St. Maarten / St. Martin: Essential Travel Information

Your complete guide to planning and enjoying your Caribbean getaway

Location & Arrival

Nestled in the northern Caribbean, St. Maarten / St. Martin forms part of the Leeward Islands in the West Indies, approximately 144 miles east of Puerto Rico. The island’s main gateway, Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), welcomes travelers from around the world.

Uniquely, the island is shared by two nations – Dutch St. Maarten in the south and French St. Martin in the north – offering a captivating blend of European charm and Caribbean warmth.

Travel Documents

A valid passport is required for all air travel to and from St. Maarten.

Guests are encouraged to verify the most up-to-date entry and exit requirements before travel by visiting the official tourism website: www.st-maarten.com/requirements.htm

Getting Here

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is served by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue, providing direct and connecting flights from numerous U.S. and international cities.

For regional connections, Grand Case Airport (SFG) on the French side offers convenient access to neighboring islands.

Island Exploration & Day Trips

St. Maarten / St. Martin is an ideal base for exploring nearby Caribbean destinations. Popular day trips include:

  • St. Barths – Just a 10-minute flight or 45-minute ferry ride
  • Anguilla – Reachable via a 20-minute ferry from Marigot
  • Saba – A diver’s paradise, approximately a one-hour ferry journey away

Please note: A valid passport is required for all international excursions, including day trips. Our Concierge Desk will be delighted to assist with bookings and travel arrangements.

Island Culture

Language

Dutch and French are the official languages; however, English is widely spoken throughout the island.

Dress Code

The island maintains a casually elegant atmosphere. Resort wear is suitable for most settings, though some fine dining restaurants and casinos may request more formal attire.

Currency

The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted. Official currencies are the Antillean Guilder (ANG) on the Dutch side and the Euro (EUR) on the French side.

Climate

Expect a warm, tropical climate moderated by gentle trade winds. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to high-80s °F (mid-20s to low-30s °C). Short tropical showers can occur – daily sunscreen use is recommended.

Practical Information

  • Business Hours: Hours vary by area. Many shops in Marigot close for a midday break, and most businesses are closed on Sunday.
  • Electricity: The Dutch side uses 110 V / 60 Hz (U.S. standard); the French side uses 220 V / 60 Hz (European standard). A converter or adapter may be needed.
  • Transportation: Taxis are readily available at government-regulated rates. An affordable public bus service also connects major areas.
  • Communications: Most major cellular carriers offer international roaming. Please check with your provider prior to travel for available plans.

Medical Services: Hospitals & Pharmacies

Medical Emergencies

In the event of a medical emergency, St. Maarten / St. Martin is served by two modern hospitals equipped to manage a wide range of medical situations:

  • Dutch Side: St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), located in Cay Hill
  • French Side: Hospital Louis-Constant Fleming, located near Marigot

For critical or specialized cases, both facilities can coordinate air ambulance transfers to major international medical centers when necessary.

Pharmacies & Prescriptions

Pharmacies are easily accessible across the island and provide both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

  • Convenient Local Option: A pharmacy in the Maho Village is just a short walk from your accommodation.
  • French Side: Pharmacies in Marigot are identified by the familiar green-cross signage.

While local pharmacies are well-stocked, their inventory may not include the extensive range of non-medical products found in larger North American chains. Guests are encouraged to bring an adequate supply of any personal or prescription medications required during their stay.

Shopping

Boutique & Duty-Free Shopping

Just steps from the resort, Maho Village offers a vibrant shopping experience featuring a curated selection of boutiques, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops – all offering duty-free savings well below U.S. retail prices.

Front Street in Philipsburg

For a more extensive duty-free experience, visit Front Street in Philipsburg, the bustling capital of Dutch St. Maarten. This world-renowned shopping district is celebrated for exceptional value across a wide range of goods, including:

  • Luxury items: Fine jewelry, watches, leather goods, and designer fashions
  • Electronics and cameras
  • Perfumes, cosmetics, and tobacco products
  • Fine spirits, wines, and imported delicacies, such as Dutch cheeses

Marigot

On the French side, Marigot offers a charming, open-air Caribbean atmosphere filled with designer boutiques, artisan shops, and chic French cafés – perfect for a relaxed day of shopping and dining.

Groceries & Everyday Essentials

For your daily needs, Maho Express, located at the entrance of the Royal Islander Club, provides a convenient, well-stocked selection of groceries, beverages, and familiar brands – ideal for restocking your in-room kitchen or refrigerator.

Helpful Tip: While U.S. dollars are widely accepted in boutiques, grocery stores typically list prices in Antillean Guilders (ANG) or Euros (EUR). Simply inform the cashier that you wish to pay in U.S. dollars; the current exchange rate will be applied automatically at checkout.

Transportation Guide

Airport Transfers

Upon arrival at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), you’ll find taxis readily available just outside the arrivals terminal. Please note that the resort does not provide a dedicated airport shuttle service.

Taxi Fare to the Resort

The taxi fare from SXM Airport to the Royal Islander Club is a fixed rate per vehicle:

  • Approximately US $10 for 1–2 passengers
  • About US $4 per person for groups of 4 or more

Fares may vary slightly based on luggage and time of travel. We recommend confirming the total fare with your driver before departure.

Car Rentals

For guests wishing to explore the island at their own pace, Dollar/Thrifty Car Rental conveniently operates a rental desk in the resort lobby, offering a range of vehicles and personalized service for all your transportation needs.

Public Transportation

A reliable and economical public bus system connects all major points across the island.

  • Bus Stop: Directly outside the resort entrance
  • Fare: US $2.00 per person, one way
  • Payment: Exact change required
  • Routes: Regular service to Philipsburg, Marigot, Mullet Bay, Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Grand Case

Whether you prefer a private taxi, a scenic drive, or a casual island bus ride, getting around St. Maarten / St. Martin is convenient, safe, and enjoyable.