St. Martin / Sint Maarten

Become an expert in curating Caribbean memories

St. Martin / Sint Maarten

The island of St. Martin / Sint Maarten boasts breathtaking shorelines, some of the prettiest beaches and bluest waters in the Caribbean, exciting nightlife, world-class shopping, and an inspiring arts and culture scene. Known as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” the destination offers world-class cuisine, a cosmopolitan culture, and unforgettable adventures.

Shared by France and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the island combines sophisticated yet comfortable living with rich cultural diversity, making it one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic and desirable destinations.

U.S. Travelers – Entry Requirements

U.S. travelers entering St. Martin / Sint Maarten must meet the following requirements:

Pro Travel Tips!

Visa Requirements:

Most travelers do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. Holders of a multiple-entry short-stay Schengen visa or a residence permit for a Schengen country also do not require a visa.

Digital ED Card:

As of October 2024, all travelers must complete a Digital Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card before landing at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). This replaces paper forms and expedites immigration.

Passport & Return Ticket:

A valid passport and proof of return or onward travel are required. French citizens may enter with a valid national identity card.

Health & Safety:

Travelers should remain alert for crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing and take standard safety precautions.

Additional Information:

Travelers may consult the official Sint Maarten Immigration website or the U.S. Department of State for updates.

Note: Travelers should always check for additional requirements based on nationality or circumstances

Official Currency

The official currencies used on St. Martin / Sint Maarten are:

Caribbean Guilder (Cg): Used on the Dutch side (Sint Maarten)
Euro (EUR): Used on the French side (Saint-Martin)
U.S. Dollar (USD): Widely accepted across both sides

Note: The Caribbean Guilder is pegged to the U.S. Dollar, while the Euro is used on the French side, which may affect exchange rates.

Time Zone

  • Atlantic Standard Time (AST)

How to Get There

Major airlines servicing St. Martin / Sint Maarten include:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Airlines (year-round service from New York City)
  • JetBlue
  • Air Canada

Official Language

Dutch & English: Official on the Dutch side (Sint Maarten)

French: Official on the French side (Saint-Martin)

Creole: Widely spoken among locals

Additional Languages: Spanish and Papiamento are also spoken

Climate

St. Martin / Sint Maarten has a tropical wet and dry climate:

Average Temperatures: 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (89.6°F)

Annual Rainfall: Approximately 1007 mm (39.6 inches)

Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season, milder temperatures)

Hurricane Season: June to November (storms affect the island less frequently than other Caribbean destinations)

Local Customs and Sayings Visitors Should Know

Dress Code:

No strict rules, but avoid overly revealing attire in upscale restaurants and clubs.

Language:

English is widely spoken; learning basic French phrases is appreciated.

Etiquette:

Life moves at a relaxed island pace—patience and politeness go a long way.

Greetings:

Common greetings include “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” and “Good evening.”

Photography:

Always ask permission before taking photos of people.

Ideal Clients for the Destination

St. Martin / Sint Maarten is ideal for:

Romantic travelers & couples

Families

Adventure seekers (hiking, sailing, diving, ziplining)

Luxury travelers, yacht cruisers & digital nomads

Business travelers & corporate retreats

The island’s diverse culture, cuisine, and activities make it a standout destination for travel advisors.

Entry Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens

Visa:

Most travelers do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days

Electronic ED Card:

Mandatory for all travelers (completed online up to 7 days prior)

Passport Validity:

Minimum of six months beyond date of entry

Proof of Onward Travel:

Required

Health & Safety:

Follow local regulations and standard travel precautions

Three Must-Do Experiences

Orient Bay Beach:

Known as the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean,” featuring white sand and turquoise waters

Maho Beach:

Famous for low-flying planes landing overhead

Pinel Island:

A serene, topless-friendly beach perfect for relaxation

Destination Contact Information

Website:

http://www.visitstmaarten.com/

Email:

visitstmaarten@shta.com

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/visitstmaarten/?hl=en

YouTube:

COMING SOON

Twitter:

COMING SOON

Main Phone Number:

721-542-0108

North American BDMs

COMING SOON​

Resorts

COMING SOON​

Promotions

COMING SOON​

Additional Notes

COMING SOON​