Maho Beach – St. Maarten
Maho Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its thrilling, up‑close views of airplanes landing at Princess Juliana International Airport. The runway sits directly behind the sand, giving visitors a front‑row seat as jets fly just overhead. It’s a lively, high‑energy spot that draws crowds, photographers, and aviation fans from all over the world. Even if you’re not a plane enthusiast, the experience is unforgettable and uniquely St. Maarten.
Fun Facts & History About Maho Beach
Maho Beach became internationally famous thanks to aviation photographers who captured dramatic images of planes landing just feet above the sand. The beach sits at the end of one of the Caribbean’s busiest runways, and its location made it a natural viewing point long before social media made it iconic. Over the years, Maho has become a bucket‑list stop for travelers, cruise visitors, and plane spotters who want to experience the roar and rush of low‑flying jets.
Where Maho Beach Is Located
Maho Beach is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, directly next to Princess Juliana International Airport. It’s about 25–30 minutes from the cruise port, depending on traffic.
Why Maho Beach Is Worth Visiting
Maho Beach offers a one‑of‑a‑kind experience you won’t find anywhere else. Watching planes land just overhead is exciting, dramatic, and incredibly memorable. The beach itself is small but scenic, with bright blue water and a lively atmosphere. Bars and restaurants line the shore, making it easy to grab a drink while you wait for the next arrival.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Expect a busy, energetic beach with lots of people waiting for the next plane. The sand is soft, the water is bright blue, and the atmosphere is fun and social. You’ll hear the roar of engines, see crowds gather for big jets, and feel the excitement build as planes approach the runway. The beach is narrow, and waves can be strong, but the real draw is the aviation show happening overhead.
How to Get to Maho Beach From the Cruise Port
Maho Beach is about 25–30 minutes from the cruise port by taxi. Drivers know it well, and the route is straightforward. Traffic can be heavy in the afternoon, so plan extra time if you’re visiting later in the day.
Best Time to Visit Maho Beach
Late morning to mid‑afternoon offers the best mix of sunlight and flight activity. Larger jets typically arrive in the early afternoon, but schedules vary daily. Many beach bars post flight boards so you can track upcoming arrivals.
Tips for Visiting Maho Beach
- Stay behind the marked safety areas during jet blasts.
- Bring water — the beach gets hot and crowded.
- Arrive earlier if you want a good viewing spot.
- Keep your phone secure during takeoffs and landings.
- Check flight schedules posted at nearby bars.
Common Complaints About Maho Beach
- It gets extremely crowded, especially when multiple cruise ships are in port.
- The beach is small, and space can be limited during peak times.
- Waves can be rough, and the shoreline sometimes narrows depending on conditions.
- Jet blast is intense, and some visitors find it uncomfortable or overwhelming.
- Traffic near the airport can be slow, especially in the afternoon.
- It’s not ideal for swimming, since most people come for the planes, not the water.
Final Thoughts
Maho Beach is a must‑see attraction in St. Maarten, offering an unforgettable mix of excitement, scenery, and aviation thrills. It’s lively, iconic, and unlike any other beach in the Caribbean — perfect for cruisers who want a memorable experience close to the airport and full of energy.
You can see the full list of top things to do in St. Maarten here.
