Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your March journey
In March, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) sees steady demand for Caribbean routes as spring break travelers head to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Expect competitive one-stop itineraries via Miami (MIA) and Atlanta (ATL) and occasional seasonal nonstops depending on carrier schedules. March is outside the Atlantic hurricane season, so weather-related cancellations are less likely; however, book refundable or flexible fares if possible. For best savings, book 6–10 weeks ahead and fly midweek. Prepare carry-on reef-safe sunscreen, a lightweight rain jacket for brief tropical showers in SXM, and confirm luggage allowances with connecting carriers.
Nonstop flight time between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) would typically be about 3.5 to 4.5 hours if a direct service exists, but most itineraries in March include a single connection with total travel time of roughly 6 to 10 hours depending on layover duration. Use flight search engines to compare nonstop versus one-stop options and check layover airports like Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT) or Atlanta (ATL).
Direct nonstop service from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is uncommon year-round; in March most travelers will find one-stop itineraries through Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT), or New York (JFK/EWR). Check carriers like United, American, Delta and JetBlue for seasonal schedules and possible nonstops during peak travel windows.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers lounges, TSA PreCheck enrollment, multiple rental car counters, and both ground shuttle and ride-hailing pickup zones. In March you should still expect typical peak-hour security lines; arrive at least 2–3 hours before international departures to SXM to allow time for check-in, screening, and possible gate changes.
To find lower fares in March, compare flexible-date searches, set fare alerts on Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak, and consider midweek departures (Tuesdays/Wednesdays). Book 45–90 days in advance for best value and be open to one-stop itineraries through major U.S. hubs like Miami which often reduce fares.
U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Sint Maarten and should check entry requirements for the Dutch side (Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM)). In March, verify any updated health advisories or testing requirements with your airline and the Sint Maarten government; travel insurance that covers trip interruption and medical evacuation is recommended.
Travelers flying from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) often access nearby major destinations like Houston, Galveston, Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and New Orleans for alternate connections or multi-city itineraries. These cities can offer alternative routes or better fares when traveling to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in March.
Arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in March typically means pleasant weather and active tourist services. Plan transfers to Philipsburg by taxi or shuttle and pre-book ferry transfers for Anguilla or St. Barths when possible. March often features pre-Carnival activities and increased excursion availability; check local event schedules before arrival. Keep U.S. dollars and cards handy, and allow extra time for customs during popular spring break periods.
When you arrive at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in March, expect warm weather, straightforward immigration for many nationalities, and a small but busy terminal close to Philipsburg. Ground transport options include taxis, shared shuttles, and car rentals; ferries to nearby islands such as Anguilla and St. Barths operate from Philipsburg. Have local currency or card ready and be prepared for brief waits at customs during peak spring break periods.
From Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) you can taxi or shuttle to the Philipsburg ferry terminal and catch fast ferries to Anguilla or ferries/charter boats to Saint-Barthélemy (St. Barths). March is a popular time, so book ferries or charters in advance and confirm schedules as services increase for spring travel.
March in Sint Maarten is generally warm and pleasant with daytime highs around 80–85°F (27–29°C), lower humidity than summer months, and only occasional short tropical showers. March sits in the dry season window, making it one of the best months for beach activities, snorkeling, and outdoor festivals.
March is lively in Sint Maarten with pre-Carnival parties, cultural performances, and increased excursion availability geared to spring-break travelers. While the main Carnival celebrations often culminate in April on the Dutch side, March frequently features parades, music nights, and local beach events leading up to peak festival season. Visitors should check the Sint Maarten tourism calendar for exact dates and book event tickets and excursions in advance to secure spots during busy March weekends.
March is a strong choice for visiting Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) due to warm, dry conditions and minimal hurricane risk. It coincides with spring-break demand, so target early-to-mid March weekdays for better fares and fewer crowds. For cheaper travel outside peak weeks, late March weekdays often offer a sweet spot between good weather and lower prices. Book early for March travel to secure desirable flight times and airport transfers.
Direct flights save time—typically reducing total travel time by several hours—but nonstop service between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is limited. Connecting flights via hubs like Miami (MIA) or Charlotte (CLT) offer more schedule flexibility and often lower fares. For March travel, if speed and convenience are top priorities, choose the fastest available nonstop or single-connection with short, realistic layovers; if budget is primary, a longer one-stop itinerary can result in meaningful savings.
United, American, Delta and JetBlue commonly serve IAH-to-SXM itineraries through one-stop routes in March. United often connects via its hubs like Newark or Houston, American routes frequently go through Miami or Charlotte, Delta commonly connects at Atlanta, and JetBlue offers competitive pricing and in-flight Wi-Fi via New York or Boston connections. Consider baggage policies—basic economy vs main cabin—and loyalty programs when booking. CTA: Compare itineraries and baggage rules across these carriers on aggregator sites, and book refundable fares if plans may change.
Pack light breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a light rain jacket for short tropical showers when traveling to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in March. Verify passport validity of at least six months and check vaccine or health advisories before travel. Bring a mix of card and small U.S. dollars for taxis and tips; the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) and Euros are used nearby depending on the island side. Reserve airport transfers in advance for peak spring-break dates and consider travel insurance for unexpected changes. CTA: Check your airline’s baggage rules and book airport transfers early to ensure smoother arrival in SXM.
Typical nonstop flight time from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) would be around 3.5–4.5 hours, though nonstop services are rare. Most March itineraries are one-stop, commonly via Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT) or Atlanta (ATL), yielding total journey times of about 6–10 hours depending on layover length. To minimize total travel time, choose connections with 60–120 minute layovers and avoid red-eye to reduce delays. Check real-time airline schedules for March as carriers may add seasonal services.
To find cheap flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in March, set fare alerts across multiple aggregators and compare one-stop itineraries through Miami, Charlotte, or New York. Consider nearby airports like Austin-Bergstrom (AUS) or Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) if you can drive or connect for lower fares. Travel midweek (Tuesday–Wednesday) and avoid peak spring-break weekends. Use flexible-date searches and consider basic economy fares if you can travel light. Sign up for carrier newsletters and follow social media for flash sales.
Cruise and hotel schedules can vary; March is high season with many hotels and resorts open and cruise visits common. There are rarely port closures in March, but always confirm with your cruise operator or hotel for pickup, arrival windows, and any temporary changes. If you arrive on a cruise day, expect higher local demand for taxis and excursions.
Beyond Philipsburg, travelers arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) commonly access Marigot (St. Martin), Anguilla, St. Barths, and farther hubs like San Juan (Puerto Rico) for onward Caribbean connections. These nearby destinations are popular for day trips, island-hopping, and connecting flights.
On the Dutch side near Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) is commonly used, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. The French side (St. Martin) accepts Euros. In March, bring a mix of cards and cash for small vendors and taxis; ATM access is available but fees can apply.
