Popular with couples, the resort combines Gallic charm and relaxed Caribbean hospitality. This St Maarten resort's 55 acres fall gently from a 30.5-m (100-ft) limestone cliff to sea level, with a paved path winding through tropical gardens. (Complimentary shuttle service is available throughout.) The resort's staff speaks English, and U.S. currency is accepted.

What to expect: Located on the French side of the island, Le Domaine de Lonvilliers is set amid a vast tropical garden with graceful palms, colorful Flamboyant trees, and profusions of fragrant and exotic flowers. A sheltered cove forms Anse Marcel beach, which is within a three-minute stroll of all guestrooms. The white sands face Creole Rock, one of St. Martin's top diving spots, and the neighboring island of Anguilla.

Amenity highlights: The hotel is on Anse Marcel beach, with calm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking. Cushioned lounge chairs with umbrellas are arrayed along the palm-fringed shore. A freeform outdoor pool is paired with two spa tubs. La Veranda, the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, serves French cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. A buffet breakfast (complimentary for adults and for children under 6) features fresh, made-to-order crepes.

Insider tip: For a sweeping view of the entire bay, climb the verdant hill adjacent to the hotel.

What to expect: This Caribbean resort is nestled into a lush hillside, surrounded by tropical plantings and fronting a pristine beach. The many activities and amenities the resort offers appeal to vacationing families, couples, and wedding parties. With a beach, casino, and spa, guests can be as relaxed or active as they like. The resort’s activity desk and 24-hour concierge are on hand to assist with arrangements and requests.

Amenity highlights: A multi-level, freshwater infinity pool with a spa tub and swim-up bar are adjacent to the white-sand beach. Among the spa services offered are the Papaya Body Scrub and Hibiscus Flower Peel (surcharges). Dining options include French cuisine in a dinner-only restaurant, or casual fare with Caribbean selections–both with ocean-view terraces. The resort also includes a casino, nightclub, and lobby lounge with 24-hour food and beverage service.

Insider tip: A 10-minute drive from the resort, The Butterfly Farm features hundreds of free-flying butterflies within a large meshed enclosure. Visitors can also view all stages of the life cycle. Early mornings are the best chance to see newborn butterflies emerge for their inaugural flights.

Styled like a small Caribbean village, the resort offers spacious, tropical-garden grounds, and attracts couples and families seeking relaxing, tranquil holidays with ready access to Orient Beach.

Families and couples choose this south-coast resort for its proximity to Philipsburg's duty-free shopping, its casual ambience (exemplified by an open-air reception counter), and to enjoy the sun and sea.

This south-facing resort lies at the base of Mt. Willem and attracts guests seeking walking-distance access to Philipsburg, casino action, and panoramic views.

The resort rents condominiums in owners' absences. Couples and families come here for quiet, contemporary living within walking distance of a lively beach offering water sports and casual dining.