What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten?
What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten? The best time to visit St Maarten is from late December through mid-April.
During this period, the island experiences its perfect temperatures, less humidity, and the least amount of rainfall. This makes it ideal for beach activities, sailing, and exploring the area’s natural beauty.
However, this is also peak tourist season. Some people may prefer visiting in the off-season. Below, we’ll go over everything you need to choose what the best time of year to go to St Maarten is!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO ST MAARTEN?
| What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten? | December to April |
| When is the cheapest time to visit St Maarten? | August |
| When is the best time to visit St Maarten without compromising on weather but saving money? | May to June |
Table of Contents
About St Maarten/St Martin
St Maarten and St Martin are located on the same island in the Caribbean. But what’s the difference between St Maarten and St Martin? They are owned by different nations. St Maarten is owned by the Dutch, while St Martin is owned by the French.
This makes the island the smallest territory to be divided between two countries.
While both sides share many of the same attractions, ranging from historical buildings to stunning beaches, each nation boasts its own unique culture and cuisine.
With two distinct countries literally side-by-side on one island, visitors can experience both cultures without having to travel far.
From charming streetscapes to lively nightlife, St Maarten/St Martin certainly has something for everyone!
In guests per capita, this shared territory is the second most visited Caribbean Island
Where is St Maarten/St Martin
Sint Maarten is located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. You’ll find the Dutch/French territory east of Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
Related Reading: When is the best time of year to visit US Virgin Islands?
Map of St Maarten/St Martin
Map by Google Maps
What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten / St Martin?
The best time to visit St Martin / St Maarten is from late December through mid-April.
Temperatures from December-April average highs of 85 degrees F (29 C) and lows of 74 degrees F (23 C).
Additionally, rainfall is at its lowest, with an average of just 2-3 inches of rain.
The cool breeze from winter trade winds will have you relaxing on the white sandy beaches all day long.
If you’re looking to visit off-season but don’t want to compromise on the weather, visit from May-June. Prices of hotels will drop coming off of peak season.
Temperatures are still comfortably warm, and rainfall isn’t at its peak yet. Keep in mind hurricane season in the eastern Caribbean islands begins on June 1.
You may see more frequent showers than in January. But if you’re willing to compromise, you can still have a great vacation and save money.
When is the worst time to go to St Maarten / St Martin?
The worst time to visit St Maarten/St Martin is between August to November.
This is also when rainy months begin. Rainfall climbs up to 4-6 inches from August to November.
While you might be tempted by the year-round warm temperatures, the humidity begins to pick up in July.
If you prefer cooler temperatures, you won’t want to visit between June and October. Temperatures can increase to 89° F (31° C).
Related reading: What should you avoid in Aruba
What is the weather like in St Maarten/St Martin?
Average rainfall by month
| Month | Rainfall (in) |
| January | 2.5 inches |
| February | 1.75 inches |
| March | 1.75 inches |
| April | 2.75 inches |
| May | 3.90 inches |
| June | 2.5 inches |
| July | 3.0 inches |
| August | 4.0 inches |
| September | 5.10 inches |
| October | 4.10 inches |
| November | 5.10 inches |
| December | 3.5 inches |
Average temperature by month
| Month | High (F) | Low (F) |
| January | 83° | 74° |
| February | 83° | 74° |
| March | 84° | 74° |
| April | 85° | 76° |
| May | 87° | 77° |
| June | 88° | 79° |
| July | 89° | 79° |
| August | 89° | 80° |
| September | 89° | 79° |
| October | 88° | 79° |
| November | 86° | 77° |
| December | 84° | 75° |
When is the rainy season in St. Maarten?
The rainy season begins in June and goes through November. Rainfall averages from 4 inches in June and goes up to 6 inches in November.
When is the St Martin hurricane season?
Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30.
Be prepared if you plan to visit during these months, especially later in the summer. Purchase travel insurance and have an evacuation plan, if necessary.
To avoid hurricane season in the summer months, try visiting Aruba as it’s farther from the hurricane belt.
What is the hottest month in St. Maarten?
July, August, and September are the hottest months in St. Maarten.
Temperatures go up to 89° F (31° C). Humidity is at its peak, making the climate hot and sticky!
When is the most popular time to visit St Maarten/St Martin?
January to June sees an 80% hotel occupancy rate. That rate drops as the year ends.
It’s easy to see why January to June is the most popular time to visit. This is also, unsurprisingly the best time to visit the Caribbean as well.
The climate during these months makes for a lovely winter and spring getaway.
The low chance of rainfall further attracts visitors during the first six months of the year.
When is the busiest time in St Maarten/St Martin
St Maarten/St Martin sees its highest levels of tourist traffic from January to April.
This period offers the most pleasant weather conditions: temperatures are mild, trade winds keep the climate cool and comfortable, and ocean waters remain warm.
If you’re eager to experience a bustling Caribbean destination, this is definitely the time to visit.
Plus, with a low chance of rain disrupting your vacation plans, your days in St Maarten/St Martin will be full of fun in the sun!
What is the cheapest time to go to St Martin?
According to Cheap Flights and Kayak, flights to St Martin are much cheaper in August than in other months. If low-cost travel is your priority, August is the time to go.
On the downside, August is notorious for its high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall.
If you’re willing to risk rain and hurricanes, these lower flight prices can make it worth considering.
Top tourists attractions in St Maarten
1. Slide down the steepest zipline in the world.
Rockland Estate Rockland Estate offers a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. The park features breathtaking views and exciting activities. The highlight of Rainforest Adventures is undoubtedly the steepest zipline in the world. It reaches speeds of up to 60 mph!
2. Visit popular reefs around the island or take a snorkel tour
Cupecoy Beach has a reef right offshore. Pinel Island is becoming an increasingly popular spot to kayak to and hop off for colorful snorkeling. Baie Rouge and David’s Hole contains hundreds of yards of healthy reef and colorful fish!
These are just the beginning of all the snorkeling and diving opportunities you’ll have in St Maarten!
Check out snorkeling tours in St Maarten ►
3. Take a ferry from St Maarten to Anguilla or St Barts
Hop on a ferry or boat from St Maarten to Anguilla or St Barts! This is an incredible way to explore even more Caribbean islands during your trip to St Maarten. The Anguilla ferry is only 25 minutes; St Barts is 60 minutes.
Unique Things to do in St Martin and Things to do in St Maarten
- Kayak to Pinel Island for unbeatable snorkeling
- Charter a sailboat or yacht to visit the spectacular beaches around the island
- Explore the French cuisine
- Try windsurfing in Gallion Bay
Related reading: Things to do in St Croix, USVI
Where to stay in St Maarten/St Martin
- La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel St Martin ⭐ 9.2/10 | Wonderful
- La Playa Orient Bay ⭐ 9.4/10 Exceptional
- The Morgan Resort Spa Village ⭐ 9.2/10 Wonderful
Related reading: Where to stay in St Croix USVI
What is the nicest part of St Martin?
The Simpson Bay area of St Martin is known for the best beaches in St Maarten, sophisticated restaurants, and lively nightlife. Most parts of St Martin are nice and safe for tourists – just be careful late a night.
Accommodations vary from luxurious resorts to cozy beachfront villas. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for an exciting vacation.
Related Caribbean reading: Best places to stay in St John USVI
How to get around St Maarten
Rental cars offer visitors the freedom and flexibility to explore St Maarten at their own pace. Car rental prices can vary depending on the type of car, length of rental period and other features. Most rentals include insurance and a map of the island so you can easily navigate your way around St Maarten. Additionally, car rentals provide an affordable alternative to taxis for sightseeing and beach hopping in the island nation.
▶️ I always recommend renting a car from Discover Cars when available. Book your rental car from Princess Juliana Int. Airport in Sint Maarten.
Related Caribbean travel: How to get around St Thomas
Sample St Maarten Itinerary
Day 1: Explore downtown Philipsburg and soak up some of the island’s culture. Visit some of the exquisite restaurants around the island. St Maarten/St Martin is known to have some of the finest dining in the Caribbean!
Day 2: Drop down the world’s steepest incline. Visit Maho Beach to watch the planes fly in right over your head. Dip your toes in the sand at Grand Case and snorkel around Pinel Island
Day 3: Take a day trip to Anguilla or St. Barts
Day 4: Spend your last day exploring the beaches and lagoons around the island.
More Caribbean itineraries: St John Itineary | Turks and Caicos Itinerary
Where to Stay in St Maarten/St Martin
- Philipsburg: Villa on the Beach
- Baie Longue: La Samanna
- Simpson Bay: La Vista Beach Resort
What should I pack for a trip to St Maarten?
• REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN
Most Caribbean islands require reef-safe sunscreen, by law. It’s one of the reasons their coral reefs are so beautifully healthy! So, be prepared and purchase your reef-safe sunscreen before visiting the Caribbean. It will be even more costly to purchase it there!
• SNORKEL GEAR
Your own snorkel set comes in handy if you prefer not to have to use the provided equipment during snorkeling tours. Sometimes, provided equipment doesn’t fit right and it affects my ability to snorkel. Also, you can snorkel everywhere around St Martin, so I never go without my own set.
• GO-PRO UNDERWATER CAMERA
As an avid Caribbean lover, and snorkeler, I tried to avoid purchasing a Go-Pro for the longest time. Needless to say, I regret that now. The underwater shots and adventures I’m able to capture incredible memories of now have been worth every penny! I have the GoPro 10, and the quality and functionality of it have been amazing so far.
• QUICK DRY TOWEL
This quick dry towel is a life-saver at the beach and on boat/snorkeling tours. It really is sand-proof (and I hate sand). It packs down easily into your bag making it convenient to carry around – whether you’re on a tour or hiking.
What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten? FAQ
Is St Maarten worth a visit?
Yes, St Maarten is definitely worth a visit! The Dutch side of the island offers stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, while the French side offers peaceful escapes and excellent cuisine.
Visitors can also explore nearby islands by ferry or charter a sailboat to enjoy the crystal clear waters around the island. Or, you can stay on land and learn about the history of this unique island.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, St Maarten is sure to offer something for everyone!
Related: Is St John USVI worth visiting?
How many days do you need in St Maarten?
You need about four days to explore everything St Maarten has to offer. You will have time to see stunning beaches and lagoons, explore historical sites, and take advantage of thrilling water sports and excellent cuisine.
Which is better Sint Maarten or Saint Martin?
St Maarten is for travelers looking for a lively island life. It’s home to the island’s cruise port and busy airport and boasts nightlife and bars. St Martin is better for people looking for a relaxing destination farther away from the crowds. It’s full of secluded beaches and romantic gems to explore.
Deciding which is better, Sint Maarten or Saint Martin, is a personal choice you’ll have to make!
Is St Martin a party island?
St Martin is the quieter side of the island known for secluded beaches and romantic getaways. St Maarten, on the other hand, is known for its party atmosphere and nightlife.
Do they speak English in St Martin?
St Martin is French-speaking. St Maarten is Dutch-speaking. However, they speak English on both sides of the island. You don’t need to know Dutch or French to have a great time in St Martin.
What is the nicest beach in St Maarten?
Mullet Bay Beach is one of the best beaches St Maarten. Located on the Dutch side, this beach boasts white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of marine life to explore! There are also shaded areas with palm trees to relax under if you need a break from the sun! On the French Side, visit Baie Rouge Beach. Not only is this the perfect spot to enjoy the sun and sand, but you’ll find Devil’s Hole nearby. Devil’s Hole a natural swimming pool, formed millions of years ago. It’s a must-see while you’re visiting!
Summary: What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten?
So, what is the best time of year to go to St Maarten? Overall, the best time to visit St Maarten is from late December through mid-April.
| What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten? | December to April |
| When is the cheapest time to visit St Maarten? | August |
| What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten without compromising on weather but saving money? | May to June |
Visitors pay premium prices in peak season for a reason. The perfect weather, warm waters, and excursion opportunities make the best time visit St Maarten.
But, if you’re looking for lower tourism, opt for May-June. If you’re willing to compromise on weather for big savings, you can try during hurricane season, but buyer’s beware!
As I mentioned, I believe the best time to visit St Maarten is December to April. Personally, I wouldn’t compromise on that, if I had the choice!
