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Six Beaches Near Jacmel That Feel Like a Dream

April 9, 2025 by Anton Lau

Raymond les Bains beach in Jacmel
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

Six Beaches Near Jacmel That Feel Like a Dream

Quiet sands, clear waters, and not a resort in sight. These are Jacmel’s best-kept beach secrets — for now.

Jacmel may be known for its historic gingerbread houses, art-soaked streets, and a Carnival that rivals any in the Caribbean — but venture just beyond the city and you’ll find a coastline that feels practically untouched. The beaches in and around Jacmel offer a wildly diverse escape: from cove-like inlets where goats nap in the shade, to secret stretches of sand only accessible by boat. Whether you’re chasing the thrum of weekend parties or the stillness of early-morning solitude, this sun-warmed corner of Haiti delivers. These are six of our favourite beaches near Jacmel — each one a different shade of quiet, salt-kissed magic.

Buche Perico restaurant in Santo Domingo — La Saline beach in Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

1. La Saline

Best for: golden-hour snacks and peaceful weekday swims

A short moto ride (or 30-minute stroll) from downtown Jacmel, La Saline unfolds just past the city’s grand cemetery, nestled between residential quiet and ocean breeze. Flanked by big hillside villas and the occasional bleating goat, this cove-shaped beach stays mostly deserted on weekdays — the perfect setting for a salt-sweet swim and a moment of stillness. The water’s clear and calm, the kind that invites you to wade in slowly and forget what time it is.

On weekends, La Saline shifts. Street-food vendors pop up with fried breadfruit, cold Prestige, and scratchy speakers playing konpa classics. Locals arrive in groups, staking out shaded corners of sand, sharing snacks, maybe even dancing. If you’re lucky (or intentional), you might time your visit with a full-on summer party — sound systems, swimming, and all. But come any other day, and the beach is yours.

Cyvadier Plage near Jacmel
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

2. Cyvadier Plage

Best for: a quiet swim followed by lobster and rum punch

Tucked into a rocky cove about 20 minutes from Jacmel, Cyvadier Plage is less of a beach and more of a secret. Hidden below the Hotel Cyvadier, the only way down is through the property — and then down a steep, winding staircase that spills out onto a sliver of soft sand and sea. It’s tiny, yes, but impossibly serene. Giant rocks frame the water like sculptures, and the cove’s natural curve keeps it calm and swimmable. On any given afternoon, you’ll find only a few hotel guests stretched out under the sun, maybe a pair of local kids casting fishing lines from the rocks.

This is the place to slow things down. Order a rum sour or the hotel’s famous lobster gratiné, and let the afternoon melt. There’s paddleboarding if you’re feeling ambitious, or snorkels if you want to float and spy. But really, Cyvadier is best experienced from one of those rocks — still salty from your swim, watching the sun slip behind the cliffs, wondering how such a small beach can feel like its own world.

Raymond les Bains in Jacmel
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

3. Raymond Les Bains

Best for: seafood feasts and people-watching

A 30-minute ride from Jacmel will land you at Raymond Les Bains — a name that rings out far beyond Haiti’s southern coast. More than just a beach, it’s a living, breathing rhythm of music, grilled seafood, and sun-dappled chaos. Tables with sun-bleached parasols dot the shoreline, each vendor staking out a patch of sand with creaky chairs and bright wax-printed tablecloths. No printed menus, just voices calling out promises of lambi, grilled lobster, octopus, fried plantains, and spicy pikliz. It’s part lunch spot, part open-air market, part party — with DIY bracelets, paintings, and fried shrimp circling the beach in the arms of roaming vendors.

Weekends here are wild — boom blasters in full force, kids darting through the surf, families feasting in clusters beneath coconut palms. There’s always someone trying to win you over to “their” table, and you’ll rarely have a quiet moment to yourself — but that’s the point. This is a beach made for mingling, snacking, and soaking up the full spectrum of local flavor. If you want something quirky to sip, ask for the wonm ak pistach — toasted peanuts and a generous pour of rum served in a plastic cup. Afrodisiac or not, it hits.

If Raymond Les Bains is your vibe, wait till you see the rest of the best beaches in Haiti!

Ti Mouillage beach in Cayes-Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

4. Ti Mouillage

Best for: barefoot solitude and postcard-perfect sunsets

Forty minutes from Jacmel’s center, tucked along the coast of Cayes Jacmel, Ti Mouillage is one of those beaches that feels like a well-kept secret — not because it’s hidden, but because no one seems to go. A vast, golden stretch of sand visible right from the roadside, it’s the kind of beach that anywhere else in the Caribbean would be overrun. Here, it’s just you, the wind, and the sound of waves folding onto the shore. Locals play volleyball in the afternoons, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the skeleton of a wooden boat mid-construction — a reminder that this is a working coastline as much as a beautiful one.

The water stays shallow for a good while before dropping off sharply, so keep your swim close to shore — but don’t skip it. Ti Mouillage is clean, calm, and wide open, perfect for floating with a view of the tree-lined bay. There are a couple of beachside shacks selling drinks (and maybe food, if you’re there on the right day), but the charm here lies in the quiet. Come at sunset for a sky drenched in warm, syrupy light, or in the morning if you want the whole beach to yourself. Just bring a towel, a bottle of kleren, and the kind of book you won’t mind abandoning to stare at the sea.

Kabik Beach in Cayes-Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

5. Kabik

Best for: beginner surf sessions and bungalow daydreams

Just a five-minute walk up the coast from Ti Mouillage, Kabik shifts the mood entirely. This pebbled stretch of shoreline isn’t ideal for barefoot beach bumming — pack your flip-flops — but what it lacks in sand it makes up for in surf. Known as one of Haiti’s top surf spots, Kabik draws a quiet but devoted crew of local wave-chasers. The nearby Surf Haiti outpost offers board rentals and lessons, and if you’re not quite ready to paddle out solo, brothers Samuel and Samson are the go-to guys for gear, tips, or a freshly cut coconut (250 gourdes, if you’re wondering).

Just above the shore, a handful of thatched-roof bungalows sit under the palms, framed by a crooked wooden fence and a patch of wind-ruffled grass. It’s the kind of place that feels lifted from a postcard — all faded charm and sea-salted stillness. There’s no music, no vendors, no buzz. Just the occasional truck winding along the road toward Marigot, and the rhythm of the waves rolling in. If you’re into surfing — or just the idea of waking up somewhere that smells like coconuts and sea breeze — Kabik’s the spot.

Want more than a beach day? See why surfers are chasing swells all over Haiti.

Plage Baguette in Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

6. Plage Baguette

Best for: castaway fantasies and uninterrupted swims

Accessible only by boat — a 20-minute ride from Jacmel’s Lakou New York coastal boardwalk — Plage Baguette is the kind of beach that doesn’t show up on maps or itineraries. Fringed by towering cliffs on one side and nothing but open sea on the other, this sandy stretch sits directly across from Jacmel’s coast, offering a reverse postcard view of the city you just left behind. You won’t find any roads, trails, or shortcuts — there’s no getting here on foot or by moto. Just water, wind, birds overhead, and the occasional fishing boat gliding past.

It’s the kind of place that turns silence into luxury. With no vendors or built-up amenities, you’ll need to bring everything with you — snacks, drinks, and sense of time. Swim safely in the calm shallows or just float and watch pelicans cruise by. Come in the early afternoon for a touch of shade from the cliffs, or earlier if you’re chasing full sun. Named after the remote area it belongs to, Plage Baguette also hides nearby relics of the past — a barely-visible colonial fortress and a forgotten waterfall, reachable only with extra boat stops. But even without venturing further, the beach alone feels like a reward for making the journey.

This isn’t the only beach you’ll wish you’d kept to yourself. Discover more of Haiti’s almost secret beaches!

Written by Costaguinov Baptiste.

Published April 2025.

Top things to see in Haiti

Not Your Average Travel Guide to Jacmel

March 29, 2025 by Anton Lau

Cascade Pichon in Belle-Anse
Photo: Franck Fontain

Not Your Average Travel Guide to Jacmel (And That’s the Point)

One minute you’re in a jungle basin, the next in a papier-mâché workshop or Carnival chase. Jacmel is Haiti at its most alive.

This coastal city in the country’s southeast isn’t a checklist — it’s a feeling. Here, art drips from balconies, history clings to coral-stone walls, and wild nature beckons just beyond the city limits. We’re not here to tick boxes or sell you an itinerary — we’re here to wander, linger, and listen. Whether you’re sipping mountain-brewed coffee, running with black-painted Carnival troupes, or slipping into a turquoise pool deep in the jungle, Jacmel doesn’t just welcome you — it pulls you in. These are the stories, the steps, and the soul-stirring detours that make this one of Haiti’s most unforgettable escapes.

1. Walk the Coffee Route in Fonds Jean-Noël

High in the misty mountains above Marigot, this guided walk offers a slow, grounding escape into Haiti’s agricultural soul. Led by a local farmers’ co-op, the trail winds through groves of shade-grown coffee, fruit trees, and medicinal plants. Along the way, you’ll learn how beans go from seedling to cup, roasted over open flames and brewed the old-fashioned way — just like Haitian grandmothers still do.

Expect coconut breaks, impromptu dancing, and a final cup of the smoothest brew you’ve ever had. Reaching the village takes around 90 minutes from Jacmel — best tackled with a guide and a 4×4.

aerial view of coastal village with market area and boats — Sun rising over the port of Marigot
Photo: Franck Fontain

2. Wake Early for Market Day in Marigot

If you’re heading to Fonds Jean-Noël, aim for a Saturday — it’s the perfect excuse to stop in Marigot on the way. Just after dawn, this quiet coastal town transforms into a bustling harbor market. Massive wooden boats sail in from Haiti’s far southeast, their hulls hand-painted with gospel verses and bright colors, much like the country’s iconic tap-tap buses. They unload glistening fish, sacks of produce, and cassava by the armful.

What starts as a calm hum builds into a full sensory overload: shouting vendors, rumbling trucks, sizzling fritay, and the occasional burst of diesel smoke. It’s raw, unfiltered, and completely local — few visitors make it this far east. Come early, bring small bills, and go slow. And if you’re carrying a camera, remember: in Haiti, permission is everything. Ask before you shoot, and maybe buy a handful of oranges while you’re at it.

If the market’s rhythm caught your attention, don’t miss our full Photo Journal on Marigot.

Person swimming beneath a waterfall in Bassin Bleu, Haiti — Bassin Bleu waterfall near Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

3. Chase Waterfalls in Jacmel’s Jungle

Ask anyone in Jacmel where to go, and they’ll point you toward Bassin Bleu — a sequence of surreal, electric-blue pools tucked deep in the jungle. It’s Haiti’s most iconic waterfall, but don’t mistake it for easy access.

The four basins — Cheval, Yes, Palmiste, and Clair — unfold like secrets, each more striking than the last. To reach the final pool, Bassin Clair, you’ll climb slippery ledges and lower yourself down a rock face by rope — but the payoff is 75 feet of luminous turquoise, where locals float and dive in suspended calm. Come early for the best light and fewest crowds, and avoid visiting after rain, when the water can turn cloudy and currents unpredictable. Bring water shoes, small bills for a guide, and let the jungle silence replace the outside world.

Ready to chase the falls yourself? Start with our in-depth Bassin Bleu guide.

surfer on board riding a wave while sun setting — Surfer in Kabik
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

4. Go Surfing in Kabik

Far from the tourist trail, Kabik Beach is a hidden swell magnet near Cayes-Jacmel, where the waves are consistent, the water is warm, and the lineup is often empty. Mornings are glassy — perfect for beginners launching from nearby Ti Mouillage. By afternoon, trade winds roll in and the bigger breaks come alive, drawing local pros and the occasional traveler. Waves can hit 10 feet during peak season (February to November), and while surf schools are rare, local instructors can be found — just ask around.

Stay overnight at Haiti Surf Guesthouse, a rustic eco-lodge tucked in the hills above the beach. Wooden bungalows sit beneath towering trees, and a creek-fed pool slices through the jungle like a secret. The vibe is slow and unplugged: strong coffee in the morning, strong rum at night, and all the time in the world between.

Want to know where to catch the best waves in Haiti? Our surfer’s guide has all the details you need.

5. Take a Walking Tour Through Jacmel’s Historic Core

Jacmel isn’t just seen — it’s felt. The best way to absorb the city’s layered soul is by walking through its historic center, where 19th-century merchant houses line the streets with lacy ironwork, coral-stone walls, and fading grandeur. Start at the old iron market, shipped from Belgium in 1895, then follow Rue du Commerce past the customs house, once the heart of Haiti’s coffee trade.

You’ll pass wooden balconies, shuttered windows, and quiet courtyards that still echo with stories of merchants, poets, and revolutionaries. The cathedral stands watch over it all, its baroque silhouette nodding to faraway influences from Cuba and Spain. Local guides can bring it all to life, but even on your own, the textures of the city speak volumes. Wear good shoes, go slow, and let Jacmel reveal itself — one façade, one footstep, one memory at a time.

6. Day Trip to Cascade Pichon in Belle-Anse

Hidden between thick forest and remote hills, Cascade Pichon is one of Haiti’s most spectacular waterfalls — and also one of its best-kept secrets. Fed by an underground lake, its waters tumble into three turquoise basins: Chouket, scented with wild mint; Dieula, deeper and shaded; and Marassa, where light skips across the surface.

Getting here is part of the magic. From Jacmel, the trip can take up to four hours by 4×4, moto taxi, and a 40-minute hike on foot. The route winds past beaches, mountains, and far-flung villages few travelers ever see. At the end, a cool, hidden swim awaits — quiet, wild, and unforgettable. Bring a guide, pack light, and breathe deep.

Planning the trek already? Read our full guide to reaching Cascade Pichon.

group of black guys bathing in ocean with waves crashing — Lansèt kòd group in Jacmel
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

7. Go Wild with a Lansèt Kòd Group During Carnival Season

Every Sunday from January to Carnival, Jacmel’s sleepy streets erupt in stomps, whip cracks, and rebellious drumbeats — your cue that the Lansèt Kòd are on the move. In this century-old ritual of satire and survival, local men and boys cover themselves in sticky black paint, don ragged costumes, and charge through town in joyful, chaotic packs.

Ask your host or guide to connect you with a group. You’ll learn to mix the paint (charcoal and cane syrup), dress the part (horns, wigs, old clothes), and keep pace with the rhythm. Eccentricity is the point. Swigs of kleren — Haiti’s fiery moonshine — fuel the frenzy as black handprints fly. By sundown, everyone plunges into the sea for a cleansing, full-body exhale.

Eager to understand this unique Haitian tradition? Explore the full story of the Lansèt Kòd in our article.

aerial view fort oge fortress in jacmel with football field inside — Fort Ogè, Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

8. Hike Up to Fort Ogé

Perched on a mountaintop east of Jacmel, Fort Ogé is a 200-year-old stone outpost built in 1804 and named after revolutionary Vincent Ogé. It’s smaller than the Citadelle up north — but that’s part of the magic: no crowds, no gates, just quiet ruins, sweeping views, and the occasional soccer game inside the old walls.

Ask a moto driver to take you up (it’s a rough ride), and bring a few gourdes for local guides who’ll walk you through dungeons, cannons, and stories etched in stone. The whole visit takes under an hour — but the breeze, the view, and the weight of history linger long after.

The view’s just the beginning — read our in-depth guide to Fort Ogé.

Grown in Haiti, Cap Rouge
Photo: Grown in Haiti

9. Explore Haiti’s Coolest Permaculture Project

Up in the mountains of Cap Rouge, not far from the road to Fort Ogé, Grown in Haiti is a lush, off-grid reforestation site where rare tropical trees, fruit forests, and permaculture principles thrive. It’s not open to drop-ins — you’ll need to message them on Instagram to arrange a visit — but once you’re in, expect a quiet, eye-opening tour through acres of regenerative agriculture.

The project focuses on tree-planting, seed-saving, and sustainable living, led by a team that’s deeply rooted in the land. You’ll walk among jackfruit and cacao, explore a hidden spring, and learn how native species are brought back to life. It’s not a full-day excursion, but it’s the kind of place that stays with you — calm, wild, and quietly radical.

Want to support more places like this? Check out our guide to Haitian organizations worth backing.

Papier-mâché atalier in Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

10. Step Inside Jacmel’s Creative Heart

From towering papier-mâché masks to vivid paintings and handmade crafts, Jacmel’s streets pulse with artistry — and nowhere more than in the ateliers of Lakou New York and the Jacmel Arts Center. This walkable hub in the historic center is home to some of Haiti’s most prolific Carnival artists. Reach out in advance — you might catch a master like Charlotte Charles at work, or even join a hands-on workshop.

Just around the corner, the Jacmel Arts Center — housed in a restored 19th-century building on Rue Ste-Anne — blends gallery, school, boutique, and performance space under one roof. Led by a collective of 100+ artists, it’s as much about community as it is about creativity. Come for the tour, stay for the conversation — and let the color seep in.

a vodou priest and practitioner performing a dance — A ougan at a Vodou ceremony
Photo: Pierre Michel Jean

11. Attend a Vodou Ceremony

More than skulls, sequins, and smoke, a Vodou ceremony is a sensory plunge into Haiti’s spiritual soul — rhythmic, raw, and deeply alive. If you’re lucky enough to attend one around Jacmel, expect pounding drums, flickering candles, and dancers who give their bodies to the spirits in a trance-like communion called possession.

You’ll need a local guide to connect you — these aren’t staged performances but real rites of healing and connection, often held at a peristil temple or under a sacred tree. Dress respectfully (but not in white), bring a bottle of kleren as an offering, and arrive with an open mind. Forget mainstream Hollywood portrayals — what you’ll find is reverence, rhythm, and a celebration of life that’s rooted in centuries of resistance and resilience.

Intrigued by Haiti’s spiritual roots? Our Vodou ceremony guide goes deeper.

Written by the Visit Haiti team.

Published March 2025.

Top things to see in Haiti

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.

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.

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Fort des Oliviers Tells the Story of Haiti’s Colonial Past

March 24, 2025 by Editor

Fort des Oliviers
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Fort des Oliviers Tells the Story of Haiti’s Colonial Past

Far from the crowds and deep in the south, Fort des Oliviers stands watch over the Bay of Saint-Louis. It’s one of the most striking and overlooked places to explore Haiti’s colonial past.

On a rocky peninsula just a short walk from Saint Louis du Sud, Fort des Oliviers dates back to the start of the eighteenth century.

A glimpse of the past

As you walk past cannons propped on stones, your mind will wander back to the time of double-breasted military uniforms and rifles. Staircases ascend and descend to the upper and interior levels of the fort – or the parts of it that have been preserved despite the elements. Wandering up the stairs, under archways and around the ancient artillery allows you to glimpse the experience of construction workers – both French and Haitian, who – more than three hundred years ago – put each of these stones into place.

Exploring the ruins of Fort des Oliviers, visitors can get a sense for the colonial era in which it was built. Three centuries have suffused the weathered walls of the fort with character. The stone has been softened and polished by the salt air and waves. Fort des Oliviers is as much a product of the coastal landscape as it is of those who built it.

If you are looking to deepen your understanding of Haiti’s colonial history, a visit to Fort des Oliviers is absolutely in order!

Steeped in history

Built in 1702, Fort des Oliviers was built by French occupiers to defend the Haitian territory against their colonial competitors – namely the British Empire. Unfortunately for the French, the British did indeed take over Fort des Oliviers about fifty years later, and established it as a pit-stop port for British ships to rest and refuel their crews.

Unlike Fort Ogé, Fort Jacques, or the iconic Citadelle Henri, which were built during Haiti’s revolutionary struggle for independence, Fort des Oliviers reflects an earlier chapter — one shaped by European rivalry, colonization, and imperial defense strategies along the southern coast.

The southern coastline of Haiti was hotly contested in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as a foothold from which to defend the country’s riches — a legacy that still shapes the southern region, home to coastal forts and a growing list of excursions and cultural activities in Les Cayes. Although modern Haiti is known for its pristine beaches, colonial-era Haiti made a name for itself in European cities through the high-quality goods brought back by traders returning from its shores. Fort des Oliviers was built just a few years after the French and Spanish divided up the island of Hispaniola into two separate countries – the Dominican Republic on the East and Haiti on the West.

The living heritage of relics like Fort des Oliviers make it impossible to separate the insistent natural beauty of the landscape from the history that has shaped modern Haiti as a living, breathing organism. This sense of identity and purpose is what drives the carnival attitude and lust for life that sets Haiti apart as one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.

If you’re thirsty for more adventure, you’ll find another old fortress on an islet in the bay visible from Fort des Oliviers. This is Fort Saint-Louis, constructed at the same time as Fort des Oliviers. The islet is also home to an abandoned shipwreck famous among locals.

Fort Saint-Louis is accessible via a short boat ride from the coast.

Know Before You Go

Fort des Oliviers is completely free to visit — there are no fences, ticket booths, or entry fees. Though there’s no formal infrastructure, you won’t be on your own: local guides are usually available and will often approach you on-site. A tip of around 500 gourdes is a fair way to thank them for sharing the fort’s history and secrets.

Not sure how much that is in dollars, or what else to budget for? Read our guide to money and costs in Haiti.

The fort itself is weathered and crumbling, with restoration efforts halted since 2019. It’s generally safe to explore, but caution is advised near the edges, where the stonework has weakened over time.

There are no restrooms or vendors in the immediate area, but you may come across a young local selling fresh coconuts from the surrounding palm trees — 250 gourdes is a fair price. Don’t count on it, though, so bring your own water, sunscreen, and proper walking shoes. There’s good cell signal in the area, and the site is quiet enough to enjoy a picnic or a moment of peace under the sun.

Getting there

Fort des Oliviers is a short walk from the township of Saint-Louis-du-Sud. While you’re in town, make a stop at the highway-side market to sample some of the area’s famous street food. If you only try one thing, look for the lady selling Lam Veritab Fri (fried breadfruit). Though it resembles fried plantain, the texture is very different — soft, starchy, and delicious. A cousin of jackfruit, breadfruit is best served piled high with a generous helping of spicy pikliz.

From the western edge of town, you can walk along the shoreline and over the palm-shaded peninsula that leads to the fort. The upper level of the structure offers flat, open spaces — perfect for sitting down to enjoy a picnic or simply disconnecting from the rush of city life. Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find a quiet beach where you can dip your toes in the Bay of Saint-Louis.

For travelers arriving from farther away, Les Cayes is a 40-minute drive, while Jacmel is about four hours by road. As you approach the coast, keep an eye out for the islet in the bay — home to Fort Saint-Louis and a legendary shipwreck. Fort des Oliviers sits just opposite, nestled into the curve of the bay, easily visible from the shoreline.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published October 2018.
Updated March 2025.

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Where to Sleep, Swim, and Slow Down in Jacmel

March 23, 2025 by Anton Lau

Hotel Manoir Adriana in Jacmel
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Where to Sleep, Swim, and Slow Down in Jacmel

From gingerbread mansions to jungle-shaded surf shacks, these are the stays that capture Jacmel’s quiet magic. Intimate, design-minded, and full of soul — here’s where to check in along Haiti’s creative coast.

With its faded gingerbread mansions, palm-lined seafront, and a creative spirit stitched into nearly every balcony and breeze, Jacmel is a city that hums quietly with charm. Haiti’s cultural capital is no stranger to beauty — or contradiction. One minute you’re sipping Haitian rum under the stars in a crumbling 19th-century courtyard, the next you’re paddling across a private cove surrounded by coconut trees.

While Jacmel may not have five-star hotels or infinity-edge anything, it offers something rarer: soul. The kind of place where the paint peels just right, where the sea is never far, and where the best stays feel like secrets — half-whispered from one traveler to another.

From historic hideaways in the heart of the old town to barefoot surf lodges tucked deep into the hills, these are the places we think are worth waking up in.

1. Hotel Florita

For those with a taste for poetic decay and a soft spot for stories embedded in floorboards, Hotel Florita is where you’ll want to unpack your bags — and your notebook. Built in 1888 as a coffee magnate’s mansion, this baby-blue and white landmark — complete with iron columns and creaky wooden stairs — is the only 19th-century building in Jacmel’s historic district still doing what it was meant to do: host lively conversation, long nights, and travelers with time to waste.

There’s no pool, no spa, and no polished concierge — but there is a balcony overlooking Rue du Commerce, a rum sour waiting at the bar (the first one’s on the house), and original artwork by legendary Haitian painters like Philomé Obin and Gérard Fortuné. The vibe channels that same faded grandeur you’ll find at Hotel Oloffson in Port-au-Prince — part literary relic, part film set.

Thursday nights are when the courtyard comes alive, pulsing with music, dancing, and a crowd of artists, expats, and old poets who seem to drift in and never fully leave. In the morning, slip next door to Café Koze for an iced coffee or a slice of carrot cake before tracing your steps through Jacmel’s gallery-lined streets. But don’t be surprised if Florita keeps calling you back — it’s the kind of place that makes you believe in ghosts, and maybe even in staying still.

Book your stay at Hotel Florita!

L’Auberge du Vieux Port in Jacmel
Photo: L’Auberge du Vieux Port

2. L’Auberge du Vieux Port

Just 15 metres down from Hotel Florita — but a world apart in feel — L’Auberge du Vieux Port wears a colonial façade with freshly painted confidence. Think green shutters, brickwork, and an old-world exterior that nods politely to Jacmel’s past. Step inside, though, and it’s clear: this isn’t a time capsule. The interiors are concrete, clean, and quietly contemporary — more comfortable guesthouse than crumbling mansion.

Owned by a warm Haitian husband-and-wife team who are often on-site, the hotel hosts weekly Friday night jazz sessions that spill out from the restaurant onto the street. Expect small tables, live music drifting through open doors, and clinking glasses of house-made Bomuzack rum under the stars.

The food here is quietly excellent — elevated Haitian comfort dishes with generous portions — and while the vibe is less “wandering poet” than its neighbour up the street, it’s no less local. Think families, couples, and groups of friends gathered for a mellow night out. The atmosphere? Pure Jacmel: musical, unhurried, and impossible to fake.

Check availability at L’Auberge du Vieux Port!

3. Manoir Adriana

Tucked just a few minutes from Rue du Commerce, Manoir Adriana is a hotel of split personalities — and that’s its charm. On one side: a towering, beautifully restored Haitian gingerbread mansion, all fretwork, balconies, and old-world romance. On the other: a concrete modern addition that houses thirty guest rooms, each with a balcony overlooking a lush courtyard and the largest pool in Jacmel’s city center. The effect is surreal — like sleeping in a novel. Which, in fact, you are.

The name “Adriana” nods to Hadriana in All My Dreams, René Depestre’s celebrated 1988 novel set in Jacmel, about a young French woman transformed into a zombie on her wedding day. It’s fitting — this place lives somewhere between reality and myth.

Inside the gingerbread house you’ll find the bar and reception, plus breezy wraparound verandas perfect for lingering over a cool drink. Rooms in the annex are modern, spacious, and come with air-conditioning — though, at the time of writing, Jacmel’s electricity woes make it more wish than guarantee. Still, for travelers wanting a pool, a bit of space, and a hotel that straddles both past and present, Manoir Adriana hits a rare sweet spot: somewhere between storybook and staycation.

See rooms and rates at Manoir Adriana Hotel!

Cap Lamandou Hotel in Jacmel
Photo: Cap Lamandou

4. Cap Lamandou

Perched above Jacmel Bay on a quiet stretch of coastline, Cap Lamandou is a short drive — and a bumpy dirt road — from the city center, but rewards the detour with big skies, ocean air, and the kind of views that never get old. All 32 rooms face the water and come with balconies — opt for the top floor if you want that cinematic, sun-on-the-horizon moment. Built in 2003 and largely untouched since, the hotel has a certain throwback charm: clean, functional, and just a little bit frozen in time.

There’s a large pool that’s almost always blissfully uncrowded, a modest gym (rarity in these parts), and a small beach just down a rocky path — not private, but usually empty enough to feel like it is. The restaurant is a slow burn, so order early — but it’s worth the wait. Expect plates piled high with grilled lobster, poisson gros sel, and octopus, all served with a sharp, fiery side of pikliz that’ll wake up even the sleepiest taste buds.

You’ll likely be sharing the scene with Haitian families on weekend getaways and NGO workers recharging over Prestige beers. Not much is walkable, but if you ask around, a boat can ferry you across the bay to Baguette — a wild, lesser-known beach that feels like a secret whispered by the sea.

Plan your stay at Cap Lamandou!

Pool area at Hotel Cyvadier Plage
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

5. Hotel Cyvadier Plage

Twenty minutes outside Jacmel, tucked into a secluded, U-shaped cove, Hotel Cyvadier Plage has the kind of off-the-map feel that makes you forget how close you are to town. It’s not a luxury resort — and doesn’t pretend to be — but this family-run hideaway gets the important things right: swimmable waters, towering palms, and sunrise views that make early wake-ups feel like a spiritual practice.

The rooms are rustic and no-frills, but most guests spend their time outdoors anyway — either lounging by the pool, paddling across the calm bay on stand-up boards, or climbing down the stone staircase to the small, quiet beach below. The open-air restaurant is the perfect perch for a long lunch. Order the Thai lambi — tender conch in a curry-like sauce — and pair it with a cocktail and the ocean breeze.

Looking for a little more action? Head to nearby Raymond-les-Bains, a beloved local beach that turns into a full-blown scene on weekends. Think boomblasters, buckets of grilled seafood, plastic chairs in the sand, and umbrella-shaded joy.

Book your stay at Hotel Cyvadier Plage!

Haiti Surf Guesthouse, Cayes-Jacmel
Photo: Haiti Surf Guesthouse

6. Haiti Surf Guesthouse

For those willing to trade room service for jungle silence and a surfboard, Haiti Surf Guesthouse is where the road — quite literally — goes off the map. Tucked deep into the hills above Cayes-Jacmel, about 40 minutes from the city of Jacmel, this rustic eco-lodge is all wooden bungalows, palm-thatched roofs, and trees so tall they block any glimpse of the sea. You’ll need a 4×4 or a steady moto to reach it, but the reward is a kind of wild, unplugged magic you won’t find anywhere else in Haiti.

Don’t expect air-conditioning or infinity pools. What you get instead: a communal kitchen, a low-key crowd of surfers and creatives, a restaurant serving strong cocktails and even stronger coffee, and a freshwater creek that runs straight through the property, feeding a spring-cooled plunge pool that’s as clear as it is cold. It’s the kind of detail that makes you believe in the art of slow living.

A short ride away lies Kabik Beach — one of Haiti’s best surf spots — where the waves roll in steady and the lineup is, well, nonexistent. The guesthouse rents boards and arranges lessons with local instructors. Most days, it’s just you, the ocean, and the sound of your own breath.

Reserve a bungalow at Haiti Surf Guesthouse!

Looking for more boutique stays across the country? Check out our guide to Haiti’s coolest independent hotels!

Written by the Visit Haiti team.

Published March 2025.

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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.

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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.

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