Condos & Apartment Rentals

The main difference is scale and privacy. A villa is typically a standalone property with a private pool, full garden, and no shared walls — you have the entire property to yourself. A condo is a unit within a larger complex, which usually means shared amenities (pool, gym, parking) and a more compact living space. Condos tend to be more affordable and better located for beach or marina access. They're a strong choice for couples or small groups who want a home base without the price tag of a full villa.

On the French side, Orient Bay is the top choice — most condo complexes sit steps from the beach with direct access to restaurants and water sports. Anse Marcel offers a quieter, marina-side alternative with a protected bay. On the Dutch side, Simpson Bay and Maho have the highest concentration of condo buildings, close to the airport, casinos, and nightlife. Oyster Pond, straddling both sides, is a favourite for sailors and those who want a marina atmosphere with easy access to both halves of the island.

For peak season — mid-December through April — book 3 to 5 months ahead, especially for beachfront units at Orient Bay or Anse Marcel. These fill up fast and don't come back on the market once reserved. In the shoulder season (May–June, October–November), 4 to 6 weeks is usually enough. Low season (July–September) offers the most flexibility, though the best units still go early. If you have a specific complex or floor preference, always book earlier rather than later.

Most condo rentals include air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and access to shared amenities such as a pool and sometimes a gym or tennis court. Linens and towels are generally provided, and basic housekeeping is included at least once during the stay. What's typically not included: daily cleaning, grocery stocking, and parking (which may be an extra fee). Always check whether beach chairs or equipment storage are available — some complexes on Orient Bay include this as a perk.

Yes, particularly for families with older children. The kitchen and living space make daily life practical, and shared pools in condo complexes are usually well-maintained and supervised. For families with toddlers, check whether the complex has a shallow pool area and whether the balcony has adequate railings. Orient Bay condos work well for families — the beach is calm enough for children in most conditions, and there are restaurants and activities within easy walking distance.

It depends on the complex. Many condos on Orient Bay are literally beachfront — you walk out of the complex and you're on the sand. Others are a short walk away, typically 2 to 5 minutes on foot. In Sint Maarten, condos around Maho or Simpson Bay are closer to the lagoon and marina than a swimming beach. Always check the map before booking and read recent reviews about actual beach proximity — marketing descriptions can be generous with the word 'beachfront'.

A studio or 1-bedroom condo starts around $900 to $1,800 per week in the shoulder season. A 2-bedroom unit in a well-located complex runs $1,800 to $3,500 per week in high season. Beachfront units at Orient Bay or luxury complexes with marina views can reach $4,000 to $6,000 per week in peak December–April. Condos on the Dutch side generally offer better value for comparable square footage. Factor in cleaning fees (typically $100–$250) and a security deposit, which most owners require.

Most condos require a minimum of 3 to 7 nights depending on the owner and the season. Weekly stays (Saturday to Saturday) are standard in high season. During low season, some owners will accept 2- or 3-night minimums to fill gaps. Short stays under 3 nights are rare for private rentals but more available through hotel-style condo complexes that operate like resorts. Check the listing carefully — minimum stays are non-negotiable for most private owners.

Condo complexes on the island are generally secure environments — gated entrances, on-site security in larger complexes, and a community of neighbours around you. The French side's Orient Bay and Anse Marcel complexes are consistently considered safe for tourists. On the Dutch side, stick to established complexes in Oyster Pond, Beacon Hill, or Pelican Key rather than isolated units in less-travelled areas. Standard precautions apply: use the in-unit safe, lock up when you leave, and avoid leaving valuables in a parked car.

It depends on your condo's location. If you're at a beachfront complex in Orient Bay with restaurants within walking distance, you can reasonably get by without a car for a few days. But the island has no public transportation worth relying on, and taxis are expensive for daily use. For anything beyond your immediate neighbourhood — other beaches, Grand Case for dinner, the Dutch side for a day — a rental car is the practical choice. Most visitors staying a week or more find a car essential by day two.