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Territory of Netherlands

Caribbean

Sint MaartenTravel guide

Explore Sint Maarten visa rulesCommon scams in Sint Maarten

Saint Martin is a Caribbean island shared by French Saint-Martin in the north and Dutch Sint Maarten in the south. It has sandy beaches, rocky coves, lively shopping areas and a wide choice of restaurants.

Why go

  1. Explore both the French and Dutch sides of the island.

  2. Visit sandy beaches and quiet rocky coves.

  3. Shop along Front Street in Philipsburg or at the waterfront market in Marigot.

  4. Try French and seafood dishes in Grand Case.

  5. Enjoy views from Fort Louis and Pic du Paradis.

Best time to go: High season runs from December through April. Places to stay cost considerably less during the rest of the year.

Getting there

By air

  • Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is on the Dutch side. It is the island's larger airport and can be especially busy on weekends.
  • Grand Case-Espérance Airport (SFG) is near Grand Case on the French side. It mainly handles flights between islands.
  • The source lists an international departure tax of US$30, unless it is included in your airfare or you qualify for an exemption. It lists US$10 for departures to islands such as Saba and St. Eustatius.

By sea

  • Most cruise ships arrive in Philipsburg on the Dutch side. The docks are about a 1.6-km walk from the east end of Front Street.
  • Taxis and water taxis connect the cruise docks with Philipsburg. Water taxis offer single-trip wristbands or wristbands for unlimited travel that day.

Customs

  • Shopping is duty free on both sides, but purchases may still attract customs duty when you return home.
  • Check bottle sizes when calculating how much wine or liquor you are taking home. Declare the total number of litres you bought.

Getting around

  • Crossing between the two sides

    The border is open and marked by signs and monuments. There is no routine passport control, but you must still meet the entry requirements for each side you visit.

  • Rental car

    Major rental companies have cars in a dedicated area outside Princess Juliana International Airport. Roads are narrow and sometimes in poor condition. Traffic is often heavy between Philipsburg and Marigot. Scooters and motorcycles may pass on either side, especially on the French side. Keep a steady course in your lane and let them pass. Leave no valuables in a parked car. Rental-car break-ins are frequently reported. Parking is limited in Philipsburg, and tow zones are poorly marked.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and cars with guides are available near the cruise docks. Call a taxi if you have been drinking.

  • Water taxi

    Boats run between the cruise ship area and two stops near Front Street in Philipsburg. Both town stops give access to shopping and a large beach. Choose a single-trip wristband or an unlimited day wristband. More boats operate when several cruise ships are docked.

What to see and do

  • Simpson Bay Lagoon

    The Caribbean's largest inland lagoon crosses the French-Dutch border. It contains two small islands and varied underwater life.

  • Fort Louis

    This 18th-century French fort overlooks Marigot.

  • Orient Beach

    This French-side beach has a clothing-optional section at its far southern end. Large bright yellow umbrellas mark that section.

  • Marigot waterfront market

    Browse souvenirs and spices at an open-air market. Wednesday and Saturday mornings are especially lively.

  • Front Street, Philipsburg

    The Dutch side's main shopping street has jewellery, cosmetics, electronics, liquor and souvenirs. A boardwalk runs alongside it.

  • Visit Pic du Paradis

    The island's highest point is 427 m high and has two viewing areas. Visit with a tour because the road is steep and the area is isolated.

Food and drink

  • Grand Case

    Known for high-end French cooking and seafood. It also has lively restaurants on weekends.

  • L'Auberge Gourmande

    A restaurant highlighted for exceptional French dining.

  • Dutch-side restaurants

    Offer a wide range of cuisines that contribute to the island's food reputation.

  • Loterie Farm

    Has a restaurant and a lounge serving tapas. The source recommends its curry chicken.

  • Restaurant water

    Ask clearly for tap water if that is what you want. A request for 'water' usually means bottled water, which can cost US$4–5.

  • Privé

    A sky bar and lounge with an open terrace overlooking the Simpson Bay strip and lagoon.

Money

Euros and US dollars are commonly accepted on both sides. The Dutch side also uses the Caribbean guilder (XCG), fixed at US$1 = 1.79 guilders.

  • Cards are widely accepted, but some businesses do not take them. Ask before buying and carry small amounts of cash for transport and small purchases.
  • You may receive change in local currency.
  • Check which cards your hotel accepts before you arrive.
  • Many French-side shops close from 12:00 to 15:00. On Sundays, mainly restaurants and some food shops remain open there.

Tipping: Some restaurants add 15% as 'Tax' or 'SC', meaning service charge. The source says there is no dining tax and that you can treat this charge as your tip.

Typical costs

  • Hotel rooms generally cost US$100 per night or more, with taxes and service charges added.
  • Bottled water in restaurants can cost US$4–5 per bottle.
  • The source lists Saint Barthélemy return ferry fares of about €90–140 with Voyager and €95–115 with Great Bay Express, dated 2021.
  • The source lists Anguilla return fares of about €116 with Funtime Charters and €108 with Calypso Charters; the Calypso figure is dated 2021.
  • Saba return fares are listed at about €91 with Dawn II or The Edge in 2021, and US$110 with Makana Ferry in 2023.
  • Makana Ferry return fares are listed at US$106 for Sint Eustatius and US$199 for St. Kitts, dated 2023.

Language

  • English is widely spoken on both sides, especially in tourist areas.
  • French is the official language on the French side.
  • Dutch and English are official languages on the Dutch side.

Staying safe

  • Lock doors, stay aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas. Keep money and jewellery out of sight.
  • Leave nothing valuable in a parked rental car. Organised teams can break into cars easily.
  • At Maho Beach, keep clear of aircraft taking off and landing. Jet blast can throw sand, air and water with enough force to cause serious injury or death.
  • Do not drive after drinking. Roads run near cliffs and the sea, so call a taxi if you are unsure.
5 common scams in Sint Maarten, and how to avoid them

Local customs

Do

  • Check dress rules before visiting a high-end restaurant or nightclub.
  • Cover up when leaving the beach or pool.
  • Keep clothing-optional beach use to the marked southern section of Orient Beach.

Don't

  • Do not wear a swimsuit away from the beach or pool. The source says this is illegal and disrespectful.
  • Avoid very revealing clothing away from beach settings, as it can attract unwanted attention.

Staying healthy

  • Use sunscreen often and reapply as directed, especially after swimming. Pay attention to your feet, the backs of your knees and your neck.
  • A brimmed hat, umbrella and light clothing give extra protection from the sun.
  • Tap water is made by removing salt from seawater and is drinkable. Many residents still filter it or buy bottled water.
  • Pharmacies are marked with a cross, often lit with neon. Both sides have hospitals with ambulance services.

Phone and internet

  • Tequila sports bar in Simpson Bay offers free wireless internet.

Where to stay

  • Hotel rooms generally start around US$100 per night and often cost much more. Taxes and service charges are added.
  • December through April is high season. Accommodation costs considerably less during the rest of the year.
  • For a last-minute stay, call ahead and ask for the 'local rate'. It may be cheaper than the usual walk-in rate.
  • Confirm that your hotel accepts your particular credit card.

Outdoor adventures in Sint Maarten

Saint Martin has sandy beaches, rocky coves and hilltop views across its French and Dutch sides. Outdoor options include hiking, zip lines, kayaking, cycling, snorkelling and sailing.

  • Maho Bay Beach

    BeacheDutch side

    Early to mid-morning and mid- to late afternoon for the greatest number of large aircraft.

    Visit the beach at the end of the airport runway to watch aircraft landing overhead.

    • Stay away from the airport fence and departing aircraft. Jet blast and flying debris can cause serious injury or death.
    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Orient Bay Beach

    BeacheFrench side

    Visit Orient Bay for beach time and water sports.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it after swimming as directed.

  • Pic du Paradis

    HikeFrench side

    Join an excursion or tour. The approach follows Route de Pic du Paradis from Friars Bay Beach; the road requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

    • The road is steep and isolated.
    • The area is safest visited as part of an excursion or tour.

  • Mullet Bay Beach

    BeacheDutch side

    Visit Mullet Bay, just beyond Maho Bay. Beach loungers can be rented there.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Orient Bay Marine Reserve

    SnorkellingFrench side

    Go to Orient Bay, where snorkelling and other water sports are available in the marine reserve.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it after swimming as directed.

  • Loterie Farm Hikes and Ecotours

    HikeFrench side

    Daytime only.

    Visit Loterie Farm on Route de Pic du Paradis for hikes and nature tours. Call ahead for prices and to check whether a cruise ship group is visiting.

    • Use sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat or light clothing for sun protection.

  • Loterie Farm: The Fly Zone

    More to doFrench side

    Daytime only.

    Visit Loterie Farm on Route de Pic du Paradis for its zip lines and obstacle course in the trees. Call ahead for prices and crowd information.

    • Wear closed shoes. Flip-flops are not allowed.

  • Loterie Farm: Ti' Tarzan

    More to doFrench side

    Daytime only.

    Visit Loterie Farm for its children's zip-line course. Call ahead for prices and crowd information.

    • Wear closed shoes. Flip-flops are not allowed.

  • Loterie Farm: The Fly Zone Extreme

    More to doFrench side

    Daytime only.

    Visit Loterie Farm for The Fly Zone Extreme. Call ahead for prices and crowd information.

    • Wear closed shoes. Flip-flops are not allowed.
    • The zip line goes more than 30 m above the ground.

  • Renegades Sailing

    SailingDutch sidenear Cole Bay

    Day trips or longer trips between islands.

    Book a private sailboat trip with Renegades Sailing. Trips leave from the waterfront at Port de Plaisance Marina; pick-ups are also possible.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed while on the boat.

  • Trisport Kayak Tours and Rentals

    KayakingDutch side and routes crossing both sides

    Arrange a kayak tour with Trisport, accessed through Dock Maarten Marina, or rent a kayak to go independently.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Trisport Bike Tours and Rentals

    CyclingDutch side and routes crossing both sides

    Arrange a bike tour with Trisport, accessed through Dock Maarten Marina, or rent a bike separately.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Trisport Walking Tours

    HikeDutch side and routes crossing both sides

    Arrange a tour on foot with Trisport, accessed through Dock Maarten Marina.

    • Use sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat or light clothing for sun protection.

  • Cupecoy Beach

    BeacheFar western tip of the Dutch side

    Visit Cupecoy at the far western end of the Dutch side.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Philipsburg Harbour Beach

    BeacheDutch sidenear Philipsburg

    Visit the harbour beach in Philipsburg for swimming and beach time.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.
    • Check parking carefully. Tow-away areas in Philipsburg are poorly marked.

  • Twin Island Excursions ATV Tours

    More to doIsland-wide

    Book an ATV tour with Twin Island Excursions. An ATV is a four-wheeled off-road vehicle. Pick-ups are provided at your chosen location.

    • Do not drive after drinking alcohol.

  • Mullet Bay Golf

    More to doDutch side

    Contact the Maho golf store about playing at the course beside Mullet Bay Beach.

    • Use sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat for sun protection.

  • Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rental

    More to doDutch sidenear Cole Bay

    Experienced motorcyclists can rent a Harley Davidson in Cole Bay.

    • This rental option is for experienced riders.
    • Do not ride after drinking alcohol.

  • SXM Padel

    More to doDutch side

    Arrange play at SXM Padel on Octavious L. Richardson Drive, opposite Belair Beach Hotel.

  • Prune Beach

    BeacheFrench side

    Visit Prune Beach on the French side for swimming and sunbathing.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

  • Rouge Beach

    BeacheFrench side

    Visit Rouge Beach on the French side for swimming and sunbathing.

    • Use sunscreen and reapply it as directed.

Airports, metros and trains in Sint Maarten

Airports with scheduled flights

  • SXMPrincess Juliana International AirportSint MaartenMain international airport

People and safety in Sint Maarten

Religion

Most people are Christian. Mostly one faith.

  • Christian82%
  • No religion8%
  • Hindu5%
  • Other5%

LGBT+ travellers

Legal

  • Same-sex marriages from abroad are recognised.
  • Laws protect against discrimination.

Who can visit without a visa

Travellers from 25 of 98 countries can visit Sint Maarten easily: no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Visa not required25
  • Visa required73

Who can visit easily, by part of the world

For each part of the world: how many countries' travellers can come easily. Easy means no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Americas16 of 18 countries
  • Europe3 of 4 countries
  • Asia2 of 8 countries
  • Oceania2 of 14 countries
  • Africa2 of 54 countries

Questions

Is Sint Maarten part of Netherlands?

Sint Maarten is a territory linked to Netherlands, with its own entry rules. Check them separately even if you can visit Netherlands.

Does a Netherlands visa let me visit Sint Maarten?

Not automatically. Many territories set their own entry rules, so a visa or visa-free entry for Netherlands may not cover Sint Maarten. Check the Sint Maarten visa page for your passport.

What is the difference between Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten?

Saint-Martin is the French northern side, and Sint Maarten is the Dutch southern side. They share one island with an open border marked by signs and monuments.

Will I be able to get by in English?

Yes. English is widely spoken on both sides, especially in tourist areas.

What money should I carry?

Euros and US dollars are commonly accepted on both sides. Carry small notes for transport and small purchases, as some businesses do not accept cards.

Can I drink the tap water?

Yes, the tap water is drinkable. In restaurants, ask clearly for tap water or you will usually receive bottled water.

When are hotel prices lower?

Accommodation costs considerably less outside the December-to-April high season. For a last-minute stay, asking by phone for the 'local rate' may also save money.

Is watching planes at Maho Beach safe?

Aircraft fly very close to the beach, and jet blast can cause serious injury or death. Keep clear of approaching and departing aircraft.

Do I need to add a restaurant tip?

Check whether the bill already includes 15% labelled 'Tax' or 'SC', meaning service charge. The source says you can treat that charge as your tip.

Can I wear beach clothes around town?

Swimsuits are only allowed at the beach or pool. Some high-end restaurants and nightclubs also have dress rules.

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