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Where Jets Meet Turquoise Water

A Family Stay at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort in St. Maarten

By Kate Rushford March 7, 2026

Only a four-hour flight from Boston Logan on JetBlue, St. Maarten is an easy Caribbean escape for New England families. For travelers who love aviation and for families looking for a getaway that offers more than the typical beach resort Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa delivers a unique experience. With its convenient direct flight from Boston, the island makes for an appealing short-haul tropical escape.

Located beside Maho Beach, the resort sits just steps from one of the famous plane-spotting locations in the world. At nearby Princess Juliana International Airport, arriving aircraft descend dramatically over the beach before touching down on the runway only moments later. For aviation enthusiasts, it’s a bucket-list moment.

At the resort, families will find plenty to keep everyone entertained, including multiple pools, casual dining options, a Beach House Kids Club, an Aqua Park, and five restaurants plus a pizzeria. 

Just a short walk from the resort is another unexpected highlight—especially for animal lovers.

Island Cat Rescue SXM, a local nonprofit just steps from the resort, cares for stray and abandoned cats on the island. Visitors are welcome to stop by to meet the rescued kittens and cats, learn about the organization’s work, and support their efforts through donations or adoptions.

Plenty of Caribbean islands offer beautiful beaches, but few combine aviation excitement, pools, and unexpected local charm quite like St. Maarten. It’s the kind of travel experience that reminds you why exploring new places never gets old.