St Maarten Trip Planner
Plan your perfect St Maarten/ St Martin getaway – from flights to ferries, hotels to hidden gems.
Flights | Airport Transfers | Car Rentals | Hotels | Vacation Rentals | Ferries | Weather | Events Guide | Essentials | FAQs
Flights | Airport Transfers | Car Rentals | Hotels | Vacation Rentals | Ferries | Weather | Events Guide | Essentials | FAQs
Welcome to your trusted St Maarten trip planner — your personal vacation planning hub for discovering the best of St Maarten and St Martin. Whether you’re flying in, ferrying from a nearby island, or planning an extended Caribbean adventure, this guide helps you plan your trip with confidence and clarity.
From flights and transfers to hotels, rentals, ferries, and essentials like eSIMs and insurance — this plannerwas built to be your personal vacation planner for every type of traveler: solo adventurers, couples, families, and digital nomads.
Have specific questions? Jump to our FAQs section for real answers.
Flights to St Maarten
Looking to fly to St Martin Caribbean?
St Maarten / St Martin is primarily served by two airports:
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): Located on the Dutch side, it’s the main international gateway, renowned for its dramatic landings over Maho Beach.
Grand Case-Espérance Airport (SFG): Situated on the French side, it handles regional flights, primarily from neighboring Caribbean islands.
Whether you’re flying from North America, Europe, or nearby Caribbean islands, almost all international visitors arrive through SXM, which offers direct flights from major cities and smooth onward connections.
SFG is ideal for short regional hops — especially if you’re visiting from St Barts, Guadeloupe, or Martinique. Both airports are well connected to the island’s main hotel zones via transfers, taxis, or rental cars.
🌐 Airlines Serving St Maarten (SXM)
A variety of international and regional airlines operate flights to SXM:
From the United States:
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
JetBlue Airways
Spirit Airlines
United Airlines
Frontier Airlines
From Canada:
Air Canada
Air Transat
Sunwing Airlines
WestJet
From Europe:
Air France
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Air Caraïbes
From Latin America / Caribbean:
Winair
Caribbean Airlines
LIAT
Copa Airlines
Air Century
🛫 Direct Flight Routes to SXM
St Maarten is accessible via direct flights from numerous cities:
United States:
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta Air Lines
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue Airways
Charlotte (CLT) – American Airlines
Chicago (ORD) – United Airlines
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines
New York (JFK/EWR) – Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines
Washington, D.C. (IAD) – United Airlines
Latin America & Caribbean:
Panama City (PTY) – Copa Airlines
Port of Spain (POS) – Caribbean Airlines
San Juan (SJU) – Silver Airways, Frontier Airlines
Santo Domingo (SDQ) – Air Century
Tortola (EIS) – Winair
Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, WestJet
Montreal (YUL) – Air Transat, Air Canada
Europe:
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Paris (CDG) – Air France
⏱️ Average Flight Durations to SXM
From New York City: Approximately 4 hours
From Miami: Approximately 3 hours
From Toronto: Approximately 5 hours
From Paris: Approximately 9 hours
From Amsterdam: Approximately 9 hours
Note: Flight times are approximate and can vary based on airline, weather conditions, and air traffic.
🛩️ Regional Flights to Grand Case-Espérance Airport (SFG)
For travelers coming from nearby Caribbean islands, SFG offers convenient access:
Airlines Operating to SFG:
- Air Antilles
- St Barth Commuter
- Air Caraibes
Common Routes:
- St. Barthélemy (SBH)
- Guadeloupe (PTP)
- Martinique (FDF)
Note: Flights to SFG are typically on smaller aircraft and may have luggage restrictions.
Not sure when to visit? See average weather and events by month.
Choose SXM if you're flying from North America or Europe. It's also right next to the world-famous Maho Beach, where planes land so low they create beachfront thrills you won’t forget!
Booking: It's advisable to book flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (December to April).
Airport Transfers: Both airports have taxi services and car rental options. Consider pre-booking transfers for convenience.
Customs & Immigration: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents. Entry requirements may vary based on nationality.
🔎 Search Flights to St Maarten
Ready to book your flight to paradise? Use the search tool below to compare real-time fares from top airlines like American Airlines, JetBlue, Air France, and KLM.
You’ll find the best routes, prices, and arrival times — whether you’re flying from New York, Toronto, Amsterdam, or beyond.
Plan your arrival the easy way — and get to St Maarten stress-free.
Need a ride from the airport? Check transfer options.
St Maarten Airport Transfers Made Easy
Arriving at Princess Juliana (SXM) or Grand Case (SFG)?
Skip the taxi lines and language barriers — and start your trip smoothly.
Our trusted partner Welcome Pickups offers private, pre-booked St Maarten airport transfers with English-speaking drivers. Whether you’re headed to Simpson Bay, Marigot, Grand Case, or your secluded villa, you’ll be in good hands.
✅ Fixed pricing with no hidden fees
✅ Meet & greet at the airport (SXM or SFG)
✅ French & Dutch side drop-offs
✅ 24/7 monitoring of your flight arrival
✅ Child seats available upon request
This is the easiest way to land, relax, and get to your destination with peace of mind.
Already booked your flight? Compare car rentals for more freedom to explore.
Car Rentals: The Best Way to Explore
Yes - St Martin is a small island...
But that’s exactly why a car is the best way to experience how much it offers in such a short distance. In a single afternoon, you can hit Mullet Bay for a morning swim, have lunch in Grand Case, and finish with a sunset stroll in Philipsburg.
Having your own wheels lets you:
Visit 3–4 beaches a day if you want
Try out towns and eateries off the tourist radar
Get to remote viewpoints and hidden snorkeling spots
We’ve partnered with Qeeq to bring you the best rental options.
🚘 Airport pickups available from:
🚘 City pickups available from:
Prefer to compare providers? Try EconomyBookings here.
Looking for more flexibility? See our full vacation rentals section.
Hotels in St Maarten & St Martin
What kind of trip are you planning?
Looking for the perfect place to stay? Whether you’re after a relaxing beachfront escape, vibrant nightlife, or a family-friendly resort — St. Maarten / St. Martin has something for every type of traveler.
Here’s a quick guide to where to stay:
- 🇸🇽 Dutch Side (St. Maarten): Best for nightlife, casinos, cruise port access, and larger resorts in Simpson Bay, Maho, and Philipsburg.
- 🇲🇫 French Side (Saint Martin): Ideal for boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and romantic retreats in Orient Bay, Grand Case, and Anse Marcel.
⭐ Hotel Star Ratings: Based on Trip.com standards reflecting service, amenities, and overall quality.
- 5 Stars: Luxury hotels with premium amenities and top-tier service.
- 4 Stars: Upscale comfort with high service standards.
- 3 Stars: Mid-range stays with good value and essential amenities.
- 2 Stars: Budget-friendly basics for cost-conscious travelers.
Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our work!
🏝️ Simpson Bay & Pelican (Dutch Side)
Simpson Bay is one of the most convenient places to stay in St Maarten — close to the airport, car rentals, beaches, and day trip launches. The area has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to beachfront resorts.
Just around the bend, Pelican Key offers a quieter, slightly more upscale feel with vacation rentals, villas, and boutique resorts. It’s a favorite for couples and long-stay visitors looking for ocean views and a more residential vibe — but still walking distance to all the action.
🎉 Maho (Dutch Side)
Famous for the plane-landing spectacle at Maho Beach, this area is all about entertainment. Stay in Maho if you want nightlife, rooftop bars, casinos, and all-inclusive resorts. Sonesta Ocean Point and The Morgan are top choices. It’s ideal for groups and party-seekers who still want a beach backdrop.
🛍️ Philipsburg (Dutch Side)
Philipsburg is the cruise hub of the island, full of shopping, dining, and walkable beachfront hotels. Stay here if you want to be in town, close to duty-free stores, museums, and the ferry to St Barts. It’s lively, colorful, and steps from Great Bay Beach.
🏘️ Cole Bay (Dutch Side)
Cole Bay is a centrally located neighborhood on the Dutch side of the island, just minutes from Simpson Bay and Philipsburg. It’s a great base for travelers seeking convenience, budget-friendly stays, and quick access to both coasts and the French side. With easy access to marinas, supermarkets, and the Causeway Bridge, Cole Bay is ideal for those planning island-wide exploration.
Port de Plaisance Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
⭐⭐⭐Marina-side resort with modern amenities and lagoon views
Diamond Gem Residence
⭐⭐⭐Affordable comfort close to the water
Carl’s Unique Inn
⭐⭐Simple and budget-friendly with local charm
🌅 Oyster Pond (Dutch Side)
Tucked between the French and Dutch sides, Oyster Pond is quiet, residential, and perfect for visitors who want off-the-beaten-path luxury. It’s a great choice for honeymooners or couples looking for villas and boutique resorts with views of St Barts. You’ll need a car, but that’s part of the charm.
JW Marriott St Maarten Beach Resort & Spa
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Indulge in five-star elegance by the sea
Oyster Bay Beach Resort
⭐⭐⭐⭐Scenic resort nestled on the east coast
Coral Beach Club Villas & Marina
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luxurious villas with marina access
Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel
⭐⭐⭐
Elegant hillside condos with ocean views
🧘 Cupecoy (Dutch Side)
Cupecoy is a peaceful, upscale area on the far western end of the Dutch Side, just before the French border. It’s known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, small hidden beaches, and a relaxed, residential vibe. It’s ideal for couples, long-stay travelers, or anyone looking for tranquility with a touch of luxury. You’re still close to the restaurants and nightlife of Maho, but without the crowds. Bonus: sunsets here are spectacular.
🌊 Orient Bay (French Side)
Known as the “Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean,” Orient Bay is stylish but laid-back. It’s one of the best swimming beaches on the island and is lined with beach clubs, casual cafés, and boutique hotels. Great for families, couples, and travelers who want luxury without losing the barefoot feel.
Esmeralda Resort
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Private villas and tropical gardens near the beach
Pomme Cannelle Luxury Suites & Spa
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern suites with a spa-focused luxury experience
Orient Bay Palm Court
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stylish, serene and just steps from Orient Beach
Résidence Adam et Eve
Hotel La Plantation
⭐⭐⭐⭐Spacious suites in lush tropical surroundings
La Playa Orient Bay
⭐⭐⭐⭐Beachfront chic with a poolside vibe
Orient Beach Hotel
⭐⭐⭐⭐Modern elegance directly on Orient Bay
🍷 Grand Case (French Side)
The foodie capital of St Martin, Grand Case blends French-Caribbean charm with white sand and wine lists. Hotels here are mostly boutique-style, right on the beach or nestled on the hillside. It’s peaceful, romantic, and perfect for sunset dining and long beach strolls.
Grand Case Beach Club
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stylish seaside escape with beach access and charm
Bleu Emeraude Hotel
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Beachfront suites with panoramic ocean views
Hotel l’Esplanade
Koho SXM
⭐⭐⭐Tropical flair and value in the heart of Grand Case
Love Boutique Hotel
⭐⭐⭐Romantic stay steps from the sand and restaurants
Le Temps des Cerises Hotel Beach
⭐⭐⭐Chic boho-style hotel right on the beach
🏛️ Marigot (French Side)
The capital of the French side, Marigot offers a local vibe with bakeries, markets, a marina, and ferry access. Hotels here are practical and central, not flashy — good for travelers who want to explore on foot and mix sightseeing with beach time. It’s also a gateway to Anguilla and St Barts.
Hommage Hotel
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Chic, contemporary resort on the Nettle Bay lagoon
Fantastic Hotel
⭐⭐
Simple and well-located for exploring Marigot
Centr’Hotel
⭐⭐
Affordable and central—perfect for ferry access
🌿 Pic Paradis (French Side)
Looking for a retreat into nature? Pic Paradis is the island’s highest point and a top spot for eco-stays and hiking. Choose a hillside villa or a guesthouse surrounded by jungle and birdsong. You’ll be close to Loterie Farm and the island’s best panoramic views.
The Paradise Peak – Adults Only
💎 Terres Basses (French Side)
Terres Basses is the island’s most exclusive area, known for its luxury villas and secluded beaches. It’s perfect for travelers seeking privacy and upscale accommodations.
La Samanna – A Belmond Hotel
🛶 Cul-de-Sac (French Side)
Cul-de-Sac is a serene area known for its proximity to Pinel Island and its boutique accommodations. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
La Villa Hibiscus
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Refined island retreat in a peaceful setting
Villa Jwi Lavi Boutique Hotel
⭐⭐⭐
Chic boutique comfort with tropical charm
Karibuni Boutique Hotel
🌴 Anse Marcel (French Side)
Anse Marcel is a secluded bay offering a tranquil setting with upscale resorts and beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for couples and families looking for a quiet getaway.
Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adults-only luxury nestled in a quiet cove
Le Domaine Beach Resort
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tranquil beachfront escape with spa and style
Blue Sail Hotel
🐚 Oyster Pond (French Side)
A peaceful coastal village on the east coast, Oyster Pond blends French Caribbean charm with easy access to both secluded beaches and nearby Dutch-side highlights. This is the place for relaxed stays, ocean views, and a quiet vibe just minutes from the action.
Les Balcons d’Oyster Pond
⭐⭐⭐
Panoramic views from spacious hillside suites
Colombus Résidence
⭐⭐⭐
Quiet marina-side retreat with kitchenettes
Tiko Lodge
Hotels in 🇲🇫 French Saint Martin
Click here
Hotels in 🇸🇽 Dutch Sint Maarten
Click here
Want to explore the island like a local? Use our cultural map.
Vacation Rentals on St Maarten
Why VRBO Wins!
Sometimes you want more space, more privacy, or a home-away-from-home feel. That’s where vacation rentals shine.
We recommend VRBO — a trusted name in short-term stays. Whether you want a luxury villa in Terres Basses or a cozy beachfront apartment in Grand Case, there’s something for everyone.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for:
Families who want a kitchen & pool
Couples seeking secluded hideaways
Remote workers or digital nomads
Browse VRBO rentals in St Maarten here: VRBO St Maarten
Need inspiration on when to visit? Check our month-by-month event guide.
Ferries to Anguilla, St Barts & Saba
Dreaming of a day trip? We’ve got options.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing detour or an adventurous island hop, ferries from St Maarten / St Martin offer quick connections to three of the Caribbean’s most charming neighbors.
Prefer a bit of VIP? Learn how to book a private boat trip.
⛴️ Ferries connect St Maarten / St Martin to its beautiful neighbors:
🇧🇱 St Barts: Voyager Ferry (Marigot) or Great Bay Express (Philipsburg)
🇦🇮 Anguilla: Local ferries from Marigot or private charters from the Dutch side
🇧🇶 Saba: Makana Ferry from Philipsburg (a scenic ride worth taking)
🚤 St Barts
Famed for its designer boutiques and French-Caribbean flair, St Barts is just a short ride away.
From Marigot (French Side): Voyager Ferry
From Philipsburg (Dutch Side): Great Bay Express
Both services run multiple times daily and offer round-trip bookings. High season can book out, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
🏝️ Anguilla
Anguilla is known for its serene beaches and barefoot luxury — and it’s just 20 minutes away by ferry from Marigot.
Public Ferries from Marigot:
Tickets are not sold online — purchase on-site at the ferry terminal.
Passport required.
Operates daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (weather permitting)
Duration: ~20 minutes
One-way fare: $30 (€30) for adults, $15 (€15) for kids (2–11)
Extras:
€7 passenger fee (payable only in euros or card at ticket office — USD not accepted)
$11 Anguilla port tax (day visitors); $28 for visits over 12 hours
🕓 Sample Departures from Marigot:
→ 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 5:15 PM, 6:00 PM
🕓 Returns from Blowing Point (Anguilla):
→ 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 5:15 PM
Private ferries from the Dutch side are also available with FunTime Charters and GB Ferries.
🌋 Saba
Tiny, green, and stunningly vertical — Saba is perfect for a nature escape or a hiking day trip.
Depart from Philipsburg on the Makana Ferry
Schedule varies by day (usually 3x/week)
Trip time: ~90 minutes each way
This is more than a transfer — it’s a scenic ride across the Caribbean that locals and travelers both rave about.
What’s Happening in St Maarten – Month by Month
Whether you’re planning around local festivals, island energy, or the best moments to explore without the crowds, this month-by-month guide gives you the pulse of St Maarten / St Martin. From high-season Carnival magic and music festivals to quiet summer beach days and cultural holidays, each month has its own rhythm. Use this guide to match your travel dates with the island vibe that fits you best — whether that’s lively, laid-back, or somewhere in between.
Planning your visit? Pair this with our average weather by month.
🌞 January – Sunshine & Street Culture
Vibe: Start the year with sun, smiles, and a laid-back cultural vibe. January is part of St. Maarten’s high season — the weather is warm and dry, and the island buzzes with post-holiday energy.
Highlights:
- Les Mardis de Grand Case (Harmony Nights) kick off — weekly Tuesday night street festivals filled with music, food stalls, and artisan vendors.
- Ideal time for exploring beaches, hiking Pic Paradis, and enjoying the island’s calmer, cooler climate.
Keep an Eye Out: It's peak season, so book accommodations early and expect lively crowds in the main towns.
🎭 February – Carnival Beats & Romantic Streets
Vibe: A festive month where Caribbean rhythm and French flair collide. February brings Carnival season on the French side and romantic getaways island-wide.
Highlights:
- St. Martin Carnival hits full swing with parades, costumes, and the burning of King Carnival on Mardi Gras.
- Harmony Nights in Grand Case continue, pairing beautifully with Valentine’s travel for couples.
Keep an Eye Out: Carnival parades can impact traffic and schedules — plan accordingly and join the fun!
⛵ March – Regattas & Rhythm
Vibe: March is big and bold — from sailboats to DJs, the island becomes a hub of high-energy events and unforgettable beach days.
Highlights:
- The Heineken Regatta brings thrilling races by day and international concerts by night.
- SXM Music Festival follows with electronic beats across secret beaches and open-air jungle stages.
Keep an Eye Out: Hotels book out months in advance — secure your spot early if you're coming for these major events.
🎉 April – Dutch Side Carnival Vibes
Vibe: St. Maarten’s Dutch side comes alive in April with the longest and loudest Carnival celebrations of the year.
Highlights:
- St. Maarten Carnival begins — enjoy jump-ups, steel pan competitions, concerts, and cultural parades.
- Warm, dry weather perfect for all-day exploring or lounging on Mullet Bay Beach.
Keep an Eye Out: Carnival Village gets busy in the evenings — great food, music, and a festive local vibe await!
🎶 May – Culture & Shoulder Season Calm
Vibe: May bridges the seasons: cultural events continue, but crowds thin out. A great month for food lovers, couples, and curious travelers.
Highlights:
- St. Maarten Carnival concludes early in the month with the Grand Parade and Last Lap.
- Soul Beach Music Festival delivers beach parties and live R&B concerts over Memorial Day weekend.
Keep an Eye Out: Expect sunny skies and slightly lower prices as high season winds down — a smart time to visit.
📚 June – Literary Vibes & Sea Adventures
Vibe: June brings cultural richness and sea-loving fun before the summer heat peaks. The island is lush, relaxed, and inviting.
Highlights:
- The St. Martin Book Fair unites storytellers and readers from across the Caribbean and beyond.
- Festival of the Sea and Fish Day celebrate the island’s maritime heritage with beach activities and seafood feasts.
Keep an Eye Out: The first signs of the rainy season may appear — pack light rainwear just in case.
🕊️ July – Freedom & Family Time
Vibe: July is about local pride and warm-hearted celebration. Great for family travel and immersing in history and heritage.
Highlights:
- Emancipation Day (July 1) is commemorated with cultural ceremonies and performances.
- Bastille Day (July 14) on the French side features parades, games, and local festivals.
Keep an Eye Out: Expect hot days and summer humidity — plan beach time early and indoor breaks mid-afternoon.
🌊 August – Quiet Beaches & Local Flavor
Vibe: A slow and easy month, perfect for those seeking solitude, space, and community connection.
Highlights:
- Local villages may host small community festivals and beach gatherings.
- Outdoor movie nights and laid-back cultural events pop up in Grand Case and Marigot.
Keep an Eye Out: It’s hurricane season — consider travel insurance and monitor forecasts during your stay.
🧘 September – Stillness & Reflection
Vibe: The quietest month of the year. Ideal for writers, wellness travelers, and those who like having beaches to themselves.
Highlights:
- World Tourism Day (Sept 27) may include awareness events and cultural showcases.
- Great time for discounted villa rentals and private boat tours with fewer crowds.
Keep an Eye Out: Some restaurants and tour operators may take annual breaks — check ahead for opening hours.
🌿 October – Calm Seas & Cultural Flickers
Vibe: October is peaceful with a few flickers of festivity. The island feels local and welcoming, even in the rain.
Highlights:
- Look out for Halloween-themed beach parties and bar events across both sides.
- Nature walks and culinary experiences thrive in the cooler shoulder-season air.
Keep an Eye Out: Some roads may flood during heavy rains — check forecasts and drive with care.
🤝 November – Unity & Green Revival
Vibe: A month of pride, patriotism, and lush post-rain landscapes. November balances nature and culture beautifully.
Highlights:
- Saint Martin’s Day (Nov 11) features island-wide celebrations of unity, culture, and cuisine.
- Scenic hiking trails bloom with greenery — a great time for Pic Paradis or Loterie Farm.
Keep an Eye Out: Early bookings recommended as the high season begins to return by late November.
🎄 December – Island Holidays with Caribbean Sparkle
Vibe: Warm weather, holiday lights, and beachy celebrations define the island’s most magical month.
Highlights:
- Christmas concerts, fireworks, and local serenade groups pop up throughout the island.
- New Year’s Eve parties light up Maho, Orient Bay, and beach resorts.
Keep an Eye Out: This is peak travel season — book early and embrace the festive energy all around!
Weather
| Month | Avg Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25°C / 77°F | Low | Dry, sunny, high season |
| February | 25°C / 77°F | Low | Peak travel season |
| March | 26°C / 79°F | Low | Great for beach days |
| April | 27°C / 81°F | Medium | Start of shoulder season |
| May | 28°C / 82°F | Medium | Warm, fewer crowds |
| June | 28°C / 82°F | High | Start of hurricane season |
| July | 28°C / 82°F | High | Hot, some afternoon rain |
| August | 29°C / 84°F | High | Warmest, humid |
| September | 29°C / 84°F | High | Quietest month, storms possible |
| October | 28°C / 82°F | High | End of hurricane season |
| November | 27°C / 81°F | Medium | Lush & green, fewer tourists |
| December | 26°C / 79°F | Low | Start of high season |
When’s the best time to visit?
St Maarten / St Martin is a year-round destination, with warm weather and sunshine most months. The high season runs from December to April, when the island is dry, breezy, and buzzing with energy — ideal for beachgoers and boat charters.
Low season (June to November) brings higher humidity, lower prices, and the occasional tropical storm — but it’s also quieter, greener, and perfect for a slower-paced trip. May and November are great shoulder months for value and weather balance.
Need more inspiration on when to visit? Check our month-by-month event guide.
Essential Travel Tools
eSIMs that cover both the French and Dutch sides
Most visitors now use eSIMs instead of buying local SIM cards.
But here’s what they don’t tell you:
St Maarten and St Martin have completely different cell networks. Even locals often use two phones or special dual-forfait plans.
We’ve found the best eSIM options that work on both sides — so you stay connected from Maho to Grand Case.
Travel Insurance
Snorkeling? Renting a boat? Taking ferries?
Even the best-planned trips have surprises.
We’ll soon link to reliable travel insurance providers that cover Caribbean-specific needs — including medical, delays, cancellations, and water sports.
FAQs: Your St Maarten Questions Answered
Here are the 12 most frequently asked questions by travelers to St Maarten / St Martin — with real, helpful, in-depth answers:
Most travelers (US, Canada, EU) don’t need a visa. Just bring a passport valid for 6+ months and a return ticket. Complete the online ED card for SXM in advance to save time.
No Uber here! Use car rentals, local taxis (fixed-rate), minivans, or there is a new Taxi app. Renting a car gives you freedom to explore.
USD is accepted island-wide. Dutch side uses USD and guilders; French side uses Euros. Carry small bills; credit cards are widely accepted.
Yes! English is spoken everywhere. A few words in French (bonjour!) are appreciated on the French side.
Yes. Use common sense like anywhere. Petty theft can happen — don’t leave valuables unattended. Medical care is good.
Dec–Apr for dry, festive season. May–June for fewer crowds. July–Nov is off-season with the best deals — but check for hurricane forecasts.
Very! Calm beaches, zip-lining, kayaking, bird parks, and boat trips make it a hit for all ages. Most resorts welcome kids.
Yes, with planning. Choose flat beach areas (like Philipsburg), request ground floor rooms, and consider booking accessible transport in advance.
Incredible. French gourmet meets Caribbean BBQ. Don’t miss Grand Case lolos, fresh seafood, and Guavaberry rum.
Maho (for planes!), Orient Bay, Mullet Bay, Pinel Island, Grand Case, Happy Bay. Each beach has its own vibe — visit a few!
Simpson Bay and Maho are lively with bars, live music, clubs, and casinos. French side is more chic and quiet. Sunset cruises are a great option.
Rent a car, pack reef-safe sunscreen, explore both sides, try a ferry to Anguilla or Saba, and above all — slow down and enjoy.
Why Plan with explr.sx?
We don’t just know the island - we live it.
explr.sx is built by locals and long-time island lovers who know where the road ends and the trail begins. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature, history, or hidden beaches, we help you go beyond the basics.
Explore with:
A free interactive map of over 80 curated cultural and natural spots: explr.sx/map
Hand-picked private boat charters that show you the island like never before: explr.sx/private-boat-trips
Honest insights, human-first copy, and travel tools you can trust
Heads up — some links on this page are affiliate links, which means if you book through them, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). It helps keep the site running and supports our free travel tools. We also try to keep everything accurate and fresh, but always check details with providers just in case.