Maho Beach | Moorea

Maho Beach is a world-famous beach located on the Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten, near Princess Juliana International Airport. What makes this beach unique is its close proximity to the airport’s runway, offering an exhilarating experience for visitors. Here’s a detailed look at Maho Beach:

Highlights of Maho Beach

Plane Spotting:

• The beach is globally renowned for its close-up views of planes landing and taking off.
• Large jets fly extremely low over the beach as they approach Runway 10, creating a surreal and thrilling experience.
• The sound and force of jet engines during takeoff, known as jet blasts, are an iconic part of the experience.

Crystal-Clear Waters:

• Apart from aviation enthusiasts, the beach itself is beautiful, with turquoise waters and white sand typical of the Caribbean.

Bars and Restaurants:

• Popular spots like Sunset Bar & Grill and Driftwood Boat Bar offer food, drinks, and incredible views of the planes. Sunset Bar even has flight schedules posted for visitors to time their visits.

Perfect for Photography:

• Maho Beach offers unparalleled opportunities for aviation photography, with planes appearing almost within arm’s reach as they land.
• The sight of a massive aircraft juxtaposed against the small, picturesque beach is a photographer's dream.

Unique Features of the Beach

Plane Landings:

• Due to the short runway at Princess Juliana International Airport, aircraft must approach at a very low altitude over Maho Beach.
• The most exciting planes to watch are wide-body jets like Boeing 747s (previously) or Airbus A330s, though smaller aircraft are also frequent.

Jet Blasts:

• When planes take off, the engines create powerful gusts of wind that can knock over beachgoers, umbrellas, and even send people into the water.
• Visitors standing behind the aircraft during takeoff can feel the jet blast, but caution is advised as it can be dangerous.

What to Expect

Atmosphere:

• The beach is lively, with aviation enthusiasts, tourists, and locals mingling.
• Loud cheers and excitement accompany every plane landing or takeoff.

Size:

• Maho Beach is relatively small, with limited space during high tide. Visitors often crowd the shore and nearby bars for the best views.

Water Activities:

• While swimming is an option, the focus here is on aviation, so it’s not the quietest beach for relaxation.
• The waves can sometimes be rough, especially during windy days.

Best Times to Visit

Early Afternoon:

• Larger planes tend to arrive in the afternoon, making it the best time for plane spotting.
• Flight schedules for major airlines like Air France, KLM, and American Airlines can be checked online or at local bars.

Avoid Peak Cruise Times:

• On days when cruise ships dock, the beach can become extremely crowded.

Safety Tips

Jet Blasts:

• Standing too close to the runway fence during takeoff can be dangerous. Be aware of posted warning signs.
• Avoid loose items like hats or towels that can be blown away by jet blasts.

Sun Protection:

• The beach offers little shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, or sunglasses.

Nearby Attractions

Mullet Bay Beach:

• A quieter beach just a short drive away, ideal for relaxing after the excitement of Maho Beach.

Philipsburg:

• The capital city of the Dutch side offers duty-free shopping, restaurants, and a lively boardwalk.

Maho Beach is more than just a beach; it’s a thrilling destination where aviation and natural beauty come together. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique Caribbean experience, it’s a must-visit spot on Sint Maarten!