Welcome to Saint Martin (French)

While visitors to Saint Martin/Saint Maarten are free to discover both sides of this tiny island, here’s what we love about the French side: secluded beaches, a fantastic food scene in Marigot, a delightful boho-chic culture, lush hiking trails, historic forts and sugar mills, nature reserves and more.

Be sure to hang out on the longest beach on the island, Orient Bay, otherwise known as the “Caribbean St. Tropez,” known for its turquoise water, aquatic sports and trendy, cheerful ambience.

Unique Facts

• Saint Martin is just 34 square miles and is the world’s smallest island divided between two countries (France and the Netherlands). The southern Dutch part of the country is known as St. Maarten.
• The island, in total, has 37 beaches.
• French Saint Martin is less populated, by approximately 8,000 people, so it’s the better choice for a quiet holiday.
• The highest point on the island is Pic Paradis, accessible via the Loterie Farm hike, past an old sugar plantation, natural springs, old well and ancient ruins.
• Saint Martin is known for its culinary prowess, with European, North American, Latin and African influences. Find the very best restaurants in Marigot, the French capital.

Language

Saint Martin’s official languages are French and Dutch.

When To Go

The best time to go to Saint Martin is from December to late March.

Airports

Princess Juliana International Airport (located on Dutch side of the island)

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays under 90 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Saint Martin: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Rabies and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type E. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Euro

Getting Around

Use caution when driving as the roads are narrow and dimly lit. You may pass freely into the Dutch side of the island without stopping.

Public transportation options include minibuses and unmetered taxis.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
BridgetownACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Office du Tourisme
Route de Sandy Ground
Marigot 97150
St. Martin
Tel: 590-87-57-21

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Police: 911
Fire: 919
Ambulance: 912

Safety and Security

Crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occasionally occur at beaches, in hotel lobbies and from cars. Use standard precautionary measures and do not leave valuables unattended.