Fly to This Caribbean Island and You’ll Land Right on the Beach — Almost

@matadornetwork Pro tip: look up flight times at SXM airport before you go 😉 🎥 IG: @ssparks #MahoBeach #planetok #SaintMartin ♬ original sound – Matador Network

Hands down, the most unique feature of SMX, which services both Sint Maarten and Saint Martin, is the fact that its runway is located mere feet from one of the most popular beaches on the island, Maho Beach. It’s a thrill for fliers and beachgoers alike. As planes take off and land, sunbathers have front row seats to marvel at the stunning aircraft, which get so close that the people below can actually feel the wind from their engines. This phenomenon has made Sint Maarten a popular spot for both Caribbean vacationers and aviation enthusiasts who come to witness the Maho Beach plane landings.

Now, you might be thinking that a beach so close to the airport would be a drag once the spectacle has worn off. But Maho Beach is a true beauty with dazzling white sand and impossibly turquoise waters. It’s also a great place to go for a splash due to the calm waters and shallow depth. On the sportier side, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other beach gear to explore nearby coves and bays. There are also plenty of local bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite while catching an encore of the epic plane landings.

Of course, there’s one reason to fly into SXM that trumps the Maho Beach plane landings: The joint island of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin is a cultural melting pot that’s brimming with great food, better nightlife, unbelievable sunsets, and tons of natural appeal. It’s an impressive Caribbean island for every type of traveler, and you’re guaranteed to start making memories the moment you touch down.