Getting Around Saint Martin

Crossing Between the French and Dutch Sides

Although there is "legally" a border between the two parts of the island, it is not marked, and there are no checks when moving from one side to the other.

Road Network and Traffic

The island's road network mainly consists of a circular route (the RN7) that loops around it. Given the limited mileage and the large number of cars, traffic jams during rush hours are very common and a real nuisance for residents. Additionally, two drawbridges providing access for boats to Simpson Bay Lagoon (in the southwest) further complicate traffic, causing regular blockages several times a day at set times.

Car

Even though the island is "Franco-Dutch," a French or international driving licence is sufficient to drive anywhere on the island.

Rental

There are around fifty car rental companies on the island, ranging from major brands to local ones. Expect to pay 35/40 € per day for a small model.

Taxi

Taxis are mainly found in Marigot, Philipsburg, at the airports, and at the ferry terminals. They don’t have meters but are supposed to follow a set fare chart for trips. Note that taxis on the Dutch side of the island generally only accept dollars, not euros.

Minibuses

There is a shared minibus system that covers the island fairly well. They are much cheaper than taxis (between 1 and 2 € max, depending on the destination) and can be paid in either euros or dollars. They don’t run on a fixed schedule and, aside from the few designated stops, you can flag them down anywhere along the road. Typically, they stop running at nightfall.

Two Wheels

Motorcycle

Bicycle

Hitchhiking

Boats

In addition to the international ferry connections serving Saint Martin (and various water taxis or charter boats), there is also a small regular domestic network on the French side. For example, the islands of Pinel and Tintamarre (to the northeast) are served daily from the village of Cul-de-Sac.

Modes of Transport Not Available

With less than 90 km², the island is quite small, so there are no trains or domestic flights.

Choosing the Best Way to Get Around

Distances Between Towns

Distances (km) between the main villages and tourist spots on the island:

*: on the Dutch side of the island

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