The "See the Planes Adventure to Orient Beach" promises an exhilarating day combining the serenity of a Caribbean beach with the thrill of aviation enthusiasts. Travelers can unwind on the picturesque Orient Beach, taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters or soaking up the sun. But the real highlight comes when they head to the famous Maho Beach, where they’ll witness low-flying jets and capture stunning photos. With transportation, refreshments, and lunch provided, this immersive experience ensures a memorable day filled with breathtaking views and the excitement of aviation. Whether a beach lover or a plane spotter, this tour offers something for all.

About Your Stay

  • Explore Orient Beach, a picturesque Caribbean beach, with options for water activities like jet skiing and paragliding.
  • Experience Maho Beach, known for its dramatic low-flying aircraft during takeoff and landing.
  • Visit the Sunset Beach Bar and Grill to listen in on airport control tower communications.
  • Enjoy round-trip transportation, refreshments, and lunch included in the 5-hour combination tour.
  • Capacity limited to 30 travelers for a more personalized and immersive experience.

Tour Overview

This 5-hour combination tour takes visitors to two renowned beaches in St Maarten – Orient Beach and Maho Beach.

Departing near the Philipsburg cruise port, the tour provides transportation between the two locations, allowing travelers to spend 2 hours at each beach for relaxation or water activities.

The tour includes refreshments, lunch, and gratuities.

Upon arrival, guests can explore Orient Beach’s water sports like jet skiing and paragliding, then head to Maho Beach to witness the iconic sight of jets flying low over the sand.

With a maximum of 30 travelers, this tour offers an immersive island experience tailored to various fitness levels.

Departure Point and Pickup

See the Planes Adventure to Orient Beach - Departure Point and Pickup

The tour departs from the EDC Lot at the Philipsburg cruise port, located at 79 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Sint Maarten.

This convenient meeting point is just a short distance from the cruise port, making it easy for passengers to join the tour.

The air-conditioned van will be waiting to transport the group of up to 30 travelers to the first stop, Orient Beach.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point, ensuring a seamless start and finish to the 5-hour adventure.

Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or exploring the island independently, this departure location is accessible and well-suited for the Planes Adventure to Orient Beach.

Exploring Orient Beach

After departing from the convenient meeting point near the Philipsburg cruise port, the tour group embarks on the first leg of their Planes Adventure to Orient Beach.

Arriving at the renowned Orient Beach, travelers are granted two hours to unwind or indulge in various water activities at their own expense.

The expansive and clean beach provides ample space for relaxation, while a range of options, including jet skiing and paragliding, offer an opportunity to experience the thrill of watersports.

The tour’s flexible schedule allows guests to savor the serene atmosphere or seek out adventurous pursuits, ensuring a memorable experience at this picturesque Caribbean destination.

The Maho Beach Experience

Next, the tour group heads to the renowned Maho Beach, known for its unique setting where jet liners fly directly over the beach during takeoff and landing.

Visitors will have 2 hours to soak up the excitement and capture the iconic photos of the planes flying just overhead. The group can visit the Sunset Beach Bar and Grill to listen to the airport control tower communications and check the arrival/departure sign, tracking the planes’ movements.

Though the beach can get crowded, the experience of watching the massive jets soar above is truly unforgettable.

With the included refreshments and lunch, the Maho Beach stop completes the day’s adventure on a high note.

Listening to Control Tower

Visitors flock to the Sunset Beach Bar and Grill, eager to listen in on the airport control tower communications and keep track of the arriving and departing planes.

The iconic Maho Beach is located just footsteps away from the airport, offering a unique opportunity to witness the aircraft’s dramatic landings and takeoffs.

As the planes roar overhead, travelers can tune in to the radio chatter between the pilots and the control tower, gaining insight into the intricate coordination required to manage the airport’s operations.

This experience adds an extra layer of excitement and fascination to the already thrilling Maho Beach visit, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the aviation spectacle.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation between the meeting point and the two beaches, as well as complimentary refreshments and lunch.

Gratuities are also covered, so there are no additional costs during the tour. However, any water sports or activities at the beaches, such as jet skiing or paragliding, are at the traveler’s own expense.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Service animals are allowed, and strollers can be accommodated.

The maximum group size is 30 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Accessibility and Group Size

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it does accommodate service animals and strollers. The moderate physical fitness level required may pose a challenge for some travelers.

However, the tour’s maximum capacity of 30 travelers ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.

The group size is limited to:

  • Provide attentive service from the knowledgeable drivers
  • Offer a comfortable and uncrowded atmosphere at the beaches
  • Maintain a smooth and efficient itinerary
  • Ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure for all participants

With these considerations in mind, the tour aims to deliver an exceptional planes-watching experience at Orient Beach and Maho Beach.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on this combination tour to Orient Beach and Maho Beach. The tour boasts an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating based on 5 reviews. Passengers have praised the knowledgeable drivers, ideal timing for beach visits, and complimentary drinks throughout the trip. While some recommend spending more time at the spacious and clean Orient Beach, Maho Beach’s crowds are best experienced later in the afternoon. The tour’s accessibility and group size of up to 30 travelers also contribute to its strong reviews.

Positive Aspects Negative Aspects
Knowledgeable drivers Crowds at Maho Beach
Ideal timing for beach visits Shorter stay at Orient Beach
Complimentary drinks
Accessibility
Group size

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The tour typically takes place in the tropical climate of St. Maarten, with warm and sunny weather. Temperatures are around 80-90°F (27-32°C) during the day, making it ideal for beach activities and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour includes refreshments, but allows travelers to bring their own items as well for added convenience and comfort during the beach visits.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Beaches?

There are no specific photography restrictions at the beaches on this tour. Visitors are generally free to take photos, but should be mindful of others and avoid interfering with any ongoing activities or events.

How Long Is the Drive Between the Two Beaches?

The drive between Orient Beach and Maho Beach takes approximately 25-30 minutes. The tour provides transportation between the two beaches, allowing visitors to fully experience both destinations during the 5-hour combined excursion.

What Should I Bring for the Water Activities?

For the water activities at Orient Beach, one should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and cash or cards to rent equipment like jet skis or pay for parasailing. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for exploring the beach.

Booking Your Stay

The "See the Planes Adventure to Orient Beach" offers a thrilling combination of relaxation and excitement. Travelers can unwind at the picturesque Orient Beach, then head to the renowned Maho Beach to witness low-flying jets and capture stunning photos. With transportation, refreshments, and lunch included, this immersive experience ensures a memorable day filled with breathtaking views and the thrill of aviation, making it a must-do for any Caribbean adventurer.