The Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa sits on the east coast of the island near Oyster Pond, where the beach faces the sunrise and the Atlantic. This side of St. Maarten is calmer than the busy stretch around Maho and Simpson Bay, with fewer crowds, a slower pace and a clear view toward neighboring islands on good days. The resort suits couples, families and anyone who wants a proper beach holiday with a spa, restaurants and pools close at hand. It is also a handy base for the east-coast sights covered elsewhere in this guide, including Dawn Beach itself, the Guana Bay coastal walk and the beach clubs of Orient Bay a short drive north. Expect a polished, brand-name resort feel, with the services you would associate with a larger international hotel.
Location and getting around
The resort is on the Dutch side's eastern end, close to the French border and Oyster Pond marina. It is on the opposite side of the island from the airport and the cruise port, so allow time for transfers, which typically take longer than to hotels on the west coast. Taxis and rental cars are the usual ways to get around, and a car makes it easy to reach Orient Bay, Grand Case and Marigot. Minibuses are less frequent on this side, so plan ahead for evenings out.
Rooms and facilities
Rooms and suites generally offer a modern, airy style with balconies or terraces, and many have views of the water or the gardens. The resort offers the sort of amenities visitors expect from this type of property, such as pools, restaurants, bars, a spa and a fitness area, but check the current list before you book because services change by season. Families may find suites with extra space useful, and couples often ask for upper-floor ocean views.
The beach and the east coast
Dawn Beach is a snorkeling-friendly beach with a reef near the shore, and sunrise is the highlight. The Atlantic can be rougher than the Caribbean side of the island, so check conditions before swimming and use caution with children. The east coast is breezier, which keeps it cooler in the afternoon and makes for good kite and wind watching, but it can also bring seaweed on some days.
Who it suits
Pick this hotel if you want a classic resort stay away from the airport noise, with sunrise views and quick access to Orient Bay. Skip it if you want to walk to nightlife or if you plan to spend most of your time near Philipsburg or Simpson Bay. Prices rise in the winter peak and holiday weeks. The shoulder seasons often offer better value. Ask about resort fees and parking when you book.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on the east coast
- ✓Sunrise-facing beach
- ✓Reef snorkeling nearby
- ✓Pools
- ✓Spa
- ✓Restaurants and bars
- ✓Water views
- ✓Suites and family rooms
Good questions
Is the Westin on the Dutch or French side?+
It is on the Dutch side's east coast, close to the French border and Oyster Pond.
Is it far from the airport?+
It is on the opposite side of the island, so transfers take longer than to west-coast hotels. Ask about transfer options.
Is the beach good for swimming?+
The east coast can be rougher than the west. Dawn Beach has a reef good for snorkeling on calm days, so check conditions.
