How long to stay in Sint Maarten?


How long to stay in Sint Maarten? St. Maarten (and its French counterpart, St. Martin) is considered the melting pot of the Caribbean. Three days are enough time to experience the island's rich diversity of cultures and activities, and even venture farther afield in the Lesser Antilles.


Is St Maarten a party island?

Maarten is known for its exciting nightlife where the guava berry liqueur flows, and the casinos invite you in for a night of luck.


Do we need a car in St. Maarten?

To get the most out of your vacation and really explore the island, we recommend you rent a car on St. Martin.


Which side of St Maarten is nicer?

While Sint Maarten has the upper hand in nightlife, the French side of the island is known for having the more pristine beaches. Notoriously white sands edge up against crystalline turquoise oceans on the shorelines along the island's northern face.


Is St. Martin walkable?

Even though it's only 37 square miles in size (and you can drive all around the small island in a mere 2 hours), it's not very walkable. Of course, you can walk around the capital cities and villages. And there are some incredible hikes. But outside of that, it's best to rent a car.


What should I pack for St Maarten?

Beach dresses, cargo shorts, tshirts, and anything that will keep you cool under the Caribbean Sun. During the summer months, the weather is known for being sunny and bright, so don't forget to bring a cap, sun hat or your most fabulous pair of sunglasses.


Where not to stay in St Maarten?

I would avoid anything in Marigot, Sandy Ground, Nettle Bay, Dutch and French Quarters, Lower and Upper Prince Quarter, Cole Bay, Mary's Fancy, etc. These are locals areas and not much there for tourists. I am not sure there ARE AirBnBs in those areas but there could be.


How do you get around St. Maarten without a car?

Traveling by public bus (more like a minivan) is a reasonable means of transport on St. Maarten/St. Martin if you don't mind a bit of inconvenience and overcrowding. Buses run daily from 5am to midnight and serve most major locations on both sides of the island.


What is the cheapest month to go to St. Maarten?

High season is considered to be February, March and April. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is September. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest St. Maarten flight deals.


Is crime bad in St. Martin?

Most visits to the Dutch Caribbean are trouble-free. However, petty theft and street crime occur. There is violent crime amongst members of the illegal drugs world, but this rarely affects tourists. The main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take sensible precautions.


What drink is St Maarten known for?

Guavaberry is the legendary folk liqueur of St. Maarten. It was first made here centuries ago in private homes.


Is St Maarten worth it?

Maarten is one of the world's most stunning islands. Thousands of tourists return to the island year after year, basking in the bright Caribbean sun and clear turquoise waters. St. Maarten is a true tropical paradise, combining vibrant island culture with elegant European charm.


What is the best month to go to St Maarten?

The dry season, from December to April, is the most pleasant. This is also the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the agreeable weather and summer temperatures. The sunshine is almost constant during this period, with hardly any rain.


Is St. Martin safe for American tourists?

The dual-nation island is just as safe as other island getaways. Crowds are denser in St. Maarten, however, so travelers should exercise common sense when moving around the tourist areas; leave your valuables at home, and only carry small bills.


Are there Ubers on St Maarten?

There are no Uber services in St Maarten nor any other rideshare options here. You'll have to take a taxi, use public transport or book a car rental in St Maarten.


Do they speak English in St. Martin?

English is the most commonly spoken language along with a local dialect. The official languages are French for Saint-Martin, and both Dutch and English for Sint Maarten.


Why is St Maarten so popular?

Martin is a must-visit. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fusion of French and Dutch cultures create a unique experience. The island's charm, warm hospitality, and diverse activities make it well worth the trip.


Can I use my US phone in St Maarten?

Yes, you can use your cell phone on St. Martin to call inside the island or to anywhere else.


Can you travel freely between St. Martin and St Maarten?

Many cruise ships visit the island on a weekly basis, docking at the Port of St. Maarten in Philipsburg. You will need a passport to travel to and from St. Martin but rest assured that you can travel freely between the island's French and Dutch sides.


Is it better to go to St. Maarten or St. Martin?

Many people prefer Dutch Sint Maarten since it is more developed. This indicates that the amenities and services are more plentiful on this side of the island. However, those who choose a more relaxed setting stay at French Saint Martin. In addition, it has a more “Caribbean vibe”.


Is St. Maarten safe to walk around?

St. Maarten is generally considered a safe place to visit, but as with any tourist destination there are some general safety precautions you should take. St. Martin is one of the safest warm weather climate (outside US) locations to visit.