About Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten, the Dutch side of the Caribbean island shared with French Saint-Martin, is a paradise of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. Known for its lively nightlife, duty-free shopping, and the famous Maho Beach where planes skim just overhead, this island offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore Philipsburg’s colorful colonial architecture, indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront bistros, or sail to hidden coves. The island’s multicultural heritage—blending Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences—creates a rich tapestry of festivals, music, and cuisine. Don’t miss the annual Heineken Regatta or savoring a guavaberry cocktail, a local specialty!

Travel Tips for Sint Maarten

Getting Around

Taxis are plentiful but pricey; rental cars (drive on the right) offer flexibility. Buses (minivans) are affordable but irregular.

Best Time To Visit

December to April for dry, sunny weather; avoid September-November (hurricane season).

Local Customs

Greet with a handshake or cheek kiss among friends. Tipping 10-15% is customary. Beachwear is for the beach only—cover up in towns.

Safety Information

Beware of petty theft; avoid unlit areas at night. Hurricane preparedness is key June-November.

Visa Requirements

Visa-free for EU/US/Canada citizens (90 days). Others may require a Schengen visa.

Health Information

No vaccines required, but ensure routine shots are up-to-date. Mosquito repellent is advised due to dengue risk.

Languages Spoken

DutchEnglishSpanishPapiamento

Quick Facts

Currency

Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG)
ƒ

Timezone

America/Anguilla -04:00 (GMT-4)

Calling Code

+599

Electricity

110V/60Hz; Type A/B plugs (US standard).
Socket types →

Driving Side

right

Population

40654

Area

21 km²

Government

Parliamentary democracy under the Dutch monarchy.

ISO Code

SX, SXM

Emergency Contacts

Police

911

Ambulance

912

Fire

911

Also known as: Sint Maarten, Сен-Мартен, Senmartēna, San Martín, Saint-Martini, Sen Mawten, 聖馬田, Sah Mahtah, 聖馬田 / 聖馬丁, Синт Мартен, Sant Martin, Sint-Marten, Сінт-Мартен, San Martenas, Сінт-Маартэн, San Marten, संत मार्टिनचा प्रदेश, 圣马丁, NL-SX, 荷屬聖馬丁 / 荷屬聖馬田, Szent Márton, San Martiño, Sint-Maartin, Sancti Martini, Sanctus Martinus, 荷属圣马丁, سينت مارتن, Sent Martin, Saunt Martin, Sant-Martin, Свети Мартин, 聖馬丁, Синт-Мартен, San Martin, Άγιος Μαρτίνος, São Martinho, Saint-Martin, 荷屬聖馬田, Сінт-Мартэн, 신트마르턴, Sfântul Martin, 圣马丁 / 聖馬田 / 聖馬丁, 荷屬聖馬丁, Saint Martin, 荷属圣马丁 / 荷屬聖馬丁 / 荷屬聖馬田, Svätý Martin, Saint Maarten, Svatý Martin, Sveti Martin, Sankta Marteno