Les Cayes

Dive Into the Wild Beauty of Saut-Mathurine

March 28, 2025 by Editor

Saut-Mathurine waterfall in Camp-Perrin
Photo: Anton Lau

Dive Into the Wild Beauty of Saut-Mathurine

The south coast of Haiti hides some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Saut-Mathurine, the country’s largest waterfall, is one of them.

A Hidden World

Located in the commune of Camp-Perrin, Saut-Mathurine is a 40-minute drive from the western city of Les Cayes. The waterfall is at its most spectacular around May and June — but this is also when the road to get there is at its most — let’s say, adventurous.

During the rainy season, the Cavaillon River that feeds Saut-Mathurine flows powerfully, and you can hear the crashing falls from a distance. In January — Haiti’s driest month — it may not be running at all, but the pool is still a gorgeous place to swim, and the jungle scenery is every bit as lush and dramatic as during the rains.

Saut-Mathurine runs through a ravine, and the scene is something out of Jurassic Park: the waterfall thunders into a pristine pool of bright aqua waters, almost green but crystal-clear. Half of the pool is accessible — the other is jagged rock cliffs frothing with jungle trees, vines, and moss. At the far end from the waterfall, water cascades over the edge of the pool and becomes rapids that continue on through the ravine. The ridges of the ravine overflow with towering native forest, echoing with the calls of local birdlife like the Hispaniolan Trogon (Kanson Wouj), Greater Antillean Grackle, and Hispaniolan Oriole.

On the accessible side, there’s a stone ledge that makes it easier to get right up close to the water’s edge without falling in. But bring swimwear! Saut-Mathurine is a fantastic place to swim — often described by locals as even better than Gelée Beach.

The water is ice-cold, but on sunny days (which is most of them), it’s absolutely worth it. A few hours in this paradise is enough to wash away six months of working way too hard on whatever it is that you do.

A steep trail leads to the top of the waterfall, offering views over the valley and access to a few natural pools. Fewer people know that a second waterfall — smaller but still stunning — lies further upriver, with a large, secluded pool that’s rarely visited. Beyond that is the Bassin Mahaut hydroelectric plant, which remarkably supplies Camp-Perrin with 24-hour electricity — a rarity in Haiti.

Buche Perico restaurant in Santo Domingo — Hidden waterfall near Saut-Mathurine in Camp-Perrin
Photo: Anton Lau

Know Before You Go

You’ll need a 4×4 or moto taxi to reach Saut-Mathurine. The road hasn’t been improved in years, and it’s rugged, especially during the rainy season. If you’re not used to driving off-road, it’s best to hire a driver from Les Cayes or Camp-Perrin.
Entrance is 250 gourdes, paid at the small park office by the gate. There are no restrooms or shops, and the once-operational restaurant and boutique are now closed — so come prepared.
Local guides are available at the entrance and will usually approach you first. If you don’t clearly choose one and ask the others to step back, you might find yourself with several guides expecting payment at the end. To avoid confusion, pick your guide (or guides), agree on a price upfront, and make sure you have the right cash on hand. A fair rate is between 500 and 1000 gourdes.
Coconut vendors — usually young local guys — often hang out near the waterfall. A fair price is 250 gourdes per coconut, which they’ll crack open with a machete so you can drink the water. Afterward, they’ll split it in half and carve out a spoon from the husk so you can scoop up the sweet pulp — one of the simplest and most refreshing treats in the area.
Bring swimwear, drinking water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. There’s a steep trail to the top of the falls, where you’ll find natural pools and even a second, hidden waterfall further upriver. The hike is worth it — but only if you’re prepared.
Don’t rush it. Saut-Mathurine is the kind of place best enjoyed slowly, with time to explore, swim, or just sit and listen to the water and birds.

Getting there

Saut-Mathurine is still off the beaten path — quite literally. The road remains unpaved and in poor condition, so you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to reach the site safely. Vehicles can be rented in Les Cayes, though if you’re not used to rough terrain, it’s worth asking for a local driver who knows the route well. While the journey is rugged, the reward at the end is undeniable.

Once inside, visitors can follow footpaths that wind through the lush jungle and along the river’s edge. While the restaurant and craft boutique mentioned in older guides are no longer operational, the natural beauty of the site remains intact — and wonderfully uncommercialized.

Turquoise pool at Saut Mathurine, Haiti — Saut Mathurine, Haiti
Photo: Verdy Verna

Stay the Night and Explore Pic Macaya

If you’re thinking of sticking around a little longer, Camp-Perrin is a good place to base yourself. It’s quiet, friendly, and close to everything. There are a few small hotels in town — nothing fancy, but enough to get a good night’s sleep. We recommend Villaggio Guest House if you’re looking for something pocket-friendly. The rooms have air conditioning, and the owners are used to hosting travelers heading out to the falls or the mountains.

Not many people make it all the way out to Les Cayes, but that’s slowly starting to change. These days, more travelers are flying into Cap-Haïtien and skipping Port-au-Prince altogether. If you do make it out here, you’ll see why it’s worth the trip. From Saut-Mathurine, it’s just a short ride to one of Haiti’s most incredible natural wonders — Pic Macaya National Park.

You’ll actually spot Macaya mountain on the drive down to the waterfall — rising up in the distance, quiet and covered in mist. It’s Haiti’s second-highest peak, and the national park around it is the biggest biodiversity hotspot in the country. Think hundreds of orchids, rare frogs, bright birds, and trees you won’t find anywhere else. Scientists are still discovering new species up there. If you like hiking, birdwatching, nature, or just being surrounded by green, this is the place.

Spend a night or two in Camp-Perrin, and take your time. Between the waterfall and the mountains, there’s more to see here than you might expect — and plenty of space to breathe.

Want to keep chasing waterfalls? Here are some of the prettiest falls in Haiti worth adding to your itinerary.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published October 2018.
Updated March 2025.

Find Saut-Mathurine

External Links

Looking for some cool things to discover?

Set Sail for Eight (Almost Unknown) Haitian Islands

March 25, 2025 by Anton Lau

Île des Amoureux near Les Cayes
Photo: Anton Lau

Set Sail for Eight (Almost Unknown) Haitian Islands

You won’t find souvenir stands on these shores. Or tour guides. Or plans, really. What you’ll find instead is something else entirely: fishing nets, rum-soaked meals, and seas that still feel unscripted. Haiti’s islands aren’t easy to get to — and maybe that’s the point.

Far from the resorts and the crowds, Haiti’s islands trace a quieter arc across the Caribbean — a string of remote places where time moves differently. From the north to the far south, we explore eight destinations that offer history, solitude, and something harder to name. This is your island-by-island guide to Haiti’s most overlooked treasures.

1. Île de la Tortue

Even the name feels like a story: Tortuga, the legendary pirate haven that once flickered in and out of maps and memory. Just off Haiti’s north coast, Île de la Tortue is steeped in cinematic lore — a place whispered about in old maritime journals and reinvented in Hollywood scripts. Once the stronghold of buccaneers and smugglers, it’s now a quiet island with sharp cliffs, rolling hills, and a rugged kind of solitude that still carries echoes of its past.

There’s little infrastructure here, and even fewer visitors — but that’s the pull. If you’re chasing something untamed, Tortuga offers the rare kind of isolation that still crackles with legend. It’s not about what you’ll find, but what you’ll feel: that strange thrill of stepping into a place where time hasn’t quite caught up.

Île-à-Rat near Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

2. Île-à-Rat

Sail southeast from Tortuga and you’ll land on something altogether softer: a tiny, teardrop-shaped island floating in turquoise shallows just off the coast from Cap-Haïtien. Known as Île-à-Rat — Rat Island (but don’t let the name fool you; there are no rodents here) — and rebranded by cruise lines as Amiga Island, this sandy slip of paradise is more picnic blanket than pirate stronghold: the kind of island you draw as a kid — palm trees, blue water, and nothing else.

Ringed by calm, crystalline water, the island is perfect for a nap in the shade or a barefoot lap around the shore — it only takes about 10 minutes to walk the whole thing. Snorkelers can explore coral nurseries and spot rusting cannons on the seafloor, while slower-paced travelers can grill lambi, sip local rum, and drift off with a novel and the hum of the sea. You’ll find no hotels, no roads, no rush — just a boat ride, a cooler, and a kind of stillness that’s hard to bring back with you.

Curious about Île-à-Rat? Read more here!

La Gonâve island
Photo: Marina Blue Haiti

3. La Gonâve

Leave the lush north behind, and sail west into the wide open stillness of the Gulf of Gonâve. Haiti’s largest island appears almost suddenly — vast, stony, and quiet, with high limestone ridges rising above a pale blue horizon. This is La Gonâve: windswept and weathered, steeped in history but rarely in the spotlight.

Once known as Guanabo by the indigenous Taíno indians, the island became a sanctuary during the first waves of colonial violence. Even today, traces of the past linger — from freshwater springs in hidden uplands to stories of Queen Anacaona and, centuries later, an American Marine who was briefly crowned king. Expect sun-bleached beaches, sailboats pulled onto shore, and fishing villages that move to their own rhythm. Most visitors pass it by. Those who don’t often come by boat — and leave with more questions than answers.

Petite Cayemite island in Grande’Anse
Photo: Anton Lau

4. Petite Cayemite

Slip west from La Gonâve, and you’ll find yourself headed toward one of Haiti’s most untouched islets — a green dot in the Gulf, shrouded in jungle and mystery. Petite Cayemite may be the smaller sister of Grande Cayemite, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in solitude. No roads, no houses, no signs of life — only birds overhead, fish darting through coral, and one perfect stretch of sand: Anse Blanche.

Reachable only by boat — about 15 minutes from the sleepy Grand’Anse fishing village of Pestel Pestel — this pocket-sized island is the kind of place you pack for like a picnic, and leave like a dream. You’ll need to bring your own water, snacks, maybe a hammock, and a sense of adventure. But if you do, Petite Cayemite will give you something in return: a quiet so complete it hums.

The island shares its name with a local fruit, kaymit — a purplish orb of soft sweetness you’ll likely find back on the mainland. Want to explore more of Haiti’s tropical bounty? Here are some other Haitian fruits you should know about.

5. Île-à-Vache

Sail south from Petite Cayemite and you’ll reach a place that feels almost too idyllic to be real. Île-à-Vache drapes itself just off Haiti’s southern coast like a secret too good to share — all coconut groves, storybook beaches, and sky-to-sea quiet. With no cars, no crowds, and no schedules, this is where time loosens its grip and the Caribbean shows its softer side.

Like Tortuga in the north, Île-à-Vache was once a pirate haven — Captain Morgan himself gathered his fleet here before launching his infamous raid on Cartagena. Today, the island moves to gentler rhythms: fishing boats pulled in at dawn, hammocks swaying under palm trees, barefoot walks through rustling trails. The main beach, Abaka Bay, is as close to a screensaver as you’ll get in real life: sugar-white sand, water so clear it could be glass, and barely a soul in sight. Most visitors arrive by boat from Les Cayes, and stay at L’Anse à l’Eau, a quiet hillside retreat with breezy bungalows, ocean views, and fresh grilled lobster on the table. Snorkel off the coast, sail to nearby Île des Amoureux, or do nothing at all. Some places ask for your attention — Île-à-Vache just lets you be.

Planning a trip south? Here’s everything you need to know about Île-à-Vache.

6. Île des Amoureux

Some islands sprawl. Others shimmer. Île des Amoureux barely even exists — a sliver of sand floating in the Caribbean, like it was drawn by hand and then forgotten. Just 15 minutes by boat from Île-à-Vache, this sandbank-turned-island is the kind of place you only believe in once your feet touch it. No palms, no buildings, no shade. Just sky, sea, and your own quiet echo.

Locals call it Lovers Island, and it’s not hard to see why. Black-capped petrels drift overhead, pelicans glide low over the waves, and the whole place feels like a watercolor left to dry in the sun. (Want to know what else might fly by? Here are 10 birds you’ll find in Haiti.) Come for a mid-sea picnic, a bottle of something cold, or a swim in the clearest water imaginable. Stay just long enough to watch the tide rise around your ankles — then drift away, salt-kissed and sun-struck, wondering if it was ever really there.

7. Île Belanten

Sail a little further from the sand-drift of Île des Amoureux, and the sea gives way to something sturdier: a quiet, tucked-away island community that doesn’t ask to be discovered. Île Belanten rises low from the bay — just a handful of homes with thatched roofs, drying nets stretched on bamboo frames, and fishing boats moored gently in the shallows. It looks like it was borrowed from the pages of Robinson Crusoe — only here, the story is still being lived.

Around 50 people call the island home, all fishermen and their families, carving out a rhythm that’s both ancient and entirely their own. If you visit, come gently. This isn’t a tourist attraction — it’s a village. But if you ask, someone might grill you a just-caught lobster over hot coals under an almond tree, serve it with a side of laughter, and remind you that hospitality doesn’t always come with a price tag. The air smells like woodsmoke and salt, the sea is always just a step away, and the beauty feels honest.

8. Navassa Island

If this journey ends anywhere, it’s here — with an island almost no one sees, and fewer still are allowed to touch. Navassa is a jagged limestone island adrift between Haiti, Jamaica, and Cuba uninhabited, off-limits, and fiercely contested. Legally and historically, it is Haitian territory — claimed in Haiti’s constitution since independence. But in 1857, under the pretext of bird droppings and the U.S. Guano Islands Act, the United States quietly seized it.

No villages, no beaches, no footprints — only cliffs, tangled brush, and coral reefs teeming with life. Below the surface, scientists have found rare elkhorn coral growing in strange, resilient shapes, clinging to sheer walls like something evolved in secret. Navassa is Haitian — but for now, it sits in limbo: protected, politicized, and quietly extraordinary.

Written by the Visit Haiti team.

Published March 2025.

Looking for More Beaches and Islands?

Think You Know Haiti? These Six Cities Say Otherwise

March 19, 2025 by Anton Lau

Think You Know Haiti? These Six Cities Say Otherwise

Convinced Haiti is only Port-au-Prince? Time to rethink that. From coastal towns where sailboats still rule the horizon to cities steeped in revolutionary history, these six destinations show a whole new side of the country.

Most people only know Haiti by name—usually tied to its capital. Even those who visit often barely scratch the surface. They fly into Cap-Haïtien, hit the beaches, and leave thinking they’ve seen it all. But Haiti is so much more than its gateways.

Step beyond the usual stops, and you’ll find cities where history wasn’t just made—it’s still alive in the streets. Places where independence was declared, where Vodou rhythms beat through the night, where poets and novelists shaped a literary legacy, and where the air carries the scent of vetiver fields and sea salt.

From highland towns to coastal hideaways, these six Haitian cities invite you to go deeper—because to really understand Haiti, you have to explore it beyond the obvious.

1. Pestel

If you’re the kind of traveler who dreams of off-the-grid escapes, Pestel is calling your name. Tucked away in the Grand’Anse region, this lush, untamed corner of Haiti is equal parts mountain retreat and coastal hideaway.

The town’s rust-red soil fuels a landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and tropical fruit orchards, while just below, the Caribbean laps at the shore—a stunning contrast you won’t find just anywhere. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, perfect for long walks, boat rides, and evenings spent under a sky full of stars.

Looking for the best view in town? Hike up to Fort Réfléchi, an old fortress perched high above the coast. From here, you’ll get a breathtaking panorama of the Baradères Peninsula—the kind of view that makes you forget about Wi-Fi and city noise.

For an even wilder adventure, take a 20-minute boat ride to Petit Caymite, a tiny island just off the coast. Here, you’ll find Anse Blanche, one of Haiti’s most stunning yet lesser-known beaches. Powdery white sand, turquoise water, and zero crowds—this is the kind of place you’ll wish you could keep secret.

Insider tip: Pack sturdy shoes! Pestel’s best spots—whether up in the hills or down by the water—are best explored on foot.

Cathédrale Du Souvenir in Gonaïves
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

2. Gonaïves

Few cities can claim a title as grand as Gonaïves, Haiti’s Cité de l’Indépendance (City of Independence). It was here, on January 1, 1804, that Jean-Jacques Dessalines stood before the Haitian people and declared the nation’s independence, making Haiti the first free Black republic in the world.

You can still feel history in the air as you wander Place d’Armes, where statues of Haiti’s independence heroes stand tall. If you visit on New Year’s Day, expect parades, music, and steaming bowls of soup joumou—Haiti’s national dish, served in celebration of the country’s hard-won freedom.

But Gonaïves isn’t just about history—it’s also one of the best places to experience Haiti’s Vodou culture. The city is home to many lakou, traditional Vodou spiritual communities where drumming, rituals, and storytelling are woven into daily life. Two of the most famous, Lakou Souvenance and Lakou Soukri Danache, draw visitors and worshippers alike for their annual festivals, Vodou ceremonies and deep spiritual significance. If you’re curious, ask a local guide to arrange a visit—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Insider tip: Stop by the Centre PEN Haïti, a cultural hub in Gonaïves that regularly hosts book signings, poetry readings, and literary events featuring some of Haiti’s most celebrated writers.

Grotte Marie Jeanne in Port-à-Piment
Photo: CavesOfHaiti.org

3. Port-à-Piment

Tucked along Haiti’s southwestern coast, Port-à-Piment is a town that offers far more than just sun and sand. Sure, the beaches here are stunning—think powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a slow, easy pace—but if you’re the adventurous type, there’s something even more exciting waiting inland.

Welcome to Grotte Marie-Jeanne, the longest cave system in the Caribbean. This multi-level labyrinth of chambers and tunnels stretches nearly 4 kilometers underground, revealing stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock formations that feel straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. It’s one of Haiti’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and we even featured it in our roundup of the most beautiful destinations in Haiti. An essential stop for history buffs, thrill-seekers, and curious travelers

Back on the surface, the town is a classic Haitian fishing village, where life moves to the rhythm of the sea. Lobster, conch, and freshly caught fish are the stars of local cuisine, best enjoyed with a side of coconut water straight from the shell.

Insider tip: After exploring Port-à-Piment, make your way to Port-Salut, home to one of Haiti’s most spectacular beaches and a must-visit for sun-seekers.

4. Jacmel

If there’s one Haitian city that effortlessly blends history, artistry, and coastal beauty, it’s Jacmel. Known as the cultural capital of Haiti, this charming seaside town is a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits—and it’s impossible to visit without being swept up in its creative energy.

Strolling through Jacmel’s historic downtown, you’ll find gorgeous 19th-century mansions with ornate wrought-iron balconies, a legacy of the city’s once-booming coffee trade. But the real magic is in the details: murals, mosaics, and colorful street art that turn the entire town into an open-air gallery.

Jacmel is also home to Haiti’s most famous carnival, a spectacle of elaborate papier-mâché masks, hypnotic drumbeats, and vibrant dancing. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the festivities, prepare for a celebration like no other.

Need a break? Stop by Café Koze, a cozy little spot on Rue du Commerce for a light lunch, iced coffee, or a glass of fresh juice. Grab a seat outside, watch the world go by, and soak in the rhythm of daily life in Jacmel.

Then, wander through the city’s quiet side streets, past sun-faded facades and hidden courtyards, where every turn feels like stepping into another era.

Insider tip: Want to bring a piece of Jacmel home with you? Stop by one of the city’s many artisan workshops to pick up a handmade papier-mâché mask—a true piece of Haitian culture.

Traffic in Les Cayes
Photo: Dyerlin Delva

5. Les cayes

With its laid-back coastal vibe and strong maritime culture, Les Cayes is one of Haiti’s most charming port cities. This southern gem is famous for Gelée Beach, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy soft golden sands, fresh seafood, and the rhythmic beats of konpa music drifting from seaside restaurants. Order a plate of grilled lobster or fried fish, sip on an ice-cold bottle of Prestige or a glass of fiery kleren, and let the ocean breeze do the rest.

But Les Cayes isn’t just about lazy beach days—it’s also a gateway to some of Haiti’s most stunning natural wonders. A short drive from the city takes you to Saut-Mathurine, the largest waterfall in southern Haiti. Hidden in the lush hills of Camp-Perrin, its cool turquoise waters make it an irresistible spot for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring.

One of the things that makes Les Cayes truly unique? Its scent. The region is Haiti’s hub for vetiver production, a fragrant grass used in some of the world’s most luxurious perfumes. The city is home to massive distilleries that extract this highly sought-after essential oil, and you’ll see huge trucks piled high with freshly harvested vetiver rolling through town. The result? An earthy, intoxicating aroma that lingers in the air—an unmistakable signature of Les Cayes.

If you’re up for an adventure, take a boat from Les Cayes to Île-à-Vache, a breathtaking island just off the coast, where hidden coves and pristine beaches create a paradise for off-the-grid travelers.

Insider tip: If you visit in August, don’t miss the Festival de Gelée, a massive celebration of food, music, and Haitian culture that transforms the beach into a buzzing party scene.

6. Jérémie

Jérémie has long been called the “Cité des Poètes” (City of Poets)—and for good reason. This charming coastal town is the birthplace of Etzer Vilaire and Émile Roumer, two of Haiti’s most celebrated writers. It’s also where General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, father of French writer Alexandre Dumas, père, was born—tying this quiet Haitian town to the literary legacy of The Three Musketeers. (Want more surprising facts about Haiti? We cover this and more in our Fun Facts About Haiti article!)

Jérémie greets visitors with the Grande-Anse River, which runs beneath Pont de Jérémie, the city’s entrance. Beyond the bridge, you’ll find Haiti’s breadbasket—lush farmland bursting with plantains, yams, sweet potatoes, and breadfruit.

This deep connection to the land extends to its food. Locals swear by tomtom, a sticky breadfruit purée best paired with okra sauce, and konparet, a spiced, slightly sweet bread you’ll find in bakeries all over town—perfect for a quick snack on the go.

For those looking to explore, Anse d’Azur offers soft sand and clear waters far from the crowds, while the surrounding hills are a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers. (Spotting a rare species? Check out our guide to Haitian birds to see what you found!)

Jérémie was once one of Haiti’s most remote cities, its rough roads keeping it cut off from the rest of the country. Today, it’s easier to reach—but still holds onto the slower rhythms, creative energy, and natural beauty that make it feel like a world of its own.

Insider tip: In the afternoon, head to the docks to watch the wooden sailboats glide in and out—a tradition that has connected Jérémie to the rest of Haiti for generations.

Written by Melissa Beralus.

Published March 20205.

Where to Next? More Haitian Destinations Await

Escape to Île-à-Vache and Discover True Paradise

March 15, 2025 by Anton Lau

Aerial view of Île-à-Vache
Photo: Anton Lau

Escape to Île-à-Vache and Discover True Paradise

Just off the southern coast of Haiti lies an island where barefoot trails lead to untouched beaches. Île-à-Vache is the kind of place you dream about—and never want to leave.

Drift away from the noise of the world and into a place where life moves with the tides, the air smells of salt and sun-warmed coconut, and the only footprints on the sand might be your own. Just off Haiti’s southern coast, Île-à-Vache is a world apart—a Caribbean escape untouched by mass tourism, where secluded beaches, quiet fishing villages, and lush green hills create a picture-perfect retreat.

Whether you’re looking to spend your days in a hammock beneath the palms, explore the island’s winding trails, or take a boat out to hidden coves, Île-à-Vache offers a side of the Caribbean few have experienced—raw, unspoiled, and absolutely unforgettable.

Secrets of Île-à-Vache’s Pirate Past

Long before Île-à-Vache (meaning cows island) became known for its pristine beaches and peaceful island life, it was a pirate stronghold. In the 17th century, its hidden coves and remote location made it the perfect refuge for notorious buccaneers raiding Spanish ships in the Caribbean.

One of the most infamous pirates to use Île-à-Vache as a base was Captain Henry Morgan, a privateer turned legend. In 1669, Morgan gathered his fleet here before launching a daring raid on Cartagena, Colombia. However, during a celebratory feast, disaster struck—his flagship, the Oxford, exploded in Baie à Ferret, killing over 200 men. Morgan miraculously survived, only to continue his ruthless exploits across the Caribbean.

Île-à-Vache was also a hideout for Jean Hamlin and Jean Charpin, two French pirates who terrorized English and Dutch ships. Hamlin’s infamous ship, La Trompeuse, was known for outmaneuvering the Royal Navy, while Charpin briefly made the island his stronghold before heading to the West African coast.

Today, whispers of sunken ships and lost treasure still linger in the island’s history. Some believe the remains of Morgan’s fleet could still be buried beneath the waves. Whether true or not, Île-à-Vache’s pirate past adds another layer of intrigue to this already magical island.

How to Spend a Day on Île-à-Vache

Forget the crowds, the resorts, the noise. Île-à-Vache moves at its own rhythm. Days here are ruled by the tides, the sway of the palm trees, and the laughter of fishermen hauling in the morning’s catch. Whether you’re sinking your toes into the island’s legendary sands, hopping between hidden coves, or sharing stories with locals over a fresh-grilled lobster, this is Haiti at its most untouched.

Find Your Perfect Beach

Île-à-Vache is lined with breathtaking beaches, but if you ask around, one name always comes up first: Abaka Bay. Powdery white sand, water so clear it looks painted, and a horizon that stretches on forever—this beach has earned its reputation as one of the best in Haiti (see for yourself).

For something more off-the-radar, take a stroll or a short boat ride to the island’s lesser-known beaches, where you might just have the entire shoreline to yourself.

Dive Beneath the Surface

Île-à-Vache isn’t just stunning above water—it’s just as mesmerizing below. Bring your snorkeling gear or ask a local fisherman to take you to the best reefs, where the coral is alive with color and fish dart like streaks of sunlight. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle gliding past.

Surf Where No One Else Does

Haiti isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of surfing—but that’s exactly what makes it special. If you’re up for an adventure, Île-à-Vache has waves that roll in, untouched and unclaimed. No surf schools, no crowds—just you, the ocean, and the thrill of the ride. Want to explore more surf spots in Haiti? Check out our guide to surfing in Haiti.

Take a Boat Trip to Île des Amoureux

A tiny sandbank lost in the Caribbean blue, Île des Amoureux (Lovers Island) is the kind of place you’d think was a mirage if you didn’t actually step onto it. A 15-minute boat ride from Île-à-Vache, this barely-there island is perfect for a quick escape—whether you’re looking for romance, solitude, or just a place to float in the middle of the ocean with nothing but the sky above you.

Walk Through Coconut Groves and Coastal Paths

With no cars and no traffic, walking is the best way to experience Île-à-Vache. Follow dirt roads and hidden trails through coconut groves, across rolling green hills, and up to breathtaking viewpoints, where the ocean stretches endlessly in every direction. Along the way, you’ll pass small villages, friendly locals, and even a few secret beaches waiting to be discovered.

Where to Stay

As of 2025, the two main hotels, Port Morgan Hotel and Abaka Bay Resort, are temporarily closed due to the island receiving fewer visitors.

For those looking to experience Île-à-Vache’s quiet beauty, L’Anse à l’Eau is currently the only functional hotel on the island. With comfortable bungalows, stunning ocean views, and warm hospitality, it offers a place to truly disconnect. Guests praise the fresh seafood, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent service, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

Since accommodation options are limited, it’s best to check availability in advance and consider local guesthouses for a more immersive stay.

Abaka Bay beach on Île-à-Vache
Photo: Alamy

How to Get to Île-à-Vache

Île-à-Vache is accessible only by boat or helicopter, adding to its secluded charm.

By Boat: The island can be reached by boat from Les Cayes, with a round-trip fare of approximately $50 USD. The scenic 45-minute ride takes you across the sparkling blue waters of the Caribbean. Most hotels and local tour operators can arrange transportation for you, so be sure to inquire in advance.

By Helicopter: For a more exclusive arrival, Île-à-Vache has several helipads, making it possible to arrange private helicopter transfers. This option is ideal for those seeking a faster and more luxurious way to reach the island.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

The best time to visit Île-à-Vache is between December and April, when the skies are clear, the ocean is calm, and the island is at its most beautiful.

There are no ATMs on the island, so make sure to bring enough cash for your stay. Pack light, with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy sandals—you’ll be moving at the relaxed pace of island life, where comfort is key.

Looking for more places like Île-à-Vache? Set sail for seven of Haiti’s most remote (and beautiful) islands in this coastal roundup.

L’Anse à l’Eau Hotel on Île-à-Vache
Photo: Anton Lau

Written by the Visit Haiti team.

Published March 20205.

Find Île-à-Vache

External Links

Check out the latest visitors reviews

Tripadvisor

Ã—Select Language

Les Cayes

Dive Into the Wild Beauty of Saut-Mathurine

The south coast of Haiti hides some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Saut-Mathurine, the country’s largest waterfall, is one of them.

A Hidden World

a touch of haitian wisdom

Know Before You Go

From Our Land to Your Home

Getting there

Stay the Night and Explore Pic Macaya

Find Saut-Mathurine

External Links

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Haiti

Looking for some cool things to discover?

Paradise for your inbox

Set Sail for Eight (Almost Unknown) Haitian Islands

You won’t find souvenir stands on these shores. Or tour guides. Or plans, really. What you’ll find instead is something else entirely: fishing nets, rum-soaked meals, and seas that still feel unscripted. Haiti’s islands aren’t easy to get to — and maybe that’s the point.

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

1. Île de la Tortue

2. Île-à-Rat

3. La Gonâve

4. Petite Cayemite

From Our Land to Your Home

5. Île-à-Vache

6. Île des Amoureux

7. Île Belanten

8. Navassa Island

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

Looking for More Beaches and Islands?

Paradise for your inbox

Think You Know Haiti? These Six Cities Say Otherwise

Convinced Haiti is only Port-au-Prince? Time to rethink that. From coastal towns where sailboats still rule the horizon to cities steeped in revolutionary history, these six destinations show a whole new side of the country.

start your day the Haitian way

1. Pestel

2. Gonaïves

3. Port-à-Piment

From Our Land to Your Home

4. Jacmel

5. Les cayes

6. Jérémie

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

Where to Next? More Haitian Destinations Await

Paradise for your inbox

Escape to Île-à-Vache and Discover True Paradise

Just off the southern coast of Haiti lies an island where barefoot trails lead to untouched beaches. Île-à-Vache is the kind of place you dream about—and never want to leave.

Discover Sacred Vodou Symbols!

Secrets of Île-à-Vache’s Pirate Past

How to Spend a Day on Île-à-Vache

Find Your Perfect Beach

Dive Beneath the Surface

Surf Where No One Else Does

From Our Land to Your Home

Take a Boat Trip to Île des Amoureux

Walk Through Coconut Groves and Coastal Paths

Where to Stay

How to Get to Île-à-Vache

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

Find Île-à-Vache

External Links

Discover Haiti’s Beaches & Islands

Paradise for your inbox

Plan Your Trip

Destinations

Information

Company

Plan Your Trip

Destinations

Information

Company

Select Language

a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols

start your day
the Haitian way

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols