Discover St. Martin - St. Maarten: A Dual-Nation Caribbean Gem

St. Martin - St. Maarten is a unique island split into two distinct countries: the French side, St. Martin, and the Dutch side, St. Maarten. Known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and blend of French, Dutch, and Caribbean cultures, this island offers a wide variety of experiences for every traveler.

Getting to St. Martin - St. Maarten & Getting Around

Flights: The island’s main airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), located on the Dutch side (St. Maarten), with direct flights from major cities in North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands.

Transportation: Rental cars are the most convenient way to explore both sides of the island. Taxis are widely available, and local buses (minivans) offer a budget-friendly way to travel between major towns.

Best Time to Visit

Year-Round Tropical Weather: St. Martin - St. Maarten enjoys warm weather throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from December to April, during the dry season.

Shoulder Seasons: May-June and November offer fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and better deals on accommodations.

Off-Season: July-October is hurricane season, so you may experience occasional storms, but prices will be lower, and there are fewer tourists.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

Visas: Most visitors, including those from the US and EU, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days on either side of the island. Check specific requirements for your nationality.

Currency: On the French side (St. Martin), the Euro (EUR) is the official currency, while on the Dutch side (St. Maarten), the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) is used, but US dollars are widely accepted on both sides.

Costs: St. Martin - St. Maarten offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses. Prices tend to be higher during the peak season.

Why Visit St. Martin - St. Maarten?

• Dual-Nation Experience: Enjoy the unique blend of French and Dutch cultures, with two distinct regions offering different cuisines, languages, and atmospheres.
• World-Class Beaches: St. Martin - St. Maarten is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Maho Beach, known for its low-flying planes, and Orient Bay, famous for water sports and a lively atmosphere.
• Shopping & Dining: The island is known for its duty-free shopping and wide range of restaurants offering both French gourmet cuisine and Dutch-Caribbean specialties.
• Adventure & Water Sports: From sailing and snorkeling to hiking and zip-lining, there’s no shortage of adventure activities on the island.

Must-See Attractions in St. Martin - St. Maarten

• Maho Beach: Located near the airport, Maho Beach is famous for its close-up view of airplanes landing and taking off, making it a must-see for aviation enthusiasts.
• Orient Bay Beach: A bustling beach on the French side known for its beautiful white sand, lively beach bars, and excellent water sports activities.
• Loterie Farm: Nestled in the hills of Pic Paradis, this eco-resort offers hiking trails, zip-lining, and a relaxing pool area surrounded by tropical gardens.
• Fort Louis: Overlooking Marigot on the French side, this historic fort offers panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. It’s a great spot for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
• Great Bay: Located in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, Great Bay is known for its long boardwalk, duty-free shopping, and lively waterfront restaurants and bars.

Top Activities in St. Martin - St. Maarten

Sailing & Island Hopping: St. Martin - St. Maarten is a sailing paradise, with numerous options for boat trips to nearby islands like Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba.

Diving & Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters around the island are home to vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life, making it an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling.

Shopping: Both sides of the island offer excellent shopping opportunities, from luxury boutiques in Marigot to duty-free shops in Philipsburg.

Hiking: For nature lovers, there are several hiking trails, including the one leading up to Pic Paradis, the island’s highest peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Where to Stay in St. Martin - St. Maarten

Belmond La Samanna

A luxurious resort located on the French side, offering world-class accommodations, a spa, and direct access to the beautiful Baie Longue Beach.

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino

A large, all-inclusive resort located right next to Maho Beach, perfect for families and those seeking a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options.

La Plantation Resort

A charming boutique resort located on Orient Bay, offering stylish rooms, proximity to the beach, and excellent dining options.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in St. Martin - St. Maarten

• Lobster Thermidor: A classic French dish that can be found at many high-end restaurants on the French side.
• Johnny Cakes: A Caribbean favorite, these fried dough cakes are a popular snack or side dish throughout the island.
• Conch Fritters: A staple in Caribbean cuisine, these deep-fried fritters made from conch meat are often served with dipping sauces.
• Guavaberry Liqueur: A local specialty, this sweet and tangy liqueur made from the native guavaberry fruit is a must-try.
• Bbq Ribs: Enjoy some of the island’s best BBQ at roadside grills, especially on the Dutch side, where locals serve up flavorful ribs and chicken.

Festivals and Events

• St. Martin Carnival: Held in February on the French side, this vibrant festival celebrates with parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes.
• St. Maarten Carnival: Celebrated in April on the Dutch side, it’s a grand celebration of local culture with street parties, food, and live music.
• Heineken Regatta: Held annually in March, this world-renowned sailing event attracts sailors and spectators from around the globe for exciting races and lively post-race parties.

Plan Your Trip

Itineraries: Discover sample itineraries for beach vacations, adventure activities, and cultural exploration.

Packing List: Prepare for your trip to St. Martin - St. Maarten with lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and hiking shoes for the island’s trails.

Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with French and Dutch customs, as well as the island’s unique blend of Caribbean culture.

Maps & Transportation: Find helpful maps and transportation guides to navigate the island by car, bus, or ferry.

Travel Tips for St. Martin - St. Maarten

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is between December and April, during the dry season when the weather is ideal for beach activities and exploring the island.

Currency: The Euro (EUR) is used on the French side, while the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) is used on the Dutch side, though US dollars are accepted throughout the island.

Getting Around: Renting a car is the best way to explore the island, but taxis and buses are also available for getting between major areas.

Safety: St. Martin - St. Maarten is generally safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach.