Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Split between Dutch and French influences, St. Martin offers culture and coastal beauty. Luxury villas in St. Martin on the French side are chic and serene, while the Dutch side features larger estates with lively surroundings. Villa rentals in St. Martin are ideal for gourmet escapes and beachfront living.

Why Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin?

  • Beacon Hill is part of the Dutch side of St. Martin, which is known for its duty-free shopping.
  • The area is home to picturesque beaches, including Cupecoy Beach and Mullet Bay.
  • Beacon Hill is home to two casinos, the Hollywood Casino and the Paradise Plaza Casino.
  • Beacon Hill is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs.
  • The area is home to the Salt Pickers Monument, a tribute to the men and women who harvested salt from the nearby salt pans.
  • Browse our St. Martin vacation rentals.

Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
84° F
° F
February
84° F
° F
March
85° F
° F
April
76° F
° F
May
87° F
° F
June
89° F
° F
July
89° F
° F
August
89° F
° F
September
89° F
° F
October
89° F
° F
November
86° F
° F
December
85° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.35 inches
February
1.25 inches
March
0.88 inches
April
1.76 inches
May
1.77 inches
June
1.68 inches
July
1.93 inches
August
2.39 inches
September
2.49 inches
October
2.91 inches
November
3.78 inches
December
1.78 inches

History

St. Martin is a small island in the Caribbean, celebrated for its stunning beaches, lively culture, and layered history. Long before Europeans arrived, the Arawak and Carib peoples called the island home. It wasn’t until the late 15th century that European explorers first set eyes on it.

In 1493, during his second voyage to the New World, Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain. Still, more than a century passed before the Dutch West India Company founded the first lasting European settlement in 1631. They named their outpost Fort Amsterdam. Not long after, the French moved in and established their own colony on the northern side, which they called Quartier d'Orleans.

For many years, the Dutch and French vied for control, building separate communities and trading with both the indigenous population and enslaved Africans. In 1648, the two sides finally signed a treaty that split the island in half, creating the unusual dual-nation arrangement that remains in place today.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, St. Martin became tied to the transatlantic slave trade. Thousands of enslaved Africans were forced to work on plantations that produced sugar, tobacco, and cotton. This system collapsed after slavery was abolished on both sides of the island in 1848, and the plantation economy soon declined.

The early 20th century brought a period of hardship, but by the 1930s, St. Martin was drawing American tourists who were crossing the Atlantic. The growing stream of visitors sparked development, and hotels and resorts began to reshape the island’s economy.

By 1957, the French side had become an official overseas territory of France, while the Dutch side remained within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This division gave each half the chance to preserve its own cultural identity, while tourism helped both prosper.

Today, St. Martin attracts travelers from around the world. Its beaches, food, and the mix of French, Dutch, and Caribbean influences make it one of the most distinctive destinations in the region. The island’s past reflects the resilience of its people, who have weathered centuries of change to build a thriving community.

Transportation on Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin

Getting to Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Martin is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for most visitors, but travelers may need to complete an entry form or health declaration depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. Martin.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver's license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required on the French side, obtainable at the local police station.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads and clear signage.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-40 mph (40-64 km/h) in urban areas and higher speeds on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and driving customs. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busy areas.

Local Transportation

1. Taxis: Taxis are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in St. Martin. They are readily available at the airport, major hotels, and tourist areas. Taxis are also a good option for short trips within the island.

2. Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available in St. Martin, and most of them offer a variety of vehicles to choose from.

3. Public Buses: The island has a local bus system that connects major towns and villages. The buses are inexpensive and a good option for budget travelers. However, they can be crowded and may not always run on schedule.

4. Water Taxis: As St. Martin is an island, water taxis are a popular mode of transportation for getting around. They are a great way to visit nearby islands and beaches. Water taxis are also available for private hire.

5. Scooters: Scooters are a fun and convenient way to get around the island. They are available for rent at various locations and are a popular choice for tourists.

6. Bicycle Rentals: St. Martin has many scenic bike paths, making it a great place to explore on two wheels. Bicycle rentals are available at various locations on the island.

7. Walking: Many areas of St. Martin are easily accessible on foot, especially in the main towns. Walking is a great way to explore the island and take in its beautiful scenery.

8. Private Transfers: Private transfers are a convenient and comfortable option for getting around St. Martin. They can be arranged through hotels or tour companies and are a good option for larger groups.

9. Ferries: Ferries are available for travel between St. Martin and neighboring islands such as Anguilla and St. Barts. They are a popular choice for day trips and offer beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

10. Helicopter Tours: For a unique and luxurious means of transportation, consider taking a helicopter tour of the island. This is a great option for those looking for a scenic and memorable experience.

Know Before You Go...® - Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin Travel Tips

Before making their way to Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin even more relaxing.

Capital: 1 wordPhilipsburg
Population: 2018Approximate
Size: 2017Unknown.
Electric Current: 110/220
Time: Timezone: AST, 2026-07-18 20:13:45
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Beacon Hill (Dutch side) is Dutch, while the secondary language is English. Dutch is the primary language used for government and business, while English is commonly spoken among locals and used for tourism. Both languages
Currency: Beacon Hill, located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and variety of dining and shopping options. As a result, there are numerous currency and payment options available in this area to accommodate the needs of both locals and visitors. The official currency in Beacon Hill is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, also known as the Florin. However, US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred by businesses and tourists. Many establishments in Beacon Hill will also accept major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. In terms of payment options, cash is the most commonly used method of payment in Beacon Hill. There are several banks and ATMs located throughout the area, making it convenient for visitors to withdraw cash in either US dollars or guilders. It is recommended to have a combination of both currencies on hand, as some businesses may only accept one o
Tipping and Taxes: Beacon Hill, located on the Dutch side of the island of St. Maarten, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and vibrant nightlife. As with most tourist destinations, tipping and taxes are an important aspect of the local economy. Tipping in Beacon Hill is expected but not mandatory. It is customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for services such as tours or spa treatments. Many establishments will automatically add a service charge to the bill, so be sure to check before adding an additional tip. Tipping for housekeeping in hotels is also common, with a few dollars per night being the norm. In terms of taxes, visitors to Beacon Hill can expect to pay a 5% government tax on goods and services. This tax is usually already included in the price of items, such as meals or souvenirs, but it is always a good idea to check. Additionally, there is a 10% service charge added to hotel and resort bills, which covers things like housekeepi
Dress Code: The dress code in Beacon Hill (Dutch side) is likely to be smart casual with a touch of tropical flair.
Topography: Beacon Hill on the Dutch side of the island is a flat area with a sandy beach, rocky cliffs, and low-lying hills, offering scenic views of the Caribbean Sea.
Telephone: +1 721

Beacon Hill (Dutch side), St. Martin Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Martin, the process of getting married is straightforward. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Martin (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately €100 (French side). Additional fees for the officiant can range from €200 to €500 (approximately US$220 to US$550), depending on location and type of ceremony. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 business days before the intended wedding date.

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