Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin?

  • Cole Bay is home to the largest duty-free shopping mall in the Caribbean.
  • The beach at Cole Bay is often referred to as "The Sunset Beach" due to its picturesque views of the nearby islands.
  • It is located on the Dutch side of the island and is a popular destination for tourists.
  • The town of Cole Bay is home to the oldest synagogue in the Caribbean.
  • The local cuisine in Cole Bay is a mixture of Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences.

Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
84° F
° F
February
84° F
° F
March
85° F
° F
April
76° F
° F
May
87° F
° F
June
89° F
° F
July
89° F
° F
August
89° F
° F
September
89° F
° F
October
89° F
° F
November
86° F
° F
December
85° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.35 inches
February
1.25 inches
March
0.88 inches
April
1.76 inches
May
1.77 inches
June
1.68 inches
July
1.93 inches
August
2.39 inches
September
2.49 inches
October
2.91 inches
November
3.78 inches
December
1.78 inches
Loterie Farm (Paradise Peak)

Zip over treetops at loterie farm's private nature reserve

Located near the foot of Paradise Peak, Loterie Farm's private nature reserve offers days of fun activities the whole family will enjoy including horseback riding, hiking, eco-tours, mountain climbing, yoga and much more. This peaceful 135-acre preserve also has a kids' area with suspended bridges and rope swings. Our favorite is "The Fly Zone". Get a birds-eye-view of the forest canopy and soar above tree tops on the adrenaline-pumping zip-line. Loterie Farm hiking trails travel 1400 feet to the top of St. Martin's highest point. You can't beat the panoramic view. If you're hungry, relax at the Hidden Forest Café. Bon Apetit magazine raved about this tree house-like eatery in February 2007. Or you can enjoy tapas and tropical drinks at The Tree Lounge. Both use ultra-fresh ingredients found on the island and garnished with flowers picked right inside the nature reserve.

Ocean 82

Voted top restaurant by the Caribbean Journal 2023

Refined French cuisine with a magnificent ocean view is the mix of senses Chef Franck and owner Romain would like you to experience. Situated in the heart of Grand Case village, Ocean 82 offers you a wide variety of seafood products served all year long like oysters and various fish, as well as more traditional meals like braised lamb shanks. Diversity is not what is missing at Ocean 82, as it also accommodates a special gluten-free and vegetarian menu.

Bistrot Caraibes

Voted top restaurant by Caribbean Journal 2023

Bistrot Caraibes prides itself on serving some of the most savory, mouthwatering dishes that will ever touch your mouth. Whether you decide to try the house specialty of Lobster Thermidor, or the notoriously flavorful grilled rack of lamb, you can expect to have some of the best food that you have ever had in your life. Much of the beauty of Bistrot Caraibes can be found in its upscale, elegant, yet markedly casual dining atmosphere. Often considered to be one of the most romantic French restaurants on the island, Bistrot Caraibes is a restaurant that has seen its fair share of marriage proposals simply due to the serene and intimate atmosphere that it has managed to cultivate.

Transportation on Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin

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 Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Martin is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for most visitors, but travelers may need to complete an entry form or health declaration depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. Martin.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required on the French side, obtainable at the local police station.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads and clear signage.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-40 mph (40-64 km/h) in urban areas and higher speeds on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and driving customs. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busy areas.

Know Before You Go...® - Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin Travel Tips

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: Sint MaartenPhilipsburg
Population: 2021Approximately 10,000.
Size: 2010Unknown.
Electric Current: 110/220
Official Language: The official language spoken in Cole Bay, located on the Dutch side of the island, is Dutch. However, English is also commonly spoken as a secondary language due to the influence of tourism and the large expat community. Both languages are widely used in
Currency: Cole Bay, located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten, has a diverse range of currency options and payment methods available to visitors. The official currency of St. Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), which is also commonly referred to as the florin. This currency is used by the majority of locals and businesses in Cole Bay, and can be easily exchanged for other major currencies such as the US dollar, euro, and British pound at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. In addition to the ANG, the US dollar is widely accepted as a form of payment in Cole Bay. Many businesses, particularly those catering to tourists, will accept US dollars for purchases and may even display prices in both ANG and USD. However, it is important to note that the exchange rate used by businesses may not be as favorable as those offered by banks or exchange offices. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in Cole Bay, particularly at larger establishments such as
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Cole Bay, located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten, follow similar customs and regulations as the rest of the Caribbean. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a customary practice to show appreciation for good service. The general rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the total bill at restaurants and bars, and to tip 1-2 USD per bag for hotel porters. Tipping in cash is preferred, as credit card tips may not always go directly to the service staff. In terms of taxes, the Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% is added to most goods and services in Cole Bay. This includes dining at restaurants, shopping, and accommodation. However, some hotels and restaurants may include the VAT in their listed prices. Additionally, there is a service charge of 10-15% added to hotel and restaurant bills, which goes towards staff tips and is usually divided among the employees. There is also a departure tax of $35 USD per person for international flights leaving from Princess Jul
Dress Code: The dress code in Cole Bay on the Dutch side is likely to be casual and relaxed.
Topography: Cole Bay, located on the Dutch side of the island, is a hilly area with lush vegetation, surrounded by a calm bay and offering stunning views of the ocean and neighboring islands.
Telephone: +1 721

Cole Bay (Dutch side), St. Martin Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Martin, the process of getting married is straightforward. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Martin (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately €100 (French side). Additional fees for the officiant can range from €200 to €500 (approximately US$220 to US$550), depending on location and type of ceremony. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 business days before the intended wedding date.