Best Value Hotels in St. Martin/St. Maarten

Perched on a dramatic hill above Dawn Beach, this 51-room condo property has jaw-dropping views. A rooftop pool and spacious balconies take advantage of the vistas, and full kitchens and pull-out couches are ideal for families or groups looking to save. There is no restaurant, bar, or spa, but Princess guests have easy access to the casino, beach, shops, and several dining options at the megaresort Westin next door.

By far the biggest resort in St. Maarten, this 534-room behemoth is a veritable village with two towers, two pools, three restaurants, the island's largest casino, direct beach access, and a 40-boutique shopping center. Most of the rooms have fresh, modern decor and balconies, though the extra fee for Wi-Fi is a bit excessive. The crowds can get big and even a bit boisterous. But for families and lively vacationers looking for a playground of a resort, the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino offers a lot of bang for your buck.

This 37-room beach hotel along Simpson Bay is certainly no luxury resort -- rooms show wear and tear, the pool is untended, and extra features are few. But an amazing beachfront location, small spa, and lush grounds full of character make it almost impossible not to appreciate Mary's Boon. Some people may not appreciate, however, the thunderous sound of planes at the neighboring airport, but then again, the low rates are hard to beat.

For a medium-sized hotel, this 87-room beachfront property has a lot to offer: a beautiful beachfront with water sports and beach bars, a small pool, a lovely spa and salon, and a fitness center. Updated rooms are bright and colorful, and all have balconies and full kitchens. There is no on-site restaurant (though several are mere steps away) and the pool is tiny, but for a hotel with this many features, the rates are excellent.