Terres Basses (French 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 Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin?

  • Terres Basses is the oldest settlement in St. Martin.
  • The island has an area of 6.6 square miles.
  • The area is home to some of the most luxurious resorts and villas on the island.
  • It is known for its stunning beaches, including Baie Rouge, Plum Bay, and La Samanna.
  • Terres Basses is also a popular spot for watersports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kiteboarding.
  • Browse our St. Martin vacation rentals.

Terres Basses (French 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 Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin

Getting to Terres Basses (French 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...® - Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin Travel Tips

Before making their way to Terres Basses (French 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 Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin even more relaxing.

Capital: 2019Marigot
Population: 2019Unknown
Size: 1 wordSmall.
Electric Current: 110/220
Time: Timezone: AST, 2026-07-16 03:10:59
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: Official language spoken in Terres Basses (French side) is French, as it is a French territory. However, many locals also speak English as a secondary language due to the influence of tourism and the proximity to English-speaking countries such as St. Maa
Currency: Terres Basses, also known as the Lowlands, is a stunning and exclusive area located on the French side of the Caribbean island of St. Martin. This luxurious destination offers a variety of currency and payment options for visitors, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for travelers. The official currency in Terres Basses is the Euro, as it is part of the French overseas territory. This means that all prices, including accommodation, restaurants, and activities, are displayed and charged in Euros. It is recommended to exchange your currency to Euros before arriving in Terres Basses, as there are limited options for currency exchange on the island. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Terres Basses, especially in tourist areas. Some establishments, such as hotels and larger restaurants, may also accept major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. It is always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand to confirm their preferre
Tipping and Taxes: Terres Basses, located on the French side of the Caribbean island of St. Martin, follows a similar tipping and tax system to that of mainland France. Here is a summary of the tipping and tax practices in Terres Basses: 1. Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected in Terres Basses, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated. 2. Service Charge: Most restaurants in Terres Basses include a service charge of 15% in the bill, which goes towards the staff's salaries. It is not mandatory to leave an additional tip, but it is always appreciated. 3. Taxes: The standard sales tax rate in Terres Basses is 8.5%, which is included in the price of goods and services. This tax is known as the Value Added Tax (VAT) or Taxe sur la valeur ajoutée (TVA) in French. 4. Hotel Tax: Visitors staying at a hotel or rental property in Terres Basses are required to pay a local tourism tax of 4%. This tax is added
Dress Code: The dress code in Terres Basses (French side) is typically casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and stylish attire suitable for a tropical climate.
Topography: Terres Basses on the French side is a low-lying area with rolling hills, lush vegetation, and stunning beaches.
Telephone: +590 Terres Basses

Terres Basses (French 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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