The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, St. Maarten

The secluded Westin Dawn Beach feels exclusive from the outset, though that distance from the real world is both a blessing and a curse. First impressions are nice, but you'll likely have to dodge pitches for the resort's time-share property, Dawn Beach Club, which plenty of previous guests have found annoying (at best). That irritating fact aside, the style is mostly modern and fresh, particularly in the public spaces. Music plays throughout the lobby, where a casino opens in the afternoon and a lobby bar serves drinks and snacks throughout the day. At the back of the resort, a massive pool terrace stays busy from morning to night, with guests sipping coffee and witnessing spectacular sunrises as the day starts. At night, restaurants Ocean and Aura are lively, though Aura is adult-only and offers a more romantic fine-dining experience. Ocean has a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe. All rooms are situated away from the pool and restaurant areas of the hotel, ensuring that things stay mostly quiet. 

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort is situated on the eastern edge of St. Maarten. The beachfront setting is a definite bonus, but there's little to see or do within the immediate area without a car -- keep in mind that cab fares can add up quickly. Philipsburg, the main town on the island, is a 15-minute drive away, while the restaurants and bars of lively Orient Bay Beach -- on the French side -- are a 20-minute drive away. For adventure seekers, the trails and zip lines of Loterie Farm are a 35-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel is a 35-minute drive from Princess Juliana International Airport, and a 20-minute drive from smaller L’Esperance Airport. 

The spacious rooms at the Westin Dawn Beach are simple and modern, though they lack some of the beach-chic style found elsewhere in the hotel. Rooms feature mahogany furniture, patterned carpeted floors, and an abundance of neutral tones. Abstract wall art and other pieces featuring island-inspired scenes are fairly generic, and stripes and other pops of coastal colors brighten things up just a touch. Standard features include minibars, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and free basic Wi-Fi. Smaller rooms feature sitting areas, while larger rooms have full living rooms and and even dining areas. Some rooms feature full kitchens with plenty of counter and storage space. Multi-bedroom units are available for those traveling with families or groups. All rooms have simply furnished balconies, though some feature spacious wraparound terraces. Many rooms have sea views. Bathrooms are massive and well-appointed, featuring rainfall showers and separate bathtubs. There are plenty of towels, plus slippers, toiletries, make-up mirrors, hairdryers, and a good amount of counter space.

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa has plenty of features to keep its guests busy, which is helpful as it's quite far from anything else to see or do. The hotel is centered around a lovely multi-level pool, a separate hot tub, and swim-up bar. The pool is surrounded by plenty of lounge chairs. Dawn Beach is just beyond the pool, and while it isn't large, there are a number of loungers (keeping chair fights at bay) as well as cabanas that can be rented. A volleyball net and corn hole set-up are available for guests to use. Seaweed can, at times, be an issue.Ocean is the main restaurant, which serves a daily breakfast buffet as well as a la carte options, plus casual grill fare for lunch and dinner. There are indoor and outdoor dining areas overlooking the pool terrace with stunning sunrise views (pro tip: head out here with a coffee in the morning to catch the event). Ocean Blu, the lobby bar, features a similar menu to Ocean, but includes snack and tapas options as well as cocktails. Aura is the resort's fine-dining option, serving steak and seafood with spectacular ocean views. It's a romantic, adult-only venue that's only open for dinner. Guests should note there is a dress code for Aura. A spacious, tranquil spa offers massages, facials, and manicures, and serves fruit, tea, and infused water while guests wait for treatments. Adjacent to the spa is a moderately sized fitness center with modern cardio equipment and a few free weights. The fitness center is open 24 hours, which is a nice extra for fitness-minded travelers. There's a kids' club as well as kid-focused activities, but check ahead regarding availability. Concierge services, car rentals, and room service are also on offer. A casino with slot machines is located by the lobby, and a handful of shops sell beach wear, souvenirs, and snacks. Free covered parking is available. Basic Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and faster speeds are available for a fee.