Princess Juliana International Airport
Sint Maarten, SX · 15 km northwest of Philipsburg
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ferries to Anguilla Boat · Public ferry about every 45 min during daytime hours | 25-30 min taxi SXM–Marigot · 20-25 min ferry crossing, plus immigration time | Approx. $20 one-way public ferry fare plus departure/port taxes per person, based on traveler reports |
| Hotel Private Transfers Shuttle · By reservation only · Timed to specific flight arrivals/departures | Comparable to taxis: 10-20 min to Maho/Simpson Bay · 25-45 min to French side depending on traffic | $40-80 per vehicle for typical SXM–resort transfers, higher for longer French-side runs or luxury SUVs |
| Island Minibuses Bus · Every 5-15 min on main routes daytime · Much less frequent evenings | 20-30 min SXM–Philipsburg · 25-35 min SXM–Marigot in light traffic, longer at rush hour | $1.50-2.00 per ride (cash) |
| Private Car Services Taxi · On demand by booking · Often available 24/7 with advance notice | 10-20 min to nearby marinas/hotels · 30-50 min to distant villas or French side ports | $50-120 per vehicle depending on distance, vehicle class, and number of stops |
Insider notes
Get your classic plane photo safely by standing back near the concrete wall or Sunset Bar & Grill deck at Maho Beach.
Arrive 3 hours early for international flights to avoid long lines, especially on Saturdays.
Fill up at Maho Village's bars and restaurants before heading to the airport to save on food costs.
Welcome
At Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), the spectacle of aircraft roaring overhead as they approach Maho Beach is a highlight for travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. The combination of low-flying planes, the nearby Sunset Bar & Grill, and crystal-clear waters make it a unique space where a leisurely beach day is just steps away from catching your flight. Located 15 km from Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, this airport is more than just a transit hub — it's an attraction itself.
At a glance
Handling approximately 1.8 million passengers annually, SXM features one passenger terminal servicing numerous regional and international flights. The airport caters to leisure travelers and those island-hopping to neighboring paradises like Anguilla and St. Barth. The compact nature of the airport means you can step off your flight and into a taxi toward a white sandy beach in under 30 minutes, with fares ranging from $15 to $25 depending on the destination.
Terminals & layout
Princess Juliana International Airport operates a single passenger terminal, which houses all arrivals and departures. The terminal features a straightforward layout where everything from check-in to boarding is easily accessible. Despite this simplicity, visitors often report that check-in and security can be slow, especially during peak times such as Saturdays and cruise turnover periods.
Getting to and from the city
Taxis are the go-to option for most visitors, with flat fares of $20-$25 for a ride between the airport and Philipsburg. Hotel shuttles and private car services provide alternatives, albeit at a similar price point. For budget-conscious travelers, island minibuses charge between $1.50 and $2.00 per ride and connect the airport to key spots like Philipsburg. If venturing out to nearby islands, ferry services to Anguilla and St. Barth require a taxi ride to the ports, costing $15-$25 each way, plus ferry fares.
Traveller essentials
The airport features limited dining and shopping options compared to the surrounding area. Long Stay Parking and Short Stay Parking both cost $30 per day, and EV charging stations are available. For those needing internet access, Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Frequent travelers advise arriving at the airport three hours prior to departure, especially for flights to the U.S. and Canada, due to reported backlogs in check-in and security.
Dining & shopping highlights
Inside the terminal, you'll find duty-free shops and eateries like Palms Grill and the SXM Museum gift shop. However, those in the know prefer to dine at local favs like Buccaneer Beach Bar or Skipjack's in Maho Village, offering more variety and better value just outside the airport. Within the terminal, food and drink prices can be higher than those in nearby Simpson Bay.
Lounges
For travelers seeking a more relaxed pre-flight experience, the airport offers several lounge options. The Princess Sky Lounge charges $60 per adult, providing a comfortable area for those willing to pay. However, many travelers find relaxation spots outside the terminal, such as the nearby Sunset Bar & Grill, a worthy alternative given its close proximity and plane-spotting views.
Insider tips
- Insider: Get your classic plane photo safely by standing back near the concrete wall or Sunset Bar & Grill deck at Maho Beach.
- Time: Arrive 3 hours early for international flights to avoid long lines, especially on Saturdays.
- Local: Fill up at Maho Village's bars and restaurants before heading to the airport to save on food costs.
- Quiet: Enjoy a quieter plane-spotting experience at the Driftwood Boat Bar, less crowded than the main area.
- Avoid: Don't stand behind jets at Maho Beach during departures due to powerful, dangerous jet blasts.
- Money: Share taxis to cut costs; taxi fares are per vehicle, not per person.
- Insider: Check baggage delivery can be slow; be prepared for a wait upon arrival when several large jets overlap.