Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Mercure St. Martin and Marina

Renovated after Hurricane Irma, this modern option with an arty vibe by a quiet beach is centrally located in Baie Nettlé, just west of Marigot, the French capital. In France, the Mercure brand is known for value and straightforward accommodations, not luxury or elegance, but here the post-Irma renovated rooms all have every modern convenience necessary for a pleasant vacation, including an attractive spa, a very good restaurant, and a big pool (as well as a separate kids' pool). There are plenty of choices in terms of room size and location, but the upper-floor rooms and their views are preferable---just be sure that elevators serve the floor you desire. The website often offers promotions. The on-site water-sports concession is one of the island's best for water-skiing, hoverboarding, or wave running.