 15 minute drive from Octopus Diving in Grand Case. Remember we can get rental cars for just $35 a day in high and low season. Come dive some of St. Maarten’s awesome Wrecks and Reefs with Octopus Diving. Email info@octopusdiving.com for more information.

Facilities:
4 restaurants/lounges; pool snack bar; outdoor pool; casino; tennis courts; fitness center; spa; concierge desk; business services; shops; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; laundry; valet service; rooms for those w/limited mobili

Read more: in Frommers.