Making the Most of a Layover in St Martin/Sint Marteen

St Martin/Sint Marteen is the gateway to a few other Caribbean islands including St Barts, Anguilla and Saba. Only if you plan perfectly well and there are no wind storms or other natural events, will you be able to head directly to your final destination. So what do you do with a few hours to spare on a layover in St Martin/Sint Marteen?

While SXM airport is undergoing major renovations, there are still very few options for seating and entertainment. I am confident this will change in the coming year. I even saw an airport lounge under construction along with a few new seating areas which will be a joy. Nonetheless, no one likes being stuck in an airport with limited food options and no real entertainment. You can explore what is available on the SXM Airport website.

I wouldn’t recommend leaving the airport if you have a connection at the airport and less than 4 hours to spare. Security checks are unpredictable and you will also need to clear immigration (again) upon your return. If you mistime this, you could spend even longer in Sint Marteen than expected.

Connections from SXM

Determining how to best leverage a few hours of free time will depend on how anxious you get about travel. If you are connecting to another flight from SXM, your options may be a bit more limited. Assuming you have done your diligence for making your connection, you can then explore the general vicinity of the airport. Maho Beach is the closest attraction to SXM airport. Experience the thrill of watching airplanes land and take off just a few feet above your head at Maho Beach. Grab a drink at one of the beach bars and marvel at the spectacle as planes soar overhead. Factor in about 15 minutes to get there and 15 minutes to get back.

Ferry Transfers from Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital on the Dutch side (Sint Marteen) but still around 10km from SXM airport. Stroll along the bustling Front Street lined with duty-free shops, colorful colonial buildings, and busy markets. Browse the booths at the market and boutique stores for unique finds. Take advantage of the island’s tax-free shopping as you collect some additional unnecessary things for your baggage. The ferry terminal is in Philipsburg so you are only ever a few blocks away from where you will need to go to grab your ferry. Try the Lazy Lizard Bar and Restaurant or any of the other outpost right on the beach for a quick bite. Make sure you get to the ferry terminal at least 30 before your scheduled departure time to check in.

Ferry Transfers from Marigot

Marigot is on the French side (St Martin) and is the capital of this destination. From SXM airport, Marigot is about 20 minutes and a taxi will cost around $20 (with an extra fee if there are more than two people). This compact capital is very walkable and filled with boutiques, cafe’s and art galleries. As an added bonus, it is within walking distance of the ferry terminal. The food in this area is just ok. If you are looking for something more delectable, you want to travel further.

Foodies will want to head out to Grand Case. Grand Case is renowned as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, with a diverse array of restaurants serving up delicious French and Creole cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the beachfront bistros or sample local specialties at the lolos (barbecue shacks) along the main street. Grand Case is just over 12 km from SXM airport and only about 6 km (~ 15 minutes) from the Marigot ferry terminal.

My Perspective

Live a little and get out to explore and make the most of your layover in St Martin. It’s a cool way to check off another country on your travel log. You never know, you may find a little slice of heaven on the island that entices you to return for a proper visit.