Villa Blue Beach

Some villas have a sea view; Villa Blue Beach has the sea itself. Set directly above the pristine sands of Baie Longue — one of Saint Martin's most exclusive beaches — this freshly refurbished four-bedroom retreat greets you with a coral-stone courtyard, the scent of salt air and the sound of waves.

Two elegant wings flank a generous pool set in a tumbled-travertine terrace, with carved staircases linking multi-level decks and a gazebo poised at the edge for sunset watching, Saba silhouetted on the horizon. Inside, rattan and teak furnishings and crisp white linens carry an Old World Caribbean charm, while the open kitchen and deep verandahs sit just steps from the shore.

Four sea-view bedrooms sleep eight, including a private cottage wing with its own patio and kitchenette. A low coral sea wall, framed by palms and bougainvillea, is all that separates you from the sand.

Beachfront living, exactly as it should be.