How Dangerous is St. Maarten? Read This Before You Go!

When planning a trip to the Caribbean, one important question to consider is, How Dangerous is St. Maarten? While the island boasts stunning beaches and a lively atmosphere, like many popular destinations, it does experience some crime. However, by understanding the current safety situation and taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate essential safety tips to ensure your trip is worry-free.

Click the Play button below to listen to our podcast:

Crime Rates in St. Maarten

Recent data indicates that crime in St. Maarten is relatively low compared to other Caribbean nations. According to the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory updated in August 2024, travelers are advised to “exercise normal precautions” when visiting the island.

This Level 1 advisory suggests that St. Maarten is generally safe for tourists.

However, it’s important to remain vigilant, as petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching do occur. The Government of Canada’s travel advisory notes incidents of theft from vehicles, especially rental cars, and boats. There have also been reports of armed robberies and tourists being followed by individuals on motorcycles. Burglaries and break-ins have occurred, with villas being more vulnerable to these incidents.

Crime Statistics for Sint Maarten (2023-2024)

Overview of Criminal Activity

Sint Maarten experiences moderate crime rates, with specific challenges in property and vehicle-related offenses. The island’s law enforcement continues to address emerging criminal trends.

Key Crime Indicators

Vehicle-Related Crimes

• 62 cars stolen in first half of 2023
• 21 stolen vehicles were rental cars
• Primary targets: Hyundai i10/Grand and Hyundai Tucson models
• Peak theft times: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM and 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

Crime Prevention Recommendations

1. Use steering wheel locks
2. Park in well-lit, monitored areas
3. Secure valuables
4. Remain vigilant, especially during nighttime
5. Use hotel safes for important documents

Tourist Safety Considerations

• Petty theft remains a primary concern
• Occasional reports of opportunistic street crime
• Armed robbery incidents are relatively rare
• Most tourist areas maintain reasonable safety standards

Precautionary Measures

• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
• Use official transportation services
• Stay in well-populated, tourist-designated areas
• Maintain situational awareness

Crime Statistics and Safety Overview for Sint Maarten (January 2025)

General Crime Perception

Sint Maarten experiences moderate crime rates, with specific challenges in property and vehicle-related offenses. According to recent data:

• Crime Index: 31.27
• Safety Scale: 68.73
• Level of crime: Low (33.33/100)
• Crime increase in past 3 years: Moderate (44.44/100)[1][3]

Specific Crime Indicators

Violent Crimes

• Problem of violent crimes (assault and armed robbery): Low (27.78/100)
• Worries about being mugged or robbed: Low (30.56/100)
• Worries about being attacked: Low (25.00/100)[1][3]

Property Crimes

• Problem of property crimes (vandalism and theft): Low (38.89/100)
• Worries about home break-ins: Very Low (19.44/100)
• Worries about car theft: Low (27.78/100)[1][3]

Recent Crime Trends

1. Gun violence: In July 2024, five shootings and one fatality were reported within a two-week period[2].
2. Yacht-related crimes: 8 non-violent incidents in 2022, mostly thefts in the lagoon and Simpson Bay Area[9].
3. Vehicle theft: 62 cars stolen in the first half of 2023, with 21 being rental cars[9].

Safety Perceptions

• Safety walking alone during daylight: Very High (86.11/100)
• Safety walking alone during night: Moderate (58.33/100)[1][3]

Additional Concerns

• Problem of corruption and bribery: Moderate (44.44/100)
• Problem of drug use and dealing: Low (34.38/100)[3]

Safety Precautions

To minimize risk during your stay in St. Maarten, follow these essential tips:

• Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuable jewelry or gadgets.
• Stick to popular, frequented areas like Great Bay Beach, Maho Beach, Simpson Bay Beach, and Philipsburg during the daytime.
• Keep valuables hidden and close to your body, especially when riding taxis or using public transportation.
• Avoid deserted areas and walking alone after dark. If possible, travel with a companion.
• When driving, keep windows up, doors locked, and valuables out of sight.
• Carry only enough cash for the day’s activities and leave the rest in a secure place.
• Use credit cards when possible and always keep them in sight.
• Refrain from visiting unoccupied areas like beaches or parks after dark.
• Never disclose personal information such as passport numbers or banking details.
• Keep a low profile by avoiding expensive clothing or jewelry in sketchy areas.
• Be alert for pickpockets and always lock valuables in your hotel room.
• Exercise caution when using ATMs.
• If confronted by a thief or someone threatening violence, do not resist—your safety is the priority.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and relaxing visit to St. Maarten.

Make an informed decision before booking

Although St. Maarten is unlikely to be called “dangerous” by a tourist visiting the Caribbean island, it’s important to understand the safety ratings and crime statistics that have been reported in recent years so that you can make an informed decision before booking your ticket to travel there in 2021/22.

Conclusion

While Sint Maarten faces some challenges with property crimes and recent concerns about gun violence, overall crime levels are perceived as low to moderate. Tourists should exercise normal precautions and stay informed about current local conditions when visiting the island.

Citations:
[1] https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_countries_result.jsp?country1=United+States&country2=Sint+Maarten
[2] https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/minister-of-justice-tells-parliament-funding-and-capacity-needed-to-combat-gun-violence
[3] https://www.numbeo.com/crime/country_result.jsp?country=Sint+Maarten
[4] https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/who-knows-actual-crime-statistics-against-tourists-in-st-martin-134348/
[5] https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/SXM/sint-maarten-dutch-part/murder-homicide-rate
[6] https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2024/09/17/Kingdom-of-the-Netherlands-Curaao-and-Sint-Maarten-2024-Article-IV-Consultation-Discussions-554973
[7] https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/MAF/st-martin-french-part/crime-rate-statistics
[8] https://www.gallup.com/analytics/356996/gallup-global-safety-research-center.aspx
[9] https://safetyandsecuritynet.org/caribbean-safety-and-security-net-annual-report-2023-reported-yacht-crime-caribbean/
[10] https://smn-news.com/index.php/st-maarten-st-martin-news/46779-lewis-urgent-action-needed-to-address-st-maarten-s-rising-crime-rate.html