Welcome to Saint Martin International Airport!
Saint Martin is the French half of a dual-nation island where Caribbean warmth meets European flair and panache. Served by Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), the main gateway that is shared by both sides of the island, arrivals for Saint Martin actually land in Sint Maarten - the Dutch side - where long-haul and regional flights, connect with major cities in the United States of America, cities all over Europe, Canada and many other islands across the Caribbean. Saint Martin offers a distinctively French experience infused with laid-back tropical Caribbean touches and a touch of Mediterranean style. Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, around 300 kilometre (190 miles) east of the colourful island of Puerto Rico with the lush, green British Virgin Islands around 113 kilometres away (70 miles), known for their stunning beaches and marine life. A short distance to the west is laid-back Anguilla, (about 19 km / 12 miles), while Saint Barthélemy, or St. Barts, is just 40 kilometres away (25 miles) away. This central location ensures easy access to other nearby Caribbean destinations via boat or short inter-islands flights. Saint Martin is known for its tranquil beaches, charming villages, and a relaxed, boutique atmosphere, with the island’s split identity reflected in its two official languages—French in Saint Martin and Dutch in Sint Maarten—and its vibrant culinary and cultural identities. From its coastal towns and hidden coves to the mountain trails and serene farmlands, this side of the island invites you to delve into its rich landscapes and cultural allure, all within an easy drive from the airport in a hire car.
Driving in Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a paradise for those keen on slow, scenic drives, and getting behind the wheel lets you experience its incredible variety of landscapes and sights at your own pace. After picking up your rental car at Princess Juliana International Airport, you’ll cross from Sint Maarten into French territory within minutes, with nothing more than a road sign to mark the change. Soon, you’ll find yourself enveloped in the serene charm and rich culture that define this side of the island.
One of your first stops might be Grand Case, known as the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.” The scenic drive north from the airport leads you through winding roads bordered by vibrant hibiscus, bougainvillaea, and the occasional cluster of tamarind trees, with views of the Caribbean Sea glimmering to the west. Grand Case feels like a little French Riviera village nestled within a tropical paradise. White-washed cottages, local eateries with brightly-coloured façades, and seaside bistros offer a blissful fusion of sophisticated French and gutsy Creole flavours. Dining here is a sensory experience, with the air rich with the scents of grilled lobster, bouillabaisse, and spicy Creole dishes. From Grand Case, continue north to the secluded bay of Anse Marcel, a protected cove perfect for a swim. The journey takes you through rolling green hills where goats graze and palm trees sway in the breeze. Anse Marcel’s calm waters and pristine white sands make it a peaceful spot to relax, snorkel, or even rent a kayak for a gentle paddle along the coast.
If you’re up for a scenic drive inland, set your sights on Pic Paradis, the highest point on the island. The road winds through verdant valleys with dense jungle foliage, giant fern trees, and the occasional flash of a sunbird flitting between flowering branches. Reaching Pic Paradis rewards you with panoramic views of both the French and Dutch sides, as well as glimpses of the neighbouring islands. On clear days, the view spans Saint Barthélemy, Anguilla, and the endless Caribbean Sea. Saint Martin’s nature reserves are a testament to its dedication to preserving local flora and fauna. Loterie Farm, located on the slopes of Pic Paradis, is a unique sanctuary where hiking trails, zip lines, and a series of natural pools allow visitors to enjoy nature up close. The trails are framed by mango trees, towering bamboo, and wild orchids.
Keep an eye out for the mischievous green monkeys that occasionally make an appearance, adding a dash of jungle charm to the serene landscape. Saint Martin’s western coast road leads you to Marigot, the island’s lively and picturesque capital. This town embodies French-Caribbean style, with open-air markets, boulangeries, and colonial architecture painted in hues of teal and turquoise. Marigot is the perfect place to pick up fresh baguettes, artisanal cheeses, and tropical fruits like mangoes and guavas from the local market. The Marina Royale in Marigot offers stunning waterfront views, with luxurious yachts docked against a backdrop of charming cafes and art galleries. For a touch of adventure, head east toward Orient Bay, where you’ll discover a beach as vibrant as the island itself. This drive showcases the stunning diversity of Saint Martin’s landscapes, with stretches of coastline lined by palm trees, wild almond trees, and fields dotted with wildflowers. Orient Bay is a lively beach destination where you can enjoy water-sports, beachfront restaurants, and an active social scene. The sand is soft and golden, and the waters offer a refreshing respite from the Caribbean sun.
A coastal drive south will lead you to Oyster Pond, a charming inlet where French and Dutch cultures mingle along the shoreline. This area is known for its tranquil waters and coral reefs, making it a fantastic spot for snorkelling and spotting local marine life, including brightly-coloured parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles. The road hugs the coast here, with views of distant islands and turquoise waters. Continue along the coast to reach Coralita Beach, where gentle waves lap against a shore lined with seagrape trees, and pelicans soar above, occasionally diving into the water for a catch.
Tips and FAQs
Driving around Saint Martin reveals a Caribbean island with an unmistakably French flair. The combination of tranquil bays, rugged inland terrain, and charming coastal towns create a unique setting where French sophistication and Caribbean rhythms harmoniously blend. The island’s landscape is rich and varied, with lush greenery, tropical birds, and warm, welcoming communities. Saint Martin’s people exude a relaxed hospitality that invites you to slow down and imbibe the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
While main roads are well-paved, some rural and coastal routes can be winding and narrow. Offline maps or GPS are helpful. Drivers in Saint Martin are usually patient and friendly, often signalling with a wave to let others pass. Remember to drive on the right side of the road. Finding parking in towns like Marigot can be tricky, but public lots are available near the market and the marina. The official currency is the Euro, and while French is the main language, English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM)
Number of Terminals: 1
Location of Car Rental Desks: Arrivals Hall
Distance to Nearest Fuel Station: Approximately 1 mile from the airport
Nearest Town: Marigot
Major Roads: Rue de Hollande, N7
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