Although it’s a busy gateway to the farther reaches of the Caribbean, St. Maarten (the Dutch side of the island) certainly merits more than a quick fly-by. Spend a few days here and you’re sure to be impressed by the variety of dining, duty-free shopping, nightlife and, of course, beaches. When you touch down in St. Maarten and decide to “go Dutch,” here are the best hotels on Dutch St. Maarten (note: this list does not include all-inclusives.) Here are the best St Maarten hotels to try from across the island.

Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa Secluded on the sands of Dawn Beach, this 341-room resort has a host of amenities and entertainment options. There’s a casino; a spectacular two-tier infinity pool for sunning and swimming; comfy and modern rooms feature Westin’s signature Heavenly beds; and what is arguably SXM’s best resort spa offers an impressive menu of indulgent treatments. This is the best hotel in St. Maarten. Book Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa.