Les Hattes beach
Les Hattes Beach, a sprawling expanse of sand along the northern coast of French Guiana in the commune of Awala-Yalimapo, is celebrated not merely as a seaside retreat but as a nurturing haven for leatherback turtles. Renowned as a "maternity home," this is the cherished site where these majestic marine reptiles journey to lay their eggs and introduce their young to the world.
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Beach description
The coast of Les Hattes Beach stretches for almost 5 km and is covered with light, but not always clean, sand. If you visit this beach between April and July, you may witness the awe-inspiring sight of huge reptiles emerging from the water onto the coast. They settle on the beach, burying themselves in the sand to lay their eggs. The spectacle is particularly striking given the size of these turtles, which often weigh up to 600 kg. From July to September, you can admire a different scene – newly hatched turtles attempting to leave the land and embark on their first swim.
Annually, thousands of turtles, including both leatherback and green sea species, are born on the sands of Les Hattes Beach. Near the coast, you can visit a quaint local museum featuring exhibitions dedicated to these magnificent reptiles. There are no amenities on the beach itself, as its territory is protected for turtle nesting. However, visitors are welcome to bring a towel and relax in the shade of the palms lining the coast, offering a serene spot to observe the turtles on the shore.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit French Guiana for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which runs from August to December. During these months, visitors can enjoy warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the coast.
- August to November: This period is particularly favorable as the weather is pleasant and the sea conditions are suitable for swimming and water sports.
- Early December: The early part of December continues to offer good weather, though it's advisable to go before the holiday crowds arrive.
It's important to avoid the wet season, from January to July, when heavy rains can lead to flooding and may disrupt travel plans. Additionally, the increased rainfall can result in less ideal water clarity for activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Ultimately, planning your beach vacation for the latter part of the year will provide the best opportunity to enjoy French Guiana's beautiful coastal regions under the most favorable weather conditions.