The hype
The views and infinity pool are world-class, but the service often moves at 'island time' speeds that frustrate American travelers.
Oceans At Divi Little Bay
$350-600/ night
Book this if You want the best views in Philipsburg and a 'VIP' feeling without leaving the safety net of a large resort.
Why People Love It
- Stunning 180-degree ocean views from the private peninsula
- Infinity pool that feels miles away from the main resort crowds
- Rooftop 'Mix' bar offers the best sunset cocktails on the island
Quick Take: It's a shiny new tower attached to an older family resort, so while your room is modern, you're still fighting for beach chairs with the main hotel crowd.
Reviewed by @travel_with_troylynn: I stayed in the Oceans wing and was blown away. The room felt brand new, and having my morning coffee on that balcony while watching the waves was the highlight of my trip. The double vanity in the bathroom made getting ready so easy. Highly recommend for a couple's getaway.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Despite the 'exclusive' branding, it is NOT adults-only anymore — expect kids in the 'VIP' areas.
- You prioritize ocean views over massive room square footage
- You want a modern, American-style hotel room in the Caribbean
- You love a rooftop bar scene with craft cocktails
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though recent reviews mention missed restocking of towels and toiletries.
- Bathroom hygiene: Modern and mold-free (unlike the older Divi wings), but the glass doors show fingerprints easily.
- Maintenance: The building is new (2022), so major systems work well, but watch for loose fixtures or the infamous sharp bed frames.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and newer than the main resort's inventory. No threadbare towels here.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze dominates; no musty 'old hotel' smell that plagues other Caribbean resorts.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Footsteps and music from the 'Mix' rooftop bar (affects 4th floor)
- Thin connecting doors between rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Oceans' wing is a 5-10 minute walk from the main resort lobby/beach
- You must sign a check for every meal even if you are All-Inclusive
- The main resort's beach can get crowded with cruise ship passengers on day passes
What to pack
- Shin guards (joking, but seriously watch out for the bed frame)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required in St. Maarten)
- US Dollars (widely accepted, no need to exchange for Guilders)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner Ocean King rooms for the widest panoramic views
- 3rd floor rooms to balance view height with distance from the rooftop bar noise
Rooms to avoid
- 4th floor rooms directly under the Mix bar kitchen/dance floor
- Ground floor rooms near the pool pump (humming noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room on the 3rd floor, away from the elevator. Please ensure it is NOT a connecting room to maximize soundproofing. We are celebrating and would love a corner unit if available.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is Oceans at Divi Little Bay adults only?
No. It opened with that intention, but policy changed. Children are now allowed in Oceans rooms and the pool.
Is the All-Inclusive plan worth it?
Only if you plan to drink heavily. The food at the main resort is average ('resort food'), and you're better off eating local in Philipsburg for half the price.
How far is the beach?
Oceans is on a rocky peninsula. You have a private pool, but the sandy Little Bay Beach is a 5-minute walk back towards the main resort.
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit 'resort fee' is added daily, but a service charge (approx 15%) is often added to room-only rates and food bills.
Do I need a car?
Not strictly necessary if you just want beach/pool, but highly recommended if you want to explore the French side or Grand Case dining.
What is the 'Mix' rooftop like?
Upscale, tapas-style plates, and expensive cocktails ($15+). It's the most 'Miami' vibe on the property.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'VIP Check-in' can actually be slower than the main desk if the concierge is busy—don't be afraid to use the main desk if the line is short.
- ✨
Walk to 'Fort Amsterdam' ruins at the end of the peninsula for the best free sunset spot on the island.
- ✨
Buy your water and snacks at the 'Fort Amsterdam Cafe' or a local supermarket; the room minibar is pricey.
5 things to know before you go
💡The glass bathroom doors are essentially see-through when the light is on inside.
💡The 'Oceans' pool is beautiful but can get windy; the main resort pool is more sheltered.
💡You can hear the cruise ship horns blast when they leave port in the evening (some love it, some hate it).
💡Room service is not 24/7 and can be notoriously slow.
💡The 'upgraded' toiletries are nice, but housekeeping often forgets to restock them daily.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Oceans At Divi Little Bay is located and what's nearby.