Hello SXM experts! I am in need of some advice. We are frequent travelers to Aruba (since 1977) and love it. Looking for an alternative this year. St. Maarten looks like a good fit for us. Traveling in early June with my wife and 2 kids -11 and 15 years old. Looking at Royal Palm Beach Resort on Simpson Bay (which comes with access to their sister resort, Flamingo Bch Resort) and Oyster Bay Beach Resort on Dawn Beach I'd appreciate hearing from anyone who has good knowledge on both properties, beaches, etc. We've chosen those 2 as they offer larger accommodations (2 bedroom, 2 bath.) Open to hearing the good, bad and ugly along with any other suggestions you might have! Thanks in advance! Ken

I've stayed at both Royal Palm and Oyster Bay. Actually own at Osyter Bay. Both are great and favorite places to stay. Dawn Beach at Oyster Bay is nicer than Royal Palm's beach which is hard with not too much sand. Of course, there is Simpson bay Beach which is only a couple blocks away from Royal Palm and is very sandy and walkable.
More eating places in walking distance from Royal Palm, plus you have a drawbridge as extra entertainment next to RP. OBBR is a nicer facility, rooms are perhaps a little larger. Feel free to send me any questions.