FIND THE PERFECT SPOT IN ST. MAARTEN

When relocating to Sint Maarten, there are certain aspects to consider, including the perfect area where you and your family will reside. Selecting the right neighborhood to purchase or rent is a complex task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with it.

Choosing the right community area will impact everything, including your daily commute and the schools your kids attend. Consequently, it’s imperative to consider your wants and tastes and conduct an extensive study before any decision-making.

There are several things to consider, from convenience and safety to the availability of necessary utilities such as distance to jobs and schools, transportation, traffic roads, and facilities. Examining your lifestyle requirements in the property such as having a pool, ocean view, hills view, private garage, curbside parking, gated community, and a pet-friendly environment can be quite difficult. Do you prefer a quiet suburban area or the energy and bustle of a city town? Do you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking or indoor activities like museums such as St. Maarten Museum or theaters, movie buffs, and design lovers such as the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit (Hologram Tour) and Star Wars? Answering these questions will help you narrow your search to the neighborhoods that match your lifestyle needs.

By considering these elements, you can make a well-informed choice that suits your needs and interests and enables you to establish a fulfilling life in your new residence. To select the ideal neighborhood for you, BrightPath can count on a specialized team of real estate partners who can assist you in finding that perfect Caribbean abode that meets your standards.

Depending on your taste and location, there is a community ideal for you, here are a few of St. Maarten’s best:

Indigo Bay

Formerly known as Cay Bay, Indigo Bay is ideally situated between Philipsburg and Simpson Bay, nestled in the valley of Cole Bay Hill. The eco-conscious developer of this project took great care to construct high-quality homes, as evidenced by their resilience during the 2017 hurricane. In addition to offering luxury homesites with breathtaking ocean views, Indigo Bay boasts a beautiful beach and a beach restaurant, complete with cabanas and lounge chairs for relaxation.

Nestled within a tropical paradise, where the lush wilderness gives way to sandy shores and the calm waters of the turquoise sea, you’ll discover an enchanting oasis, bringing a new level of luxury and privacy to St. Maarten.

Oyster Pond

On the island’s eastern coast is the location of a second lagoon: Oyster Pond. Though much smaller than Simpson Bay Lagoon, Oyster Pond is at the center of one of the island’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Surrounded by hills and luxury homes, the area of Oyster Pond sits right on the border with the French side on the Eastern side of the island. Long known for its exclusivity and privacy it has seen its share of celebrities purchasing homes here, eager to get their hands on prime real estate.

Most homes in the guarded Oyster Pond Estate, accessible by steep roads into the green and lush hills, offer an unobstructed view of neighboring St. Barth and the Oyster Bay Lagoon below.

It’s a quiet community where one needs permission from the homeowner to access. It offers many great restaurants both on the Dutch part and the French side of the border. From here, it’s an easy and beautiful 10-minute drive along the shore to the popular French villages of Orient and Grand Case.

On this coast, the breeze coming from the Atlantic is fresh, the air a bit cooler and life quainter. From the shoreline, there is an unobstructed view to the neighboring island of St. Barths, which is only 15 miles away. Dawn Beach is a perfect Caribbean beach with white sand and a protective coral reef.

The location has advantages for residents and visitors not so keen on all the hustle and bustle the Simpson Bay and Maho area have to offer; from Oyster Pond, the trip to famous Orient Beach with its clothing-optional beach is only 10 minutes by car – and without much traffic. Philipsburg with its shopping is also just a 10-minute trip, and the restaurants of Grand Case will require a travel time of 15 minutes.

 

Dawn Beach

Adjacent to Oyster Pond is another popular gated community, Dawn Beach Estate, which sits right above the beach of the same name and the yet-to-reopen Dawn Beach Resort.

Many of the more affluent local families call this estate home and there is a true sense of community here as soon as one passes through security at the guardhouse at the main entrance.

Dawn Beach in Sint Maarten is a beautiful destination located on the eastern coast of the island. Known for its stunning sunrises, this beach offers a serene setting perfect for early morning walks and relaxation. The clear, turquoise waters and powdery white sand make it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Dawn Beach is also a popular location for snorkeling, thanks to the vibrant coral reefs just offshore, which are teeming with marine life. The area features several luxury resorts and beachfront accommodations, providing visitors with comfortable and convenient lodging options.

In addition to its natural beauty, Dawn Beach is home to a variety of restaurants and beach bars, where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks with a view of the ocean. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active day of water sports and exploration, Dawn Beach offers something for everyone.

 

Almond Grove

Another popular gated community on the island is Almond Grove Estate.

Located in the hills surrounding the Cole Bay area, this gated community with 24 hour security and a security boom at the main entrance, offers beautiful views of Simpson Bay and the airport.

It is a popular place to live for both local and French families on the island. It offers proximity and easy access to Marigot, the international airport, and the entertainment areas of Simpson Bay and Maho, which are known for their many bars and restaurants.

The large villas face west, offering an unobstructed view of stunning St. Maarten sunsets. The bonus of beautiful turquoise ocean views stretching from every angle and direction in front of you makes this lush tropical estate in St. Maarten a true haven.

 

Cupecoy

If luxury condominium is more your style, than Porto Cupecoy might be just what you are looking for.

20 acres of different size condominiums, high-security FOB system, state of the art gym, lagoon style swimming pool, tennis courts, a marina, and a plaza filled with some of the island’s more renowned restaurants, this is Porto Cupecoy.

When it comes to Porto Cupecoy, location is another main attraction. It is located on the border with French St. Martin, close to the 5-star resort of La Samanna, steps away from the Cupecoy beach and less than a mile from one of the island’s most well known private schools as well as the Maho area and the airport.

Beaches

• Cupecoy Beach: This is a series of small, secluded beaches set against dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s known for its golden sunsets and is popular among nudists, although it’s not officially designated as a nude beach.
• Mullet Bay Beach: Nearby and very popular, Mullet Bay offers a larger stretch of sand, clear waters, and great conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

Accommodations

• Luxury Accommodations: Cupecoy is home to several high-end properties that offer luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views.

Choose from one to 2 or 5 bedroom condos and penthouses, some with beautiful ocean views or lagoon views, while others look out onto the entertainment plaza and the swimming pool below. Also, on the property, there is an ATM and a supermarket.

Dining and Nightlife

• Fine Dining: The area features a variety of restaurants, many offering gourmet cuisine with influences from around the world.
• Casual Eats: Beach bars and cafes provide a more laid-back dining experience, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
• Nightlife: Cupecoy boasts a lively nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that stay open late, offering music, dancing, and entertainment.

Attractions

• Golfing: The nearby Mullet Bay Golf Course is the island’s only 18-hole course, offering a beautiful setting for a round of golf.
• Shopping: The area has several boutique shops where visitors can find unique souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.
• Water Sports: Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

Cupecoy offers a blend of natural beauty, luxury, and vibrant culture, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

 

 

Guana Bay 

With homes nestled in the hills and valley surrounding Guana Bay beach, all with beautiful balconies and patios overlooking the ocean below, Guana Bay earns the right to be mentioned in our list of best neighborhoods on Dutch St. Maarten.

Guana Bay, to the southeast of the island on the Dutch side and facing St. Barts, is a wild, windswept beach with crashing waves. The main advantage of Guana Bay is that it’s the starting point for the path to Geneve Bay’s natural pools.

It’s a quiet neighborhood where one can hear the surf crashing onto the shore below. The beach, rough and with a heavy undertow, may not be ideal for swimming but is still a beauty to behold. It makes for perfect barefoot strolls or beach picnics.

Sip on your coffee in the morning while you watch the sun come up on the horizon, its rays illuminating the beach below or take a hike on one of the few hiking trails that start or end in Guana Bay, the trail to the popular natural pool being one of them.

 

Simpson Bay

Simpson Bay, also known as the island’s entertainment area is one of the most coveted areas to live in.

A modest fishing village at one time, Simpson bay has grown into the island’s epi-center of tourism, with bars, restaurants and some of the larger hotels within walking distance. Although there is still some fishing going on, the neighborhood is fast changing. Families that have lived their for generations are being bought out by developers and the modest homes along the beach are demolished to make space for multi level condominiums.

Beware that living here, means lots of traffic, possible noise from nearby bars, and from planes taking off from the adjacent Juliana International Airport. Parking can also be an issue if you don’t have assigned parking, especially in the weekends and more so on Sundays when the crowd head for the popular beach bars on the Simpson Bay beach stretch.

Simpson Bay offers sandy white beaches, bustling lagoon views filled with impressive yachts, and vibrant hot spots that embody the energy of St. Maarten. This historic fisherman town has evolved over the ages into a must-visit hotspot. In the past, Simpson Bay was dotted with just a few settlements made up mostly of the island’s fishermen, who would be visited by residents seeking to buy fish. While this activity continues at the Simpson Bay Fish Market, Simpson Bay has transformed into a vibrant hotspot filled with dining, entertainment, world-class marinas, thrilling water activities, and top-notch accommodations.

 

Pelican Key

Adjacent to Simpson Bay, just on the other side of the drawbridge is the exclusive Pelican area.

The entrance into this neighborhood is filled with restaurants, beach bars, and hotels. Homes here can cost quite a heap but once you go up the hill, where the houses seem to get larger, one will see the reason why a home here is worth every penny. The view is simply amazing.

Pelican can feel overcrowded at times with homes built so close to one another but the higher up into the hills, the better the view and the less crammed one will feel.

Pelican is one of the island’s most desired residential and resort areas. A picturesque and lush hillside neighborhood of villas and condos, escalating out of the sea, Pelican offers some of the most spectacular ocean views and sunsets on the island. On clear days, you can even make outhouses and buildings in the distance on St. Maarten’s neighboring islands of Saba and St. Barths. Surrounding the Pelican Resort and Marina complex, you can find entertainment and convenience: from the Hollywood Casino to the ever-popular  Bars with live music , to the Peli Deli mini-market, boutiques, spa, dive center, AquaMania water sports center, motorboat and sail charters, and fine Italian dining at the Hollywood Restaurant.

 

Mary’s Fancy

Mary’s Fancy is a charming and picturesque area located on the island of Sint Maarten. Known for its serene environment and scenic beauty, it is a sought-after residential neighborhood offering a tranquil lifestyle amidst lush greenery and rolling hills.

Key Features of Mary’s Fancy:

• Residential Appeal: The area is primarily residential, featuring a mix of elegant homes and villas. It’s a preferred location for those seeking a peaceful living environment away from the bustling tourist spots.
• Scenic Views: Nestled in a hilly region, many properties in Mary’s Fancy offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including panoramic vistas of the island and glimpses of the distant ocean.
• Accessibility: Despite its tranquil setting, Mary’s Fancy is conveniently located near key amenities. It’s just a short drive away from the island’s main commercial centers, shopping districts, and dining options.
• Nature and Outdoor Activities: The area is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those who enjoy outdoor activities. The lush, green surroundings provide ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring local flora and fauna.
• Community Vibe: Residents of Mary’s Fancy often appreciate the sense of community in the area. It’s a neighborhood where people know each other, contributing to a safe and friendly atmosphere.

Mary’s Fancy is one of those neighborhoods often overlooked when house hunting.

It’s a quiet residential area in the hills overlooking Philipsburg. The road into this neighborhood is not in the best of shape, but again the view can’t be topped.

This neighborhood feels homier than the rest of the areas covered so far in this article and there are a lot more families living here. That is no wonder seeing that Mary’s Fancy is adjacent to the school district.

Overall, Mary’s Fancy is an ideal locale for those looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sint Maarten while still having easy access to the conveniences of modern living.

 

Belair

No, we are not talking about the world’s most popular zip code, but rather a small neighborhood in the hills of St. Maarten.

By now you know how hilly St. Maarten is and most homes here are built in the hills. This means a lot of steep inclines to drive up but the views are the best part of living here.

Belair lies right outside of the island’s downtown area of Philipsburg and looks down onto Little Bay beach, Great Bay, and the Divi resort. It is another popular neighborhood for families because of its close proximity to the hospital and schools, both public and private.

Key Features of Belair:

• Residential Charm: Belair is predominantly a residential area, featuring a mix of well-designed homes, condominiums, and villas. The neighborhood is favored by both locals and expatriates seeking a peaceful and comfortable living environment.
• Scenic Views: The area boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, with many properties offering breathtaking ocean vistas and beautiful sunsets.
• Beach Proximity: Belair is conveniently located near several beautiful beaches, including the popular Belair Beach. Residents can enjoy easy access to sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and various water activities.
• Accessibility: The neighborhood is well-connected to other parts of the island. It’s just a short drive away from the capital city, Philipsburg, where residents can find shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Healthcare Facilities: Belair is home to the Sint Maarten Medical Center, providing residents with easy access to quality healthcare services.
• Community Atmosphere: The neighborhood has a friendly and welcoming community vibe. It’s an ideal place for families, retirees, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed island lifestyle.

Belair in Sint Maarten is an excellent choice for those seeking a serene residential area with convenient access to the island’s amenities and natural beauty.

To sum up, when relocating to St. Maarten and hunting for your ideal home, it’s essential to count with someone in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market to guide, educate their clients, and empower them to make well-informed choices. Our real estate agents strives to go above and beyond to help buyers find a place to call home within their budget range. We advise you to take your time as this will be your new home and visit each neighborhood to get a true sense of what they offer. Don’t limit yourself to just one area; explore various communities, even those not initially at the top of your list. Each neighborhood has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Keeping an open mind is crucial, as you might discover your dream home in a place you hadn’t considered before.

 

FAQ’s

1. What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a neighborhood in Sint Maarten?

When choosing a neighborhood in Sint Maarten, consider factors such as convenience, safety, proximity to jobs and schools, transportation options, traffic conditions, and available facilities. Additionally, assess your lifestyle needs, such as whether you prefer a quiet suburban area or a bustling city environment, and your interest in outdoor or indoor activities.

2. How can I determine which neighborhood in Sint Maarten best suits my lifestyle?

To determine which neighborhood best suits your lifestyle, visit each area to get a feel for its environment. Think about your daily needs and preferences, such as proximity to beaches, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as specific property features like ocean views, gated communities, or pet-friendly spaces. Consulting with a local real estate expert, like those at BrightPath, can also provide valuable insights and help you find a neighborhood that matches your criteria.

3. What are some popular neighborhoods in Sint Maarten known for their unique features?

Popular neighborhoods in Sint Maarten include:

• Indigo Bay: Known for its eco-conscious development, luxury homes, and beautiful ocean views.
• Oyster Pond: Offers exclusivity, privacy, and stunning views of St. Barth and the Oyster Bay Lagoon.
• Dawn Beach: Renowned for its serene setting, snorkeling opportunities, and beachfront accommodations.
• Almond Grove: A gated community with 24-hour security and beautiful views of Simpson Bay and the airport.
• Cupecoy: Features luxury condominiums, high security, and a variety of amenities including a marina and restaurants.
• Guana Bay: Offers homes with beautiful ocean views and access to hiking trails and natural pools.
• Simpson Bay: The island’s entertainment hub, known for its vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Pelican Key: A hillside neighborhood with spectacular ocean views and convenient access to entertainment.
• Mary’s Fancy: A peaceful residential area with lush greenery and scenic views.
• Belair: A family-friendly neighborhood with proximity to beaches, the hospital, and schools.

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation!

You Can Afford to Retire by the Beach in the Caribbean

Relocating to a tranquil seaside location has been a common aspiration for many Americans and Canadians lately. The past three years of turbulence because of the pandemic and uncertainty in the global political climate may have increased the desire to escape this hectic and chaotic lifestyle and establish a new life in the perfect location.

For numerous individuals, residing by the beach in Sint Maarten embodies the ideal lifestyle they’ve sought, but are you aware it’s within reach financially?

Many people in the United States know that buying a beachfront home is costly. Areas that used to be affordable, like parts of Florida, are now too expensive. As real estate prices keep rising, options for retirees have nearly disappeared. This makes it hard for many retirees to afford their dream: a warm and relaxing retirement by the ocean.

This is why the Caribbean has become so popular for Americans and Canadians, it offers all they’re looking for. When we discuss about the Caribbean and retirement plans, the best place is without a doubt, the island of Sint Maarten. On Sint Maarten, you can find beautiful beachfront properties effortlessly, a lower cost of living compared to the US and Canada, and an appealing lifestyle. All of this makes the friendly island of St. Maarten a cost-effective destination for those who dream of living by the beach.

Retiring in Sint Maarten offers many advantages for U.S. citizens, starting with being able to purchase property at a lower cost than what it would cost in the U.S., the option for permanent residency with no renewals required, a big U.S. expat community, beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, laid-back lifestyle and quality of life. For many Americans, retirement in the Caribbean is possible, and a smooth process when you do it with BrightPath.

Permanent Residency in Sint Maarten

Why you should consider it

Sint Maarten, a small island located in the eastern Caribbean, has garnered a reputation among many Americans considering relocation abroad as one of the premier destinations in the region. But what exactly makes this island so appealing?

First and foremost, the breathtaking views that Sint Maarten offers are nothing short of spectacular. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green hills, the island provides a picturesque backdrop that captivates both residents and visitors alike. The sunsets here are particularly renowned, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

In addition to its natural beauty, the warmth and friendliness of the local people contribute significantly to the island’s charm. The residents of Sint Maarten, known for their hospitality, come from diverse cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of traditions and customs. This multicultural environment fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

Culinary enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise on Sint Maarten, as the island boasts an impressive array of top-notch restaurants. From fine dining establishments offering gourmet cuisine to casual beachside eateries serving fresh seafood, there is something to satisfy every palate. The island’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of Caribbean flavors, European influences, and international dishes, making dining out an exciting adventure.

The weather in Sint Maarten is another significant draw for those seeking a more temperate climate. With warm temperatures and abundant sunshine year-round, the island enjoys a tropical climate that allows for outdoor activities and beach days throughout the year. This pleasant weather not only enhances the quality of life but also encourages a more active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

For those looking to establish a business or invest, Sint Maarten presents a wealth of opportunities. The island’s strategic location, coupled with its growing tourism industry, makes it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. The government has implemented various incentives to encourage foreign investment, creating a favorable environment for business development. Whether in hospitality, retail, or real estate, the potential for growth and success is significant.

Lastly, the relaxed style of living in Sint Maarten is a major factor that draws many expatriates. The island’s laid-back atmosphere encourages a slower pace of life, allowing individuals to prioritize leisure, family, and personal well-being. This lifestyle shift can be refreshing for those coming from fast-paced urban environments, offering a chance to enjoy life more fully and appreciate the simple pleasures – living the retiree life in St Maarten can be both restful and lively all at the same time!

While it’s not the lowest-cost option for retiring on the beach, St. Maarten offers many advantages. The overall cost of living is about 28% lower than in the United States or Canada, and rent can be as much as 40% lower depending on the state with which you measure up.

Residents speak English, and merchants accept both local currency (NAF) and the U.S. dollar. The Penshonado Residency Program, an easy way to establish residency, requires an income of at least $20,000 annually along with a background check and accepted medical insurance.

Let us answer the most frequently asked questions many Americans ask on our consultations, and get to know the benefits of moving to Sint Maarten with the assistance of BrightPath Caribbean today!

Americans and Canadians Moving to SXM – Top Questions Answered

🔹Do I need to purchase Real Estate to become a permanent resident of Sint Maarten?

The short and sweet answer for Americans looking to obtain residency in Sint Maarten is, no. Purchasing real estate is not a requirement, although many Americans do so mostly as an investment opportunity. Sint Maarten does not have property taxes and property value is continuously increasing. On the other hand, purchasing property is a requirement for Canadian nationals, which in many cases is already something retirees are looking for and have already considered as part of the process.

🔹What is the legal currency in Sint Maarten?

The US Dollar is one of the two legal currencies in Sint Maarten. This is a great advantage for those moving to Sint Maarten from the USA. Not having to worry about exchange fees, always trying to do the exchange rate math in your head, and being able to keep and understand your finances just like at home, is a relief and a great advantage.

🔹What language do they speak in Sint Maarten?

English and Dutch are the two official languages of the Country. You can navigate your days just fine without worrying about getting lost in translation. Although people recognize English and Dutch as the official languages, many also speak Spanish and French widely. In Sint Maarten, you can have fun either learning new languages or putting into practice your Spanish or French from your school days.

🔹How long does it take to obtain permanent residency? 

Processing your residency request with the assistance of BrightPath Caribbean can take you from 90 to 180 days, in some cases the team has been able to obtain residencies in as little as 60 days.

With BrightPath by your side, the process of your residency request can start today from the comfort of your home in the USA or Canada, and our team will handle everything, from assisting you with your documents to filing and following up on your file in Sint Maarten, all while obtaining contact updates from the team.

Canadian nationals must renew their residency permit until they qualify for permanent residency after five years, while US nationals will obtain permanent residency after their first request with the DAFT.

🔹How do I start the process of obtaining residency in Sint Maarten?

The initial step in beginning the process involves enlisting the services of BrightPath Caribbean. Once you decide to proceed, the team will draft your agreements and authorizations, process your payment, and provide status updates to initiate your document ordering, all within a single day.

As a BrightPath client, the team will take action, resolve any issues, and oversee your entire application, allowing you to concentrate on what truly matters: preparing to embrace and enjoy your new life in the Caribbean.

🔹Do I get tax incentives for retiring in Sint Maarten?

Yes. Especial tax regimes are in place for for retirees, asset protection options for your real estate investment (Private Fund Foundation), and in some cases tax exemptions for employees. Knowing how to qualify for a special tax regime or creating the best tax structure for your business or real estate investment should be done by the expert team at CaribTax. If you have more questions about taxes contact them at info@carib-tax.com.

 

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

 

Picture credits to: Astra Seafood Restaurant