St. Maarten
Known as the smallest landmass to consist of two nations, and home of the “Friendly People”, St. Maarten invites you to experience a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and sunny clear skies, as diverse as any cosmopolitan city, yet as welcoming and familiar as your hometown.St. Maarten is guarded by a chain of lush green hills with peaks that display breathtaking views of the valleys, sea, and neighbouring islands. Located just a 4.5hr direct flight from Toronto, and with many connecting flight options via the US, it’s an easy flight to the famous Princess Juliana Airport where beachgoers on nearby Maho Beach watch as 747’s approach the runway whilst sipping cocktails on the beach.
Read More
Beyond the 37 white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and warm ocean breezes, St. Maarten is home to a covetable culinary scene that is embedded within the fabric of the island, with over 80 different cultures having influenced island dishes for centuries. The country’s position as the culinary capital of the Caribbean can be attributed to the diverse gastronomic heritages of over 80 different nationalities who have long made the island their home. This rich history has resulted in a vibrant culinary scene where fusion foods and flavours from Africa, Europe, and the Americas intertwine, resulting in a melting pot of dishes for travellers to taste.
A walk-through Phillipsburg is filled with the creative and industrial spirit of the island, providing Instagram-worthy views of St. Maarten’s mountainous landscape and the award-winning port of St. Maarten. It’s a shopper’s and foodie haven with a vibrant beach promenade and the perfect location for a sunrise that sets beyond the ocean daily. Shopping is also duty-free and there’s something for every palette. Philipsburg conveniently connects you to any part of the island once you’re filled with the burst of business life or the light leisure activities.
The island has something for every traveller, from thrilling water sports, world class spas and breathtaking hiking trails to stunning vistas and shopping opportunities galore. Visitors can explore the vibrant markets, immerse themselves in the local culture, and indulge in the warmth and hospitality of the island’s residents. Visit our website
Dining
St. Maarten has become home to over 80 nationalities that have also brought their cuisine along with them creating a real melting pot of dishes for you to try on your stay here.
A short drive from Simpson Bay to Philipsburg can take you from the smell of seafood grilling along the beachside to the aromatic fragrances of Indian food being seasoned with cumin and coriander. From local Caribbean dishes to international cuisine, our 16 square miles cater to your craving, and may even create some new ones you didn’t even know you had.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English, Dutch, French
Banking & Banking Hours: Several major banks operate in the Dutch part of St. Martin (Sint Maarten). These include Banco di Caribe, CIBC First Caribbean, PSB Bank, RBC, Republic Bank, and Windward Islands Bank. In addition to these, Maduro & Curiel’s Bank N.V. also has a presence in St. Maarten. Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Some banks are open on Saturday mornings. There are 24 hour ATMs available. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Currency: USD, *New Caribbean Guilder, Euro. The Netherlands-Antillean Guilder, abbreviated as ANG will continue to be accepted up until March 31, 2026. Fixed exchange rate of US$1 = 1.77 Nafl.
Climate: St. Maarten has a tropical climate, which is usually hot and humid, with temperatures that are cooled down by trade winds. From December to April you can expect a temperate climate, rarely exceeding 90°F (32°C), and never dipping below 68°F (20°C), with a lower humidity and cooling trade winds blowing in from the northeast. It’s ideal beach weather, with the occasional cloudy day, with some rain showers, which are relatively brief. The summer months are known to reach high temperatures of 95 – 99 °F (35 – 37 °C) during the day from June to November.
Dress Code: In Dutch St. Maarten, the dress code is generally very casual and relaxed, especially during the day. For most daywear, you can comfortably wear beach attire like dresses, shorts, and t-shirts. When dining in the evening, you might consider a sundress or separates for ladies and shorts and sandals for men, unless you’re going to a more sophisticated restaurant.
Driving: Driving is easy in on the island, and motorists drive on the right hand side of the road. Renting a car is a cost-effective and easy way to get around the island, with rental offices located outside the airport and in popular locations like Maho and Simpson Bay. The Dutch/French border is marked by roadside monuments. Traffic in locations such as Philipsburg and Simpson Bay can get heavy around rush hour, and at the opening times of the Simpson Bay bridge.
Electricity: Electricity in St. Maarten (Dutch side) is the same as in Canada with a 110 voltage at 50 Hz standard. Standard plugs and appliances are compatible too.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST); St. Maarten does not observe Daylight Savings.
Activities
St. Maarten might look like just another tiny island in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, but visitors and locals alike know it’s so much more! It’s an opportunity to embark on an adventure bursting at its seams with vibrancy and culture. Explore the island’s gorgeous sandy beaches or hike our highest peaks. Stroll down Phillipsburg’s palm-tree-lined streets, explore hidden coves by boat, or enjoy our lively nightlife and delicious cuisines. Take in the enchanting beauty and colors of over 25 different species of birds at the Parrotte Ville Bird Sanctuary, explore the trails of Cay Bay with guided horseback ride tours, discover breath-taking views as you sail the calm seas along the coastline, or take a deeper dive with whilst snorkeling along the Protect Coral Reef by Creole Rock. A multicultural paradise, St. Maarten offers experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
Travel Essentials
Flight Information
Princess Juliana International Airport, connects to many international gateways from Canada, the United States, Europe, and South America. SXM airport has direct flights year-round from major Canadian gateways like Montreal and Toronto, with carriers such as Air Canada, Sunwing, Transat, and WestJet. A flight from Toronto is just a 4.5-hour trip.
Arajet connects from Toronto and Montreal via Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic.
Alternatively, travellers can connect via US cities such as New York, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Miami with airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, United and American Airlines…and now South West Airlines.
The new (2024) Arrival Hall at the Princess Juliana International Airport features:
- Improved baggage handling systems for faster and more efficient luggage retrieval.
- Streamlined immigration and customs processes designed to minimize waiting times.
- Enhanced passenger facilities aimed at providing a more comfortable and seamless arrival experience.
Entry Requirements for Canadians
All travellers must complete a digital entry form BEFORE boarding their flight to SXM (Princess Juliana International Airport). Click HERE to access the form.
A visa is not required for this destination for a stay of up to 90 days in any six-month period. Please keep in mind that while a visa is not required, you must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of country exit and with one blank visa page
- Hold proof of onward and return flights
Entry Requirements for Long Stays
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a tourist extension application must be completed. Please visit the Sint Maarten Government website for their Residency Permit information.
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Please remember to see the Quick Facts section above for information on languages spoken, banking information, currency, weather, driving requirements, and more.
Please see the Medical tab for information on hospitals and pharmacies. If you are a diver, information on the closest hyperbaric chamber is included.
Here is additional information that you may require when planning a longer stay away:
Entry Requirements for Long Stays
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a tourist extension application must be completed. Please visit the Sint Maarten Government website for their Residency Permit information.
Pet Policy
Please remember to check with both your airline and your long stay residence, to ensure you are familiar with their pet policies and procedures for transportation.
If you are planning to enter with or import a live animal into Sint Maarten, then you must acquire permission in the form of the Animal Movement Permit. This permit verifies to transport agencies and port authorities that the animal’s health status has been reviewed by the competent authorities in Sint Maarten and has met the requirements of Sint Maarten’s relevant legislation, thus, can be granted unhindered passage through a port of entry within the jurisdiction of Sint Maarten.
The main documents required are the following:
A digital passport copy belonging to the individual accompanying or importing the animal.
Travel itinerary or consignment issued by the airline, shipping, or travel agency.
International veterinary health certificate.
Proof of Rabies vaccination (dogs, cats, and ferrets).
Additional documents may be required depending on the type of entry and species of animal.
See the Official Website Government of Sint Maarten for more information.
Groceries
St Maarten has a lot of small grocery shops were you can find your daily needs, but you will also find some big supermarket brands on the island.
With their several locations on St Maarten, you will find the international supermarket brand Carrefour. They have a huge assortment of liquors, beverages, cigars and cigarettes, dairy products, bakery section, cleaning items and a lot more. You will find the main store in the Philipsburg area. The other stores can be found in Cole Bay, Porto Cupecoy and Jordan Village.
Cost.U.Less is another big supermarket in the Philipsburg Area. They offer a wide variety of grocery and general merchandise items.
Veranda Market and Bistro is a chic, spacious market with an irresistible bistro and outdoor bar that feature incredible views of the ocean, Dawn Beach and dramatic sunsets.
Phone Plans & Internet
Telem or Chippie (UTS) offer phone and internet plans; you may rent a phone or buy a chip for your phone through these companies.
Getting Married
Whether you are looking for the perfect tropical venue to say I do or dreaming of escaping to a relaxing and secluded honeymoon, St. Maarten is the ideal place for romantic passion to flourish. With golden sunsets, private villas, historic churches, gourmet chefs, and so much more, St. Maarten offers a vibrant variety of options perfect for your getaway honeymoon or dream wedding. Everlasting memories await!
Submitting Marriage Documentation
Requests for marriage must be submitted at least 14 days before the date of marriage.
The following original documents must be submitted:
- A full detailed birth certificate to prove the legality of the name, not older than 3 years;
- Unmarried person(s) must present a declaration of marital status not older than 3 months.
- If widow(er), a death certificate.
- If divorced, a divorce certificate/decree of a final judgment, not older than 3 years.
Besides the above mentioned, the following information is also needed:
- Address, profession and nationality of the bride and groom.
- Passport copies of both parties.
- Names of the parents and maiden names of the mothers.
- Passport copies of the witnesses.
Original documents not in Dutch or English need to be translated into the Dutch or English languages. Marriages will be performed after all documents are found correct by the Civil Registrar.
Cultural/Annual Events
Each February, the world-renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta celebrates its 44th edition. Over 20,000 sailors and spectators from across the world watch four days of world class racing in an inspiring and energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan or casual observer, there is no better way to watch the regatta than onboard a boat charter with a group of friends. In the evenings, enjoy great food and ice-cold beers in the Regatta Village whilst listening to the epic sounds from local performers and international artists and DJs.
Following Regatta, SXM Festival comes to the Island each March and sees some of the best EDM DJ’s and artists from across the globe perform in 10 unique venues. From beach parties and villa gatherings to underground nightclub sessions, mesmerizing hilltop sunsets and champagne-drenched afternoons by the pool. The Satellite Party atop the peak of St. Maarten’s highest mountain offers a breathtaking 360-degree view all the way to the ocean, whilst Moonbar’s rooftop bar sees revelers experience the renowned Maho hospitality of Maho and its bright lights.
St.Maarten Carnival is the event of the year! Every April/May, the Dutch side erupts to the beat of calypso, soca, reggae, and dancehall. Locals fill the streets in their colorful costumes in parades, parties and runups. Party with the locals all month long at various cultural events and bacchanals at the Carnival Village on Pond Island. In the Village, ask a local for their favourite booth number and taste the best local dishes you will ever have – and make sure to get a photo with the Carnival Icon, Pork Chop.
The island’s culinary heritage delights traveller’s year-round, but each November the Flavors Festival sees many of the island’s best restaurants and bars offer signature dishes or cocktail combinations for a steal; either $49 USD (for a three-course meal) or $17.50 USD (for a one course meal). A full island menu of signature dishes, and a map of restaurant locations can be found at StMaartenFlavors.com.
For more details on upcoming events, new venues, and cultural exhibitions, check out our Events Calendar.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of St. Maarten observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, April 27, 2026 – King’s Day
Thursday, April 30, 2026 – Carnival Day
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labor Day
Thursday, May 14, 2026 – Ascension Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 – Emancipation Day
November 11, 2026 – Sint Maarten Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
MEDICAL SERVICES:
St. Maarten has 19 private medical clinics and 12 pharmacies on the southern side of the island.
Hospital
Medical Center of St. Maarten (SMMC)
Phone: (721)-543-1111
For information on the medical services available at the SMMC: St. Maarten Medical Center
St. Maarten Ambulance Services
Ambulance Medical Services of St. Maarten
Phone: (721) 542-2111 or 912
EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
Dental Care Clinic: PH 721-542 3584
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber. If you require treatment for decompression illness you will have to go to Saba or Guadeloupe.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from Canada.
Airport Services
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): Learn More
The airport has made significant improvements over the years and has recently opened a new arrivals and departure hall, with modern amenities and 3 air bridges to facilitate aircraft boarding for select flights. Check with your airline prior to travel to see if they have access to air bridges for arrival/departure in SXM. Accessible Ventures (see contact information below) provides assistance upon request, but must be arranged in advance. Additional services provided include:
- Accessible Washrooms – all washrooms offer wheelchair accessible stalls
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators and ramps are available
Port of St. Maarten (Philipsburg): Learn More
If you are arriving by ship, any services required will be arranged by your cruise line. If St. Maarten is a port of embarkation and you need services prior to embarkation, these services can be provided by Accessible Ventures (see contact information below). Available services at the Port of St. Maarten include:
- Accessible Washrooms: all washrooms offer wheelchair accessible stalls
- Wheelchair Assistance: available from your cruise line representative
- Elevators and ramps are available
Transportation
Airport Transfers can be organized from both the Princess Juliana International Airport as well as the Port in Philipsburg.
Accessible Ventures
Phone: (721) 542-0411
Email : reservations@accessibleventures.sx
Website: Accessible Ventures
Activities:
Wheelchair accessible activities can be organized by the following companies:
Seagrape Tours
For individuals with hearing impairments, visual impairments, mobility challenges, developmental disabilities, the elderly, etc.
Phone: (721) 586-0297
Email : seagrapetours@gmail.com
Website: Seagrape Tours
Accessible Ventures
Special needs transportation.
Phone: (721) 542-0411
Email : reservations@accessibleventures.sx
Website: Accessible Ventures
For accessibility information at hotels located in St. Maarten please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
Brochures
St. Maarten’s Top 10 Activities ENG | FR
Color Me SXM – a guide to 20+ murals in Philipsburg!