Did you know that at Maho Beach in St. Martin – St. Maarten, jumbo jets fly just 10-20 meters (30-60 feet) above sunbathers’ heads? This extraordinary beach sits at the end of Princess Juliana International Airport’s runway, creating one of the world’s most unique beach experiences where aviation and leisure collide in spectacular fashion. Nowhere else can you feel the rush of a Boeing 747 passing so close you could almost touch it while relaxing on pristine Caribbean sands.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
The closest airport to Maho Beach is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is literally adjacent to the beach. Most major airlines offer flights to St. Maarten, including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and KLM. The beach is just a 2-minute walk from the airport terminal, making it possibly the most accessible beach from any international airport in the world.
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If you’re arriving by cruise ship, Maho Beach is approximately 7-8 miles (11-13 km) from the Philipsburg cruise port. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Many cruise lines offer excursions to Maho Beach, or you can arrange private transportation.
Arriving by Cruise?
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Best Time to Visit Maho Beach
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds | Recommendation |
| High Season | December – April | 26-29°C (79-84°F), dry | Very busy | Best weather, book in advance |
| Shoulder Season | May, November | 27-30°C (81-86°F), occasional showers | Moderate | Good balance of weather and crowds |
| Low Season | June – October | 28-32°C (82-90°F), hurricane risk | Least crowded | Best deals, but weather risks |
For plane spotting enthusiasts, Thursdays and Saturdays are the prime days to visit Maho Beach. These days typically feature KLM’s Boeing 747 jumbo jets, which create the most spectacular landings and takeoffs. During high season (November to March), KLM operates three weekly flights on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday, while in low season (April to October), flights are reduced to Thursday and Saturday only.
The best time of day for plane spotting is typically between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when most of the larger international flights arrive. The Sunset Beach Bar maintains a surfboard with the day’s flight schedule, helping visitors time their beach experience with the most impressive aircraft arrivals.
Getting Around Locally
Transportation Options from Philipsburg Cruise Port to Maho Beach
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and throughout the island. Expect to pay around $20-25 each way from Philipsburg to Maho Beach. Taxis on St. Maarten charge fixed rates per vehicle (not per person), so sharing with other travelers can reduce costs.
Local Bus/Minivan
For a more economical option, take a local bus (minivan) from Philipsburg’s Emmaplein bus station. Look for buses displaying “Maho” or “Cupecoy” and tell the driver you want to get off at Maho Beach. The fare is approximately $2-3 per person each way.
Rental Car
Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore more of the island at your own pace. Several rental agencies operate at the airport and in Philipsburg. Note that parking near Maho Beach is limited, with paid options available at Morgan Resort or the Maho Village garage.
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Organized Tours
Many tour operators offer excursions to Maho Beach, often combined with other island highlights. These typically include round-trip transportation, a guide, and sometimes food and drinks. This is a hassle-free option if you’re visiting for the day from a cruise ship.
Browse guided tours to Maho Beach:
Where to Stay
Staying near Maho Beach puts you in the heart of the action, with front-row seats to the famous plane landings. The area offers a range of accommodation options from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly hotels.
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort
This all-inclusive resort is just steps from Maho Beach. It features multiple restaurants, a casino, spa, and a large pool complex. Perfect for families and those who want convenience and amenities.
The Morgan Resort & Spa
A newer luxury option near Maho Beach with modern rooms, an infinity pool overlooking the runway, and upscale dining options. Ideal for those seeking a premium experience with plane-spotting views.
Simpson Bay Area
Just a short drive from Maho Beach, the Simpson Bay area offers numerous hotels, villas, and apartments at various price points, plus easy access to restaurants and nightlife.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Maho Beach
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Dining & Local Cuisine
The Maho Beach area offers a variety of dining options, from casual beach bars to upscale restaurants. The island’s unique Dutch-French heritage creates a diverse culinary scene with influences from both European and Caribbean traditions.
Must-Visit Restaurants Near Maho Beach
Local Specialties to Try
Dutch Side Specialties
On the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), look for Indonesian-influenced dishes like satay and rijsttafel, as well as Dutch treats like stroopwafels and bitterballen (fried meatballs).
French Side Specialties
If you venture to the French side (Saint-Martin), you’ll find excellent French-Caribbean fusion cuisine, fresh baguettes, pastries, and local lobster dishes.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Plane Spotting at Maho Beach
The main attraction at Maho Beach is, of course, watching the planes land and take off. For the best experience, check the flight schedule at Sunset Beach Bar or online through the Princess Juliana International Airport website. The most spectacular landings are from larger aircraft like KLM’s Boeing 747, which typically arrives on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Plane Spotting Tips: Midday to early afternoon (11 AM – 3 PM) typically sees the most international flights. Bring a camera with a fast shutter speed to capture the planes. Stay on the beach side of the road for safety, and never hold onto the airport fence.
Beyond Plane Spotting
Mullet Bay Golf Course
St. Maarten’s only golf course is located just minutes from Maho Beach. This 18-hole course offers beautiful Caribbean views and challenging play for golf enthusiasts.
Maho Village
This entertainment complex adjacent to Maho Beach features duty-free shopping, restaurants, bars, and the Casino Royale, the largest casino on the Dutch side of the island.
Explore More Activities in St. Maarten
Discover guided tours, water sports, and other experiences around the island:
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Maho Beach itself is primarily known for its unique plane-spotting experience, the island of St. Martin/St. Maarten offers rich cultural experiences that reflect its dual Dutch and French heritage.
Cultural Attractions Near Maho Beach
Annual Festivals
St. Maarten Carnival
Held from April to May, this vibrant celebration features colorful parades, calypso competitions, food fairs, and concerts showcasing local culture.
Heineken Regatta
This international sailing event takes place in early March, bringing together sailors from around the world for races and beach parties.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the thrill of plane spotting, St. Martin/St. Maarten offers numerous outdoor activities to enjoy during your visit to Maho Beach.
Water Activities
Water Sports
The calm waters around Maho Beach are perfect for swimming. Nearby beaches offer jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Equipment rentals and guided experiences are available from various operators along the beach.
Snorkeling & Diving
While Maho Beach itself isn’t ideal for snorkeling due to boat and aircraft traffic, nearby Mullet Bay and Cupecoy Beach offer better conditions. Several dive operators offer trips to explore the island’s coral reefs and shipwrecks.
Land Activities
Ready for Adventure?
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Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Jet Blast Warning: The jet blast from departing aircraft at Maho Beach can be extremely powerful and dangerous. Never stand directly behind aircraft during takeoff. Stay on the beach side of the road and do not hold onto the airport fence. Injuries and even fatalities have occurred from people being thrown by jet blast.
Beach Safety
Local Customs & Etiquette
Currency & Payments
Both US dollars and euros are widely accepted throughout the island. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller vendors.
Border Crossing
There are no formal border controls between the Dutch and French sides of the island. Visitors can freely cross between Sint Maarten and Saint-Martin, though it’s advisable to carry identification.
Dress Code
Beach attire is acceptable at Maho Beach and casual restaurants, but more upscale establishments may require smart casual dress. Cover up when leaving the beach area.
Tipping
On the Dutch side, a 15% service charge is often included in restaurant bills, but additional tipping for good service is appreciated. On the French side, service is typically included in the bill.
Visitor Comments About Maho Beach
“Watching jumbo jets land just above my head was the most exhilarating beach experience I’ve ever had! The beach itself is beautiful with crystal clear water, but the planes make it unforgettable. Don’t miss the KLM 747 landing if you can time your visit right.”
“We spent a whole day at Maho Beach during our cruise stop. The Sunset Beach Bar was perfect for lunch and drinks while plane watching. Just be careful with your belongings when the big planes take off – my hat went flying into the ocean!”
“As an aviation enthusiast, Maho Beach was the highlight of our Caribbean trip. We stayed at a nearby hotel for three days just to experience different aircraft. The Thursday KLM flight was spectacular! The beach itself is small but the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in the world.”
Practical Travel Tips
What should I bring to Maho Beach?
Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a beach towel, and a secure bag for your belongings. If you’re planning to photograph planes, bring a camera with a fast shutter speed. Consider bringing water shoes as the sand can get hot, and a secure strap for your camera to prevent it from being blown away by jet blast.
How do I check the flight schedule?
The Sunset Beach Bar displays daily flight schedules on a surfboard. You can also check the Princess Juliana International Airport website for arrivals and departures. For the most spectacular landings, look for wide-body aircraft like the KLM Boeing 747 (typically Thursdays and Saturdays).
Are there facilities at Maho Beach?
The beach itself has limited facilities, but the nearby bars and restaurants offer restrooms, food, and drinks. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent (around $10 for a lounge chair). Maho Village, just steps away, has additional shops and services.
Is Maho Beach suitable for children?
Children can enjoy Maho Beach, but parents should be extremely vigilant about jet blast safety. The noise from aircraft can also be frightening for some children. Consider bringing noise-canceling headphones for sensitive little ones.
Can I visit Maho Beach during a cruise stop?
Absolutely! Many cruise passengers visit Maho Beach during their port day in St. Maarten. Allow about 20-30 minutes each way for transportation from the cruise port, and plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the beach to see multiple aircraft arrivals and departures.
Your Caribbean Aviation Adventure Awaits
Maho Beach offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience where the thrill of aviation meets the beauty of the Caribbean. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply someone who enjoys unique travel experiences, the sight of massive aircraft gliding just meters above sunbathers creates memories that last a lifetime. Beyond the plane spotting, you’ll find beautiful waters for swimming, nearby restaurants and bars for refreshments, and the warm hospitality that St. Martin/St. Maarten is known for. Plan your visit around the flight schedule, respect the safety warnings, and prepare to be amazed by this extraordinary intersection of technology and tropical paradise.
The above is subject to change.
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