Though it isn't necessary, a rental car does help. The island maybe small, only 37 square miles, but it's mountains landscapes offer some difficulty at times if wanting to visit the more domesticated area's of St. Maarten. The infrastructure does not compare to that of American or European road systems, but it certainly is acceptable by Caribbean standards. Roads on the island are very narrow and are meant for slow to moderate speeds only. To ensure this, you can find speed bumps along the way many times, especially if driving through a residential area.

Keep that in mind when choosing your vehicle. Economical and comfort are key. You could get a full sized SUV, however your going to come across more problems then it may be worth. Most roads are not wide enough to support such a large vehicle. If your going to an exclusive resort during the wet season, then yeah this might be the way to go. Otherwise an economy car will do just fine.

Most common are the compact Japanese or Korean cars offered throughout the island. Mostly found in Europe, these cars are agile capable vehicles that are actually quite fun to drive. Best part is they can easily handle the narrow roads and are uncommonly cheap.

Taxis are readily available on both St. Martin and Saint Maarten, and travelers who will limit their touring of the island to a few locations may find that taxis provide a cheaper, more efficient alternative to a rental car.

Taxis in St. Maarten and St. Martin are similar to rental cars in that they can easily and quickly cross over to the opposite side of the island without delay or hassle, and this makes taking a taxi from and to anywhere on the island a simple matter of deciding where you want go. Fares on the two islands can be different, and most are based on a two passenger ride. Extra passengers will pay a fee of $4(USD). Luggage fees will differ on each side of the island, but passengers should be prepared to pay $1(USD) for each piece of luggage that they have. Between 10:00 p.m. and midnight, there is a 25 percent surcharge, and between midnight and 6:00 a.m., there is a 50 percent surcharge. Taxi rates are fixed and your taxi driver should have a copy of the rates that are also often posted at major pick up centers.

The Dutch side of the island has a taxi association dispatch that can be reached at anytime by calling 147. Most hotels will arrange a taxi for you, and there are taxis stands at Princess Juliana International Airport and at Wathey Square in Philipsburg. Taxi service on the French side of the island can be reached at 590-87-56-54, and has stations in Marigot Bay and at Grand Case. Taxi drivers should be tipped about 15 percent.

Sample Taxi Fares

Trip (From - To)
Fare
Juliana - Marigot     $12(USD)
Juliana - Grand Case     $20(USD)
Juliana - Nettle Bay     $15(USD)
Juliana - Orient Bay     $25(USD)
Philipsburg - Marigot     $12(USD)
Philipsburg - Paradise Peak     $22(USD)
Marigot - Grand Case     $10(USD)

Many taxi drivers can also act as friendly guides as you make your way around the two small nations, so take advantage of this form of travel when vacationing in St. Martin and Sint Maarten.