French
Side Beaches
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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! |
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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). |
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Baie de
L'Embouchure: Another family beach, ideal for windsurfing. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Cul de
Sac: A fishing village beach where on the shoreline many
fishing pots can be seen. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Grandes
Cayes: One main interest ... diving on the corral barrier
reef, take care however, the sea can be fairly strong. |
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Happy
Bay: A very calm hotel beach with shelter, peaceful swimming
spot. |
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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. |
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Marigot
Bay: Large and very calm beach, ideal for windsurfing. Close
to the center of Marigot, capital of the French side. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Petites
Cayes: Accessible only by a long and pleasant walk or by
boat. |
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Petite
Plage: Small and pleasant beach next to Grand Case Beach
Club. |
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| 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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