Caribbean
Sint Maarten
The Dutch half of a shared island, with lively Maho and Philipsburg nightlife, cruise crowds and easy hops to French Saint Martin, Anguilla and St Barth. Busy, touristy and hurricane-prone.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautions
- CurrencyXCGUS$1 ≈ ANG1.79Details
- Price level76%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English5/5Spoken almost everywhere
- PlugsType A, B110 V, 60 HzDetails
- Emergency911Police 911 · Ambulance 912 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911
- Tap waterYes, drinkableTap water is desalinated and safe to drink; many hotels also offer bottled water.
- LGBTQ+Marriage equalitySint Maarten follows Dutch Kingdom law, including same-sex marriage; the island is relatively tolerant with a small LGBTQ+ scene.
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences are accepted for short visits; rental companies may ask for an IDP.
Where to go in Sint Maarten
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sint MaartenIsland | 4/5 | $4,500–6,500 | Dec–Apr | — |
When to visit Sint Maarten
December–April is dry and busiest; May–November is hotter and hurricane-prone (peak August–October).
Good to know
Entry
- Complete the online entry form (E-Entry/immigration card) before arrival.
- You may be asked for a return ticket and proof of accommodation.
- A US$ airport departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Cannabis is illegal in most uses; possession can lead to arrest.
- Nude sunbathing is only allowed at designated beaches.
Etiquette
- Cover up away from the beach
- Be careful near the Maho runway
- Tipping is expected when not included
Tipping
A 15% service charge is often added; check the bill before adding more.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.