This tiny sliver of sand is located at one end of the runways at Princess Juliana Airport. Considered on it’s own it would be another fine example of Caribbean turquoise waters framed by smooth sand. But based on it’s unique location to this airport, it has become somewhat legendary in the circles of plane spotters.
And the reason for this is one can stand directly on the beach and look up in awe at jets passing extremely close overhead (often 30 meters or so) just before they touch down on the nearby runway. Or head into the water and look up as the planes ass by. The best times for watching large jets land is usually in the early to mid afternoon hours. A number of smaller planes use this airport as well but watching them land directly above you does not provide nearly the thrill of a huge jet.
Signs indicate the danger of standing here – especially next to the fence that separates the runway from the road and beach. Those directly in the jet-wind path of a landing plane will be blasted by sand storm like conditions as the jet passes overhead.
Bars on both sides of the beach boast excellent viewing areas. Why not take a seat, get some alcohol and become a plane spotter for the afternoon!
Sometimes you might see a ‘professional’ plane spotter armed with a megaphone calling out the action both on arriving and departing planes. Bars & restaurants nearby usually post flight schedules. During the large plane arrival times, Maho Beach becomes extremely crowded.
Big problema our great atraction. the airport near the beach.
Nice pictures
Thanks Tiago – I’ve walked from the airport to the beach before, other times I’ve taken a taxi, either way its very conveniently located to the airport 🙂