Caribbean · St Maarten / St Martin
St Maarten Travel Guide
The world's smallest island shared by two nations — Dutch south, French north. Pancakes for lunch, cross an invisible border, and eat baguettes for dinner. Maho Beach with jets landing overhead is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How Do You Get to Maho Beach?
Walk into Philipsburg (5 min). For Maho Beach, taxi $15 (20 min). For Orient Bay on the French side, taxi $25 (30 min).
What Can You Do in 6 Hours?
Maho Beach — Watch planes land directly overhead. The jet blast at takeoff is powerful. Sunset Beach Bar is the viewing spot.
Orient Bay — Stunning 2km white sand beach with beach bars. Calm, crystal-clear water.
Philipsburg — Front Street duty-free shopping, the Courthouse, and Great Bay boardwalk.
Marigot — French capital with waterfront market, Fort Louis, and French bakeries.
Where Should You Eat?
French side lolos: BBQ grills in Marigot and Grand Case serving grilled lobster and fish at half restaurant prices.
Grand Case: The gourmet capital of the Caribbean. Tiny French town packed with excellent restaurants.
Is St Maarten Worth Exploring Independently?
Philipsburg is walkable, Maho Beach is a cheap taxi. Ship excursions are overpriced. Go independent and eat on the French side.
Useful Local Phrases
English widely spoken
Dutch and French also used
(n/a)
Bonjour
Hello (French side)
(bon-ZHOOR)
Local Tips
- •Maho Beach: check flight schedules online — big jets create the most dramatic experience.
- •No border controls between Dutch and French sides.
- •Orient Bay on the French side is one of the Caribbean's best beaches.
- •US dollars accepted on both sides.