With extremely low rates, plenty of activities, and a great location directly on the renowned boardwalk of Great Bay Beach (easily within walking distance of downtown Philipsburg’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife), St. Maarten’s Sea Palace Resort caters well to singles, couples, and families on a budget. The rooms are relatively basic and dated (but definitely high quality for the price) and many common beach resort amenities are missing here (such as a swimming pool, a restaurant, daily housekeeping, a spa, and a fitness center – this has a strong negative impact on the Overall Beach Resort Rating); but the property offers a strong beachfront with water sports and calm water for swimming, a pleasant staff, and a mostly quiet on-site atmosphere. Units range from studios to two bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight; they come with large flat-screen TVs, kitchens with islands and granite countertops plus stainless steel appliances, washer/dryers (in the one- and two-bedroom units), stone-tiled bathrooms, and upscale balconies with clear glass railings. The ocean-facing rooms have excellent views. Activities include parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, ATV tours, snorkeling tours, jeep tours, and more. Island Pedals Beer Cycle is right next door; the company offers a unique experience where patrons pedal a 14-person mobile bar around the area while drinking ice cold Heineken.