When visiting St. Maarten in 2026, the primary thing to avoid is isolated areas and unlit beaches at night, as petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching remains a concern in both the Dutch (Sint Maarten) and French (Saint Martin) sectors. You should also be extremely cautious of abandoning valuables in rental cars, which are frequent targets for break-ins, especially at popular scenic overlooks or remote beach trailheads. In the water, avoid swimming at unsupervised beaches where strong riptides are common, and always consult locals before diving into unknown waters due to hidden volcanic rocks. On the roads, steer clear of driving during peak "cruise ship hours" (mid-morning and late afternoon) to avoid debilitating traffic congestion, and be wary of reckless scooter riders who often ignore traffic laws. Finally, avoid using unprotected ATMs in secluded areas; stick to those located inside banks or well-lit businesses to minimize the risk of card skimming, and always negotiate your taxi fare before getting into a vehicle to prevent overcharging.