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We’ve spent most of our time exploring the Dutch side, home to the famous Maho Beach—a vibrant spot where the thrill of travel truly comes alive. Here, you can experience the powerful jet blast as planes land so close that it feels like you could almost reach out and touch them. The Dutch side’s colorful blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences creates an unforgettable atmosphere, making every moment on this tiny island a new adventure.
Maho Beach: Jet Blasts, Beach Fun, and Plane Watching
Maho Beach is located next to Princess Juliana International Airport and is easily reachable by local bus or taxi. If you’re driving, parking can be challenging during peak times, but with a bit of patience, it remains manageable. The beach is just across the runway and is one of the top attractions in Sint Maarten, drawing many tourists and even cruise boats that stop by to witness the dramatic landings and takeoffs.
Before visiting, it’s a good idea to check the airplane schedule, which you can find on the Princess Juliana International Airport website or at many local hotels, which often post it in their lobbies. Plan to spend plenty of time on the beach—swimming, sunbathing, or simply watching the planes land and take off. We spent over five hours at Maho Beach, having a blast, meeting people, and enjoying the thrilling experience.
We particularly enjoyed the takeoffs more than the landings. During takeoffs, you can really feel the jet blast and hear people screaming with excitement and having a blast. It’s an epic experience. You can also check out our adventures on our YouTube channel for more highlights.
Is it safe to visit Maho Beach?
We wondered the same thing as we watched planes soar overhead, kicking up sandstorms from the jet blasts and sending beach towels flying while people screamed with excitement. The experience is thrilling, but the beach is generally safe as long as you follow the guidelines and take precautions.
Here are some safety tips:
Wear and Secure Your Glasses: Protect your eyes from dust and sand, but hold onto your glasses when planes take off—many people have lost theirs to the strong winds.
Avoid Standing Near the Fence: The jet blast is powerful, so steer clear of the fence to avoid getting hurt.
Protect Your Camera and Phone: The jet blast can blow sand and debris, so keep your devices safe or use a protective cover.
Follow Safety Instructions: Pay attention to all posted signs and follow local safety guidelines.
Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: The beach can get crowded when cruise ship passengers arrive, so watch your stuff closely.
Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen to protect yourself.
What is the best time of day to visit Maho Beach?
The best time to visit Maho Beach really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in a peaceful swim, after 3:30 PM is ideal since most of the planes have already departed, leaving the beach quieter. However, if you’re there for the thrill of the jet blast experience, around 1 PM is perfect, as that’s when the big jets typically take off. For those wanting to enjoy both the beach and the local dining scene, visiting around lunchtime offers the best of both worlds—you can witness the plane takeoffs while also enjoying a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Is Maho Beach Safe for Kids?
Maho Beach can be an exciting place to visit, but it’s important to be cautious, especially with young children. The beach is famous for its proximity to the airport runway, where planes fly low overhead, creating strong jet blasts that can be dangerous. The jet blasts can push people around, and the area can get very crowded, which might not be ideal for young children.
While the beach itself is safe for swimming and has beautiful views, the powerful jet blasts and crowds make it a potentially risky environment for kids. If you decide to bring young children, it’s crucial to hold them tightly, keep a close eye on them, and protect their eyes from the sand and debris that might be kicked up by the jet blasts. Ultimately, the decision.
What’s the water like for swimming?
The water at Maho Beach is clean, warm, and boasts a stunning turquoise hue, making it perfect for swimming. During our visit in May and June, the water was calm and inviting, offering a serene experience. The beach itself is covered in soft, white sand, adding to the overall beauty and comfort of the swimming experience.
Where’s the best place to eat on Maho Beach?
There are a few dining options, but our top recommendation is Sunset Bar & Grill. This spot is well-loved for its delicious oven-baked pizzas, each named after an airline—our favorite being the vegetarian Air France pizza. They also offer great desserts. For more details on dining at Maho Beach, check out our blog post on where to eat in the area.
Enjoying a strawberry smoothie on Maho Beach while soaking in the breathtaking views was pure bliss.
Driftwood Boat Bar: A Beachfront with Delicious Food and a Refreshing Breeze
Another excellent dining option on Maho Beach is Driftwood Boat Bar, located on the left side of the beach. This beachfront spot is perfect for a delicious breakfast and is well-known for its tasty fried shrimp. Enjoy a variety of finger foods, burgers, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages while taking in the great breeze during your meal.
