One of St. Maarten’s better values for families seeking a more laid-back vacation, the hillside Princess Heights Luxury Boutique Condo Hotel offers well-equipped, well-sized condo-style accommodations and a tranquil atmosphere at a reasonable price point. It’s a short walk from renowned Dawn Beach. The beach is on the small side and has suffered erosion (plus, you need to cross the street to get there), there’s no on-site restaurant (these two factors have a strong negative effect on the Overall Beach Resort Rating, downgrading it from the upper B range to the fringe of the C range), the fitness center is small and unimpressive, on-site activities are very limited, and there’s no on-site spa; but the property offers a (somewhat basic) rooftop pool with great views, friendly overall service (just beware of timeshare sales pitches), guest laundry facilities, and a good selection of water sports within walking distance at Oyster Bay Beach Resort (Baa1). Units come with full, modern kitchens with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, refrigerators stocked with complimentary beer and soft drinks, flat-screen TVs, ceiling fans, living and dining areas, and a noticeable abundance of space; many have outstanding ocean views. Studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites are available. Water sports over at Oyster Bay include scuba diving excursions and exciting four- and six-hour snorkeling tours that depart from Oyster Bay Marina, and day trips to the nearby islands of Anguilla, Saba, and St. Barts (don’t forget your passport!). Mountain biking, horseback riding, ATV tours, deep sea fishing, and parasailing can also be arranged.