Based on recommendations from the CDC, the U.S. has lifted the COVID-19 requirement for citizens traveling back into the United States from St. Maarten. That means travel requirements are at pre-pandemic levels: you are not required to show a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination to come to the Island or to travel home to the US.
“This is cause to celebrate,” said Ricardo Perez, the resort manager, “I recommend starting poolside at the Infinity bar before heading over to the new Veranda Market & Bistro.”
Just in time for September to Remember
Every September, Oyster Bay Beach Resort hosts several weeks worth of food, drinks and entertainment– “and this year, we’re pulling out all the stops,” said Ingrid Bosnie, Program Director. More details will follow regarding this year’s theme, but it’s shaping into one of the best events the resort has hosted.
This year’s September to Remember festivities begin on September 3rd and continue through October 1st. Book now—new flights are being added daily but seats are filling up fast.
The Veranda Market and Bistro is now open—the shelves are full, the bar is stocked, and our friendly bartenders are mixing creations and libations to tempt and delight. We’re also remodeling and making upgrades throughout the resort.
Mainsail – All rooftop spas will be replaced with lap-swimming units for a low-impact workout on the roof! Additionally, we will be replacing any and all worn furniture throughout the building—scheduled for this June to coincide with our comprehensive maintenance upgrade.
Infinity Restaurant – A new canopy will be installed outside the restaurant to allow for oceanfront dining even in inclement weather!
Oceanfront Building – Extensive improvements are being made to the exterior to improve both safety and appearance!
Coral Beach Club – A state-of-the-art elevator is being added to access the penthouse unit!
Seating is Available (but act fast)
St. Maarten is Back! Tourism has tripled since last year thanks to confidence in travel, the return of Carnival, and a pent-up desire to get out and see the world. We highly recommend you book your trip today if you’re thinking of visiting this Summer or Fall. Flights are being added daily, giving you more options and opportunities to get away. Our renowned Island restaurants, clubs, and hot spots are open and anxiously awaiting your arrival. When making your arrangements, call the front desk concierge to pre-book any reservations (restaurants, snorkel trips, boating excursions, zip-line adventures, etc.). Feel free to contact our travel assistance hotline if you have any questions about travel requirements or logistics regarding your trip.
Think Ahead
Details are being finalized for the 2022 September to Remember weeks at Oyster Bay, and it’s not too early to book your travel. This year we intend to pull out all the stops, as folks are ready to get away, and we’re ready to help them enjoy their vacation. If you missed Carnival in April, don’t pass up a September to Remember at Oyster Bay Beach Resort.
Secret St. Maarten
We’ve created a page on our website to highlight some lesser-known attributes of St. Maarten. Click here to see what we’ve uncovered and please leave a comment if you think we should add any secrets to the list.
The much anticipated Veranda Market & Bistro is now open! Based on feedback from owners and guests, Oyster Bay Beach Resort now has delicious new options for dining-in or takeout, all available from the chic and spacious market, bistro or bar.
Located at the south end of the Resort (in the former Beau-Beau’s space), the new Veranda Market and Bistro is adjacent to Dawn Beach and offers:
Fresh-Baked Pastries and Baguettes (pre-order for a specified time)
Slow Roasted Rotisserie Chicken
Savory Barbecue
Hand-Made Pizzas–Hot from the Oven
Beer, Wine, Champagne, and Your Favorite Spirits
Wide Variety of Grocery Selections
European Gourmet Items
Pre-Arrival Grocery Service
Beach Service
The Veranda Bistro is an irresistible new dining option with an outdoor bar offering incredible views of the water and dramatic sunsets. With a stylish Oyster Bay twist, Lighter fare is served both inside and on the expansive ocean-front deck.
Be sure to visit the new market and bistro during your next stay; we’re confident you’ll love all the Veranda has to offer! Book your next stay at Oyster Bay Beach Resort or Coral Beach Club today.
For more information, please call the Activities desk at Oyster Bay Beach Resort at 721-543-6040.
For special discounted weekly rates, please contact our Reservations Department at 1-866-978-0212 or email your requested dates to reservations@obbr.com.
September is just around the corner, and we’ve got a special gumbo of events and activities planned to make this year truly memorable. This year, we’re bringing back one of our best-loved themes: Mardi Gras. If you’ve experienced our unique Caribbean version before, you’ll be back. If you’ve never experienced it at Oyster Bay–like the song says–you only live but once, so let the good times roll!
Join us for a week of festivities, fun, and prizes! You’ll enjoy free beach trips, prizes, entertainment, and of course, a Mardi Gras parade. Plus lots of costumes, cajun cuisine, and cocktails to keep those good times rolling.
Don’t forget your black and white formalwear for the big “Jazzy Friday” event at Infinity Restaurant.
Book your week today!
1st week – September 4-11, 2021
2nd week – September 11-18, 2021
3rd week – September 18-25, 2021
4th week – September 25 – October 2, 2021
Check out this incredible line-up of activities we have in store for you:
SATURDAY
Live Steel Pan Music 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM The Courtyard Live Steel Pan Music at The Courtyard – Complimentary Rum Punch & Fruit Punch during Check-in
Live Music 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM The Courtyard
Grill Night Buffet 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Infinity Restaurant
SUNDAY
Island Orientation 10:00 AM The Courtyard Island Orientation at The Courtyard with Ingrid Bosnie – Complimentary Mimosas & Orange Juice
Sunday Brunch 11:30 AM– 3:00 PM Infinity Restaurant Sunday Brunch at Infinity Restaurant – $29.95 per person + 15% service charge
Island Tour/Grocery Stop 11:30 AM Island Tourwith Vince – Commencing as of June 27, 2021 Please sign up at the Activities Desk
Market Afternoon 4:00 PM The Courtyard
MONDAY
Aqua Aerobics 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Pool
Hop On/Hop Off Bus Departs 9:30 AM
Complimentary Family Poolside Bingo 2:00 PM Poolside
Welcome Cocktail Party 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM Poolside Welcome Cocktail Party with King Beau Beau & Band Featuring: A Taste of New Orleans – Chef Special hors d’oeuvres
Caribbean Buffet 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM Infinity Restaurant Caribbean Buffet with a taste of New Orleans – $24.95 per person + 15% service charge
TUESDAY
Aqua Aerobics 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Pool
Hop On/Hop Off Bus Departs 9:30 AM
Wine & Cheese Tasting 6:00 PM The Courtyard Wine & Cheese Tasting in the Courtyard hosted by Amsterdam Cheese Store
Italian Night 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Infinity Restaurant Italian Night at Infinity Restaurant – Entertainment by Irina Kaufman-Brookes
Irina on the Piano 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM Infinity Restaurant
WEDNESDAY
Aqua Aerobics 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Pool
Hop On/Hop Off Bus Departs 9:30 AM
Mardi Gras at Oyster Bay! 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Marina It’s Mardi Gras at Oyster Bay! Street fair with arts & crafts vendors, food stalls & drinks, music and Mardi Gras parade!
THURSDAY
Red Cap Beach Bash 9:30 AM Buccaneer Beach Bar Red Cap Beach Bash at Buccaneer Beach Bar! – Welcome Cocktail, Lunch, Open Bar, Live Music, Games & Amazing Prizes. Don’t forget your Towel and Sunblock! Wear Red! – $90.00 per person Check with the Activities Desk for further information & pricing
FRIDAY
Hop On/Hop Off Bus Departs 9:30 AM
Jazzy Friday Red Carpet Affair & Dinner 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Infinity Restaurant Jazzy Friday Red Carpet Affair & Dinner – International Seafood Buffet with Jazz Music Dress Code: Black & White Elegant Attire
It’s Official! Construction has commenced on the Veranda Market and Bistro. That’s our ocean-front, indoor/outdoor bistro, well stocked grocery store and expansive oceanfront deck and outdoor bar. The Veranda will provide a wide selection, including wine and spirits or a casual lunch or dinner just steps from the beach. The new Veranda will also have a pizza oven and a chicken rotisserie. Enjoy!
Completion is scheduled for mid-September.
For special discounted weekly rates, please contact our Reservations Department at 1-866-978-0212 or email your requested dates to reservations@obbr.com.
Oyster Bay Beach Resort is proud to announce the development of the new Veranda Market and Bistro — featuring an expansive ocean front deck with bistro, bar and grocery market.
The Veranda Market and Bistro will expand upon the old Beau Beau’s Bar and Grill and offer both dine-in and take-out as well as packaged goods.
Construction began in June with a projected completion date of August 2021. The roughly 3,500 sq. ft. space will be completely new including a larger deck, indoor/outdoor seating and a brand-new kitchen.
The Veranda Market will be the largest grocery store in the Oyster Pond community with an extensive selection, including kitchen staples, premium coffee, wine and spirits, gourmet treats, as well as specialty meats and fish. Since all Oyster Bay Beach Resort units have kitchens or kitchenettes, the new market is anticipated to be a big benefit for guests. The onsite grocery will eliminate the need for a trip to Philipsburg — currently, the closest market.
“We expect the grocery market to be very popular with our guests, as well as the locals seeking an up-scale, affordable shopping experience,” notes OBBR Managing Director Mike Dolente.
The Veranda is to feature expansive glass doors and windows with ocean views from inside the market, as well as panoramic vistas from the Bistro’s deck and bar.
The Bistro’s full kitchen will offer lighter fare including fresh salads, made-to-order sandwiches, pizza from our own pizza oven, selections from the grill, rotisserie chicken and fresh food from the market. A newly constructed outdoor bar will serve all of your favorite frozen cocktails, best-selling beers, wines and liquors as well as full food service. The Bistro will be open daily allowing guests the option of eat-in or take-out.
“The Veranda Market and Bistro will give OBBR guests and local residents more choices when it comes to delicious, affordable meals and top-quality grocery shopping,” added Dolente.
Stay tuned for future updates regarding the Veranda Market and Bistro.
With our renovations completed, Oyster Bay is more photogenic than ever. Check out these recent guest shots and then plan your trip to St. Maarten to take a few of your own!
St. Maarten is an Island full of secrets, treasures and hidden gems. Here are 10 places you may want to visit on your next trip.
Oyster Bay Yacht Club Before it became known as the friendliest resort on the “The Friendly Island,” Oyster Bay Beach Resort was known as Oyster Bay Yacht Club. It was frequently visited by some of the most famous people in the world, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Diana Ross, who were both treated with special care and attention. Since then, the resort has been renovated and remodeled several times, but the original structure still serves as the central courtyard and gathering spot for visitors and local Island VIPs.
Natural Pools of Back Bay If you want to experience natural pools, look no further than Back Bay on St. Maarten’s lower east coast. Pools of water, fed by the ocean but protected from large ocean waves, are formed by the rocks along the undeveloped coastline near Guana Bay and Pointe Blanche. It’s a bit of a hike, but the refreshing swim in the natural pools is well worth the effort. You may even encounter some friendly goats or see wild horses along the way.
Best Sunset There are many great places to see sunsets on St. Maarten, but as far as we’re concerned, the best sunsets can be seen on the Island’s west coast, specifically Mullet Bay Beach. The beach is located near the airport in the Lowlands area of the Island and has ample parking and a new beach bar with bathrooms and showers. Go for the sunsets or plan to spend the day and rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Enjoy
Best Gourmet Experience If you’re ready to take your dining experience to another level (literally), you must try La Villa Hibiscus on Pic Paradis. This is truly a hidden gem and a unique St. Maarten experience where the setting and the views are magnificent and unlike any other on the Island. The open kitchen allows you to see Chef Bastian in action, and he prepares your gourmet experience. Be prepared to tell them your food allergies and any foods you don’t care for, and let Chef Bastian and Sabine take care of the rest.
Happy Bay Beach – as primitive as can be. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and find a serene and peaceful place, you can’t do better than Happy Bay Beach. Located between Friar’s Bay and Grand Case Beach on the Island’s northwest side, Happy Bay can best be accessed on foot. The hike from Friar’s Bay (about a 15-minute walk) is easy, with beautiful views of the ocean to your left and grassy hills to your right. You’ll find no facilities or restaurants on Happy Bay Beach, but the short walk back to the Friar’s Bay Beach Cafe is easy and worth the trip.
Baie Rouge (Red Bay) Located just east of the Lowlands (the estates of the rich and famous) on St. Maarten is a beach with white/pink sand, made chiefly from coral. In fact, the entire beach and surrounding cliffs are colored red and give the area its distinct look and its name. The beach stretches for two miles but has only one parking area and entrance by way of Rue de Terres Basses. This is a special oasis you don’t want to miss.
The Wall of Art The Wall of Art is a project created by local and international artists to demonstrate the resilience and passion of the people of St. Maarten following hurricane Irma. Each section of the wall is its own unique piece and creates an outdoor museum that is nothing short of inspiring. Located on Rue de la Nettle in Marigot, the Wall of Art is close to plenty of places to eat, drink and absorb the beauty of St. Maarten.
Trou David (Devil’s Hole) Trou David, also known as Devil’s Hole, is a geological marvel carved of rock-hewn by the sea, creating something resembling a natural pool. It’s an ancient crumbling rock opening where natural erosion has built two arches that gobble up the waves crashing through it. After a short walk between Red Bay and Pointe du Bluff, you’ll find it more precisely by taking the path located at the Terres Basses and Red Bay crossing. You see it when turning left along the cliffside at the end of the path towards Petites Cayes Bay.
Geneve Bay Just up the coast from Back Bay is Geneve Bay, famous for its beautiful hikes, rocky hills, and natural pools. Well protected from the rolling waves of the Atlantic, Geneve Bay Beach is also known as one of St Maarten hiking best spots, but be sure to wear good sneakers, walking shoes, or hiking boots. Once you’re down on the beach, go for a swim, look for goats on the hills and sea urchins in the natural tide pools.
Make Your Own Perfume The sense of smell has amazing associative power, so what better souvenir from St. Maarten than a custom perfume to remind you of your trip. Tijon Perfumerie in Grand-Case on St. Maarten’s north side makes fine perfumes, colognes, and skin-care products and offers perfume-making classes for visitors. Staff guide visitors through the process of making perfumes and end each class with a champagne toast. Cheers.
Salt Pickers Monument While it’s no secret, few people are aware of the history behind the Salt Pickers Monument at the roundabout in Philipsburg (near the Great Salt Pond). The monument is easy to find and pays homage to the hard-working people (some paid and some slaves) who worked the salt industry on the island from 1624 through the 1960s. St. Maarten was once known as Soualugia, meaning “the land of salt.” Salt was used to preserve meat and fish, and St. Maarten had three large salt ponds, which produced up to 400 boatloads of salt per year. The Salt Pickers monument honors the heritage of St. Maarten and its industrious people.
Oyster Bay Beach Resort is offering onsite PCR Testing!
Please be aware that the COVID-19 testing requirements change occasionally. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Click Here to see the current testing requirements.
We have set up an on-site COVID-19 testing location at Oyster Bay Beach Resort with same-day results. The COVID testing program is exclusive to guests and owners at OBBR and CBC. We will provide more testing accessibility for Fridays and Saturdays as the weekends are the most popular departure dates. We can also provide testing by appointment any day of the week for your convenience. Our testing program has been adjusted to make it easier for all US guests to meet the new travel requirements. Guests should coordinate appointments with the Front Desk to schedule an on-site test within one day of departure.
We see no problem helping you meet this new requirement and look forward to greeting you at Oyster Bay Beach Resort. We’re here to ensure your stay is both safe and fun! If you have any questions about your travel to St. Maarten, feel free to call us at 1(866) 978-0212.
Due to damage caused by Hurricane Irma this past September, Oyster Bay Beach Resort and our sister property Coral Beach Club will not be accepting reservations until the spring of 2018.
Click here for more details about our planned remodeling schedule or plan to stop by our Infinity Restaurant and Lounge on Fridays noon-9:45 PM and Saturday-Sunday 7:30 AM-9:45 PM.
We thank the owners who are overwhelmingly, continuing to support Oyster Bay Beach Resort and we’re confident that your patience will be rewarded with an exceptional restoration of the great vacation destination we all know and love.
