A Guide to Currency in St. Martin: What to Know Before You Go!

Two Nations, Two Currencies — One Island, Infinite Charm

Welcome to Saint-Martin / Sint Maarten — a Caribbean gem where two cultures, two languages, and two currencies share the same sun-drenched paradise.

Here, a casual drive across a border you won’t even notice brings a shift in rhythm — and in wallet.

🇫🇷 The French Side — Saint-Martin and the Euro’s Ease

On the northern coast, French Saint-Martin feels like a gentle echo of the Riviera.
Prices are in euros (EUR), the market in Marigot smells of vanilla and fresh fish, and the terraces of Grand Case invite you to linger over a glass of wine at sunset. For European travelers, it’s as simple as home — a credit card tap away from fine dining and chic boutiques.

🇳🇱 The Dutch Side — Sint Maarten and the Dollar’s Pulse

Cross to the south and the mood changes. Casinos hum, duty-free shops sparkle, and everything moves to the beat of the US dollar (USD).
Technically, the official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but in practice, dollars rule. Whether you’re shopping in Philipsburg or toasting the night on Maho Beach, green bills are the lingua franca.

How to Handle Money on the Island

• US$ work almost everywhere — simply check before you pay.
• Know your rate. The EUR/USD exchange rate can make a difference, especially for big purchases.
• Withdraw wisely. ATMs on both sides are common; bank machines usually offer the best exchange rates.

Local Insight

The dual-currency system might sound complicated, but in reality, it’s part of the island’s charm.
It reflects what Saint-Martin truly is — a place where French refinement meets Caribbean freedom, where sophistication and spontaneity dance together under the same tropical sky.

Pro Tip

If you prefer simplicity, carry US dollars. They’re accepted almost everywhere — even on the French side.
Just note: when you pay in USD in Saint-Martin, your change will often come back in euros.

The Takeaway

Don’t overthink it. On this island, even money flows easily.
Whether you’re savoring a Grand Case dinner or trying your luck at a Maho casino, you’ll find that managing your budget here is just as effortless as enjoying the sea breeze.