By Shannon Bullman and Megan Collier and Photos by Bryce Johnson Photography
Though it may not be the first place you would think of when it comes to great surfing destinations in the Caribbean, Haiti is slowly but surely surfacing numerous reasons as to why you should reconsider adding it to your list. The country itself has recently expanded their means and budget for international tourism and one of the draws that continues to bring people in is its 1100 miles of coastline with pristine beaches scattered throughout.
“…Haiti is slowly but surely surfacing numerous reasons as to why you should reconsider adding it to your list.”
You Simply Cannot Beat the Weather
With unique scenery and ideal tropical temperatures, Haiti has been on the up in the eyes of surfers looking for a new experience. With 1,771 kilometers of coastline, and typical temperatures of 15 to 35 degrees Celsius, this nation is conducive to a memorable experience on the waves.
“The waters average about 25 degrees Celsius and the best surf occurs from November to March.”
Not only are turquoise waters inviting to all, the weather itself is ideal to the say the least. The average temperatures in winter range from 60-77 degrees Fahrenheit while the summer temperatures reach from 77-95 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes the waters so warm that you can just forget about bringing that wet suit of yours and leave it at home.
Surround Yourself With Natural Beauty
In addition to the fabulous weather, growing tourism and the warm sand that will soon be between your toes, Haiti is also home to some of the most naturally beautiful sceneries in this part of the world. Not only are the beaches a sight for sore eyes but it is also the lush and green mountains that surround them that make it all the more breathtaking.
“Piston Beach is named after a sunken ship which still sits in the bay.”
Choose Your Favorite Surf Spot
One of the main surf spots to head to while there is Piston Beach located in the deep Bay of Jacmel where surfers can find plenty of great breaks. Piston Beach is named after a sunken ship which still sits in the bay. Its pistons can be seen during low tide and the beach itself is usually quite empty. One of the other many enticing things about this surf spot is the fact that its within near reach of the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Full of culture, friendly locals and plenty of things to see and do make this place all the better.
“…loads of boards to rent, places to grab a drink and breaks to catch here…”
Another must to check out is the Kabic where you are likely to find kids, teens and young adults of all ages all enjoying the waters and if you are any good, they will all be cheering you on at some point. There are loads of boards to rent, places to grab a drink and breaks to catch here where you are guaranteed to have a day full of fun, sun and loads of waves all calling your name.
Kabik Beach is lined with coconut, papaya and banana trees and there has been a growing surf culture there since 2011 when a surf school was opened nearby.
“The group, Surf Haiti is actually largely responsible for the surfing culture in Kabik Beach as they have organized themselves to offer lessons to locals and visitors and offer board rentals.”
Created in 2010, this group of 23 youthful members helps to keep the beach clean and offers a way for locals to earn an income based on helping tourists with a surfing holiday. Although Kabik Beach still hasn’t reached its full potential of tourists, the staffs at Surf Haiti are trained, waiting and ready to help eager surfers experience the waves that they love.
“…staffs at Surf Haiti are trained, waiting and ready to help eager surfers experience the waves that they love.”
