St. Maarten / St. Martin is the smallest landmass in the world shared by two nations, the Kingdom of the Netherlands and France. For more than 375 years, the island has been peacefully divided, creating a destination shaped by two cultures that exist side by side. The Dutch side moves with energy and color. The French side slows the pace with cafés, coastal villages, and a strong culinary identity. Crossing the border takes only minutes, yet the atmosphere, language, and flavors subtly shift.
The result is an island with real contrast in a compact space. European influence blends naturally with Caribbean rhythm. Fine dining sits alongside beach bars. Marinas, quiet bays, colorful streets, and hillside viewpoints are all within easy reach. Fly to St. Maarten and make the most of your time, with more to see and do in a single trip.
Known as “The Friendly Island,” St. Maarten / St. Martin welcomes visitors with 37 pristine beaches, world-class dining that has earned it the title of “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” duty-free shopping, and an energy that ranges from laid-back beach vibes to vibrant nightlife. With over 100 nationalities calling the island home, this is the Caribbean through a cosmopolitan lens.
Get There with interCaribbean Airways
interCaribbean Airways connects St. Maarten (SXM) with convenient non-stop service from Barbados (BGI) and Tortola (EIS), providing seamless connections to destinations across the Caribbean. From our Barbados hub, travelers from Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent can easily reach St. Maarten and begin exploring The Friendly Island.
| Route | Flight Time | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Barbados (BGI) – St. Maarten (SXM) | 115 minutes | Non-stop |
| Tortola (EIS) – St. Maarten (SXM) | 40 minutes | Non-stop |
Ready to go?
Before you travel to St. Maarten / St. Martin, please complete and submit the official entry form as required prior to arrival. Then get ready to explore an island shaped by two cultures, diverse beaches, and effortless cross-border experiences.
What documents do I need to enter St. Maarten / St. Martin?
All travelers must present a valid passport upon arrival. In addition, visitors are required to complete and submit digital embarkation/disembarkation entry form prior to travel. Entry form is still in testing phase and is not mandatory to fill in prior to check-in or boarding. Depending on your nationality, a visa may also be required for entry to the Dutch side (St. Maarten) or the French side (Saint Martin). Requirements are based on citizenship.
When is the best time to visit?
St. Maarten / St. Martin enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures averaging 27-30°C (80-86°F). The dry season runs from December to April, coinciding with peak tourist season and major events like Carnival and the Heineken Regatta. The wet season from May to November brings brief afternoon showers but also lower prices and fewer crowds. Hurricane season peaks from August to October.
How do I get there with interCaribbean Airways?
interCaribbean Airways connects St. Maarten (SXM) with convenient non-stop service from Barbados (BGI) and Tortola (EIS), providing seamless connections to destinations across the Caribbean. From our Barbados hub, travelers from Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent can easily reach St. Maarten and begin exploring The Friendly Island.
How do I get around the island?
St. Maarten / St. Martin is compact and easy to explore. You can drive around the island in about an hour, depending on traffic.
Car rentals are widely available, and driving is on the right. Taxis and local minibuses operate island-wide, offering convenient transport along main routes.
There are no border controls between the Dutch and French sides, so movement across the island is seamless. Ferries also connect St. Maarten to Anguilla, Saba, St. Barth, and St. Eustatius for easy island hopping.
Do I need a plug adapter?
It depends on which side of the island you are staying on.
On the Dutch side (St. Maarten), electricity is 110 volts / 60 Hz with US-style plugs. On the French side (Saint Martin), electricity is 220 volts / 60 Hz with European-style plugs.
Most hotels support both plug types, but bringing a universal plug adapter is recommended to avoid any inconvenience.
Can I get a local SIM card?
Yes, you can get a local SIM cards and service packages on both the Dutch side (St. Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin).
You can purchase prepaid SIM cards at mobile network stores, and some convenience shops. Short-term data plans are available and suitable for visitors.
