Island, Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten
Dutch side of a two-nation island: casinos, Maho Beach planes, big cruise-day crowds and an easy hop to French Saint-Martin. Fast to reach, but traffic and prices can feel less relaxed.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$4,500–6,500Comfortable, one person · $4,500–6,500Details
- Best time to goDec–AprWarmest: Sep, 29°CDetails
- Tap waterYes, drinkableTap water is desalinated and safe to drink; many hotels also offer bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: spoken almost everywhereDetails
- Doctor's visit$70–130Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundLocal bus (shared van)Walkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardCards almost everywhereCards and USD accepted almost everywhere; euros accepted on the French side.Details
Where to stay in Sint Maarten
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Simpson Bay | Easiest base: restaurants, nightlife, marina and near the airport |
| Philipsburg | Cruise port, shops, beachfront boardwalk and cheaper stays |
| Maho | Beach resorts and casinos near the planes |
| Cupecoy | Quiet beaches and condos near the French border |
Apps that work in Sint Maarten
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Taxis: No Uber or Lyft; taxis use set rates posted in lists, and drivers dispatch via a central service. Ask your hotel to call.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Sint Maarten.
- Cards almost everywhere Cards and USD accepted almost everywhere; euros accepted on the French side. Carry small bills for buses and beach bars.
- Currency: Guilder (XCG). US$1 ≈ ANG1.79 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATMs in Philipsburg and Simpson Bay dispense US$ or ANG; fees depend on your bank.
- Tipping: A 15% service charge is often added; check the bill before adding more.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and contactless cards work in shops and restaurants.
Before you go
Visa and 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.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 912 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 110 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
TelCell and Digicel prepaid SIMs in shops with passport; coverage extends to the French side with roaming. eSIMs work for visitors.
Going to Sint Maarten solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Sint Maarten meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety 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.