What’s the best way to experience Maho Beach?

There are plenty of ways to experience Maho Beach. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<ul><li><a href="/tours/St-Maarten/St-Maarten-Best-Island-Tours/d728-198496P6" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">St. Maarten Best Island Tour</a></li><li><a href="/tours/St-Maarten/Luxury-Catamaran-Day-Sail-in-Sint-Maarten/d728-328786P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">5-Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail in Sint Maarten on The Phoenix</a></li><li><a href="/tours/St-Maarten/Full-Day-Eco-Snorkeling-and-Beach-Excursion/d728-8148P3" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Billy Bones St. Maarten Getaway, Snorkeling with Turtles</a></li><li><a href="/tours/St-Maarten/St-Maarten-Sailing-and-Snorkeling-Tour-Tintamarre-Island-Creole-Rock-and-Lunch-in-Grand-Case/d728-2812ISLAND" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Original Eco Tour Full-Day Around the Island of Sint Maarten</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Philipsburg/Small-Cultural-Group-Tours/d5627-252077P2" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour</a></li></ul>

How much does it cost to visit Maho Beach in 2026?

It’s free to visit Maho Beach, which is a public stretch of sand on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. However, many travelers like to combine it with other island highlights on sightseeing tours that cover the best of the island—these start from US$60 per person.

Is Maho Beach worth it?

Yes, Maho Beach is worth it—especially if you're passionate about aviation. It’s world-renowned for its dramatic plane spotting opportunities, as planes fly close to the sand in preparation to land at nearby St. Maarten Airport. While it might not feel like the most relaxing place to sunbathe, it’s certainly memorable.

When is the best time to see planes at Maho Beach?

In peak season, you can see up to 70 flights landing every day. And we’re not just talking dinky seaplanes—planes such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner come swooping into Princess Juliana International Airport day and night. You’re likely to see the most jets from lunchtime through early evening.

What kind of facilities are at Maho Beach?

Facilities at Maho Beach include sunlounger rental and food and drink vendors. It’s backed by the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, where you can try your luck on games or get a pool day pass. It’s also home to Tortuga Beach Bar, where you can enjoy Caribbean food and drinks.

What should you bring to Maho Beach?

Bring everything you need for a day on the sand to Maho Beach, including sun protection, towels, your bathing suit, and personal entertainment. A waterproof bag for your valuables is crucial here, as overhead planes can sometimes blow water and sand onto your belongings.

Maho Beach Tours and Tickets

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Best Seller

Two Islands, Twice the Fun

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

St Maarten Beach hopping tour (Orient beach and Maho beach combo)

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Discover the thrill of St Maarten's Maho Beach, where jetliners literally fly less than 100 feet above sunbathers—making for a heart-pounding experience. Set out from your Philipsburg port to enjoy Maho's white sands and Caribbean waters as well as its Sunset Beach Bar, where you can sip cocktails (own expense) while actually feeling the vibrations of incoming and outgoing planes. Not only is it sensory overload, but you'll score some incredible pics. This shore excursion includes round-trip port of call transfer.

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St Maarten Shore Excursion Maho Beach Round Trip Transfer

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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See the best of St. Maarten during this sightseeing tour from Philipsburg. Explore the Dutch and French sides as you visit key towns like Orient Bay Beach, where you can relax on the beach, the French capital of Marigot, the famous Maho Beach where you can watch planes land and take off, and much more. Enjoy complimentary beverages throughout the tour as you admire the idyllic scenery of the island.

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FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Take a break from your typical beach vacation and experience this one-of-a-kind Maho Beach tour. Sip cocktail (own expense) while viewing low-flying planes land at the nearby Princess Juliana International Airport. Listen to a live feed of communication between the arriving aircraft and the control tower or go “fence surfing.” Along with convenient departure/drop-off points and air-conditioned coach, a driver-guide makes for a more personalized tour.

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Amazing Plane Spotting at Maho Beach

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Get a taste of local culture and history with this highlights tour of St. Maarten. Ideal for first-timers to the island, enjoy an itinerary that includes monuments, museums, and beaches, as well as opportunities to shop. Learn about St. Maarten directly from your guide as you visit Cole Bay, Topper's Rhum Distillery, and Maho Beach. And don’t worry about getting sore feet when going to each destination, with transportation provided between attractions.

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St. Maarten Best Island Tour

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Discover the best of Dutch and French Saint Maarten on this half-day guided ATV tour. Enjoy coastal and in-land sightseeing, brief off-road adventures, and stops at top highlights like the French Nature Reserve and scenic beaches. Ride with ease on main roads, with built-in stops for photos. The tour includes all necessary equipment, from the ATV to a helmet and fuel, for a seamless experience.

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UTV / ATV Famous Beach Ride (for Cruise Passengers)

3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutesFree Cancellation

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All In One Island Tour of St. Martin | St. Maarten

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Sint Maarten Beach Hopping Mullet Bay and Maho Adventure

Explore the stunning coastlines of St. Maarten on a self-guided beach-hopping tour. Start your day at Mullet Bay Beach, where tranquil turquoise waters and powdery white sands invite relaxation. Enjoy a local barbecue while basking in the sun. Then, shift to Maho Beach, where the thrill of watching planes land just above your head adds excitement to your day. This tour perfectly combines serene beach vibes with heart-pounding action, making it ideal for both relaxation seekers and adventure lovers alike. - Visit two iconic beaches: Mullet Bay for relaxation and Maho for thrills - Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a local barbecue at Mullet Bay - Experience the adrenaline rush of planes landing at Maho Beach - Plan for at least an hour to return to your cruise ship before departure

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Sint Maarten Beach Hopping Mullet Bay and Maho Adventure

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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At Maho Beach on St. Maarten, visitors witness planes descend directly above them into Princess Juliana Airport. Visit Maho Beach without the hassle of navigating on a day trip with pick-up and drop-off from the Philipsburg cruise terminal. With your guide’s inside tips and free time to relax, swim, and dine (own expense), this day trip is a popular choice for visitors traveling via cruise ship.

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Maho/ Sunset Beach Blast

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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While your ship is in St Maarten's port, swim and lounge at Orient Beach and Maho Beach on this half-day shore excursion. Jet ski, paraglide or sail at Orient Beach, then grab a snack at one of the many bars and restaurants there. Travel to Maho beach and watch jumbo jets fly overhead to land at the nearby airport. A guide, complimentary refreshments and round-trip transportation from the cruise port are included.

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St Maarten Shore Excursion Orient and Maho Beach Half Day Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

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Climb aboard the catamaran "The Phoenix" for a shared half-day sail around the sights of Sint Maarten. Explore the warm Caribbean Sea with ease with the supplied water gear, for a day of swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or relaxing. Indulge in fresh fruit, pound cake, and a freshly prepared lunch alongside refreshing cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Finish the day watching the planes take off as you sail past Maho Beach—a must-do when visiting the island (weather permitting).

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Best Luxury Catamaran Day Sail St Maarten on The Phoenix (Public)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Drive your own premium speedboat—no experience or license required Follow a professional guide for a safe, stress-free adventure Cruise through Simpson Bay Lagoon and into the open Caribbean Sea Enjoy modern, stable boats designed for comfort and easy handling Pass luxury yachts, scenic beaches, and dramatic coastal views Experience the thrill of waves and open-water cruising See low-flying planes near famous Maho Beach from the water Explore the cliffs and caves of Cupecoy Stop for a swim in clear, calm Caribbean waters Small-group experience for a more personal and interactive tour

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Yoho Pirates Premium Self Drive Speedboat Tour in St. Maarten

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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We are the only tour company offering both MAIN and COMPLIMENTARY stops. Enjoy a VIP experience with price incentives from partnering venues and other surprises only discovered on tour! ALSO ENJOY: Air-conditioned van to stay cool all day Free water bottles on trip Hotel & cruise port pickup included Perfect shore excursion back to port on time, guaranteed Small group personal, relaxed, never rushed Multilingual guide English, French, Spanish, Italian & Dutch

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Discover French & Dutch St Maarten

5 hoursFree Cancellation

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Explore St. Maarten on a guided ATV or UTV adventure to the world-famous Maho Beach. After a safety briefing and operating instructions, set off with your guide along scenic island roads as you make your way to one of St. Maarten’s most iconic attractions. Experience the excitement of watching planes fly overhead, enjoy beautiful beach views, and capture great photos along the way. Perfect for cruise passengers looking to combine sightseeing with an exciting ATV or UTV adventure.

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ATV/UTV Guided Tour to Maho Beach – Cruise Passengers

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Let us take you on a memorable tour of St Maarten. A must-do for any trip to the Caribbean, you can avoid the crowds by booking with us and exploring the wonders of the town at your own pace. As this is a private tour, we can cater to your needs. Swim in Mullet Bay, enjoy some duty-free shopping, feast on the local cuisine – you pick from our itinerary, and make the day one for the books.

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The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour

5 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Adventurous outdoor-lovers will enjoy this yachting, sailing, snorkeling, and swimming experience during this 6-hour tour. We'll head to the south of the island to sail on the French and Duch sides taking a few stops for snorkeling, swiming and spotting the planes on the famous Maho Beach. Prepare yourself for a Caribbean buffet lunch and an open bar during this unforgivable experience in Sint Maarten.

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Tropical Catamaran Snorkeling & Sailing

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Experience the highlights of St Maarten on this 5-hour shore excursion leaving from the cruise port. Ride in an air-conditioned van to Maho Beach on the Dutch side of this Caribbean island and Lucas Bay on the French side. Learn about the culture and history of the island from your guide while enjoying complimentary beer, water and soda. Visit the villages of Grand Case and Marigot before being returned on-time for your cruise ship's departure.

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Island Discovery Tour Orient & Maho Beach

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Experience the thrill of Maho Beach on this tour that also sees you visiting Cole Bay’s panoramic views and the hustle of French-influenced Marigot or Philipsburg’s shopping centers. Here you will find local art and food, and enjoy mixing with the locals. Then, you will get to experience the island’s main attraction, Maho Beach, where low-flying planes and crystal waters make this an entertaining lunch spot (own expense) where you can enjoy a selection of complimentary beverages (water, sodas, beers, punch).

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St. Maarten Maho Beach Tour

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Explore four amazing locations on Saint Maarten island on this comprehesive tour. Drive in style in a private, air-conditioned vehicle stocked with plentiful iced water, soda, beer, and rum punch. A professional tour guide will narrate as you move around the island. Highlights include viewing the Alantic Ocean at Oyster Pond and dipping into the water at Orient Bay Beach. Then you'll explore the French Margot and famous Maho Beach.

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St. Maarten 4 Hour Sightseeing Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

With our tours we not only take you to a location but we also provide the history of the location for the customer so they can make their own memories of the tour. Our Tour guides and drivers are verse in the history of the island and are multilingual. Some tours can be groups and we also provide private tours as it is booked by the customer. Tailor made tours as per the customer requests.

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Private Tour in St. Maarten

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Navigate both the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten in a 4x4 Jeep Wrangler during this half-day adventure from Phillipsburg. Stops include Airport Beach, Marigot Market, and Philipsburg Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. This tour is mainly on-road with a portion off-road. All Jeeps have automatic transmissions and are equipped with VHF radio to communicate with the tour guide. Bottled water and use of Jeep is included.

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Guided Jeep Tour Exploring French and Dutch St Maarten

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

UTV/ATV Guided Tour in Philipsburg (Hotel & Airbnb Guests)

TOUR INFO Total activity duration = 3 hours of touring the highlights of both Dutch & French St. Maarten with multiple 15-20 minute stops of beach/lunch/shopping/free time in beautiful Great Bay The tour is done at a sightseeing pace, mostly on-road with a portion off-road. This tour is great for anyone up for an adventure. It is also something that friends and family really enjoy. With this tour you get to explore the French and Dutch side and enjoy the breeze, atmosphere and sceneries on the island openly.

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UTV/ATV Guided Tour in Philipsburg (Hotel & Airbnb Guests)

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Tropical Catamaran Snorkeling, Sailing And Beach Experience

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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What are people saying about Maho Beach

St Maarten Beach hopping tour (Orient beach and Maho beach combo)

tom_e, Nov 2026

Great day

Class act! Our guide Eddie and his assistant both were knowledgeable and very helpful and friendly. Would make Orient beach 2hr and Maho beach 1.

St Maarten Shore Excursion Maho Beach Round Trip Transfer

Arron_V, Nov 2026

From Seattle to Maho Beach

Clean comfortable transportation, well organized, friendly staff and driver, good communication. Highly recommend.

Best Of Billy Bones ,Snorkeling with Turtles and BBQ Lunch

Janie_T, Jun 2026

Best Captains Ever!

Capt. Sam and Alex were excellent hosts. Their knowledge of the islands and water were top notch. We saw lots of fish and turtles. The lunch was delicious and the drinks were strong! Safety was a top priority.

St Maarten Shore Excursion Maho Beach Round Trip Transfer

Gabriel_C, May 2026

An excellent choice.

We booked the experience the night before, and everything went smoothly. The vehicle was comfortable, spacious, and clean. The guide was adequate, but a little sparse and sometimes difficult to understand. We departed quickly and arrived safely back at port. The airport beach is definitely unique and worth experiencing. A bit crowded, but so exciting to see, hear, and feel those planes so close and so powerful. An excellent choice for something you can't experience anywhere else.

FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach

Kelly_W, Nov 2026

Average tour, a little pricey by the time you pay for lunch and beach chairs

We had a great tour guide Ricardo, he was knowledgeable about his country and gave us a good tour. We stopped at a beach with access to a local restaurant with beach chairs and umbrellas. In my opinion the food was a little pricey, I feel like we got the tourist menu. The food and beach were average and if you want a place to sit on the beach its another $30 for two chairs and an umbrella.

Best Of Billy Bones ,Snorkeling with Turtles and BBQ Lunch

Marie_M, Oct 2026

Good good!! Bring a towel!

It was good! 😊 great staffing! Very friendly, patient & helpful! Was what you’d expect for the price- bring your own towel or air dry after snorkeling :) 🤿🐢Would do again but wish the food was from Lee’s Roadside shack instead but all good for the good price of the whole tour! We did see turtles!

Maho Beach

5.0

(12,479)

Philipsburg

Know before you go

Huge airplane landing above the Maho Beach in St. Maarten Island.

The best spot for watching the planes is by the fence closest to the airport.
Flight schedules are posted everyday at the Sunset Bar and Grill on the beach.
Don’t forget to pack sun protection, swimwear, and bottled water.
Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.

Maho Beach Tours and Tickets

91 results

What are people saying about Maho Beach

Maho Beach

People Also Ask

What’s the best way to experience Maho Beach?

How much does it cost to visit Maho Beach in 2026?

Is Maho Beach worth it?

When is the best time to see planes at Maho Beach?

What kind of facilities are at Maho Beach?

What should you bring to Maho Beach?