When you come to St. Martin, you have a unique mix of laid-back Caribbean lifestyle and exciting, fast-paced opportunities to party. That’s because the island is actually divided into two parts, with the French side enjoying a slower pace and the Dutch side offering up action. From a villa here, you can enjoy them both, and the information contained on these pages will help you plan a trip to St. Martin that will give you the best of both worlds.
| January |
84° F
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° F
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| February |
84° F
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° F
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| March |
85° F
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° F
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| April |
76° F
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° F
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| May |
87° F
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° F
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| June |
89° F
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° F
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| July |
89° F
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° F
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| August |
89° F
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° F
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| September |
89° F
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° F
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| October |
89° F
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° F
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| November |
86° F
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° F
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| December |
85° F
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° F
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| January |
1.35 inches
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| February |
1.25 inches
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| March |
0.88 inches
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| April |
1.76 inches
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| May |
1.77 inches
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| June |
1.68 inches
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| July |
1.93 inches
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| August |
2.39 inches
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| September |
2.49 inches
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| October |
2.91 inches
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| November |
3.78 inches
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| December |
1.78 inches
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For travelers who’d like to mix a Caribbean-style beach vacation with European food and flair, the Dutch/French island of St. Maarten/St. Martin is an ideal choice.
Tucked at the top of the Guadeloupe Archipelago, just 144 miles from Puerto Rico, this island’s two sides share beautiful beaches, hilly terrain, a host of coves and bays and hotels in every price range, but the pace and personality of each side differs tremendously.
The French side offers a more sophisticated, laid-back milieu and some of the best dining in the Caribbean. It’s cafe society is in the capital Marigot. People-watching is a thriving sport at cafes like La Vie en Rose. Also downtown is a flourishing open-air market that offers a mix of traditional Caribbean souvenirs and lovely locally made art, along with the requisite upscale tourist traps found elsewhere in the islands.
Best of all, visitors can sample the sights and sounds of both sides without much trouble. At 37 square miles, it’s relatively easy to get around, but make sure to bring along a good map, as many roads are less than well marked. Many travelers opt to rent a car for a day or so to soak up the island’s full flavor; others opt for public bus service, or take a taxi after negotiating a rate.
Visitors often spend a day frolicking on the beach, head to the restaurant-rich village of Grand Case on the French side for a sumptuous meal and repair to the casinos of the Dutch side before calling it a night.
In addition, St. Martin is an ideal jumping-off point for visits to tiny Saba and neighboring Anguilla, both of which can be reached by ferry. English is spoken in most of the big hotels on St. Martin, but be aware that it is very French, right down to the baguettes, the wine and the language.
St. Martin is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples before being discovered by European explorers in the late 15th century.
In 1493, Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain during his second voyage to the New World. However, it wasn’t until 1631 that the Dutch West India Company established a permanent settlement on the island, making it the first European colony on St. Martin. The Dutch named their settlement Fort Amsterdam, while the French established a colony on the northern side of the island and named it Quartier d’Orleans.
For the next century, the island was divided between the Dutch and French, with each side establishing their own settlements and trading with indigenous peoples and African slaves. However, in 1648, the two sides signed a treaty that divided the island equally between them, creating the unique dual-nation status that still exists today.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, St. Martin was a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with the Dutch and French bringing thousands of enslaved Africans to the island to work on plantations producing sugar, tobacco, and cotton. However, in 1848, slavery was abolished in both Dutch and French St. Martin, leading to a decline in the plantation economy.
In the early 20th century, St. Martin experienced a period of economic stagnation until the 1930s when the island became a popular stop for American tourists traveling to and from Europe. This influx of visitors brought a new era of prosperity and development to the island, with the construction of hotels and resorts to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
In 1957, St. Martin officially became an overseas territory of France, while the Dutch side remained within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This division allowed for each side to maintain its own unique cultural identity while also benefiting from the shared tourism industry.
Today, St. Martin is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant blend of French, Dutch, and Caribbean cultures. The island continues to thrive economically, with tourism being a major contributor to its economy.
St. Martin’s history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people, who have been able to overcome challenges and conflicts to create a thriving and unique island nation.
Le Cottage boasts island style French food and a stellar wine list. Chef David Hanquer has worked in several Parisian restaurants (including the one-Michelin-starred Nikko Hotel), and is inspired by the island’s bountiful ingredients and his classical training. From mahi-mahi in mango sauce to lobster bisque, foie gras and duck tataki or a fresh, goat cheese salad medley, the menu is sure to please every palate.
Casino Royale in St Maarten is the largest on the island, boasting 14,000 square feet of gaming and a full theater for events and shows. With 30 tables of gaming, you can choose from roulette (American and French), craps, baccarat, blackjack and poker (Three Card Poker, Let It Ride, Caribbean Poker and Texas Hold em). The 400 slot machines include a variety of classics and modern video slots. Casino Royale also has a private "high-roller" area with the highest table limits on the island. Open every day from 1 pm to 4 am, gambling is made easy any time you feel a surge of luck come on. Rhine Road #1, Maho Bay, St Maarten, Netherlands Antilles
This Grande Case restaurant is located in a 120-year-old French Antillean house. The elegant dining area is rivaled by their menu selection. Start off with garlic escargots or coquilles St. Jacques with scallops and shrimp, then enjoy rack of lamb or a filet mignon. Choose from an extensive wine list, as well. Be prepared for parking challenges.
Getting to Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens need a valid passport, or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, and proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, to enter either St Maarten or St Martin; a return ticket or proof of onward travel is also required. No visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens require a passport valid for the period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months. A return ticket or proof of onward travel is required. This applies to both Dutch and French national sectors of the island.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens need a valid passport or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, to enter either St Maarten or St Martin, and a return ticket or proof of onward travel is required. No visa is required for a stay of up to 14 days.
Princess Juliana International Airport, St. Maarten
There is a US$30.00 per person. Payment is required before boarding and they will only accept cash or traveler’s checks. Some airlines have already incorporated the departure tax into the price of the ticket. If you are not sure, check with your airline.
On the right. A valid foreign or international driver’s license is required for car rentals, but a temporary St. Martin/St. Maarten driver’s license is not issued.
2021
1. Taxis: Taxis are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in St. Martin. They are readily available at the airport, major hotels, and tourist areas. Taxis are also a good option for short trips within the island.
2. Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available in St. Martin, and most of them offer a variety of vehicles to choose from.
3. Public Buses: The island has a local bus system that connects major towns and villages. The buses are inexpensive and a good option for budget travelers. However, they can be crowded and may not always run on schedule.
4. Water Taxis: As St. Martin is an island, water taxis are a popular mode of transportation for getting around. They are a great way to visit nearby islands and beaches. Water taxis are also available for private hire.
5. Scooters: Scooters are a fun and convenient way to get around the island. They are available for rent at various locations and are a popular choice for tourists.
6. Bicycle Rentals: St. Martin has many scenic bike paths, making it a great place to explore on two wheels. Bicycle rentals are available at various locations on the island.
7. Walking: Many areas of St. Martin are easily accessible on foot, especially in the main towns. Walking is a great way to explore the island and take in its beautiful scenery.
8. Private Transfers: Private transfers are a convenient and comfortable option for getting around St. Martin. They can be arranged through hotels or tour companies and are a good option for larger groups.
9. Ferries: Ferries are available for travel between St. Martin and neighboring islands such as Anguilla and St. Barts. They are a popular choice for day trips and offer beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
10. Helicopter Tours: For a unique and luxurious mode of transportation, consider taking a helicopter tour of the island. This is a great option for those looking for a scenic and memorable experience.
Before making their way to Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin even more relaxing.
| Capital: | Marigot (French), Philipsburg (Dutch) |
|---|---|
| Population: | St. Maarten: 41,000 - St. Martin: 36,000 |
| Size: | 37 square miles total; 16 Dutch and 21 French. |
| Electric Current: | 110/220 |
| Time: | zone:-4 (GMT/UTC ) |
| Official Language: | French and Dutch respectively are the official languages, but English is common. |
| Currency: | Dutch - Netherlands Antillean florin, U.S. dollars widely accepted. French - The euro, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. |
| Tipping and Taxes: | Before you leave a tip, check the bottom of the menu or your bill as some restaurants automatically add on a 15% service charge/gratuity, however, you may wish to add an additional 5% for excellent service. Please note, there is nothing called 'tipping' in France. It is called "service." |
| Dress Code: | Daytime attire is casual, but keep bathing suits and bikinis for the beach. Light cottons, linens and a good sun hat are your best options. In the evening, the island’s finer restaurants and nightlife spots gives you the opportunity to wear something a little more special with a tropical flair. |
| Topography: | French St. Martin is hilly where some of the hills are sparsely wooded with a few areas of heavy vegetation. Dutch St. Maarten is more arid and flat. There are many bays and creeks along the shores of the island and a few salt ponds. |
| Telephone: | St. Maarten is Dutch - Local numbers have seven digits. For directory assistance dial 150. To make a local call within St Maarten you need only dial the seven-digit number. St. Martin is French - 590 590 plus the six digit number for landlines; 590 690 for cell phones Calls between the Dutch and French sides of the island are considered international calls. |
Vacationers don’t just stay in Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! Dutch - Passports, birth certificates and two photo ID’s. If necessary proof of divorce and/or death certificates, names of parents, maiden names of mothers, place and dates of birth. Requests must be made 14 days in advance, and divorced women may not marry until 306 days have passed since getting their divorce finalized.
French - Passports, birth certificate; surname, names, date and place of birth of the father and mother of the future spouses; surname, names, date and place of birth of the witnesses as well as their addresses and professions. A letter that has been signed and dated by the future spouses and addressed to the President of the Territorial Council requesting that he apply article 58 of the Law n 2009-594 of May 27, 2009 on a specific date, which should be indicated in the letter. Because there is a minimum of one month wait period before getting married on St. Martin, most couples choose to marry on the St. Maarten side of the island.
