We are a couple with 4 children, ages 2 (boy), 14 (girl), 17 (boy), and 19 (boy). We enjoy a moderate to high degree of luxury and comfort, typically staying in the finest hotels offered in an area. Having said that we are also quite adventurous and we do enjoy experiences that are off the beaten path, absorbing the local scenery and culture while meeting new people. We enjoy markets, theme parks, and attractions that are specifically geared towards children. We hate tourist traps and areas that are swarming with tourists, preferring less crowded destinations.
Special tips and warnings about this trip: The island is very easy to get around on, with a single main road that is used. There is some traffic in certain areas, and there are some areas of the island where you need to be careful especially at night. You have to rent a car if you want to go places or be prepared to pay a lot of money for taxi fees. Some of the beaches on the island are clothing optional and nudity is acceptable, so make sure that you are comfortable with this or avoid these nude beaches. There are many beaches to choose from so avoiding the clothing optional beaches is not a problem with a little research.
Address: Baie Longue St. Martin, French West Indies
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Description: Long Beach, also called Baie Longue, is one of the top beaches on the island. It has a secluded feel and it is in great condition when compared to the other beach areas on St. Maarten. The beach area is flat and there are no drop offs, which can be an issue on other beaches on the island. There are a number of restaurants and shops close by. Often celebrities can be sighted in the area because of the luxury resort here.
Our Experience: We stayed on Baie Longue St, and the beach in the area is very beautiful. This is on the French side of the Island but it is also very close to the Dutch side, and also close to the airport. The hotel that we stayed at was very accommodating with our littlest one, and we had a lovely villa on the beach and felt like we were in paradise. This beach was one of the nicest, if not the nicest, beach we’ve been to (and we have been to many nice beaches).
Admission: Depends on the vendor used
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Description: Parasailing is an adventurous sport that usually involves being towed behind a boat while up in the air on a kite. This activity is usually performed over water, but at times the motor vehicle used to tow the kite may be a car or other land vehicle. Parasailing is considered an extreme sport and it can be a thrilling and exciting experience for many people.
Our Experiences: We took the older children parasailing at a local beach and they greatly enjoyed this stop. This activity would not be appropriate for small children and infants though. Just like everything else on the island the prices may seem a little expensive but it was well worth the cost.
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Description: The village of Maho is frequently called a destination within a destination, and there is something to do and enjoy for everyone and all ages. Restaurants that cover a wide range of international cuisines, over 40 boutiques and shops, cafes, lounges, casinos, and other amenities make Maho a very popular destination for most visitors to the island of St. Maarten.
Our Experience: We spent time exploring the village of Maho, and everyone in the family found things that they enjoyed. The kids really liked the stop at the local Haagen Daz, and the adults enjoyed spending time at the casinos while the kids explored the village further. This is a nice small town that is fun to explore.
Admission: Varies, depending on the company and equipment options chosen
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Description: St. Maarten is a Caribbean island surrounded by clear blue waters, with a tropical climate and an abundance of beaches, flora, and fauna. Tubing and boating opportunities are available on most of the beaches that surround the island, and visitors here enjoy these aquatic activities immensely.
Our Experience: We took the kids tubing and boating, and everyone had a blast. With a little planning this can be a great activity for even the youngest kids. This can be a good way for kids to burn off energy and the scenery in the area was incredible.
*This review is the subjective opinion of someone who submitted this itinerary and not the owner of Real Family Trips.