The local bus service is efficient and cheap. Buses run frequently from 7am to midnight between Philipsburg and Marigot and usually continue up to Grand Case. The flat fare is US$1.50 and drivers will accept dollars or euros (though not always florins if you're on the French side). Minibuses run all over the island, depending on the driver's whim, and charge between US$1.50 and US$3 depending on distance. Both buses and minibuses can be taken from bus stops in Philipsburg and Marigot; elsewhere, flag them down as they pass.

If you want to explore the island (and you should certainly do some touring) consider hiring a car for a few days. Driving is easy (on the right-hand side of the road), and there are plenty of car rental outlets at the airport; competition keeps prices reasonable, starting at around US$40 per day. Try Paradise (tel 599/545-3737), Safari (tel 599/545-3186), St Louis (tel 599/545-3244), or Budget (tel 599/545-4030). Most will deliver to your hotel. Scooters can also be rented for around US$30 per day; try Rent a Scoot (tel 590/87 20 59) in Nettle Bay.

Finally, taxis are easy to come by in Philipsburg and Marigot, less so elsewhere. Rates are fixed both from the airport and from the ferry dock in Marigot; ask before you hop in. Guided taxi tours cost around US$35 for one to two people for a two- to three-hour tour. In Marigot, try 590/87 56 54, in Grand Case 590/87 75 79 and in Philipsburg 599/542-2359.