Sint Maarten

A small island with a big personality, known for its food, beaches, and busy nightlife. This guide helps you plan your trip with the best places to visit, stay, and enjoy.

Population43,923
LanguagesDutch, English
Local time5:17 PM
Flagsx flag
CurrenciesANG
Area34 km²
Sint.Maarten.webp
27°C
few clouds
Feels like: 28°C

Best time to travel

The best time to visit Sint Maarten is between December and April when the weather is warm and dry. These months offer the most comfortable conditions for enjoying the beaches, outdoor excursions, and cultural festivals. May and June are quieter and often more affordable.

Where to stay

Sint Maarten offers a wide range of places to stay, from beachfront resorts and boutique hotels to villas and guesthouses. Most accommodations are located along the southern coast, close to beaches, dining, and nightlife. Whether you're looking for comfort, convenience, or a quieter stay by the water, here are a few key areas to consider.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital and a popular base for cruise visitors and shoppers. Hotels here are near the waterfront, boardwalk, and duty free stores. It’s a good option for travelers who want easy access to town and the beach.

Philipsburg, Anttigua and Barbuda

Philipsburg. Photo by Luigi Rosa. CCy by.

Simpson Bay

Simpson Bay is one of the most versatile areas on the island, offering hotels, condos, and beach bars all within walking distance. It’s close to the airport and known for its dining, nightlife, and water sports.

Simpson Bay, Antigua and Barbuda

Simpson Bay. Photo by Alljengi. CC by.

Maho and Mullet Bay

This area is close to the famous Maho Beach and Princess Juliana Airport. It has larger resorts, casinos, and nightlife, making it a lively choice for travelers who want entertainment nearby.

Mullet Bay

Mullet Bay. Photo by Richie Diesterheft. CC by,

Is Sint Maarten safe?

Sint Maarten is generally a safe place to visit, especially in popular areas like Philipsburg, Simpson Bay, and resort zones. The island welcomes a steady flow of tourists year round, and local businesses are well accustomed to travelers. Overall, with basic awareness, most visitors enjoy Sint Maarten without any issues.

Top things to do

Sint Maarten offers a mix of beaches, local culture, water activities, and unique sights. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or enjoy the food and nightlife, the island has plenty to keep you busy during your stay.

Watch planes at Maho Beach

This world famous beach is known for its low flying planes landing at the nearby airport. It’s a must see spot for photos and a fun experience right by the sea.

Maho Beach

Maho Beach Airplane landing. Photo by Kendallpools. CC by.

Explore Philipsburg

Walk along the boardwalk, visit duty free shops, or stop at a café near the harbor. It’s a great place to take in local life and enjoy the view of cruise ships.

Explore Philipsburg, Sint Marteen

Philipsburg. Photo by Paul Sableman. CC by.

FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach
Free cancellation
4.4 (211)
FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach
5h - 6h
$60
St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour
Free cancellation
4.5 (486)
St Maarten Shore Excursion: Orient and Maho Beach Half-Day Tour
5h
$55
St-Martin and St Maarten: Sightseeing Tour of the French and Dutch Sides of the Island
Free cancellation
4.5 (412)
St-Martin and St Maarten: Sightseeing Tour of the French and Dutch Sides of the Island
4h 30min
$56

Go on a boat tour

From sailing trips to snorkeling tours, boat excursions are one of the best ways to see the coast. Many tours leave from Simpson Bay and visit nearby coves or islands.

Captain Bob Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch St Maarten
Free cancellation
4.9 (4,342)
Captain Bob Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch St Maarten
6h
$139
Cristal Speed boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch St Maarten
Free cancellation
4.8 (40)
Cristal Speed boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch St Maarten
6h
$139
 Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour Pinel & Tintamarre Islands for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS
Free cancellation
5 (134)
Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour Pinel & Tintamarre Islands for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS
6h
$139

Nightlife

Sint Maarten is known for its energetic nightlife, with plenty of places to drink, dance, and enjoy live music by the water. Most of the action happens in areas like Simpson Bay and Maho, where beach bars, nightclubs, and casinos stay open late. Whether you're in the mood for a laidback drink or a full night out, the island has something for every kind of traveler.

  • 3 Amigos - A lively bar and grill near Maho Beach with music, dancing, and a fun crowd.
  • Topper’s - A popular restaurant and bar with karaoke, live music, and a welcoming vibe.
  • Casino Royale - The island’s largest casino offering games, shows, and entertainment into the night.
  • The Hole in the Wall - A favorite for late night drinks, karaoke, and a social atmosphere.

Where is Sint Maarten?

Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, about 190 miles east of Puerto Rico. It occupies the southern part of the island of Saint Martin and is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Nearby islands include Anguilla to the north, Saint Barthélemy to the southeast. Despite its small size, Sint Maarten is a major travel hub with a busy international airport and regular ferry connections to neighboring islands.

Fun facts

  • Starfish

    Maho Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the world because planes fly just overhead as they land at the nearby airport.

  • Starfish

    You can drive to Saint Martin in a couple of minutes without going through a border checkpoint.

  • Starfish

    Sint Maarten shares the island with Saint Martin, making it the smallest landmass in the world shared by two countries.

FAQ Sint Maarteen

Cities in Sint Maarten

Philipsburg Hero
Sint Maarten flag
Capital
few clouds28°C

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of Sint Maarten and a popular Caribbean cruise port, known for duty free shopping, close to everything and Great Bay Beach right in town.

Explore Philipsburg

Nearby Countries

Saint Martin
Saint Martin flag
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Saint Martin

Saint Martin is a small island known for beach bars, open borders and a blend of French and Dutch charm.

Explore Saint Martin
Anguilla flag
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Anguilla

Anguilla is a small, tranquil Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches and upscale atmosphere.

Explore Anguilla
St.Barth.webp
Saint Barthélemy flag
clear sky25°C

Saint Barthélemy

An exclusive Caribbean retreat blending sophistication and natural beauty.

Explore Saint Barthélemy
Saba
Saba flag
clear sky26°C

Saba

Unspoiled Caribbean volcano island with epic hikes, world-class diving and zero beaches.

Explore Saba