Ride the Waves: A Surfer’s Guide to Haiti’s Prime Spots

Haiti is an island treasure, renowned for its sun-kissed coastline that boasts beaches akin to natural swimming paradises with crystal-clear waters. But wait, there’s more! Beyond the golden sands and stunning coral reefs, Haiti’s beaches have something extra for the adrenaline junkies – the waves!

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The Ultimate Beginner’s Paradise: Ti Mouillage

If you’re new to the surfing world and eager to experience the thrill of riding waves, Ti Mouillage in Cayes-Jacmel is your go-to spot. Located on the South coast, a 30-minute drive east of Jacmel, this beach is an unspoiled paradise waiting to be discovered. The offshore rocks craft splendid waves that gracefully crash onto the ever-changing sandy shores. What’s more? The waves are fast offshore but mellow near the beach – perfect for building your confidence!

What sets Ti Mouillage apart is its serene ambiance, as it’s surprisingly devoid of the crowds you might encounter on the popular beaches of the neighboring Dominican Republic. This means you’ll practically have the waves to yourself – perfect for those who are still finding their balance on the board without an audience. Plus, there are quaint beach bars dotted along the shore where you can kick back with a snack or sip on an ice-cold Prestige beer while lounging on a beach chair.

Adrenaline Rush at Kabic

Craving some intense wave action? A few hundred meters further down the coast Kabic’s rocky shores are home to some of the most awe-inspiring waves on the southern coast. Picture this: year-round, majestic curved beaches with towering waves that reach over 10 feet. For the seasoned surfers, Kabic is your playground. And, if you’re an experienced surfer looking for a challenge, the afternoons are ideal when the winds pick up.

Just a stone’s throw from Kabic, nestled amidst towering trees and jungle, is one of Haiti’s coolest independent hotels – the Haiti Surf Guesthouse. A short drive up a rugged mountain road will lead you to this haven, complete with thatched-roof guesthouses and bungalows. It’s a surfer’s sanctuary, frequented by wave riders seeking solace and connection with nature. What’s more, a natural mountain stream that meanders through the property feeds into the guesthouse’s pool. There’s nothing quite as invigorating as taking a plunge into the refreshing chill of mountain water after a day of riding the waves.

Pro-Level Surfing at La Brésilienne

Jacmel is notorious for its treacherous waves, but for the surfing pros, it’s an irresistible challenge. Offshore from Lakou New York, you’ll find La Brésilienne, where the waves can reach a staggering 16 feet. Here, you might even catch the legendary rolling waves – every surfer’s dream!

But La Brésilienne isn’t just about the waves; it’s about the whole experience. Being located in downtown Jacmel, you are in the heart of the action with plenty of bars and restaurants at your fingertips, your cravings for food and drink are well catered for. For a taste of local Haitian cuisine, head to Chantal’s on Rue Maboir for the best fried fish in town.

Soar with the Wind at Boukan Guinguette, Môle Saint Nicolas

Why limit yourself to the waves when you can conquer the wind too? Kitesurfing at Môle Saint Nicolas is an experience like no other. The Boukan Guinguette Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s where you can learn to harness the wind and waves like a pro. With medium-sized waves and a continuous breeze that spans over 5km, kitesurfing here is an exhilarating experience. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, the winds are in your favor all year round.

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Learn to Surf in Haiti

Ready to dive into the world of surfing? Head to Surf Haiti at Kabic in Cayes-Jacmel. With a team of professional surfers and the perfect waves, you’ll be riding like a pro in no time. The beaches of Cayes-Jacmel are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. The surf school also offers personalized training, teaching you the basics and warming you up before you hit the waves.

When to Hit the Waves

The perfect wave is a blend of atmospheric conditions and the seabed’s layout. In Jacmel and Cayes-Jacmel, the Caribbean Sea gifts surfers with long, fast waves almost all year round. But for the ultimate experience, February to November is your window. The waves during these months are particularly impressive and are a result of specific seasonal atmospheric conditions.

Safety and Precautions

While the waves are enticing, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. Always check the weather conditions before heading out and ensure that you are well-equipped. If you’re a beginner, it’s advisable to take a few lessons before hitting the big waves. And remember, never surf alone!

Written by Costaguinov Baptiste.

Published July 2023.

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