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Few places in the world offer the heart-pounding combination of sun, sand and aviation thrills like Maho Beach in St Maarten. Situated at the edge of the Princess Juliana International Airport, this iconic stretch of coastline has become a magnet for aviation enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies and curious travellers seeking one of the world’s most exhilarating beach experiences.
What makes this place even more fascinating is its history. During World War II, the area was a U.S. military base that served as a hub for reconnaissance flights hunting for German submarines in the Caribbean. Over time, land was reclaimed from the nearby lagoon, extending the runway and creating what is now colloquially known as ‘Airport Beach’. The breathtaking landings over Maho Beach have even been immortalised in Microsoft’s famous Flight Simulator program, further cementing its status as one of the world’s most legendary aviation hotspots.
Imagine yourself basking in the Caribbean sun when suddenly a massive jet appears on the horizon. It creeps closer and closer, its engines roaring, until it thunders just metres above your head before making its dramatic landing behind you.
If that’s not a bucket list moment, what is?
What is the famous airplane beach in St. Maarten and why is Maho Beach so famous?
Maho Beach is not just a place to lay out a towel—it’s an open-air theatre where the stars of the show are roaring jet engines and low-flying planes.
Situated on the edge of the Princess Juliana International Airport’s runway, it is one of the few places in the world where you can see huge jets soar just metres above your head. Maho Beach has become such a plane spotting hotspot that nearby bars and restaurants even display flight schedules so you’ll always know when the next big arrival is coming.
The Driftwood Boat Bar is a great option for this—and for taking in the stunning views of Simpson Bay over your drink.
Spotting Air Transat arrivals and departures in St. Martin
If you’re hoping to catch an Air Transat jet making its exhilarating descent over Maho Beach, timing is everything—especially since our flights only operate during the winter season. Keep your eyes on the sky for our sleek and efficient A321LRs. Watching one of these beauties glide over the turquoise waters of St. Maarten before touching down at the Princess Juliana International Airport is a sight you won’t forget!
- Our Montreal – St-Martin flights typically land at 11:55 AM on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays.
- Our Toronto – St-Martin flights typically land at 12:15 PM on Saturdays.
For an even more detailed look at incoming flights, you can check the official Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) arrivals schedule online to see what types of planes will be arriving soon, especially if you have a specific aircraft in mind.
Being safe near the airport and other tips for watching landings at Maho Beach
Yes, this is as thrilling as it sounds, but let’s get one thing out of the way—plane traffic at Maho Beach is not for the faint of heart.
Most of the planes touching down at Princess Juliana International Airport are small, island-hopping propeller jets—fun to watch, no doubt. But when a towering Boeing 747 or Airbus A330 starts its approach, the entire beach comes alive. You can feel the anticipation building long before the aircraft appears, as beachgoers grab their cameras, point to the sky, and brace for the epic moment ahead!
However, the force of a jet engine is nothing to take lightly. The powerful blast from departing planes can whip up sand, send belongings soaring, and even knock people off their feet. Some daring visitors cling to the fence at the runway’s edge, bracing themselves as engines roar to full power. While it might seem like an adrenaline rush worth trying, it’s actually pretty risky. For the best (and safest) experience, it’s wise to keep a bit of distance while soaking in the spectacle!
➡️ Check the schedule: Airlines frequently update their arrival and departure times, so it is always a good idea to check in advance if you plan on doing some plane spotting in St. Maarten.
➡️ Hang on to your stuff: The jet wash from large planes can send bags, towels and even people flying!
➡️ Enjoy the atmosphere: This is a unique experience, so take it all in – grab a drink, meet fellow travellers and soak up the energy.
➡️ Try a unique vantage point: For some incredible long-distance views, head to the Radio Tower Outlook on Cole Bay Hill – perfect if you have a telephoto lens to capture the action from afar.
If there’s one thing that’s certain, Maho Beach is no ordinary beach day. It’s an adrenaline rush wrapped in paradise, a place where aviation and adventure collide. So, what are you waiting for?
