St. Maarten
St. Maarten, the world’s smallest island shared by two nations, is a sun-soaked paradise known for its “Friendly People,” pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Just a 4.5-hour direct flight from Toronto—and easily accessible via the U.S.—travelers land at the iconic Princess Juliana Airport, famous for low-flying planes over Maho Beach.
Surrounded by lush green hills and sweeping ocean views, the island blends laid-back charm with cosmopolitan flair. With influences from over 80 nationalities, St. Maarten has earned its title as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean—offering a fusion of global flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
Explore Philipsburg’s duty-free shops, colorful markets, beachfront promenade, and award-winning port, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop. From thrilling water sports and scenic hiking trails to world-class spas and unforgettable sunsets, St. Maarten offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and island hospitality for every kind of traveler. Visit our website.
Dining
St. Maarten is a true cultural mosaic, home to over 80 nationalities that have each brought their culinary traditions to the island. This rich diversity has created an exciting and flavorful melting pot of cuisines, making dining here a global experience wrapped in Caribbean charm.
In just a short drive from Simpson Bay to Philipsburg, your senses will take a journey of their own. The salty, smoky aroma of freshly grilled seafood by the beach gives way to the warm, spiced scents of Indian dishes rich with cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Around every corner, there’s something new to taste—whether it’s a hearty Caribbean stew, delicate French pastries, flavorful Latin bites, or bold Asian flavors.
Despite being only 16 square miles, St. Maarten offers a world of tastes that cater to every craving. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining at a waterfront restaurant, discovering hidden local gems, or sampling street food favorites, every bite reflects the island’s incredible cultural blend. You may come for the beaches and sunshine, but it’s the food that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your last meal.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English, Dutch, French
Banking & Banking Hours: Several major banks operate in the Dutch part of St. Martin (Sint Maarten). These include Banco di Caribe, CIBC First Caribbean, PSB Bank, RBC, Republic Bank, and Windward Islands Bank. In addition to these, Maduro & Curiel’s Bank N.V. also has a presence in St. Maarten. Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Some banks are open on Saturday mornings. There are 24 hour ATMs available. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Currency: USD, Guilder, Euro
Climate: St. Maarten has a tropical climate, which is usually hot and humid, with temperatures that are cooled down by trade winds. From December to April you can expect a temperate climate, rarely exceeding 90°F, and never dipping below 68°F, with a lower humidity and cooling trade winds blowing in from the northeast. It’s ideal beach weather, with the occasional cloudy day, with some rain showers, which are relatively brief. The summer months are known to reach high temperatures of 95 – 99 °F during the day from June to November.
Dress Code: In Dutch St. Maarten, the dress code is generally very casual and relaxed, especially during the day. For most daywear, you can comfortably wear beach attire like dresses, shorts, and t-shirts. When dining in the evening, you might consider a sundress or separates for ladies and shorts and sandals for men, unless you’re going to a more sophisticated restaurant.
Driving: Driving is easy in on the island, and motorists drive on the right hand side of the road. Renting a car is a cost-effective and easy way to get around the island, with rental offices located outside the airport and in popular locations like Maho and Simpson Bay. The Dutch/French border is marked by roadside monuments. Traffic in locations such as Philipsburg and Simpson Bay can get heavy around rush hour, and at the opening times of the Simpson Bay bridge.
Electricity: Electricity in St. Maarten (Dutch side) is the same as the United States with a 110 voltage at 50 Hz standard. Standard US plugs and appliances are compatible too.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), (GMT-4); Daylight Savings Time is not observed.
Activities
St. Maarten may be small in size, but it’s overflowing with unforgettable experiences and vibrant island charm. More than just a Caribbean getaway, it’s a dynamic destination where culture, adventure, and relaxation come together in perfect harmony.
Spend your days lounging on golden beaches or hiking to panoramic viewpoints from the island’s highest peaks. Wander the palm-lined streets of Philipsburg, explore hidden coves by boat, or dive into the island’s energetic nightlife and flavorful culinary scene. From laid-back to lively, there’s something for every traveler.
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Parrotte Ville Bird Sanctuary, home to more than 25 colorful bird species. Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride through the trails of Cay Bay, snorkel the vibrant coral reefs at Creole Rock, or set sail along the sparkling coastline to soak in the island’s breathtaking views from the water.
St. Maarten’s multicultural spirit shines through in every aspect of island life, offering a unique blend of Caribbean warmth and international flair. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, St. Maarten promises a one-of-a-kind escape that’s anything but ordinary.
Travel Essentials
Flight Information
Princess Juliana International Airport, connects to many international gateways from the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America.
Travelers can connect via U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Atlanta, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Miami with airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, United, Southwest and American Airlines.
JetBlue offers flights as follows:
- From Boston, two daily nonstop flights
- From New York, two daily nonstop flights
- From Fort Lauderdale, DAILY*, nonstop flights
Southwest Airlines offers flights as follows:
- From Orlando – daily nonstop flights
- From Baltimore – daily nonstop flights + two weekend flights (Baltimore/Washington)
Delta Airlines offers flights as follows:
- From Atlanta – up to 6 times per week, nonstop flights (will offer expanded service from August 10 to November 8, 2026)
- From New York
- From Minneapolis
American Airlines offers the following flights:
- From Miami, Charlotte, Philadelphia and Chicago
Contour Airlines offers:
- From San Juan, up to 3 times per week, direct nonstop
United Airlines offers:
- From from Newark, Washington DC and Chicago
Entry Requirements for Americans
All travelers must complete a digital entry form BEFORE boarding their flight to SXM (Princess Juliana International Airport). Click HERE to access the form.
A visa is not required for this destination for a stay of up to 90 days in any six-month period. Please keep in mind that while a visa is not required, you must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of country exit and with one blank visa page
- Hold proof of onward and return flights
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or follow this link: US State Department/Sint Maarten
Getting Married
Whether you are looking for the perfect tropical venue to say I do or dreaming of escaping to a relaxing and secluded honeymoon, St. Maarten is the ideal place for romantic passion to flourish. With golden sunsets, private villas, historic churches, gourmet chefs, and so much more, St. Maarten offers a vibrant variety of options perfect for your getaway honeymoon or dream wedding. Everlasting memories await!
Submitting Marriage Documentation
Requests for marriage must be submitted at least 14 days before the date of marriage.
The following original documents must be submitted:
- A full detailed birth certificate to prove the legality of the name, not older than 3 years;
- Unmarried person(s) must present a declaration of marital status not older than 3 months.
- If widow(er), a death certificate.
- If divorced, a divorce certificate/decree of a final judgment, not older than 3 years.
Besides the above mentioned, the following information is also needed:
- Address, profession and nationality of the bride and groom.
- Passport copies of both parties.
- Names of the parents and maiden names of the mothers.
- Passport copies of the witnesses.
Original documents not in Dutch or English need to be translated into the Dutch or English languages. Marriages will be performed after all documents are found correct by the Civil Registrar.
Cultural/Annual Events
Each February, the world-renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta celebrates its 44th edition. Over 20,000 sailors and spectators from across the world watch four days of world class racing in an inspiring and energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan or casual observer, there is no better way to watch the regatta than onboard a boat charter with a group of friends. In the evenings, enjoy great food and ice-cold beers in the Regatta Village whilst listening to the epic sounds from local performers and international artists and DJs.
Following Regatta, SXM Festival comes to the Island each March and sees some of the best EDM DJ’s and artists from across the globe perform in 10 unique venues. From beach parties and villa gatherings to underground nightclub sessions, mesmerizing hilltop sunsets and champagne-drenched afternoons by the pool. The Satellite Party atop the peak of St. Maarten’s highest mountain offers a breathtaking 360-degree view all the way to the ocean, whilst Moonbar’s rooftop bar sees revelers experience the renowned Maho hospitality of Maho and its bright lights.
St.Maarten Carnival is the event of the year! Every April/May, the Dutch side erupts to the beat of calypso, soca, reggae, and dancehall. Locals fill the streets in their colorful costumes in parades, parties and runups. Party with the locals all month long at various cultural events and bacchanals at the Carnival Village on Pond Island. In the Village, ask a local for their favourite booth number and taste the best local dishes you will ever have – and make sure to get a photo with the Carnival Icon, Pork Chop.
The island’s culinary heritage delights traveller’s year-round, but each November the Flavors Festival sees many of the island’s best restaurants and bars offer signature dishes or cocktail combinations for a steal; either $49 USD (for a three-course meal) or $17.50 USD (for a one course meal). A full island menu of signature dishes, and a map of restaurant locations can be found at StMaartenFlavors.com.
For more details on upcoming events, new venues, and cultural exhibitions, check out our Events Calendar.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of St. Maarten observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, April 27, 2026 – King’s Day
Thursday, April 30, 2026 – Carnival Day
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labor Day
Thursday, May 14, 2026 – Ascension Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 – Emancipation Day
November 11, 2026 – Sint Maarten Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
MEDICAL SERVICES:
St. Maarten has 19 private medical clinics and 12 pharmacies on the southern side of the island.
Hospital
Medical Center of St. Maarten (SMMC)
Phone: (721)-543-1111
For information on the medical services available at the SMMC: St. Maarten Medical Center
St. Maarten Ambulance Services
Ambulance Medical Services of St. Maarten
Phone: (721) 542-2111 or 912
EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
Dental Care Clinic: Phone: (721)542 3584
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber. If you require treatment for decompression illness you will have to go to Saba or Guadeloupe.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from the United States.
Airport Services
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): Learn More
The airport has made significant improvements over the years and has recently opened a new arrivals and departure hall, with modern amenities and 3 air bridges to facilitate aircraft boarding for select flights. Check with your airline prior to travel to see if they have access to air bridges for arrival/departure in SXM. Accessible Ventures (see contact information below) provides assistance upon request, but must be arranged in advance. Additional services provided include:
- Accessible Washrooms – all washrooms offer wheelchair accessible stalls
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators and ramps are available
Port of St. Maarten (Philipsburg): Learn More
If you are arriving by ship, any services required will be arranged by your cruise line. If St. Maarten is a port of embarkation and you need services prior to embarkation, these services can be provided by Accessible Ventures (see contact information below). Available services at the Port of St. Maarten include:
- Accessible Washrooms: all washrooms offer wheelchair accessible stalls
- Wheelchair Assistance: available from your cruise line representative
- Elevators and ramps are available
Transportation
Airport Transfers can be organized from both the Princess Juliana International Airport as well as the Port in Philipsburg.
Accessible Ventures
Phone: (721) 542-0411
Email : reservations@accessibleventures.sx
Website: Accessible Ventures
Activities:
Wheelchair accessible activities can be organized by the following companies:
Seagrape Tours
For individuals with hearing impairments, visual impairments, mobility challenges, developmental disabilities, the elderly, etc.
Phone: (721) 586-0297
Email : seagrapetours@gmail.com
Website: Seagrape Tours
Accessible Ventures
Special needs transportation.
Phone: (721) 542-0411
Email : reservations@accessibleventures.sx
Website: Accessible Ventures
For accessibility information at hotels located in St. Maarten please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
