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 This is my fave resort! Visited: December 2007 |
| Posted by bobharvey |
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No, it is not the Ritz. However, the views and ambiance of this resort are hard to beat.
Away from the hassles of Philipsburg, Dawn Beach is stunningly beautiful, peaceful and ideally located. It is close to the French side (amazing restaurants and beaches), and 20 minutes to the shopping mecca of Philipsburg.
The rooms are spacious, clean and bright. This is a timeshare resort, not a hotel! We actually used the full kitchen, but really used the gracious balcony overlooking the ocean! |
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| 15 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| This was a beautiful place with beautiful people! Visited: October 2007 |
| Posted by mamared51 |
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My husband and I first visited St. Maarten on a cruise, and had a great time. We own a timeshare in Orlando, Florida, and traded it to vacation here in October 2006.
The first year we stayed at Oyster Bay, we bought a vacation week. Last year when we stayed at OBBR, we upgraded.
Oyster Bay is a great place to relax, and the staff has been awesome! We have enjoyed getting to know Marion, Marlon, Russ, and our bartender, David. They are very friendly and helpful.
The food is good, the resort is clean and well-maintained, and the pool area is beautiful. We had so much fun with Captain Alan and Coleen on our boating excursions, and can hardly wait to go again. Next month, I am going for a week with some girlfriends, then my family will be joining me for another week.
The complainers must have never been to the Caribbean, or they would know there's poverty on all the islands to a degree. I also think there are probably "nasty" areas in every state in the US.
As far as the quality of merchandise, at lot of what is sold there comes from the US! You can get great bargains depending on what you want to buy or do. It costs as much or more to vacation in the Florida Keys or Orlando (check out Disney prices!)
We love Saint Maarten and its residents, and would stay longer if we could! |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 1 found this review unhelpful. |
 We would rate St. Maarten/St. Martin a zero! Visited: September 2007 |
| Posted by ecochallenge |
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I agree with "Noemail1" that St Martin/St Maarten was an overall digusting trip!
The island had great weather when we landed and throughout the stay. However, when we landed, we were inundated with the locals wanting our money now. They were very demanding. We were surrounded by this behavior until we left.
Our first tourist mistake was forgetting insect repellent. I recommend 14 spray bottles for one week - two per day. We had to spray all the rooms before bed and after. Do not leave doors open for the breeze.
The second tourist mistake was not trying locally owned small restaurants that served better food and were cheaper.
The third tourist mistake was buying cheap products - very cheap. Do not buy any electronic products, jewelry, cothes - nothing! They are of very poor quality.
Oyster Bay Beach was very beautiful. But outside of the resort, it was absolutely nasty. There was trash piled on the side of the roads, and more trash on the side of buildings, and restaurants. Also, the beaches had broken glass and all kinds of trash on them. It was a very nasty island - outside of Oyster Bay.
Renting a car for a week was expensive, and we didn't even use it. We drove around the whole island within an hour, and it was such a nasty trip that we decided to stay within Oyster Bay.
In addition, the locals will not let you use the bathrooms outside of the hotel unless you pay a dollar or more!
We will not do this trip again, and have not recommended this island! The brochures are beautiful, but the reality is that the island is trashy and nasty. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 19 found this review unhelpful. |
| I love it here - I've been back six times! Visited: June 2007 |
| Posted by azj |
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The title says it all! It is truly the most beautiful pool area on the island overlooking the water. Go for a walk on the beach at nighttime, and watch the waves crash against the rocks under the moonlight.
Also, the three island tour by Captain Alan is something our family has returned to do year after year. Oyster is great -- and the Big Fish cafe is new and just as wonderful! Thanks again SXM! |
| 20 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
 I haven't been there yet . A friend told me about it. Visited: May 2005 |
| Posted by anianapl |
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Do you have timeshares available? |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 17 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay is a great place to relax and get away. Visited: December 2004 |
| Posted by markk49 |
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We spent a terrific week at Oyster Bay in a one-bedroom unit. We wanted somewhere that would be unhassled, low-key and provide easy access to beach and dining. The resort was just the right place for us.
I'd suggest upgrading to a one-bedroom unit because the studios shared a lock-off door with the living rooms of the one bedrooms and noise does come through into the studio. The upgrade charge was $100 (quite reasonable).
I'd also suggest spending the extra $5-7 to get air conditioning, just to have the option of cooling down the unit in really hot weather.
To eat, I'd suggest going to Grand Case for gourmet dining (we had a lovely meal at La Marine). Bring cash and you can get a 1-1 exchange for euros; for a less expensive meal, we enjoyed the outdoor bistros at Marina Royale in Marigot (we ate at Brasserie de la Gare).
The beach at Oyster Bay was lovely, but small. We went to Orient Beach twice (a 15-minute drive), rented chairs and an umbrella and had lunch at Andy and Cheryl's Baywatch Beach Shack (recommend the fish filet sandwich-it was great).
I wouldn't bother going to Phillipsburg, especially at night when everything is closed after the cruise ships leave. We'd go back to Oyster Bay in a flash. |
| 19 users found this review helpful. 2 found this review unhelpful. |
| Our stay at Oyster Bay was sheer perfection! Visited: June 2004 |
| Posted by karenanded_littleton |
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We stayed here on an exchange. We were so delighted with the place that we purchased into the apartment scheme.
They had beautiful apartments, white sand, warm sea, and a perfect location. We could open our patio door on the balcony in the morning to the gentle sound of the sea.
The people were helpful and friendly, and there was a lively bar and an excellent restaurant, "Jade", managed by a classy gentleman, Mario. The whole family had a fantastic time just lazing and sunning on the beach or around the pool which was a piece of water art in itself.
The environment was secluded which mae it a perfect get-away, yet only 20 minutes or so away from Philipsburg. Car hire, jewelers, and a shop or two were all on the premises, so there was something for everyone.
This place was sheer perfection for us, but I don't want to publicize it too much as I want to save a quiet corner of paradise all for myself! |
| 10 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay is wonderful, no problems at all! Visited: June 2004 |
| Posted by esmiet |
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I just returned from a seven-night stay at Oyster Bay on 6/19/04. The resort was beautiful in every respect.
I own a studio timeshare and upgraded at Oyster Bay to a one-bedroom apartment. The resort charged an upgrade fee of $100 for the entire week. It was worth the charge as the apartment was very nice, modern, clean and had a very nice full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, ice maker refrigerator and full oven and dishes.
We cooked several meals because the kitchen was so nice. The resort was immaculate and very nice. Yes, it was kind of away from things, but that was a plus. A car was not absolutely necessary as the resort had day trips and activities into town and various tours in which they provided transportation to and from the resort and most included a meal.
We did rent a car, but driving was not pleasant as the island was very hilly and mountain roads were twisted and narrow. But it was worth having the car to get to see the entire island.
The resort had an infinity free form pool with jacuzzi and it was beautiful. The views were excellent, and the resort was right on Dawn Beach where guests had free lounge chairs and free punch courtesy of the resort.
There was the marina in Oyster Pond where they had several boats for snorkeling trips and fishing. Philipsburg was just ten minutes away from Oyster Bay and Orient Beach was just 10 to 15 minutes drive. Maho area was on the other side of the island, about a 30-minute drive. In fact, the entire island could be reached from one end to the other in just 30 minutes.
Oyster Bay was wonderful and whoever complains is just a person who is never satisfied with anything because there were no complaints to be had at this resort. The staff was fine, and Marion was extremely helpful to me with my upgrade in which she took care of with me by e-mail prior to my visit.
I would say that if anyone is rude at Oyster Bay it would be because the guests were rude first. As a plus, we won a free week's stay in Oyster Bay's Friday Bonus Week Raffle, so we will be returning. I recommend Oyster Bay, it is wonderful. Don't listen to any negative reports, they are not merited. |
| 13 users found this review helpful. 2 found this review unhelpful. |
| This was a perfect getaway. Visited: March 2004 |
| Posted by malinoski |
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We were just here in March 2004 for the third year in a row.
It was a perfect location where we could enjoy a fabulous pool or a white sand beach guarded by a reef that kept waves to a minimum and provided fun snorkeling.
You need a car to get to the great French restaurants on the other side of the island, but the rentals were very affordable and driving around the island was a treat in itself. There were lots of options for activities also.
Tip: Don't worry about the A/C charges... you only need to open your windows and enjoy the breeze and the sound of the ocean for a great escape! |
| 5 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
 It was terrific, and we can't wait to return. Visited: March 2004 |
| Posted by pmrdicke |
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This was a beautiful location, a wonderful complex, with courteous staff and great food. It was centrally located to all parts of the
island.
We enjoyed our stay. It was an especially romantic retreat. |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
 I would not recommend staying here. Visited: November 2003 |
| Posted by firey98 |
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Oyster Bay was in a remote location. To be able to go anywhere other than on the resort we had to hire a car. There was no bus service. Taxis were expensive and had to be ordered at least 30 minutes before we required it.
There was only one room-clean and sheet-change per week, unless you pay for it. Reception staff was poor, and Marion, who was in charge of room allocation was blunt to the point of rudeness. The general attitude of the resort seemed to be to add as many charges that they could. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 9 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay is friendly, beautiful with great accommodations. Visited: November 2003 |
| Posted by thomsource |
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The only complaints I had were that because it was only three stories, there were no elevators, and the road entering the resort was in need of work.
When we arrived, we were giving a third floor location. After explaining to the front desk about my hip problem, they sent over a young man to help us with our luggage and we were relocated to a unit on the first floor. It was not an ocean view, but it was still great.
I want to thank the staff for their kindness (from the front deskand activities group to the restaurant).
We will return, hopefully, next year. I can see why people keep returning. Hats off to Mr. Bigsbys. Also, the other guests were some of the nicest people we have ever met. |
| 9 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| What a great resort! Visited: October 2003 |
| Posted by novaphilly |
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This was a remarkable resort - everything from the resort itself to the staff.
My wife and I celebrated our honeymoon here. We had purchased a timeshare prior to getting married. We were a little unsure of what we had gotten into as we drove across the island. Then, after making a turn, we came across a true paradise in Oyster Bay Beach Resort.
The resort alone had a lot to do with our good impression. What a great stay. We can't wait to go back and we were very surprised to read so many bad reviews.
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| 5 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Nothing could be better. Visited: October 2003 |
| Posted by gbeitmen |
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Mae, Clinton, Sharon, and all the people who worked at the resort did everything to make sure we relaxed and had tons of choices. We never had so much fun doing nothing.
Allen's three island snorkel was a must. My wife and I will be going back and enjoying the courtesy of the staff and many more guavaberry coolatas. I can never thank them enough for all they did for us. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| It is absolutely beautiful. Visited: October 2003 |
| Posted by jrf12 |
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This is an ideal location, away from the crowded area of Phillipsburg.
The view is spectacular. The sunrises are amazing, Dawn Beach is beautiful, the staff is very accommodating, and the activities are great.
Take part in the pub crawl and the three-island snorkel trip. We will be returning next year. |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Not pleased at all. Visited: June 2003 |
| Posted by 2shanks |
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Let me break down the extra charges for you. This was on top of the room charge that we were paying:
1. Over $10.00 in air conditioning surcharges per day.
2. $8.00 for bottled water that is in your room. (You pay this even if you do not drink the water.)
3. 10.00 for each lounge chair on the beach if you want one.
In addition, the staff at the front desk was rude. The maid service was only partial maid service. If you want full service, you pay extra for that as well. All they do is come in and give you clean towels and make your bed.
If you want to get around the island, you must rent a car. Taxi service is expensive and there is not a lot to do at this resort. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 8 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay provides secluded, upgraded and luxurious accomodations. Visited: April 2003 |
| Posted by jimc |
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I am a time-share owner and I stopped by in April to see the construction
progress. Probably finished as of this
Oct review. New recreation units make it more interesting. Rooms a definite
plus although studios a little small.
However all views still fantastic! |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay provides beautiful views! Visited: April 2003 |
| Posted by knosky |
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We stayed in a two-bedroom timeshare room for five nights. The room was beautiful and the view was fantastic. We looked right onto Dawn Beach.
For two nights, we stayed in a regular hotel room here that was a bit small, but we had a wonderful view of St. Barts. The pool was great and they had several activities throughout the day.
We did not eat at the restaurant, but we ate at Mr. Busby's on the beach for lunch and dinner. Their food was great. They also had 75 cent caribes until 4:00 pm every day.
There were several places to eat just across the marina on the French side. Captain Oliver's was very good, and they had a big buffet on Saturday nights. We also enjoyed Le Planteur, just up the street from Captain Oliver's. |
| 3 users found this review helpful. 1 found this review unhelpful. |
| Oyster Bay is a nice property on quieter side of the island. Visited: January 2003 |
| Posted by DGB43 |
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Oyster Bay Beach Resort is a nice place adjacent to Dawn Beach, one of the nicer beaches on the island.
Snorkeling is pretty good not far off of the beach. The location is on the side of the island away from most of the congestion and noise from the arriving and departing of planes overhead. Just across the on-site marina is the French side of the island.
The restaurant is pretty good. There is also a very good restaurant off of the beach named Mr. Bigsbys, as well as a barbecue at the beach during the day.
I stayed in one of the newly-refurbished rooms, which was very clean. The swimming pool has a nice view of St. Barts. I would recommend this resort, especially for someone looking to relax and spend a lot of time at the beach. |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Overall Island Experience is Disgusting Visited: September 2002 |
| Posted by noemail1 |
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When the flight landed on St Maarten it was very Humid and hot. Great weather. We had to get a Taxi to get to Oyster Bay Beach Resort. Lots of Taxi drivers vieing for tourists, differents rates being shouted out to tourists. We finally arrived at Oyster Bay and received our 2 bed, 2 bath overlooking the beach. First Tourist Mistake was forgetting insect repellent, I recommend 14 spray bottles for 1 week. 2 per day. 2nd Tourist mistake is not trying locally owned small restaurants that was Better food and Cheaper. 3rd Tourist Mistake is buying CHEAP products VERY CHEAP. DO NOT buy any Electronic Products, Jewelry, Clothes. NOTHING!! Very poor quality. Oyster Bay's beach is VERY Beautiful. But outside of the resort, is absolutely NASTY. TRASH, piled on the side of the roads, More TRASH on the side of buildings, restaurants, beaches have broken glass and all kinds of trash. TRASH UPON TRASH. Very Nasty Island outside of Oyster Bay. Renting a car for a week was expensive and we didn't even use it. Drove around the whole island within an Hour and it was such a NASTY trip that we decided to stay within Oyster Bay.
Will not do this trip again and Have NOT recommended this island to anyone. I have talked to others that their Cruises have stopped off in St Maarten before and their visit was just as NASTY as mine was. Brochures are beautiful but the reality of the Dutch and French Side of St Maarten is TRASHY and NASTY!!!!! |
| 3 users found this review helpful. 13 found this review unhelpful. |
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