Does St. Maarten accept US dollars?

The US Dollar is accepted everywhere on the island. Local currency and US Dollar ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the island. Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist establishments.



Yes, the U.S. Dollar is widely accepted and essentially functions as a primary currency throughout both the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint-Martin) in 2026. While the official currency on the Dutch side is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) and the Euro (EUR) on the French side, almost every business—from high-end boutiques in Philipsburg to beach bars in Orient Bay—prices their items in U.S. Dollars or offers a favorable exchange rate. In many cases, the "street" exchange rate is 1:1 for the Dollar and Euro, which is a high-value perk for American travelers. Credit cards are also universally accepted at major establishments. For 2026 travelers, it is a "pro-move" to carry some small-denomination U.S. bills for tips and local markets, as you may occasionally receive change in local guilders or Euros. This currency flexibility is a premier feature of the island, making it one of the most frictionless and "budget-friendly" destinations in the Caribbean for tourists coming from the United States.

People Also Ask

Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most. It is not unusual to receive change in US Dollar even when payment is made with the guilder.

MORE DETAILS

The euro is used in the North (in St. Martin). Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, you can use your cell phone on St. Martin to call inside the island or to anywhere else.

MORE DETAILS

Our duty-free markets and shops are filled with brands you love, and unique local specialties you won't be able to find anywhere else. Truly a shopping destination, St. Maarten offers the retail therapy you deserve while staying on the island.

MORE DETAILS

Upon arrival in Sint Maarten, you must have: a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay; a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card).

MORE DETAILS

St. Martin (French) or St. Maarten (Dutch) does not have any particular customs procedures at work. Small quantities of personal products like tobacco, electronic equipment and alcohol are allowed free of duty.

MORE DETAILS

The US Dollar is accepted everywhere on the island. Local currency and US Dollar ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the island. Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist establishments.

MORE DETAILS

There are no restrictions but amounts over ANG20,000, or equivalent, must be declared.

MORE DETAILS

-Note: many (but not all) hotels and restaurants include a 15% service charge, in which case no further tipping is necessary (otherwise, add 15% to the bill). The tap water in Sint Maarten/St. Martin is safe to drink in most places. Many establishments serve desalinated water.

MORE DETAILS

The island's weather is pleasant year-round, but these are times when rain showers are less likely. Summer and early fall are not good for a vacation; many hotels close in this offseason and there's a chance of hurricanes. Also avoid visiting in winter and early spring (mid-December to April) if you can.

MORE DETAILS

Dutch Sint Maarten The Dutch side of the island is more developed. There are more amenities and services available, traffic tends to be heavier and the atmosphere is more animated, with a steadier flow of tourists who are more likely to be looking for a party atmosphere.

MORE DETAILS

St Maarten, the dual nation, is renowned for numerous things: expansive beaches, plenty of sun, aquamarine waters, crystal clear, and great seafood. It is a common destination because of the sandy shores and the great jewelry prices. Jewelry in St Maarten is cheap because it is duty-free.

MORE DETAILS

Why the two spellings? Well, this 37-square-mile-island is governed by both France and the Netherlands. The French side of the island refers to itself as Saint Martin, while the Dutch side is known as Sint Maarten.

MORE DETAILS

Are there COVID-related entry requirements for US citizens? No. As of August 1, 2022, Saint Martin no longer has COVID entry requirements for any travelers. There are NO testing or vaccine requirements.

MORE DETAILS

There are regular cabs available to get around from Marigot, from Philipsburg and from all tourist sites. There are regular cabs available at both airports (regional and international) seven days a week. If you do not want to rent a car on St. Martin, a cab is the ideal compromise.

MORE DETAILS

When you arrive St. Maarten, you will pass through Immigration, which can take 10 minutes or 90 minutes, depending on which flights have arrived just prior to yours.

MORE DETAILS

The legal drinking age on St. Maarten/St. Martin is 18 years.

MORE DETAILS