CARIBBEAN FUN TIMES TWO

No need to pick sides. There's plenty to enjoy in both Saint-Martin and St. Maarten.

- KRISTIN BAIRD RATTINI

DOUBLE THE COUNTRIES, DOUBLE THE FUN in the sun in French Saint-Martin and Dutch St. Maarten. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, delectable dining and unique museums found on the twin sides of this tropical island getaway in the Leeward group of the Lesser Antilles.

ORIENT BAY BEACH

Often called the St. Tropez of the Caribbean, this white-sand beach along the northeast coast of Saint-Martin is as well known for its turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery as for the clothing-optional section at its southern end. There's a lively beach-bar scene, with venues serving French food and barbecue, and offering chairs and umbrellas for rental. Boaters seeking a less-sedated day at the beach can find adventure outfitters for parasailing, personal-watercraft rentals, tubing, snorkeling and other watersports.