Are you a big plane spotting fan? Come visit Maho Beach, a sandy stretch located just yards away from an airport runway. The runway is one of the world’s shortest, so planes come in very low—pictures of the beach make it seem like sunbathers are about to be crushed by descending jumbo jets.
A small road and barrier separates the beach from the runway, and signs warn about getting too close to the jet blast. Heed the warnings and don’t press yourself up against the fence (a popular tourist game) lest you wind up like this poor woman. Instead, watch the planes take off and land from the safety and comfort of the Sunset Bar and Grill. This beach bar offers great views and broadcasts of radio chatter from nearby flights.
Where is it? The island of St. Maarten. Fly to Princess Juliana International Airport (check prices).
Where to Stay? Right on the beach at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort.
What Else Should I Know? If you want to see the big planes, come between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m., when many of the long-haul jets land.
Who’s it For? Plane watchers, adrenaline seekers, people who get bored at the beach.
You Might Also Like:
- Get Inspired: See All Daily Daydreams
- World’s Most Unusual Beaches
- St. Maarten/St. Martin Travel Guide
(Photo: Shutterstock/chalabala)
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