We've visited Orient four times and Dawn twice (last time a month ago). A few things...first, we are pretty hardcore snorkelers and while the snorkeling at Dawn can be OK, it is often quite windy on that side of the island and the swim out to the reef is at least 100 feet, more in places and probably too much for a 7 year old unless he is a very very good swimmer. If it is very windy and choppy the water gets churned up and there is very little to see, plus it can be downright dangerous when waves break on the coral. St. Martin/St. Maarten is not known for its snorkeling in any case. Both Orient and Dawn are beautiful, but different. Orient is much longer, there are many more activities (water trampolines, jet skiis, parasailing, etc.) and many cool little restaurants and shops along the beach. At Dawn, there are three places to eat (Mr. and Ms. Busby's - don't know why they are not connected but they aren't - and Scavengers), all have good cold $1 Caribs and good food, although Ms. Busby's is just a small rib place and Mr. Busby's is more like an outdoor restaurant with covered tables and a bar); both beaches have chair and umbrella rentals, price negotiable (we paid $5 each at Ms. Busby's last month that included a rum drink or beer!). Yes, there is some nudity at Orient but I think it is blown way out of proportion (no pun intended!); it is a tiny percentage of the people there. Some of the sights are not pretty, no doubt. But my guess is that if you don't make a big deal out of it, your 7 year old will not even notice, or care much after one or two sightings. It ain't the good ol' US of A, folks! Go with the flow. There were a few women going topless at Dawn. To tell you the truth, the ones who look more ridiculous and silly are the people strolling down the end of Orient where the naturist resort is located, dressed in t-shirts, bathing suits, hats and sneakers with socks, trying to furtively oogle the people sunning themselves. Bottom line: both beaches are fun and beautiful. Have fun!
