French Guiana, a unique overseas region of France located on the northeastern coast of South America, is known for its diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, and vibrant cultural heritage. While it may not be as well-known for its beaches as other Caribbean or South American destinations, French Guiana boasts several beautiful coastal spots where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. From serene stretches of golden sand to bustling beaches near the capital city, there are plenty of options for beachgoers to explore. Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches in French Guiana.
1. Plage des Hattes
Plage des Hattes, located in Awala-Yalimapo, is one of the most famous beaches in French Guiana. It is renowned for being one of the world's largest leatherback turtle nesting sites. The beach stretches over several kilometers of golden sand, providing ample space for visitors to unwind and enjoy the serene environment.
During the nesting season, which typically runs from April to July, visitors can witness the remarkable sight of leatherback turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Guided tours are available, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these magnificent creatures.
Aside from turtle watching, Plage des Hattes offers a peaceful retreat with its calm waters and picturesque setting. The beach is relatively untouched, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist destinations. Basic amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks, as there are limited dining options nearby.
Review Beach Rating: Plage des Hattes
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families interested in wildlife and nature.
Accessibility: 7/10 🚗 Accessible by car, but remote location.
Amenities: 6/10 🏖️ Limited facilities, mainly nature-focused.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Great for turtle watching and beachcombing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful golden sands and natural surroundings.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally well-maintained.
Crowd Levels: 6/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Less crowded due to remote location.
Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️ Limited parking available.
Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️ Few local dining options nearby.
2. Plage de Montjoly
Plage de Montjoly is located near the capital city, Cayenne, making it one of the most accessible and popular beaches in French Guiana. This beach is known for its long stretch of sandy shore and gentle waves, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also a nesting site for sea turtles, offering a chance to observe these magnificent creatures during the nesting season.
The beach’s proximity to Cayenne means visitors can easily combine a day at the beach with exploring the city's cultural attractions and dining options. Plage de Montjoly is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for beachgoers.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can take leisurely walks along the beach, enjoy beach volleyball, or simply relax under the shade of the palm trees. During the sea turtle nesting season, guided tours are available to educate visitors on the importance of conservation and to provide a safe viewing experience without disturbing the turtles.
The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so it can get busy, especially on weekends and during holidays. However, its expansive size means there is usually plenty of space for everyone to enjoy.
Review Beach Rating: Plage de Montjoly
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦 Perfect for families with its safe swimming areas and easy access.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗 Easily accessible by car and public transport.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️ Restrooms, showers, and nearby restaurants.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Great for swimming and sunbathing.
Scenery: 8/10 🌅 Beautiful sandy shore with ocean views.
Cleanliness: 7/10 🧹 Generally well-maintained, though can vary.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Popular spot, can get busy.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️ Plenty of parking available.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️ Variety of dining options nearby.
3. Plage de Rémire-Montjoly
Plage de Rémire-Montjoly is another beautiful beach located near Cayenne, the capital city of French Guiana. This beach is known for its scenic views, calm waters, and relaxing atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The beach offers a peaceful retreat with the convenience of nearby amenities, allowing visitors to enjoy a day of sun and sea without venturing too far from the city.
The long stretch of sandy shore at Plage de Rémire-Montjoly is perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and leisurely walks. The gentle waves make it ideal for swimming, especially for families with young children. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing plenty of shaded areas for those who prefer to stay out of direct sunlight.
One of the highlights of Plage de Rémire-Montjoly is the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the opportunity to witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The beach is also a popular spot for picnics, with several picnic tables and benches available for visitors to use. For those who enjoy more active pursuits, beach volleyball and soccer are common activities.
The proximity of Plage de Rémire-Montjoly to Cayenne means that visitors can easily access a variety of dining and shopping options. There are several restaurants and cafes nearby where beachgoers can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Additionally, the beach is equipped with essential amenities such as restrooms and showers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit.
Review Beach Rating: Plage de Rémire-Montjoly
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families with its calm waters and scenic views.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗 Easily accessible by car and public transport.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️ Restrooms, showers, and nearby restaurants.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Great for swimming and relaxing.
Scenery: 8/10 🌅 Beautiful beach with ocean views and lush surroundings.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Well-maintained.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Can get busy, especially on weekends.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️ Plenty of parking available.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️ Variety of dining options nearby.
4. Plage de Kourou
Plage de Kourou is located near the town of Kourou, which is famously known for its space center, the Guiana Space Centre. This unique beach offers visitors a fascinating blend of natural beauty and scientific intrigue. The sandy shore and calm waters provide an excellent environment for relaxation, while the possibility of witnessing a rocket launch adds an exciting dimension to a visit here.
The beach at Kourou is characterized by its wide expanse of sand and tranquil waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The area is relatively quiet, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the busier beaches near Cayenne. The surrounding palm trees offer shade and contribute to the picturesque setting.
One of the most exciting aspects of visiting Plage de Kourou is the opportunity to see a rocket launch from the nearby Guiana Space Centre. If you time your visit right, you might witness a rocket soaring into space, a truly unique experience that sets this beach apart from others in the region. The space center also offers tours and educational exhibits, making it an interesting destination for those curious about space exploration.
Plage de Kourou is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available for use. Additionally, the town of Kourou provides various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal after a day at the beach.
Review Beach Rating: Plage de Kourou
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦 Perfect for families with its safe swimming areas and unique attractions.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗 Easily accessible by car and public transport.
Amenities: 7/10 🏖️ Restrooms, showers, and nearby restaurants.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Great for swimming and sunbathing.
Scenery: 8/10 🌅 Beautiful beach with views of the space center.
Cleanliness: 7/10 🧹 Generally well-maintained.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Can get busy, especially during rocket launches.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️ Plenty of parking available.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️ Variety of dining options nearby.
5. Les Hattes Beach
Les Hattes Beach, located in Awala-Yalimapo, is famous for its significant role in sea turtle conservation. This beach is one of the most important nesting sites for leatherback turtles in the world, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The serene environment and golden sands offer a perfect spot for relaxation and nature observation.
The beach stretches over several kilometers, providing ample space for visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. During the nesting season, which typically occurs from April to July, visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of leatherback turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Guided tours are available, providing valuable insights into the conservation efforts and ensuring that the turtles are not disturbed.
Apart from turtle watching, Les Hattes Beach is ideal for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The calm waters make it suitable for swimming, although visitors should be mindful of the delicate ecosystem and avoid disturbing the nesting areas. The beach is relatively undeveloped, preserving its natural charm and offering a tranquil retreat away from the crowds.
While amenities at Les Hattes Beach are limited, there are basic facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, as dining options in the immediate vicinity are sparse. The nearby village of Awala-Yalimapo offers some small eateries and shops for essential supplies.
Review Beach Rating: Les Hattes Beach
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦 Ideal for families interested in wildlife and nature.
Accessibility: 7/10 🚗 Accessible by car, but remote location.
Amenities: 6/10 🏖️ Limited facilities, mainly nature-focused.
Water Activities: 6/10 🚣 Best for turtle watching and beachcombing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful golden sands and natural surroundings.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Well-maintained.
Crowd Levels: 6/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Less crowded due to remote location.
Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️ Limited parking available.
Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️ Few local dining options nearby.
French Guiana offers a unique and diverse array of beach experiences, from the serene stretches of Plage des Hattes to the convenient and popular Plage de Montjoly. Whether you're interested in witnessing the majestic leatherback turtles, enjoying a peaceful day by the ocean, or combining a beach visit with a trip to the Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana's beaches provide a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of these coastal spots make them ideal destinations for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape or an exciting outing.
Stay tuned for more waves of beach bliss and sun-kissed adventures at Beach Review! Our in-depth reviews and guides will help you discover the best beaches in South America and beyond. Don’t miss out on our latest articles and tips to make the most of your beach getaways. Happy travels!
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