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Labadee Beach: Haiti’s Most Exciting Destination

December 10, 2024 by admin

Labadee Beach: Haiti’s Most Exciting Destination

Enter a Portal of Excitement to the Heavenly Port of Labadee!

Labadee is a destination that truly has it all—from ultra-tropical beaches with stunning views to adrenaline-pumping activities that define its unique charm. As cruise travel continues to rise in popularity, and with competitive deals now more accessible than ever, adding the Port of Labadee, Haiti, to your list of cruise adventures is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Book your Labadee cruise today and start planning your unforgettable Caribbean getaway!

Weather in Labadee

Labadee enjoys cooling Atlantic breezes year-round, with wind speeds ranging from 12 to 19 km/h and the windiest month being July. Temperatures peak in August, reaching up to 101°F (38°C), but typically range between 23°C and 29°C.

To avoid rain, plan your visit outside Haiti’s rainy season, which runs from April to October, with the heaviest rains at the start and end of the season. With an annual rainfall average of 49 mm, Labadee’s weather remains delightful, making it perfect for your next Caribbean getaway.

From Sugar Mills to Cruise Ships

In the 17th century, Marquis de La Badie, a French nobleman, settled in this area, which later adopted his name. Today, you can still explore the ruins of historic sugar mills that once played a central role in the region’s colonial economy, producing sugar that was a valuable export during the era of French settlement.

Since 1986, Royal Caribbean has leased the peninsula exclusively, ensuring a safe and popular destination for travelers. Beyond its exclusivity, Labadee plays a key role in Haiti’s tourism, providing income for local artisans through free-market trade and supporting the local economy during challenging times.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Labadee Trip

Book with the Best Cruise Lines

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara are the primary cruise liners that stop at Labadee. These companies offer top-notch amenities, packages, and deals, turning your dream of a Caribbean escape into reality. Check out the latest cruise deals here!

Upgrade with Private Beach Bungalows

For the ultimate luxury experience, pre-book a private cabana or bungalow:

Nellie’s Beach: Perfect for a tranquil day with private food and drink service, exclusive transportation, and extra comforts.
Barefoot Beach: Exclusive to Deluxe accommodations and special packages, offering an unparalleled Caribbean retreat.

Pro Tip: These rentals are in high demand and often booked weeks or even months in advance. Plan ahead to secure your spot.

Don’t Miss the Royal Caribbean Beverage Package

Enhance your trip with one of Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages, which are valid onboard and at all ports of call:

Basic Package: Includes water and soft drinks.
Refreshment Package: Adds juices, shakes, coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Deluxe Package: Includes all of the above, plus beer, wine by the glass, spirits, and cocktails.

With the Deluxe Package, you’ll also have access to the Floating Bar at Labadee, located beneath the thrilling Dragon’s Breath Zipline. Sipping a Piña Colada or a Haitian rum Cuba Libre while watching zipliners soar overhead is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Relax and Recharge

Your cruise pass gives you access to complimentary beach chairs, hammocks, and shaded areas, making Labadee the perfect spot for ultimate relaxation. Take a nap by the shore or enjoy the gentle sway of a hammock as you soak in the Caribbean breeze.

Safety First

Royal Caribbean ensures a safe and secure environment with lifeguards stationed at all pool and beach areas. A fully equipped first aid site is also available for emergencies, so you can relax with peace of mind.

View of Labadee Resort
Photo: Shutterstock

How to Get the Best Deals to Labadee

While booking directly with Royal Caribbean is an option, you can often find incredible discounts through their partner websites, saving 50% or more on your first voyage.

Pro Tip: Check out CruiseDirect.com, one of Royal Caribbean’s biggest affiliates, for the latest itineraries and unbeatable deals.

What to See in Labadee

Artisan Market

Explore Labadee’s busy open market, home to around 70 booths run by local merchants and artisans. Watch as talented Haitian artists carve wooden sculptures, paint stunning canvases, and create unique jewelry and souvenirs. However, be prepared—vendors can be quite persuasive in their sales pitches. If you’re a bit of a soft touch, bring your bargaining skills!

Natural Surroundings

For a more immersive nature experience, lace up your walking shoes and wander Labadee’s scenic asphalted trails. These paths lead through lush mountainous vegetation, offering stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Don’t worry if walking isn’t an option—the color-coded trails are wheelchair-friendly and cater to different fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of Labadee.

Haitian Village Cultural Experience

Take a short boat ride to Paradise Cove for an authentic Haitian cultural experience. At the village, you’ll learn about traditional agriculture and see how locals make coffee, cacao, cassava, and peanut spread. For a refreshing twist, wade into the knee-deep waters surrounding the village before heading back with unforgettable memories.

Off-the-Hook Beaches

Labadee’s beaches are the crown jewels of this tropical destination. With five stunning options to choose from, there’s something for everyone:

Adrenaline Beach: Perfect for thrill-seekers.
Columbus Cove: Known for its calm waters and family-friendly vibe.
Paradise Cove: A serene escape for relaxation.
Nellie’s Beach: Ideal for those seeking luxury and exclusivity.
Barefoot Beach: Exclusively for deluxe package guests.

Activities & Things to Do

Watersports

Labadee is a watersports paradise! From jet skiing and kayaking to paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving, there’s no shortage of aquatic excitement. These activities are included in many cruise packages, so take full advantage of the opportunity to explore the sparkling Caribbean waters.

Thrill Rides

If you’re looking for a rush, Labadee has you covered:

Ride the Dragon’s Tail Coaster for twists, turns, and spectacular views.
Take on the Dragon’s Breath Zipline, soaring head-first over the cove waters.
For younger adventurers, the Arawak Water Park offers shaded areas, fun slides, and refreshments.

Relaxation

After all the excitement, it’s time to relax. Spread out your beach towel, sink into a hammock, and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Labadee’s five beaches cater to every kind of traveler, whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or family fun. Complimentary beach chairs and hammocks ensure that relaxation is as effortless as possible.

Boat Trip to Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)

Add a touch of adventure to your visit with a boat trip to Île-à-Rat, also known as Amiga Island. This serene escape offers crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and vibrant marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling or simply unwinding in paradise. Accessible via a scenic boat ride from Labadee, this tiny island is an unforgettable addition to your Caribbean itinerary and one of our favorite lesser-known beaches in Haiti.

What to Know Before You Go

Make the most of your trip to Labadee with these essential tips:

Bring Your SeaPass Card
Your Cruise Ship SeaPass card is your lifeline at Labadee. You’ll need it for transactions, booking tours, renting snorkeling equipment, and accessing rides. Forgetting it on the ship could derail your entire day.

Carry Cash
Bring enough cash, preferably in small denominations, for purchases at the Artisan Market and for tipping staff who go above and beyond.

Wear Shoes
Going barefoot might seem like the tropical island thing to do, but the sand and pavement can get scorching hot. Protect your feet and avoid an uncomfortable experience by wearing sandals or water shoes.

Stay Hydrated
The Caribbean heat is no joke. Bring a refillable cruise ship cup to stay hydrated throughout the day—it could save you from dehydration.

Start Early
Labadee is a busy port with thousands of visitors each day. Arrive early to claim the best beach spots, book excursions, and avoid long lines for rides and cabanas. The resort operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Understand Labadee’s Experience
Labadee is a curated resort destination that offers an enjoyable experience but doesn’t provide a deep dive into Haitian culture. If you’re looking to experience real Haitian culture, be aware that you won’t find much of it at Labadee. Cruise ship passengers are limited to staying on the beach resort grounds, as the docking area is separate from the rest of the island.

If you want to explore Haiti’s rich history and culture, you’ll need to plan a separate trip to nearby Cap-Haïtien, where you can visit iconic landmarks like the Citadelle and Sans-Souci Palace.

No problem, though (or, “pa gen pwoblem” as the Haitian expression goes): Labadee still gives you a taste of Haitian craftsmanship at the Artisan Market and plenty of ways to relax and enjoy the tropical paradise.

Cruise ship at Port of Labadee
Photo: Shutterstock

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published April 2019.
Updated December 2024.

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Escape to Kokoye Beach! Secluded. Stunning. Serene.

December 5, 2024 by admin

Umbrellas and palm trees on Kokoye Beach, Haiti — Kokoye Beach, Petit Goave
Photo: Tyler Welsh

Escape to Kokoye Beach! Secluded. Stunning. Serene.

Looking for a weekend destination not far from Port-au-Prince? You’ll find the low-key glamping experience at Kokoye Beach that is an altogether different sort of luxury. Set into the unrivaled beauty of Haiti’s south coast, the pristine cove of Kokoye is just an hour’s boat ride from Petit-Goave.

Leave your troubles and your backpack in the tent provided, enjoy seafood served up by a local host, and spend your days swimming, snorkeling and drinking rum punch in a cove worthy of a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean.

“Glamping” (glamorous camping) is a popular alternative to both low-convenience regular camping and high-priced but underwhelming hotels, but what really sets glamping apart from either is the access it affords to wilderness, and is the uniqueness of the experience.

Kokoye Beach is one of the few beach excursions in Haiti that is set up for tourists, with all-inclusive boat trips departing daily. It’s a way to experience the white sand and lagoon-blue wonders of Haiti in comfort and on a budget. For more secluded beaches like Kokoye, check out our guide to Nine Lesser-known Beaches to Visit in Haiti.

Raw nature

Rocky outcrops stretch out on either side of the beach, bookending a pristine inlet. In the middle, an expanse of sparkling water stays tranquil and wave-free 90% of the time. It’s ideal for paddle boarding, snorkeling, kayaking and swimming. The water and white sand are pristine – the beach is maintained by local associations to keep tourists coming back for more.

Palm trees line white sand beaches that stretch into aqua water that is so unbelievably blue you’ll be tagging your Insta stories with #nofilter. The water is waist-deep until 200 meters out, perfect for bobbing the day away with an icy-cold rum punch in hand.

Come sunset, you can wind down lounging around bonfires, listening to local troubadours playing konpa classics on worn drums, and celebrate into the night.

With no electricity nearby, stargazers will be delighted by some of the Caribbean’s starriest skies. On a related note – pack head-torches or flashlights and extra battery packs for any phones and cameras you plan on using. The west of the beach offers access to modern toilets and showers where you can rinse off the seawater at the end of the day.

This is Haiti as it was made to be experienced. A hotel room is a hotel room but when you stay in a tent on the sand, and nap on a hammock strung between two coconut palms, it’s a unique way to feel immersed in the natural beauty this part of the world has to offer. Watching the sunrise over the water with no walls between you, and the sea at your fingertips, can be a life-changing experience.

Beach-side feasts at Kokoye Beach

When you get hungry, you’ll be glad you’re not quite roughing it: A team of experienced, professional staff will ensure you’re well-fed with fresh, flavorful meals that celebrate Haiti’s rich culinary heritage. Picture fresh seafood grilled over sizzling embers, the aroma of hot Haitian coffee wafting through the morning breeze, and the gentle sound of waves as your backdrop.

If sea-to-table and farm-to-fork dining define luxury, then Kokoye Beach takes it a step further. Breakfast brings the irresistible combination of Haitian coffee, cane sugar, and cassava bread served with locally-made peanut butter and fresh seasonal fruit. Feeling adventurous? Dive into the uniquely Haitian tradition of spaghetti for breakfast, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s both surprising and satisfying.

Lunch and dinner are all about showcasing the freshest seafood: grilled lambi (conch), fish, or lobster, straight from the ocean to your plate. These dishes are infused with the bold flavors of Haitian cuisine, seasoned with a mouthwatering blend of garlic, lime, hot peppers, and spices. For vegetarians, there are options featuring local produce, such as roasted plantains, avocado salads, or hearty bean stews.

Sustainability is key at Kokoye Beach. Most ingredients are locally caught or grown, supporting nearby communities and reducing the environmental impact of your meal. Whether it’s a seaside feast under the stars or a sunrise breakfast with a view, dining at Kokoye Beach is as much an experience as the adventure itself.

Curious about the breathtaking underwater world or the serene beauty of Kokoye Beach? Watch this video for a closer look at what awaits!

Feeling more adventurous?

You can explore sea caves on the north end of the beach, a 15 to 20-minute swim away, where the crystal-clear waters reveal hidden marine wonders. Snorkelers will love the vibrant underwater world around the caves, teeming with colorful fish and coral formations.

Looking for something inland? Hike around the southeast end of the beach to discover the ruins of a swimming pool and a crumbling mansion from a bygone era—perfect for history buffs and photographers alike.

If birdwatching is your thing, keep an eye out for the diverse avian life that thrives along the coast, from graceful egrets to tropical songbirds.

For a longer adventure, head west down the coast to explore the historic ruins of Fort Royal near Petit-Goâve. This hidden treasure offers a glimpse into Haiti’s colonial past, with its weathered stone walls and stunning views of the coastline.

Getting there

Kokoye Beach is located on a remote peninsula south of Petit-Goave, and it is only accessible by boat, or extreme hiking for 2-3 hours. There is no car access, which makes it feel more like an island escape. Visitors can call ahead to reserve tents, sleeping bags, and other comforts with a local host. People like Madam Fanfan (509) 4028 – 31 66 will also be able to help arrange your boat travel.

It’s also possible to arrange for an impromptu water taxi from the pier in Petit Goave. The boat ride time will vary depending on the motor and number of people aboard and visitors can expect to pay more for covered boats. While on the boat ride you’ll see local fisherman in their element, and freediving is a regular sight, as are sailboats sluicing by at slower speeds. The water changes from indigo blue to turquoise to aqua as you skim along the shore toward Kokoye.

Just over halfway there, Bananier Beach – a popular destination in its own right – is usually the first stop. Kokoye Beach is 20 minutes further down the coast.

Tips for making the most of your trip

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable excursion to Kokoye Beach, come prepared with plenty of Haitian gourdes in small denominations. While prices in Haiti have risen over the past couple of years, carrying smaller bills (25, 50, 100, and 250 gourdes) is still essential for tipping, purchasing snacks, or paying for any additional services. On this remote peninsula, making change can be challenging, so having exact amounts helps support the local economy and reduces stress for your hosts.

While US dollars are generally accepted in lieu of gourdes, you may get a less favorable exchange rate, so exchanging money beforehand is recommended.

Planning your trip is all about striking the right balance between adventure and comfort. If you’re looking for a DIY experience, bring your own snacks, drinks, or gear to enhance your time. However, for those who prefer to fully embrace the convenience of Kokoye Beach’s facilities, rest assured the dedicated staff will make your visit memorable with excellent food and attentive service.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Kokoye Beach is the perfect destination to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature.

Written by Emily Bauman.

Published July 2018.
Updated December 2024.

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How to Spend a Day at Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)

April 2, 2024 by Anton Lau

Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

How to Spend a Day at Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)

Discover the Charm of Amiga Island (aka Île-à-Rat), Haiti’s Secluded Caribbean Jewel

Picture this: pristine white sands underfoot, waters dancing in hues of azure and turquoise with the sun’s every move, amidst wild greenery that frames the perfect seaside evening. The melody of the waves crafts a serene backdrop, beckoning every nature lover closer to its untouched beauty.

This isn’t just another island getaway; it’s Île-à-Rat. Forget the crowded beaches of Bora Bora or the commercialized shores of the Fiji Islands—we’re about to show you something far better, far more magical.

Amiga Island or Île-à-Rat? Let’s Clear the Air

Before we dive deeper, let’s address a common question: Are Amiga Island and Île-à-Rat two separate islands?

In fact, they’re one and the same, known by two names. The original name, Île-à-Rat, translates to “Rat’s Island,” but rest assured, it doesn’t mean the place is teeming with rodents—there aren’t any rats. It’s believed the name reflects the island’s modest size rather than its fauna.

However, when Royal Caribbean Cruises began offering day trips to Île-à-Rat from their nearby Labadee Beach Resort, they opted for a more appealing (and marketable) name, introducing “Amiga Island” to their guests. Despite the change, we’ve chosen to use the original name throughout this article to honor its history. Now, with the name mystery solved, let’s explore what makes this island so captivating.

Beach on Île-à-Rat
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

Stepping onto Île-à-Rat

Once you arrive on the island, a world of tranquility and natural beauty awaits. Here, you’re guaranteed peace and the freedom to bask in the riches of the Caribbean Sea, enjoying serene evenings no matter the season. If you’re anything like us, finding joy in an afternoon nap under the shade of a coconut tree, then Île-à-Rat is your dream destination. That’s exactly what we did last time we visited, laying our blankets on the immaculate sand, just a few meters from the inviting turquoise waters.

Île-à-Rat is not just beautiful; it’s picture-perfect, with its towering coconut trees setting a scene that seems straight out of a childhood fairy tale. Feel free to set up a camp right after you disembark, creating a spot that’s sure to spark envy in your friends when they see your snapshots.

Fisherman with the days catch at Île-à-Rat
Photo: Ryan Bowen

A Thousand and One Things to Do on Amiga Island

Right by the sparkling beach, you’ll find a hidden nook ideal for a BBQ or grilling fresh seafood, uniquely flavorful thanks to Île-à-Rat’s magic. We recommend lambi (conch) or crab. Enjoy these treats with local Prestige beer or esteemed Haitian rum, directly from fishermen eager to share their stories and culinary secrets.

Île-à-Rat isn’t just about the food; if you’re seeking a moment of Zen, a quaint porch awaits, where you can meditate and practice yoga amidst nature’s embrace. Just beyond the shore, a quintessential Caribbean adventure beckons with an array of water activities.

Kayak along the island’s breathtaking coastline, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkel to uncover hidden treasures like ancient cannons and anchors resting on the ocean floor. Alternatively, explore a nearby coral nursery, carefully tended by a local organization, and immerse yourself in the underwater world’s wonders. And for those who love the simple joys, why not relax in the shade with a book, letting the hours slip by in blissful peace?

For the energetic spirits, a brisk walk or run around the island, which takes about 10 minutes, offers a refreshing way to revel in its beauty.

Boat sailing to Labadee from Île-à-Rat
Photo: Ryan Bowen

How to get there

Best time to visit

Visiting Île-à-Rat offers a delightful experience year-round, thanks to its tropical climate. For a quieter visit with cooler weather, aim for September to February, though summer months offer perfect conditions for sunbathing and enjoying the island’s serene beaches. Note that the island becomes livelier on days when Royal Caribbean ships dock, bringing cruisers for daytrips to the island.

Boats on the coast of Île-à-Rat
Photo: Ryan Bowen

Written by Melissa Beralus.

Published April 20204.

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Discover Haiti’s Beaches & Islands

Moulin Sur Mer

October 3, 2020 by Anton Lau

haitian beach resort with palm trees — Moulin Sur Mer on the Arcadins Coast
Photo: Moulin Sur Mer

Moulin Sur Mer

Moulin-sur-Mer is one of the Arcadins Coast’s star destinations; with idyllic sunsets and a warm tropical atmosphere, it is sure to capture the quintessential island lover.

First Impressions

The Arcadins Coast is one of Haiti’s greatest prides. Located in Montrouis, a few miles away from the capital, it faces the largest island nestled in the country’s bay: the island of La Gonave. In front of this turquoise blue ocean with beautiful waves and idyllic sunsets is where Moulin-sur-Mer rises.

Rooms

Moulin-sur-Mer features Hibiscus and Ginger rooms, the difference mostly lying in the decor choices. Bungalows, as well as classics and suites are available in classic Caribbean-style decor, highlighting Haitian art at every turn. If you want to be closer to the sea, you’ll want to book a bungalow; however, if you want to be closer to the amenities on the main grounds, a classic room or a suite would better suit your needs.

What’s for breakfast?

Breakfast at Moulin-sur-Mer is served at the Voomtak, their main seaside dining area, where local and international cuisine mingle for culinary good. Being so close to the Montrouis farmers market means that fresh, local produce will always grace your plate. Enjoy made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, baked goods, standard international breakfast staples, but also Haitian breakfast stars like pasta or oatmeal.

How about lunch and dinner?

Voomtak also serves lunch and dinner. Again, here, Haitian food specialties like djondjon rice or seafood etouffées sit alongside fresh vegetables coming straight from the nearby market. Discover the ways international cuisine like stir-fry crosses path with Haitian spices. The Taino Lounge offers a menu of its own, as well as lively happy hours. Should you want a different, more intimate dining experience, the Captain’s Pagoda is a more discreet options that is also available to you.

Is there a bar?

If you’re looking to enjoy a delicious, refreshing drink, poolside or seaside, make a stop at the Moulin’s Cabaret. Classic drinks and exclusive cocktails make for star-studded afternoons and evenings. Happy hours here are very popular, and highly recommended!

Activities and amenities

Moulin’s main amenity is its marina. From scuba diving to water sports to PADI-certified courses, it’s an ocean lover’s paradise. Excursions are also available, both on land and on boats. Explore the depth of the Haitian coastline, both on and off the water.

Within a short walk you can find…

Before even getting out of your city clothes and into your bathing suit, you will walk past the Ogier Fombrun museum, where you can learn more about the city of Montrouis and its inhabitants. The museum is guarded in a colonial building that has lost none of its charm, and that is surrounded by coconut trees amongst other foliage that does nothing but add to its beauty.

Need to know (before you go)

Moulin-sur-Mer offers different packages based on your stay’s needs. If you are just stopping by, or taking advantage of your last day on the island, consider a Day Pass. If however, you’d like to dedicate time to this area of the island, an all-inclusive offer or a Stay & Dive package might be best for you.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Moulin Sur Mer on Hotels.com

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Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

July 18, 2020 by Anton Lau

haitians crossing the grande-anse river by foot and donkey — The Grande-Anse River
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

One of the country’s southernmost departments, and the home to cities like Jérémie and Abricots, Grand’Anse is where coastal cruising meets mainland adventures.

Between mountains and valleys, the people of the Grand’Anse department are open and eager to make a life for themselves. If you are ever hiking through a town outside the main cities, you will note that the trek some farmers and vendors accomplish to sell their goods every day is nothing short of a miracle.

older haitian man with machete and bag on head — A farmer on his way home from the field near Kafou Zaboka, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Modern infrastructure is not just a thing of Haiti’s big cities. In Jérémie, a massive bridge connects the two edges of the Grand’Anse river, allowing cars and motorcycles through, and for a very scenic drive.

traffic on large bridge crossing a big river — Bridge over Grande-Anse river to Jérémie, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

For those whose journeys are a little bit shorter, a brisk walk through the waters of the Grand’Anse river takes them straight to their destination. Farmers, vendors, and passersby can sometimes be seen quickly wading through, while early morning or late afternoon sunshine ripples over the water.

Some of these daily journeyers — when schools are open — are students. They often make the daily trip in small groups with their friends, to reach their schools in nearby cities. When school is out, they can be seen running and laughing down the same paths, in the soft summer heat.

haitian school boys in uniforms — Boys going to school near Moron, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The bridge in Marfranc is one of those places that is part of daily scenery for students living in the areas around it, but that can add excitement to any visitor’s tour of the Grand’Anse department.

haitian school girl in uniform walking over suspension bridge — School girl crossing a bridge in Marfranc, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

As with any place in rural Haiti, the Grand’Anse department is chock-full of hotel, inn, and bed-and-breakfast options for you to choose from. Not sure where to stay? Easy: ask a local!

motorcycle with passenger driving past hotel building — Cash-Cash Hotel in Dame Marie, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

For these coastal cities like Corail, the importance of local fishing cannot be overstated. Wholesaling and retailing is how many individuals make a living, put food on their tables, and on those of their customers.

haitian woman with red head scarf and bowl of conch — Woman selling conch in Corail, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The beauty of towns surrounding the Grand’Anse river is that they have learned to embrace and adapt to its natural architecture. All around the current, vegetable plots and small homes have sprouted, never so much as disturbing it.

aerial view of farmers fields, river, road and plantation — Landscape in Troupeau near Corail, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Fisher-men and -women alike are no strangers to the sharp art of scaling, gutting, and preparing fish in preparation for the day’s sales. The fresher, the better; often times, a morning catch will become a fried or stewed afternoon lunch or dinner.

haitian woman with straw hat cleaning fish — Woman cleaning a fish by the habour in Pestel
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Mountain towns hold their own busy and bustling communities, too. Farmers and vendors will make their way downhill to the main towns where they will bring and sell fresh produce. Schools often pop up in these remote areas as well, removing a burden off the backs of students who would otherwise struggle to afford tuition in cities like Jérémie, Abricots or Pestel.

haitian school building in mountainscape — A school in the mountains close to Jean Beurry, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The people of Grand’Anse hold hearts as vast and as open as their hometowns. If you are able to make the drive down there, it is an experience worth living and re-telling.

Haitian boys in the Joly Guibert village, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Hotel Cyvadier Plage

June 19, 2020 by Anton Lau

hotel pool with palm trees and sea view — Pool area at Hotel Cyvadier Plage
Photo: Hotel Cyvadier Plage

Hotel Cyvadier Plage

A few minutes outside the city of Jacmel, Cyvadier Hotel is the perfect seaside escape for the nature lover in all of us.

First Impressions

Among all the cities of Haiti, the city of Jacmel is recognized for its hospitality and as being a haven of peace. For a good stay, the Cyvadier Hotel offers modern comfort in a prime location. The hotel’s seafront access is ideal if you are looking for a picture-perfecr tropical vacation without the typical busyness of the Arcadins’ coast.

Rooms

The Cyvadier Hotel is a charming small hotel which has 28 tastefully furnished rooms that embellish a rustic, Caribbean style with modern accents; some have a terrace which offers a beautiful view where you can bask in watching the sunset facing the sea. The whole establishment has access to WiFi.

What’s for breakfast?

Breakfast is served every day at the Cyvadier Hotel, and includes all of the standard stops of a Haitian breakfast. From fresh, seasonal fruit, to eggs, baked goods, and freshly brewed coffee and steeped tea, it can all be enjoyed by the sea, or in your room, on request – it’s entirely up to you.

How about lunch and dinner?

The restaurant at the Cyvadier Hotel benefits from being a seaside one: fresh seafood is served there every day! From lobster to grilled fish, the menu is an ode to the bevy of creatures that grace the sea. Standard Haitian cuisine is also hard-and-fast on this menu; you’ll find staples like conch and roasted chicken, as well as the delicacy that is Haitian pain patate – a sweet potato dessert.

Is there a bar?

Lounge around by the pool and take in the view as you sip away from the hotel’s restaurant drinks’ menu which also covers wines, champagnes, liquors, local beers, and cocktails made to order.

Activities and amenities

You’ll want to make a stop at the Cyvadier massage parlor, where for an hour or two, you can experience hot rock massages, deep tissue massages, and even a detox cleanse during your stay. If an adventure is what excites you, take advantage of Cyvadier Hotel’s boat excursions and paddle boarding.

Within a short walk you can find…

To hit the beach, the choices are nearly endless; you can either choose the private beach of the Cyvadier Hotel or the beach at Raymond-les-Bains (for a small visitors’ fee), where you will find charming seafood merchants. At Timouyaj Beach, big waves invite you to surf and the sand invites you to relax.

Need to know (before you go)

For those who are more attracted by the walks and the visits, Jacmel is very close, the mountains are accessible, and the sea is nearby. The city invites you to discover craftsmen and charming streets where art is always present and in an extraordinary profusion.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Cyvadier Hotel on Hotels.com

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boat trips

Labadee Beach: Haiti’s Most Exciting Destination

Enter a Portal of Excitement to the Heavenly Port of Labadee!

start your day the Haitian way

Weather in Labadee

From Sugar Mills to Cruise Ships

Tips for Making the Most of Your Labadee Trip

Book with the Best Cruise Lines

Upgrade with Private Beach Bungalows

Don’t Miss the Royal Caribbean Beverage Package

Relax and Recharge

Safety First

How to Get the Best Deals to Labadee

What to See in Labadee

Artisan Market

Natural Surroundings

Haitian Village Cultural Experience

Off-the-Hook Beaches

Activities & Things to Do

Watersports

Thrill Rides

Relaxation

Boat Trip to Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)

start your day the Haitian way

What to Know Before You Go

Find Labadee Beach

External Links

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Haiti

Cool things to do around Cap-Haïtien

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Escape to Kokoye Beach! Secluded. Stunning. Serene.

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

Raw nature

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

Beach-side feasts at Kokoye Beach

Feeling more adventurous?

Discover Sacred Vodou Symbols!

Getting there

Tips for making the most of your trip

Find Kokoye Beach

External Links

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

Looking for some cool things to do?

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How to Spend a Day at Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)

Discover the Charm of Amiga Island (aka Île-à-Rat), Haiti’s Secluded Caribbean Jewel

From Our Land to Your Home

Amiga Island or Île-à-Rat? Let’s Clear the Air

Stepping onto Île-à-Rat

A Thousand and One Things to Do on Amiga Island

a touch of haitian wisdom

How to get there

Best time to visit

Find Île-à-Rat

External links

Discover Haiti’s Beaches & Islands

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Moulin Sur Mer

First Impressions

Rooms

What’s for breakfast?

How about lunch and dinner?

Is there a bar?

Activities and amenities

Within a short walk you can find…

Need to know (before you go)

Getting there

Moulin Sur Mer

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

Looking for some cool things to do?

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Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

One of the country’s southernmost departments, and the home to cities like Jérémie and Abricots, Grand’Anse is where coastal cruising meets mainland adventures.

From Our Land to Your Home

Go on a self-guided tour of Haiti’s Gingerbread houses

Our hotel recommendations

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Hotel Cyvadier Plage

First Impressions

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start your day
the Haitian way

start your day
the Haitian way

a touch of
haitian wisdom

Go on a self-guided
tour of Haiti’s Gingerbread houses