Luxury Island Getaway: Recharge & Rest

It’s not a surprise how Dawn Beach got its name. Facing the eastern side of St. Maarten, makes it the perfect location for the most spectacular sunrises. It’s the best way to wake up. Here, lives the majestic JW Marriot Resort & Spa. This oceanfront resort is located amongst beautiful calm and pristine waters, white sandy beaches, and a lush of greenery—it’s a very short flight from Miami, but it feels like a different world. Wake up with picture perfect sunrises, feel secluded yet still with all the amenities at your fingertips— this is the magic the JW Marriott brings; it’s the best of both worlds. 

Relaxation is a priority, and the JW Marriott has all the tools to make it happen. After enjoying from a delicious breakfast, spend the day lounging by the pool (maybe take an aquatics class), or dive right into the warm Caribbean waters and feel the sand on your toes. Make it a spa day or explore the island—the concierge at the front desk is always ready to help. There is so much to do, so leave your problems at home and get ready to disconnect. 

Recreation & Fitness

The infinity swimming pool at the JW Marriott does not disappoint. This is the perfect place to relax, and you can even see the ocean from it. There is a plethora of lounge chairs with umbrellas, so guests don’t have to feel obligated to wake up early to reserve one. Simply head down when you’re ready. There are also beach cabanas that accommodate at least two people—it’s very romantic and comfortable. The staff by the pool is always friendly and ready to take your order—weather it’s drinks or a snack, they will bring it to you. Finally, a resort pool could not be complete without a swim up bar. The pool is divided into two sections, and in the lower section guests can swim and get their beverages without leaving the pool. Talk about a dreamy vacation! 

There is also a fitness facility where guests will find the latest exercise equipment. The gym area is located pass the main lobby, and it’s very accessible. It’s very clean and not crowded. Next to the gym there is a children’s center where parents can drop off their kids (for example to enjoy a couple’s massage). Here a staff member will play with your kids and keep them safe while you enjoy some alone time. In the same part of the resort, you will also find a large conference room, a store to buy souvenirs and other necessities, as well as a café to grab a quick bite. 

Finally, there is also a Cooking School where guests can sign up to take a variety of classes during their stay. These are fun and educational hands-on cooking classes, taught by passionate staff. You can learn to prepare local dishes or new tasty cocktails. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon.

Suites & Guest Rooms

The accommodations at the JW are everything you would expect from a new resort. Sharp design, clean atmosphere, all with the Caribbean hospitality. Upon check-in guests will get a bracelet keycard, which unlocks the guest rooms. Before heading to your room, take a moment to admire the lobby (maybe grab a drink at the bar), it’s stunning; with tall ceilings, comfortable seating, and warm plant décor, this is where the luxury stay begins. 

The guest rooms at the JW are very modern, stylish, spacious and with all the expected amenities—smart TV, mini fridge, etc. Adorned with a variety of beige tones that reflect the classic JW brand, when guests walk in, they recognize it and feel comfortable. All the rooms have a balcony where guests can enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views. The balconies come equipped with comfortable seating and a table—just what you need to enjoy it. Whether you have an ocean view or resort view, there is always something interesting to be looking at—stargazing is my favorite activity. 

Looking for a little extra? The deluxe rooms come with a little private plunge pool open 24/7 just when you need it most. There is also a suite that has an exceptional balcony that wraps around the entirety of it, this space has two rooms—perfect for a family wanting to create multiple spaces. Finally, the contemporary design is emphasized in the bathrooms—make sure to carve time to indulge and relax in the freestanding bathtub which adds elegance to the entire experience.

Dining 

There are two main restaurants guests can dine at. Carambola offers a buffet and a la carte menus for breakfast. With indoor and outdoor seating, this is the perfect way to begin your journey in St. Maarten. After a smooth check-in, get a tropical handmade cocktail and familiar bites like the boom-boom shrimp tacos, the sxm burger with a side of fries, or the traditional conch fritters for lunch. 

The breakfast at Carambola is delightful. The buffet offers a wide selection of pastries, warm food like sausage, bacon, eggs, and beverages like detox smoothies, juice/coffee to start your day right. If you are looking for smaller portions, the a la carte menu offers traditional breakfast plates.

If you decide to eat at one of the day beds or cabana by the pool instead, you can order the same food there! But you will notice the restaurant name is Breeze, but don’t worry, this poolside restaurant serves the same menu as Carambola.

For those looking for a romantic or a special dinner to celebrate, Liguria is the perfect spot. This restaurant offers fine mediterranean dining. With indoor and outdoor seating, the staff here is exceptionally attentive. The menu features fresh vegetables, seafood, a delicious short rib with a side of risotto, mouthwatering wagyu, and favorites like tuna tartare. Here presentation matters. Every dish is beautifully presented. And for dessert, you can’t go wrong with the pannacotta or the three layer chocolate mousse cake.

Spa 

A vacation cannot be complete without a proper spa treatment. The JW offers a full-service spa located onsite with a selection of massages, body treatments, and skin care services. Upon check-in, guests will be taken to the changing rooms before proceeding to the relaxation room where your therapist will meet you. In this space you will find dim lighting, cucumber water, and reclining chairs to accomplish maximum relaxation. It’s incredibly peaceful.

Traveling Comfortably

Before you head out on your picture-perfect vacation, there are a couple items you will want to consider bringing with you. There are a variety of activities one can do in St. Maarten, from horseback riding to a hiking tour of Guana-Bay, or maybe an ATV tour or a day in St. Barts, how about a zipline down the Flying Dutchman. Regardless of what type of thrill you are seeking it’s important to do it comfortably. Cotopaxi has not let me down on my vacations. They have a wide selection of bags, and I’ve found the Allpa 35L is the ideal size to bring on board and even on a day trip. The ergonomic design and comfortable straps make this bag a travel essential. Their apparel is also Caribbean friendly, the Brinco shorts are ideal for hiking and swimming. Duer is another must-have when on vacation, their no-sweat shorts and pants are engineered to deliver ultimate comfort and street-ready style. Their collection embodies elegance. Even just their PurePima t-shirt is totally acceptable wardrobe selection for dinner, and it pairs up really nicely with the Journey shorts, making it easy to transition from day to night activities.  If you’re looking for comfort and style, Duer is the way to go. 

Ready to getaway to a secluded paradise? For more information about the St. Maarten JW Marriott visit: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sxmdb-jw-marriott-st-maarten-beach-resort-and-spa/overview.

By Claudia Paredes. Images courtesy of JW Marriot Resort & Spa.