Sint Maarten_
Capital: Philipsburg
Capital
Philipsburg
Region
Caribbean
Updated Jan 18, 2026
Overview
Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is unique: the world's smallest island divided between two nations—French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten. This arrangement, dating to 1648, creates fascinating contrasts: French cafes and nude beaches on one side, Dutch casinos and cruise ship crowds on the other.
Maho Beach is famous for planes passing just overhead on approach to Princess Juliana Airport—one of the Caribbean's most photographed sights. French Saint-Martin offers upscale dining in Grand Case, while Dutch Sint Maarten provides duty-free shopping and nightlife. Orient Bay and Mullet Bay rank among the region's best beaches. The island offers two Caribbean experiences in one compact destination.
Nomad Score
5.3
Internet
75
Safety
40
Cost
50
Weather
60
Community
45
DROPTHE_ GOSSIP
Economy
$1.8 billion GDP, one of Caribbean's largest economies
Weather in Philipsburg
26C
Clear
Philipsburg
77%
Humidity
24 km/h
Wind
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Visa Information
US Citizens
Visa Required
Practical Info
Tap Water
Use Bottled
English
Moderate
Driving Side
Right
Major Cities
Health & Safety
Healthcare
Limited
Emergency
112
Pharmacies
Available
Quick Facts
Area
34 km2
Calling Code
+1721
TLD
.sx
Timezone
UTC-04:00
Embassy Info
Info
Find your embassy in Sint Maarten
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sint Maarten good for digital nomads?
Sint Maarten has a Nomad Score of 5.3/10, ranked #157 worldwide. Average internet speed: 25 Mbps.
How fast is the internet in Sint Maarten?
The average internet speed in Sint Maarten is 25 Mbps download. May require a backup connection for heavy use.
When is the best time to visit Sint Maarten?
The best months to visit Sint Maarten are Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec.
Do I need a visa for Sint Maarten?
For US citizens: Visa Required.