French Side Beaches

 

Anse Marcel: (Le Meridian L'Habitation) Even though the only access is through the hotel the beach is open to the public. A beach for families, because you can walk 200 meters into the water before it comes to your shoulders. Calm and shallow waters make it ideal for children. This beach is a must visit and bring your camera!

Baix Aux Prunes: This beach, well known to surfers, is very little visited, and beautiful. It may be accessed by the road of "Falaises des Oieaux" (Bird Cliffs).

Baie de L'Embouchure: Another family beach, ideal for windsurfing.

Baie Lounge: (Long Beach) This is another of the island's great beaches, with long unbroken stretches of white sand and thick foliage. There is considerable privacy here.

Baie Rouge: Generally considered the most beautiful beach on the French side, Baie Rouge has an expansive cove enhanced by rocks and foliage. This intimate hideaway with lots of white powder sand and assorted boulders is particularly breathtaking in the early morning. Swimming is good with crystal clear water. Beach chairs are available. You'll often find makeshift bars, complete with barbecues and cool drinks.

Coconut Grove: Quiet mile long stretch of white powder sand lined with shade trees. Great for kids, snorkelers and board sailors. Available there are top windsurfing rentals and instruction, chairs, floats, refreshments and changing facilities.

Cul de Sac: A fishing village beach where on the shoreline many fishing pots can be seen.

Friar's Bay: This well protected cove requires a short, slightly difficult drive off the main road, but it's worth the effort. located at the inlet of Guichard salt pond, it is a photographer's favorite because of the verdant setting. On any weekend you'll find lots of local color at three beach bars. Volleyball games and family outings add to the excitement. Ask the locals about the next reggae beach party. Particularly good diving spot.

Grand Case Beach: Here you can sample grilled specialties everyday in the "lolos", or roadside shacks on the edge of the beach. Try the local food here. Grilled lobsters and the islands best baby back ribs and chicken are available along with rice, peas & "Johnny cakes". This one mile beach is flanked by some of the islands finest gourmet restaurants. Clear calm water promises super swimming. No change facilities or watersports. Some of the best snorkeling is at Creole rock, at the north end of the beach.

Grandes Cayes: One main interest ... diving on the corral barrier reef, take care however, the sea can be fairly strong.

Happy Bay: A very calm hotel beach with shelter, peaceful swimming spot.

Ilet Pinel:The beach is located on a barrier reef. Park your car and ask "Uncle" to take you across ($5) to experience a real day at the beach! this beautiful white sandy beach offers underwater snorkel trails and two restaurants where you can enjoy tasty grilled lobster and fabulous brownies. Beach chairs, umbrellas and watersports are available. Some consider this the best snorkeling on the island.

Marigot Bay: Large and very calm beach, ideal for windsurfing. Close to the center of Marigot, capital of the French side.

Nettle Bay: A long strand of beach stretching from Limestone Point at La Belle Creole Hotel, as far as Sandy Ground bridge. The entire beach is lined with hotels. Best bet! Stop in at Layla's Beach Bar for a great breakfast or lunch while you tan.

Orient Bay: This is one of the most distinctive beaches on the island. A huge crescent of sand swings around a turquoise cove, with low vegetation on one side and a terrific view of the sea. The bay is a designated underwater marine reserve whose coral reef provides great snorkeling. Lots of action here! Windsurfing, jet ski rental and the island's greatest array of watersports.

Petites Cayes: Accessible only by a long and pleasant walk or by boat.

Petite Plage: Small and pleasant beach next to Grand Case Beach Club.

Plum Bay: This small strip of sand is bordered on one side by a cliff and on the other by an outstretched piece of land. The beach is quite secluded, and topless bathing is optional, there are no facilities.


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