St. Maarten & St. Martin: The Ultimate Vacation Destination for Cigar Aficionados
By St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty · October 10, 2024 · Updated November 10, 2026
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St. Maarten/St. Martin boasts an impressive number of cigar shops, particularly for its size. Whether you find yourself on the Dutch side of St. Maarten or the French side of St. Martin, you'll have no trouble locating a shop that caters to cigar connoisseurs. Some of the most popular shops include Cigar Emporium in Philipsburg, The Cigar House in Simpson Bay, and SXM Cigars in Maho. Each of these locations offers a carefully curated selection of cigars from around the world, including prestigious brands from Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras.
The island's cigar shops are known not just for their extensive inventories but also for their knowledgeable staff, who can guide you through the different flavors and strengths to help you select the perfect smoke for your taste. Many of these shops also offer humidors on-site, ensuring that the cigars you purchase are kept in optimal condition until you’re ready to enjoy them.
For cigar aficionados, the availability of Cuban cigars is often a key factor when choosing a destination. St. Maarten/St. Martin is one of the few places in the Caribbean where you can legally purchase and enjoy genuine Cuban cigars. While Cuban cigars are still restricted in certain parts of the world, including the United States, they are widely available in St. Maarten/St. Martin. This makes the island a prime spot for American cigar lovers who want to experience the rich, bold flavors that Cuban cigars are renowned for.
Whether you're looking for the classic Cohiba, the robust Partagas, or the smooth Romeo y Julieta, you’ll find a wide array of Cuban cigars in shops across the island. In addition to Cuban cigars, St. Maarten/St. Martin also offers cigars from other cigar-producing countries, making it a true global destination for cigar lovers.
One of the great joys of vacationing on St. Maarten/St. Martin is the ability to enjoy a fine cigar while lounging on one of the island’s pristine beaches. Unlike many destinations where smoking is heavily regulated, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers a more relaxed approach. Smoking cigars on public beaches is legal, giving you the opportunity to pair your favorite smoke with the soothing sounds of the waves and breathtaking ocean views. There’s something undeniably luxurious about enjoying a premium cigar while gazing out at the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Popular beaches such as Orient Bay, Mullet Bay, and Simpson Bay Beach provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely smoke. Many beach bars and restaurants even have outdoor seating where cigar smoking is welcomed, allowing you to pair your cigar with a tropical cocktail or a glass of aged rum for the ultimate indulgence.
Beyond the cigars themselves, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers a cultural experience that complements the cigar lifestyle. The island is home to a cosmopolitan mix of European, Caribbean, and international influences, which is reflected in its fine dining, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. You can enjoy a cigar after dining on French cuisine in Grand Case or while sipping a glass of vintage wine at a chic lounge in Maho.
Additionally, the island hosts several events throughout the year, such as the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, where cigar aficionados gather to enjoy their smokes alongside live music, sailing, and festivities. These events provide the perfect opportunity to connect with other cigar enthusiasts and share your passion in a vibrant, social setting.
For cigar aficionados seeking the ultimate vacation destination, St. Maarten/St. Martin is a dream come true. With its abundance of cigar shops, including access to coveted Cuban cigars, the freedom to smoke on beautiful public beaches, and a luxury lifestyle that caters to the finest tastes, the island offers a unique and indulgent experience. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or socialize, St. Maarten/St. Martin provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying life’s finer pleasures—cigars included.
Since 1999, St. Martin Sotheby's International Realty has been a leading provider of vacation rentalsand real estate services in St. Maarten and St. Martin. Be sure to contact our team of experts today to begin planning your next Caribbean vacation.