Maho Beach: Thrills Beneath the Flight Path

There are beaches with white or pink sand, deserted beaches, and beaches where everyone simply relaxes in the sunshine. And then there is Maho Beach, which can rightly be called an extreme beach. If you are not easily frightened, it is well worth a visit for a change of pace.

First things first: where is this unusual place?

Maho Beach is located on the island of Saint Martin. This small island is washed by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the west. What makes it remarkable is that it belongs to two countries: France and the Netherlands share the island. Despite this division, the border is largely open, so it is easy to travel around the island. Its entire 87 square kilometres can be explored by rental car or local minibuses, although a car is the more comfortable option.

This division is most evident in the island's culture. The influence of two different countries can be seen in the islanders' outlook, local cuisine and architecture. Most interestingly, there are two capitals — Marigot and Philipsburg. There is plenty to see and do in both towns. For a more cultural trip with plenty of sights, head to the French side of the island. It is also quieter, making it ideal for a relaxing holiday.

The southern, Dutch side is livelier and more energetic. Its capital is Philipsburg, which also has plenty of attractions. This part of the island has more resorts and is the centre of its tourism industry.

Back to Maho Beach.

It is located in the south of the island, so for a beach holiday, fly into Princess Juliana International Airport on the Dutch side. The first thing you may see from the aircraft window is the beach itself. This is where the excitement begins, as it is the defining feature of the place. The runway lies directly behind the beach. No exaggeration: aircraft appear to almost touch down on the sand. That is where the thrill comes from.

This beach gives visitors a real rush of emotions. Planes land so low that it can feel as though you could reach out and touch them. They pass just 10–20 metres above the ground, attracting large numbers of aviation enthusiasts and photographers. The airport operates throughout the day and into the evening, so there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the spectacle. In the past, more large Boeing passenger aircraft flew over the beach; today, smaller aircraft are more common. The airport is literally just across the road.

Experienced travellers recommend bringing earplugs, as the beach can be quite noisy because of the frequent flights. It is also important to think about safety. The greatest danger is standing beneath the aircraft, and there have been tragic incidents here. Special signs at Maho Beach warn visitors about this. Jet blast can cause serious injury or even be fatal. More often, it sends clouds of sand flying into your eyes, mouth and belongings — including the camera equipment you plan to use. For that reason, a side angle can sometimes be even more impressive than a shot from directly underneath an aircraft. You can photograph planes passing overhead if you want an adrenaline rush, but be careful and never risk your life.

There is, of course, a beach bar. Along with drinks for every taste, it has a convenient terrace from which to capture a great view. The owners look after their guests by posting flight schedules every day. If you have not checked them in advance, the information board will help.

Of course, this place is primarily about entertainment: memorable selfies, unusual videos and new sensations. It is not somewhere for a perfectly quiet sunbathing session, although nothing stops you from relaxing here with earplugs. The sand is soft and brilliantly white, and the water is crystal clear. Maho Beach is considered one of the best in the area and one of the island's main attractions. If you want a good spot for relaxing and taking photos, arrive early in the morning.

If planes do not impress you, or the excitement wears off quickly, Saint Martin offers plenty of water-based activities, like many other Caribbean islands. Maho Beach is especially popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers, who ride waves stirred up by the jet blast of departing aircraft.

Staying in a hotel right beside the beach may not be the best idea. Walk along the coast and you will reach Simpson Bay Marina. It has excellent infrastructure and equally beautiful beaches, but without the aircraft overhead. There is also a wide choice of hotels.

To make the most of Maho Beach, visit between December and August. June to November is hurricane season. There are fewer visitors during this period, although hurricanes do not occur all the time.

Of course, this is not the only beach where aircraft land so low. One famous example is Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, although photographing landing planes there is prohibited. So, if you want a little excitement while visiting a simple yet beautiful beach, Saint Martin is the place to go. Above all, remember safety and keep children safe. You will also be in the sun all day, so sunscreen and a hat will help ensure you take away only positive memories from your time at the beach.

What do you think of this place? Would you take a selfie and seek a thrill on this unusual island? Perhaps some readers have already visited this part of the Caribbean — would you recommend Maho Beach?