Get Blown Away While Jet Surfing at St. Martin

Maho Beach has gained an international notoriety for both its danger and attraction to thrill-seekers. However, unlike other unsafe shores where harmful currents, animals and cliffs are the problem at hand, St. Martin’s Maho Beach is home to an unusual kind of hazard — jet surfing.

Jet surfing, or “fence surfing” as some call it, is the act of holding onto a beachside chain-link wall, while a commercial airliner takes off a few feet away. Those brave enough will try to keep their grip while the jet flow blasts against them, nearly sending beachgoers tumbling back across the beach and into the ocean.

All of this excitement is possible because of adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport. This airport is separated from Maho Beach by no more than a small roadway and a flimsy, rattling fence.

Not only can beach patrons experience take-off — they can also enjoy the terrifying adventure that is watching the planes land. These fearless few stand on the shores while each plane sails less than 100 feet above, blocking out the sun. Somehow, despite all of the noise and commotion, nearby restaurants and bars like the Sunset Bar and Grill as well as the Royal Islander Club La Plage have remained in business.