Why Do Planes Land RIGHT Above This Beach?

Maho Beach, located on the Dutch side of Saint Martin in the Caribbean Sea, known as Sint Maarten, is one of the world’s most iconic beaches. It’s not just the white sand or turquoise water that draws attention (though they’re certainly there)—it’s the extraordinary proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), one of the most unique aviation hubs on the planet. The runway starts mere feet from the beach’s edge, making Maho a spot where planes soar over sunbathers’ heads at altitudes of less than 100 feet. This thrilling spectacle attracts thousands of tourists and aviation enthusiasts from across the globe.
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The story of this unusual setup dates back to the 1940s, when American forces built an airstrip on a narrow strip of land between Simpson Bay Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea during World War II. The island’s mountainous terrain left few options for a larger site, so they made do with this compact location. After the war, the airstrip was upgraded, with the runway extended by reclaiming land from the lagoon. By the 1960s, it was handling big passenger jets. Today, giants like the Boeing 747 and Airbus A340 land here, and with a runway just 7,500 feet long, pilots must descend at an ultra-low altitude right over the beach.
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So, what makes Maho Beach so famous? It’s all about those low-flying planes. Every day, especially during the peak tourist season from December to April, dozens of flights arrive and depart. The most dramatic are the transatlantic routes operated by major airlines like KLM (from Amsterdam) or Delta (from the U.S.). As planes come in to land, they pass so close you can see the landing gear details and feel the air rumble. Takeoffs are just as wild: the jet blast kicks up sand, blows away belongings, and can even knock people off their feet if they’re near the fence. That’s why warning signs line the perimeter, though plenty of thrill-seekers ignore them for the perfect shot.
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The beach itself is small, about 1,000 feet long, and not as serene as others on Saint Martin. The constant roar of engines and crowds of visitors create a lively vibe. The sand is fine but has eroded over time due to the jet blasts, and while the warm, turquoise water is great for swimming, waves can get choppy. Just steps away is the Maho district, a bustling tourist hub with bars, restaurants, and casinos. The Sunset Beach Bar stands out as a must-visit spot—grab a cocktail, check the flight schedule on their board, and watch planes land from the terrace with a front-row view.
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Maho Beach has earned its fame for being one-of-a-kind. People come not just to relax but for the adrenaline, rare photo ops, and sense of adventure. Getting here is easy: from the cruise terminal in Philipsburg, a taxi costs around $10, or you can hop on a bus for a couple of bucks. Mornings are best to beat the crowds, while evenings pair the action with stunning sunsets. Safety’s a factor—standing too close to the fence during a takeoff is risky, and officials keep warning about it. Maho Beach is where nature and technology collide to create something truly remarkable, and its reputation echoes worldwide.
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