Few places on Earth serve as reference for our topic today: the sheer proximity between beach and runway are often defined by Maho Beach in St. Maarten. Situated directly beneath the flight path of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), this beach offers a surreal experience where private jets and commercial airliners descend just metres above sunbathers. For travellers arriving in style, it’s an arrival unlike any other: cinematic, thrilling, and surprisingly convenient, since the terminal is located less than a five-minute drive from the sand.
While the spectacle of low-flying jets attracts curious tourists, Maho Beach also caters to those who look for an exclusive break. The nearby airport handles a healthy mix of private jet traffic, with full FBO services and VIP lounges ready to accommodate even the most particular flyers. After touchdown, guests can find beachside bars, five-star resorts, or hop aboard a private yacht moored in nearby Simpson Bay in moments. The transition from tarmac to tropical is seamless, and yes, you can enjoy all this without the constant hassle of commercial jets flying low above your head.
What sets Maho Beach apart isn’t just the proximity, but the drama, the energy, and the sense of being somewhere truly unique. Whether enjoyed from the privacy of a clifftop villa or with toes in the sand and a drink in hand, the experience is unforgettable. For high-end travellers seeking more than just serenity, Maho Beach delivers a rare combination: raw island beauty with front-row access to one of aviation’s most iconic sights.







