Things To Do
in Baradères
Baradères is a small coastal town on Haiti's southern coast, known for its friendly fishing community and scenic bay. The town sits between rolling hills and the Caribbean, offering a laid-back pace and sea-to-table dining. Visitors can stroll the quay, watch fishermen mend nets, and explore nearby mangroves and coral reefs.
Mounting a boat or hike reveals a rugged landscape shaped by the rhythms of the Atlantic and local traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at the small airstrip and feel the warm tropical breeze as you step off the plane. A local guide greets you with fresh hibiscus juice and explains the day’s plan in a mix of English, French, and Creole. You settle into a charming guesthouse overlooking verdant hills dotted with coconut palms.
Enjoy a simple seaside lunch of grilled fish, plantains, and pikliz prepared by a family-run restaurant. Explore the village’s sandy lanes, greeting children playing soccer and artisans weaving baskets from palm fronds. Learn about Baradères’ history as a once-thriving port under colonial rule from an elder who shares stories beneath a shady almond tree.
Watch a brilliant sunset over the bay as fishing boats return laden with the day’s catch. Join neighbors in the courtyard for an impromptu drumming circle, tapping rhythms on congas and maracas. Drift off to sleep to the soothing murmur of waves and distant cricket song.
Set out on foot to explore Baradères’ winding pathways lined with bougainvillea in full bloom. Your guide points out colonial-era mansions being reclaimed by lush vines and shares anecdotes about local heroes of the Haitian Revolution. Sip on freshly brewed Haitian coffee while overlooking the turquoise waters of the bay.
Stroll along a deserted stretch of sand, watching hermit crabs scuttle between shells. Discover a hidden tidepool teeming with starfish and colorful sea urchins beneath rocky outcrops. Chat with fishermen mending nets on the shore and learn about their sustainable harvest methods.
Return to your lodge for a casual cooking demonstration where you learn to prepare diri kole ak pwa (rice and beans). Sample local rum infused with spices and fruit, savoring its smoky sweetness. Relax by candlelight on the veranda and listen to the distant laughter of villagers gathered for an outdoor soirée.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚖Local taxi/short ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly local communities and fresh seafood
- Beautiful coastal scenery with affordable travel costs
- Limited upscale amenities and English-speaking services
- Rough road conditions can slow travel during the rainy season
- "Bonjou" - Hello / Good morning
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Eskize mwen" - Excuse me
- "Tanpri" - Please
- "Kote pri a?" - What is the price?
Places to Visit in Baradères
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, calm water, and soft light as merchants set up for the day.
Intricate roots and reflections make for atmospheric shoreline photography.
Panoramic views over the bay, the sea, and the surrounding hills.
Food in Baradères
Baradères Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh catch marinated with lime and spices, fried until crisp and served with lime wedges.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried pork with a tangy, peppery sauce, usually served with diri ak pwa or fried plantains.
Classic Haitian dish of rice and red beans, often cooked with herbs and sometimes pork.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market where fishmongers, produce vendors, and cooks offer fresh ingredients and ready-to-eat snacks.
Cod fritters (acras) and fried plantains with a garlicky sauce—popular street snacks by the quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a friendly “Bonjou” or “Bonswa”; a handshake is common.
Polite language, asking permission before photos, and modest dress in villages.
Ask permission before taking people’s portraits, and give a small tip if invited into a home.
Prices are often flexible in markets; respectful bargaining is common, with a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Baradères
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5–10% in restaurants if service is good; round up taxi fares; keep cash for small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and ideal beach and hiking conditions. Humidity is low to moderate and rainfall is rare.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush greenery. Roads can be slippery after rain; plan flexible day trips.
Increased risk of tropical storms. Monitor weather alerts and have a contingency plan and emergency supplies.
Baradères at Night
Hiking in Baradères
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate coastal hike with sea views, where you may encounter coastal scrub and seabirds.
Gentle, shaded walks along mangrove channels offering wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Baradères by plane.
Main international gateway to Haiti; expect a long drive to Baradères (roughly 4-6 hours depending on road conditions).
Regional airport closer to Baradères for domestic flights or private charters; useful if available from Port-au-Prince or Cap-Haïtien.
Regional airport serving southern Haiti; shorter drive to Baradères than PAP when connections permit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong maritime community with deep knowledge of the coast and seasons.
Rural households engaged in subsistence farming and market trades.
Overseas Haitians maintaining ties with Baradères and some return for visits and investment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Haiti, with local matches and youth leagues in coastal towns.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games are frequent in evenings.
Traditional livelihoods and recreation; snorkeling, paddling, and boat-based activities are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baradères.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travellers can find bean dishes, rice and plantains, salads, and vegetable sides; ask for vegetable stews and skip meat-based gravies; communicate clearly in Creole or French.