Saint Martin is an island in the Caribbean that is split between the French collectivity of Saint-Martin and the Dutch country of Sint Maarten. Beauty abounds on the island, with bluffs overlooking pretty harbors, sandy-cliffed beaches and tranquil rocky coves where fish provide the beauty.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
The northern, French side of the island is known as Saint-Martin, and is 54 km2 (21 sq mi). The southern, Dutch side of the island is known as Sint Maarten, and is 41 km2 (16 sq mi). The Dutch side has had its own government since 2010 and has its own legal system, with its relations with the French side remaining unchanged. To avoid confusion between the three variations on the name, the two regions are commonly referred to as "the French side" and "the Dutch side". Although this island is divided between two different countries, there is no real border; there are only monuments and signs that delineate the border.
There is an open border between the two sides of the island. However, ensure that you meet the visa requirements for each side of the island you wish to visit. Not having to pass through passport control does not exempt you from having to obtain a visa if needed, and you can be arrested and deported for not having a valid visa if discovered. Rental cars are available at Princess Juliana International Airport at a dedicated area outside of the airport. You'll find most of the major rental car companies available at the airport. The roads are narrow, sometimes quite bad on both sides of the island, and often very crowded between Philipsburg and Marigot.
1 Simpson Bay Lagoon. The largest inland lagoon in the Caribbean, also known as The Great Pond, separated by the French-Dutch border. The waters of the lagoon feature a variety of underwater life and two small islands. 2 Fort Louis. A French fort built in the 18th century overlooking Marigot on the French side.
Pic du Paradis, Route de Pic du Paradis from Friars Bay Beach. Pic du Paradis is the highest point on the island (1400 ft/427 m) with two viewing areas that provide great views. The road is steep and isolated and four wheel drive is required. This is also an isolated area and is safest seen as part of an excursion or tour. Loterie Farm, Rte. de Pic du Paradis, ☏ +590 87-86-16 or ☏ +590 57-28-55. Location features an excellent restaurant, a lounge with tapas, hikes and ecotours on a 150-acre preserve, and "The Fly Zone" a fun zip line experience with rope zips and an obstacle course high up in the trees.
St. Maarten / St. Martin has the nickname "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean". The French side will claim this is due to high-end French and seafood cuisine in especially Grand Case, but specialized ethnic cuisines of the more cosmopolitan Dutch side highly contribute to this reputation too. The island has some 300 restaurants with a wide variety of offerings available to tourists and locals. In spring, Tuesday evenings in Grand Case are not to be missed ("Mardis de Grand Case"). The main street dons carnival atmosphere and opens up to street vendors. The excellent local restaurants are open 'till late.
The legal drinking age on both sides of the island in 18. St. Martin's nightlife consists of many bars, nightclubs and casinos where drinking is prevalent. Start out with a happy hour at "Bamboo Bernie's" where drinking is free for a half an hour and continues until 19:00 with the highest drink price of a dollar! Many of the clubs have ladies' nights and other nightly drink specials. The Dutch side of the island has more night clubs than the French, so if you're up for the party scene, this side is the one where you should stay. Large wine menus are also usually available at most restaurants. Privé.
Sun You can burn within a remarkably short time; use sunscreen or block frequently depending on how long you're exposed. Do not fail to reapply it as recommended depending on where you are (e.g., swimming, on boat, beach walking), with special attention to feet and backs of knees and neck. Brimmed hats, umbrellas and light clothing can offer further protection. Crime Though the island is generally a safe place, like everywhere else in the world there is crime, and you should be aware of your surroundings at all times. Obviously you should lock your doors, avoid unpopulated areas and do not flash your money and jewelry around. Remember that this is a foreign country, and act accordingly.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
Top-rated tours and tickets from €31 — book ahead for the popular ones.
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In Jul, Saint Martin typically sees ~28°C daytime highs and 15 rainy days.
Flight prices are real fares travellers found in the last 48 hours, refreshed daily — the booking site confirms the final price. Train, bus and ferry fares are shown on the operators' booking sites. Weather data by Open-Meteo; exchange rates: ECB reference. Data updated 2026-07-22. Some links earn Stayonomy a commission at no cost to you.
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