Half of an island shared with French St. Martin, this Dutch territory packs considerable variety into just 13 square miles. The famous Maho Beach puts you directly under the flight path of Princess Juliana Airport — 747s descend so low you can almost touch them. Beyond the plane-spotting spectacle, you'll find excellent snorkeling at Little Bay's coral reefs and duty-free shopping in Philipsburg's pastel-colored downtown.
The cuisine blends Dutch, Caribbean, and international influences, from local conch fritters to Indonesian rijsttafel. Casinos operate around the clock, and the nightlife runs late into the morning. Day trips to the French side reveal a different character entirely — quieter beaches, French bakeries, and clothing-optional Orient Bay.