Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Saint Martin
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Saint Martin
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Saint Martin
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Saint Martin
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Saint Martin, a dual-nation island in the Caribbean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and duty-free shopping. While taxis and public transport are available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore every corner of this paradise at your own pace. Here’s why booking a car is the best way to experience Saint Martin.
Unmatched Flexibility and Independence. Public transportation can be limiting, but a rental car allows you to create your itinerary and explore hidden gems without being tied to bus schedules or taxi availability.
Access to Secluded Beaches and Remote Areas. Saint Martin boasts numerous secluded beaches and picturesque viewpoints only accessible by car. Discover pristine stretches of sand like Happy Bay or explore the rugged beauty of the island’s interior.
Comfort and Convenience for Families and Groups. Traveling with family or a group? A rental car provides ample space for luggage and beach gear, making your vacation more comfortable and convenient. Avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple taxis or relying on shared transportation.
Explore Both the Dutch and French Sides. Saint Martin is divided into Dutch (Sint Maarten) and French (Saint-Martin) sides, each offering unique experiences. A rental car makes it easy to cross the border and discover the diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes.
Drive on
Right hand side
Speed limit within city centre
30-50 km/h (19-31 mph)
Languages
French & Dutch, English widely spoken
Average petrol price
€1.50 per liter / $6 per gallon (approximate)
Speed limit outside the city
80 km/h (50 mph)
Currency
Euro (EUR) on French side, Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) and US Dollar (USD) on Dutch side
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Score
7.8/10 (based on road conditions and traffic)
Dialing Code
+590 (French side), +1-721 (Dutch side)
Driving in Saint Martin offers a unique blend of European and Caribbean influences. Navigating the island requires understanding local driving customs and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.
1. General Traffic Flow Traffic tends to be heavier in and around Philipsburg (Dutch side) and Marigot (French side), especially during peak hours. Plan your routes accordingly to avoid congestion.
2. Roundabouts Saint Martin features numerous roundabouts. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and indicate your exit.
3. Road Conditions Road conditions vary across the island. While main roads are generally well-maintained, some secondary roads, especially in the interior, may be bumpy or unpaved. Drive cautiously and consider a vehicle with higher clearance if you plan to explore these areas.
4. Parking Parking is generally available in most areas, but it can be limited in popular tourist spots like beaches and shopping districts. Pay attention to parking signs and avoid parking in restricted areas.
5. Seatbelt Laws Seatbelt use is mandatory for all passengers in Saint Martin. Ensure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up before driving.
Saint Martin offers a variety of scenic drives that showcase the island's natural beauty and cultural diversity.
A car is the perfect way to see it all, from the beaches to the viewpoints.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €40
Classic:
from £25 / $31 / €28
Executive:
from £45 / $56 / €50
7 Seater:
from £50 / $63 / €56
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34
SUV:
from £35 / $44 / €40
Average price for hiring a car per day in Saint Martin
Peak season (December to April): Prices start at approximately £45 / $56 / €50 per day*. This is the dry season with ideal weather, attracting many tourists, leading to higher demand and prices.
Low season (May to November): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €34 per day*. This is the wet season with occasional hurricanes, resulting in lower tourist numbers and cheaper car rentals.
*Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location.
Renting a car in Saint Martin can be a cost-effective way to explore the island. Here are some tips to help you save money on your rental.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals.: Car rental prices tend to increase closer to your travel dates. Booking in advance can secure lower rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
2. Compare Prices from Multiple Rental Companies.: Use online comparison tools to compare prices from different rental agencies in Saint Martin. Look for deals and discounts that may be available.
3. Consider Renting a Smaller Car.: Smaller cars typically have lower rental rates and consume less fuel, saving you money on gas.
4. Decline Optional Insurance if Covered.: Check if your existing car insurance or credit card provides coverage for rental cars. If so, you can decline the rental company's insurance, saving you money.
5. Refuel Before Returning the Car.: Rental companies often charge exorbitant rates for refueling. Fill up the tank before returning the car to avoid these charges.
6. Avoid Airport Rentals if Possible.: Rental companies located at the airport may have higher prices due to convenience fees. Consider renting from an off-airport location to save money.
To rent a car in Saint Martin, you'll need to meet certain requirements and provide specific documentation. Here's what you typically need.
Valid Driver's License – A valid driver's license from your country of residence is required. International driving permits are generally accepted but not always necessary.
Minimum Age Requirement – Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may charge a surcharge for drivers under 25.
Credit Card – A valid credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit and rental payment. Some companies may accept debit cards with certain restrictions.
Passport – A passport is required as proof of identity, especially for tourists.
This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Saint Martin as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty relaxed vibe
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 18.06.2025
Saint Martin was amazing! Having a car made exploring so easy; I'd never been before, and I saw so much.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 30.05.2025
Saint Martin exceeded expectations! Exploring the island with the family was a breeze. The beaches were stunning, though the snorkeling wasn't quite as vibrant as we hoped.
Sarah Lee
Reviewed: 02.10.2024
Island life, low-key.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 10.06.2025
Absolutely loved Saint Martin! First time there, and having a car made it so easy to explore all the hidden gems. Stunning beaches!
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 27.12.2024
Summer in St. Martin was perfect! Getting around with a rental car was so convenient; we saw everything.
Amelia Hernandez
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
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Pretty chill, tbh
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 30.07.2025