St. Maarten, often seen as St Martin, is a captivating island nestled in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Renowned as a premier tourist destination, it has consistently garnered accolades from platforms like Tripadvisor, solidifying its place among the top global destinations and a leading light in the Caribbean. Philipsburg, the vibrant capital on the Dutch side, has been celebrated by CruiseCritic and Porthole Magazine as the best shopping haven in the region. But where exactly is St Maarten NA?
To answer this directly, St. Maarten is located in the Northern Caribbean, specifically within the Leeward Islands. The “NA” in your search likely refers to the Netherlands Antilles, a former Dutch dependency of which St. Maarten was a part. While the Netherlands Antilles no longer exists as a political entity (dissolved in 2010), St. Maarten remains a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
This unique island is positioned approximately 150 miles east of Puerto Rico. Its geographical coordinates are roughly 18.0425° N latitude and 63.0548° W longitude. St. Maarten shares its landmass with Saint-Martin, the French side of the island, creating a fascinating blend of cultures and experiences within a single island.
Restaurants of St Maarten, Culinary capital of Caribbean
What truly distinguishes St. Maarten is its unique binational and multicultural character. This vibrant island offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights, world-class hospitality, and a strategic location amidst a stunning archipelago. Its packed events calendar and an extensive array of activities ensure there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a day on a cruise or planning an extended stay, St. Maarten promises an unforgettable Caribbean experience. And let’s not forget the island’s crown jewels: 37 pristine beaches, ranging from bustling and cosmopolitan to secluded and tranquil havens.
St. Maarten and St. Martin: One Island, Two Nations
St. Maarten’s binational identity is rooted in a remarkable 350-year history of open borders. The only visible marker of this division is the Concordia monument, yet the experience is one of seamless complementarity. The Dutch side, St Maarten (SXM), is an autonomous part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, while the French side, St Martin (SXM), is an overseas collectivity of France.
While the Euro (€) and Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) are the official currencies on their respective sides, the United States Dollar (USD) is widely accepted across the entire island, simplifying transactions for tourists.
For visitors, the Dutch side of St Maarten is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, extensive shopping options, and a plethora of activities. In contrast, the French side of St Martin, slightly larger in area, boasts a wider selection of nature reserves and opportunities for exploration.
Most international visitors arrive via Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side, a major aviation hub for the Northeastern Caribbean. Cruise ships predominantly dock in Philipsburg, the Dutch capital of St. Maarten. The island’s compact size ensures that every corner of St. Maarten / St. Martin is easily accessible within an hour’s drive, making it convenient to explore dining venues, shopping districts, activities, and events, regardless of your chosen accommodation.
Navigating to St. Maarten / St. Martin
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) serves as the primary gateway to St. Maarten. This bustling hub offers daily flights to and from numerous American airports, Caribbean islands, Panama City (PTY), Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). For travel within the French Caribbean, Grand Case L’Espérance Airport (SFG) provides connections to destinations like Martinique, Guadeloupe, and St. Barths.
Ferries from St. Maarten / St. Martin offer island-hopping adventures to nearby gems such as Saba, Sint Eustatius, Anguilla, St. Barths, and St. Kitts & Nevis, expanding your Caribbean exploration.
St. Maarten’s prominence as a cruise destination is undeniable. It stands as one of the Caribbean’s largest and most acclaimed cruise ports, globally recognized for its exceptional facilities and welcoming atmosphere. The cruise port’s proximity to Philipsburg allows passengers easy access to a wide array of onshore excursions, water activities, and dining experiences, maximizing their time on the island.
On 1648 St Maarten / St Martin signed a treaty to have free border between both sides, marked with Concordia monument close to Cole Bay area
For those arriving by sea, St. Maarten is a central yachting hub in the Caribbean. This is celebrated annually with prestigious events like the St Maarten Heineken Regatta in March and the Multihull Regatta in February. Simpson Bay Lagoon is the island’s premier yachting locale, complemented by marinas in Philipsburg, Simpson Bay (outside the Simpson Bay Lagoon Bridge), Marigot, and Anse Marcel. Popular anchorages for sailing vessels include Grand Case, Simpson Bay, and the idyllic Tintamarre Island.
Exploring St. Maarten / St. Martin
Getting around St. Maarten / St. Martin is convenient and diverse. Car rentals are readily available for both overnight visitors and cruise passengers, offering freedom to explore at your own pace. Furthermore, both the Dutch and French sides operate a semi-public bus system using minivans, providing an affordable mode of transport.
On the Dutch side, bus routes originate in Philipsburg and extend to areas like French Quarter, Maho/Cupecoy, St. Peters, and Sucker Garden/Middle Region. The French side’s bus network operates from Marigot, reaching as far as French Quarter. Taxis are also a readily available option throughout the island. For return trips, especially from more remote locations, pre-booking a taxi is advisable.
Unveiling Fun Facts About St. Maarten / St. Martin
1. Beach Paradise: Most Beaches Per Square Mile
St. Maarten boasts an astounding density of beaches, holding a world record for its compact size. From vibrant urban beaches to tranquil secluded coves, and from world-famous stretches of sand to award-winning shores, St. Maarten caters to every beachgoer’s desire. Watersports enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike will find their perfect spot. Even dreams of uninhabited island escapes can be fulfilled, with options including both serviced and completely deserted isles.
2. Culinary Hotspot: Most Restaurants Per Square Mile
The nature of St Maarten is diverse and clean, perfect for hikers!
St. Maarten / St. Martin’s reputation as the Caribbean’s culinary capital is well-deserved. The island’s unique blend of over 100 cultures and two national influences has created an unparalleled gastronomic landscape. From local Caribbean flavors to French haute cuisine and Dutch specialties, the dining scene is incredibly diverse. Don’t miss St. Maarten Flavors Culinary Month in November, a celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage.
3. A Melting Pot: Most Nationalities Per Capita
St. Maarten’s cultural tapestry extends far beyond its Caribbean, French, and Dutch roots. Over 100 nationalities from the Caribbean, Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Oceania contribute to the island’s unique population and vibrant atmosphere. This remarkable diversity is a defining characteristic of St. Maarten’s charm.
4. A Border of Peace: Oldest Officially Open Border
Since the Treaty of Concordia in 1648, the border between the Dutch and French sides of the island has remained open, predating the European Union by centuries. This enduring peaceful coexistence is a testament to the island’s unique history. The Concordia Monument, erected in 1948, symbolizes this unity and is a must-visit when crossing between the two sides.
5. Smallest Binational Landmass
St. Maarten’s binational status is exceptionally rare, especially on such a compact island. While other shared islands exist, none match St. Maarten’s unique combination of size and cultural diversity within a binational setting.
6. Award-Winning Cruise Destination
St. Maarten’s pristine beaches, diverse cultures, culinary excellence, warm hospitality, and rich history have earned it numerous accolades, including the prestigious Cruise Critic awards. Philipsburg’s cruise port is also celebrated as a Caribbean shopping paradise. St. Maarten ranks among the top cruise destinations globally, offering exceptional experiences for both cruise passengers and those embarking on voyages from its shores.
7. Pirate Lore and Local Rums
Like many Caribbean islands, St. Maarten / St. Martin has a captivating pirate history and a tradition of rum production. Local rums like Guavaberry and Topper’s Rhum offer fascinating stories and are attractions in themselves. Guavaberry even holds the distinction of being the official Pirates of the Caribbean Rhum at Disneyland Japan. For a taste of pirate history, visit the Rusty Parrot Pirate Experience in Philipsburg.
8. Thrilling Heights: Steepest Zipline
Tourists are enjoying the views and landscape while being on the St Maarten flying dutchman which is the steepest zipline in the world
Thrill-seekers will find an adrenaline rush at Rainforest Adventure Park, home to the Flying Dutchman, the world’s steepest zipline. This unique attraction offers breathtaking views of five Caribbean islands. For those who prefer a less intense experience but still crave panoramic vistas, the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift provides stunning views from Sentry Hill.
9. Double the Carnival Fun
St. Maarten / St. Martin uniquely offers two carnivals, doubling the festive spirit. The French side carnival takes place in February, followed by the Dutch side carnival in April. Philipsburg’s Carnival Village provides a taste of local culture and cuisine year-round.
10. New York Connection: Historical Figure
Peter Stuyvesant monument, port of St Maarten Philipsburg
Pieter (Peter) Stuyvesant, renowned as one of New York’s early governors, also has strong ties to St. Maarten. Before governing New Amsterdam (now New York), Stuyvesant served as governor of the Dutch Caribbean. A failed attempt to recapture Fort Amsterdam in St. Maarten resulted in the loss of his leg, leading to his iconic wooden leg, often depicted in US monuments.
11. Island of Salt: Soualiga
Overview Great Salt Pond, Philipsburg, Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, Point Blanche
St. Maarten / St. Martin is often referred to as “Soualiga,” the Arawak name meaning “Island of Salt,” due to its abundant salt ponds. Salt production was a major industry for over 400 years, with salt ponds like those in Philipsburg and Grand Case providing a vital commodity for preserving food and goods during transatlantic voyages.
12. Capital on the Beachfront
Philipsburg, the Dutch capital of St. Maarten, holds the distinction of being the only capital city in the world situated directly on a beach. Shopping on Front Street is seamlessly combined with enjoying the beautiful Great Bay Beach.
13. World-Famous Airport Beach
Tourists experiencing the world-famous sight of plane landing over Maho beach on St Maarten / St Martin
Maho Beach, adjacent to Princess Juliana International Airport’s runway, is globally recognized as the most photographed airport runway. It offers the thrilling experience of airplanes landing remarkably close overhead. While exhilarating, safety precautions are essential due to jet blast from departing aircraft.
14. Flag Designed by a Local
St. Maarten’s flag, adopted upon gaining autonomy in 2010, was created through a local contest won by a schoolgirl. The flag’s emblem incorporates national symbols such as the brown pelican, sage flower, Concordia Monument, and the courthouse in Philipsburg. The French side commonly uses the French national flag, while a unified St. Maarten / St. Martin flag also exists, featuring the Concordia Monument in its design.
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