Most visitors rely on taxis and rental cars, but public transportation also is available to all points on the island between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. Fares can be paid in U.S. dollars.

Taxi Service
Taxis are ready and waiting at Princess Juliana International Airport and at all major hotels. The cabs have no meters, but drivers must follow official rates for travel throughout the island. After 10 p.m., rates rise 25 percent, and after midnight, 50 percent. Also, hotel tour desks can arrange sightseeing tours by taxi, the only way to go for those not wanting to drive a rental car.

Car Rental
The best way to sample a selection of beaches, restaurants and shops is by rental car. Many companies rent cars on the island, and most require either a credit card imprint or a cash deposit ranging from $350 to $1,500, plus an additional collision damage waiver. Cars are delivered to any hotel, but cannot be picked up at Princess Juliana International Airport in order to protect the livelihood of island taxi drivers. However, rental car shuttles run between the airport and satellite lots. All foreign driver's licenses are valid for driving on the island. Motorists drive on the right-hand side of the street, and the roadways have been designed by the government to be easily accessible to physically disabled visitors.