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Discover Eight of the Best Beaches in Haiti

Ile A Rat (Amiga Island) near Cap Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

Discover Eight of the Best Beaches in Haiti

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Escape to the beaches of Haiti and soak in the sun, sand, and sea. Haiti is the ideal destination for a rejuvenating and unforgettable vacation with its warm waters and long coastlines. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast, a family searching for paradise, or just looking to break away from the daily routine, Haiti offers the perfect combination of relaxation and exciting activities.

We’ve rounded up eight of Haiti’s best and most popular beaches. So, pack your bags and start planning your ultimate beach escape.

Abaka Bay beach on Ile A Vache
Photo: Verdy Verna

1. Start with the finest, Abaka Bay

Begin your Haitian beach adventure with a visit to Abaka Bay, recently named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by CNN. Located on the enchanting island of Île à Vache, this bay features a pristine white sand beach and calm Caribbean waters framed by rolling hills and verdant foliage.

Abaka Bay Resort offers guests a truly exclusive and secluded experience. Bungalows situated directly on the beach provide panoramic views and direct access to the sugar-fine sand and crystal-clear sea. Dining options are equally impressive, with a restaurant offering breathtaking views of the ocean and epic sunsets.

Getting there
To reach Île à Vache, simply take a 15-20 minute boat ride from Les Cayes. The island is located in the Bay of Les Cayes off the southern coast of Haiti.

Ile A Rat (Amiga Island)
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

2. Tiny, yet Stunning Île a Rat (Amiga Island)

From the moment you set foot on Ile a Rat (also known as Amiga Island), this tiny slice of paradise will steal your heart. Its sleek, white sand beach immediately catches the eye, while the gentle waves create a dreamy oasis against the pearlescent shoreline.

Located in the turquoise waters off the coast of Plaine du Nord in northern Haiti, Ile a Rat is a 1.8-hectare piece of white coral covered in a small, wild forest. The island is a peaceful retreat, making it a particularly romantic setting for couples looking for a serene getaway.

Getting there
To get to Ile a Rat, you can take one of the many boat taxis waiting in Labadee, which is a 30-minute drive from Cap-Haïtien. Keep in mind that the island is uninhabited, so it’s important to bring everything you need for a comfortable stay, including drinking water.

Beach Cote Des Arcadins
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

3. Côtes des Arcadins: The Ideal Dive Destination

Nestled on the north edge of Port-au-Prince Bay, Côtes des Arcadins spans 19 kilometers of white sand beaches lined with palm trees, making it one of Haiti’s most popular beach destinations. The combination of the deep blue sea, mountains, mangrove forests, and the coral reef formed by the Arcadins islets creates a breathtaking sight. With so much to explore beneath the surface, scuba diving and jet-skiing are popular activities here.

Côtes des Arcadins has something for everyone, with well-known hotels and resorts such as the ever-popular Decameron (previously known as Club Indigo), as well as other favorites like Wahoo Bay and the newly opened Moulin Sur Mer. However, if you’re seeking a more beach experience away from the crowds, venture off to one of the lesser-known beaches in the area.

Getting there
The Arcadins Coast borders the town of Montrouis, near Saint-Marc, and is located just a few hours north of Port-au-Prince. To fully enjoy your stay, consider staying at one of the lodges or hotels along the coast.

Pointe Sable beach in Port-Salut
Photo: Dyerlin Delva

4. The Pearl of the South: Pointe Sable

Port-Salut is home to the famous southern beach of Pointe Sable, a true picture perfect destination that is bound to leave you in awe. This two-kilometer stretch of golden sand is surrounded by palm trees and small thatched roof bars, creating a rural charm that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Port-Salut is also home to several popular festivals and beach parties.

In recent years, Pointe Sable has become a popular weekend getaway from Port-au-Prince, with a growing number of hotels popping up along the coast. Despite this, the area has yet to reach the level of overcrowding seen in other Caribbean destinations. For those looking for adventure, Port-Salut offers several options. You can visit the pretty Cascade Touyac waterfall, which is about a half-hour walk inland, or head up into the hills for a visit to the Grotte Marie Jeanne in Port-à-Piment.

Getting there
To reach Port-Salut, take National Road 2 from Port-au-Prince towards Les Cayes, and continue to Port-Salut, located 30 kilometers west of Les Cayes. The drive from Port-au-Prince takes approximately three hours.

Labadee Beach
Photo: Shutterstock

5. Endless Thrills and Relaxation at Labadee Beach

Labadee is a popular beach destination on the northern coast of Haiti, famous for its beauty and activities. The area boasts four white sand beaches, cafés, and the country’s only port serving as a cruise ship stop. Labadee offers a wide range of activities, from cruising and shopping at souvenir shops to dining at restaurants and enjoying the thrill of a 450-foot-high zipline. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind, with long stretches of beach and plenty of spots to sit, lay down, and soak up the sun.

There are several options for food and drinks, including Dragon’s Cafe, Labadee Cafe, and Columbus Cove Cafe, all serving a delicious lunch buffet. And don’t forget to stop by the Floating Bar at Adrenaline Beach for a signature Labadoozie frozen cocktail. The Artisan’s Village is also a must-visit, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artists.

For those seeking thrills, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found at Labadee. The possibilities for adventure are endless, from zip-lining across the ocean to jumping on floating trampolines. And for a unique view of the island, you can parasail or speed around the shoreline on a speedboat.

Getting there
Labadee beach is operated by Royal Caribbean Cruises. The best (and only) way to get there is by joining a cruise that stops at Labadee. Please note that, unfortunately, it is not possible for cruise guests to leave the area and visit other attractions in the region.

Book a cruise now and make Labadee the next stop on your Caribbean voyage here!

Cormier Plage beach near Cap Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

6. Cormier Beach, Where Mountains Meet the Sea

If you travel further down Haiti’s northern coast, you’ll have the chance to witness the rolling green mountains that flawlessly blend into the sea, welcoming you to Cormier Plage Resort. This 5-hectare hotel complex offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views of the north coast, making it the ideal destination for a family vacation.

The resort provides an array of activities for its guests, including tennis lessons, boat trips to nearby secluded beaches surrounding Cap-Haïtien, and an opportunity to relish Haitian fusion cuisine at the restaurant and bar. The long sandy beach is dotted with lounge chairs, and guests can stay connected with free Wi-Fi available throughout the property.

The hotel also offers excursions to the famous Citadelle Henri and Palace Sans Souci. So whether you’re staying at Cormier Beach Resort or just visiting for the day, you can soak up the beauty and tranquility of this stunning beach.

Getting there 
Cormier Beach, is a short 20-minute drive from the center of Cap-Haïtien or a 40-minute drive from the Cap-Haïtien International airport.

Gelée beach near Les Cayes
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

7. Swim like the Locals at Gelée Beach

For an authentic local beach experience, head to Gelée Beach located near Les Cayes in Southern Haiti. This 900-meter stretch of pristine sand is lined with seafood restaurants, offering a picturesque backdrop to the rural scenery of Les Cayes city.

You’ll be able to indulge in flavourful Haitian cuisine such as griyo (fried pork), bannann peze (fried plantain chips), or the famous lambi (conch) while sipping on a refreshing rum sour and taking in the calming sounds of the waves.

Looking to explore Haiti’s unique gastronomy? Here’s a list of the Haitian Street Food you Have to Try. 

Getting there
Gelée Beach is a 20-minute drive from the center of Les Cayes. For the ultimate experience, plan your visit during the annual Gelée Festival, which takes place during the town’s patron saint celebration on August 15th.

Raymond Les Bains beach near Cayes-Jacmel
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

8. Experience the Magic of Raymond les Bains

Raymond les Bains is a sought-after destination located between the cities of Jacmel and Cayes-Jacmel, known for its picturesque beach and especially it’s delectable seafood. With a shallow coastal shelf, it’s an excellent spot for swimming, and visitors can spend a day absorbing the warm Caribbean sun rays on the sandy shores.

Along the coast, small restaurants with parasols and street vendors offering a range of souvenirs, snacks, and coconuts can be found. Fafane, the owner of one of the restaurants, is a local legend and serves up the freshest and tastiest grilled fish in town.

As the sun sets, Raymond les Bains transforms into a live party spot, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is energetic, making it the perfect setting for a night out with friends, enjoying some cold Prestige beers while enjoying the beauty of the moonlit beach.

Getting there
Raymond les Bains is easily accessible by public transportation such as taptap or moto. The beach is located about fifteen kilometers east of Jacmel on the road toward Marigot.


Written by Costaguinov Baptiste.

Published March 2023.


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Meet the Locals: Haitian Actor Jimmy Jean-Louis

haitian actor in black suit with photographers
Jimmy Jean-Louis
Photo: ITAR-TASS News Agency / Alamy Live News

Haitian Actor Jimmy Jean-Louis

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Jimmy Jean Louis is one of the most popular Haitian faces in international cinema. After starting as a dancer, spending time in musical theater, and modeling, he made his debut in Haitian films and soon transferred to the American scene, where he became a pride point for many of his fellow islanders watching him all the way back home.

Currently based in Los Angeles, Jimmy still maintains a deep, strong, and long-standing relationship with Haiti, visiting whenever he can, and cultivating his appreciation— and that of his peers —for all the island has to offer.

We spoke with the star of “Citation,” on Netflix, about his favorite things to do and places to see in Haiti.

haitian actor in front of oversized golden oscar statuette
Jimmy Jean-Louis
Photo: ITAR-TASS News Agency / Alamy Live News

When you take a trip to come to Haiti, where do you usually stay? In the capital or your hometown?

I try to do both because I grew up in Pétion-Ville — even though I am from Bainet — so I try to spend some time there, but I also try to make time to go to Jacmel. I really do enjoy Jacmel, more precisely, Kabik, and if I’m in Haiti for a long time, I can try to visit more places in the South, whether it’s Les Cayes— you know, all that part, but really, for me, it’s about Pétion-Ville and Jacmel.

If you were to visit Haiti with a friend who had never been before, and stay in Port-au-Prince for a couple of days, can you guide us through a few things you think your friend should absolutely see or do while they are there?

I’d definitely try to get there on a Thursday just to hit them hard with the RAM night, at Hotel Oloffson. So, after that, definitely take a nice drive throughout the city, because I think it’s so rich in color and life, it’s a must-do; take a ride up in the mountains, maybe have some food at the restaurant, L’Observatoire.

Definitely take a drive all the way to Kenscoff. I would probably stop for a drink, maybe by Hotel El Rancho, just to show them that side of Haiti, as well as stopping by one of the street vendors to buy something local, too. Maybe some griyo!

And if you were to guide them for a 2—3 day weekend in a province city of your choice, where would you take them and what would you do?

You know what, I would probably drive down to Ile a Vache, to Les Cayes. Spend one night at Ile a Vache. Then take them to Port Salut for the beach, and maybe, if I have time, go to Grottes Marie-Jeanne, because I think it’s spectacular.

On the way back from all that, I’d definitely take them to Jacmel for one day as well; so go through the streets of Jacmel, see the artisans, and have a good day at the beach, whether Timouyaj, Kabik, or Raymond-les-Bains.

Do you have a favorite beach?

Kabik in Cayes-Jacmel. But then again, you know, it depends on the time of the year. When the water is clear in Kabik, it’s wonderful. You can also have some food at that restaurant, just on the water, it’s a nice spot.

Do you have a favorite place in Port-au-Prince where you like to go for food?

That’s hard; it’s not necessarily for food. For example, the Oloffson Hotel is a good place once it’s happening, because I think it’s a good mix of all kinds of people, and it’s a good representation of the Haitian culture, right there, in one spot. Whether you are part of the bourgeoisie, a wealthy person, poor, you can find a place at the Oloffson. I like that about it.

Is there a specific time of year you prefer to come to Haiti?

The time between the end of one year and the beginning of another has the most pleasant climate; it’s less hot, you know? But otherwise, I don’t really have a preference; it’s true that July and August can be a little bit too hot, most of the time, but really, I don’t mind because I like Haiti in all seasons.

If you could give some recommendations to people who have not yet visited Haiti, or who have been here once but would like to come back, what would you tell them?

If the person isn’t at ease in the country, it’s going to be a little more delicate. I would recommend them to find someone they can trust, and follow the guidance of that person.

I go there and I get one of my cousins to be with me. It’s just to have a presence. And then from that presence, you can pretty much go anywhere because that person who is in Haiti knows how Haiti functions, so I just trust them.

I would highly recommend the North as well— meaning going to Cap-Haïtien, taking a day to go to La Citadelle, taking a day to go to Ile a Rat, or Labadie. You could also spend quite a nice weekend doing that, because you have all the historical locations and monuments that are in Cap-Haïtien.

The sights in the North are slightly different from other parts, and if I had to hit a restaurant in Cap-Haïtien, of course, it would be Lakay Restaurant. What’s nice with the North as well is that you have direct flights from outside of Haiti, which eases the transition.

If you could influence people’s idea of Haiti, what would you like to tell them?

To tell you the truth, there is something people always say when they speak about Haiti and it’s the expression that it’s the “Pearl of the Caribbean.” I love using that expression because what once was the Pearl of the Caribbean can become it once more; it all depends on how we approach the country. How do you get people to understand that what was, still is? What has been will always be, regardless of what is happening right now.

Haiti is still the only country and the first country that fought for and won its independence; meaning that it is the first Black republic in the Western hemisphere. That is extremely important, and nobody can ever take that away from Haiti. So that’s a good point of reference, if anyone wants to know about Haiti. They have to start there.

man laying in a hammock by the ocean
Jimmy Jean-Louis in a hammock on the beach in Kabik, Cayes-Jacmel
Photo: Jimmy Jean-Louis

Interview by Kelly Paulemon.

Published November 2021


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