Things To Do
in La Pointe
La Pointe is a small coastal village on Haiti's northern coast renowned for its working harbor and sunlit beaches. The town blends a lively market culture with warm, welcoming residents who communicate in Haitian Creole and French. Colorful wooden houses line the streets and palm-lined shores frame daily life, giving it a quintessential Caribbean feel.
Visitors come for fresh seafood, relaxed island vibes, and a base to explore nearby coastal and hillside scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Port-au-Prince International Airport and take a scenic drive to La Pointe, where you'll be greeted by the vibrant colors and warm smiles of the locals. Check into your charming beachfront cottage, and take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy a leisurely brunch featuring local delicacies to energize you for the adventures ahead.
Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beaches or exploring the nearby coastal villages and their artisan markets. Engage with local craftsmen and discover unique handcrafted souvenirs that reflect the rich culture of Haiti. You might also consider a short hike to nearby viewpoints for spectacular coastal panoramas.
As the sun sets, indulge in a seaside dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Haitian dishes. Listen to the soothing sounds of live music, featuring the distinctive rhythms of Kompa and Rara, that echo through the evening air. End your night with a peaceful stroll along the beach, under a starlit sky.
Begin your day with a guided tour of La Pointe, where you'll visit important cultural sites and learn about the local heritage from a knowledgeable guide. Participate in a traditional Haitian cooking class where locals will share their culinary secrets. Enjoy your own creations as a hearty breakfast, infused with fresh ingredients from the region.
In the afternoon, visit a local art gallery or community center to appreciate the work of local artists and craftsmen. Engage in a discussion about their inspiration and the impact of art in the community. Find time to relax by the beach or pool, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere before the evening's festivities.
Tonight, participate in a traditional dance event where community members share their cultural dances and invite you to join in. Fuel your energy with a buffet of local specialties, further enriched by storytelling from elders about Haiti's history and folklore. Cap off the evening with laughter and camaraderie, surrounded by newfound friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast | $1-3 |
| 🥖Street food snack | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel nightly | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a vibrant fishers' culture
- Beautiful coastal scenery and relaxed island vibe
- Fresh seafood and affordable, simple eateries
- Compact town with walkable streets and photogenic scenes
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare outside major cities
- Occasional safety concerns typical of some coastal areas
- Language barrier for non-Creole/French speakers
- "Bonjou" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonswa" - Good evening
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Eskize mwen" - Excuse me
- "Eske ou pale angle?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tanpri" - Please
Places to Visit in La Pointe
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning light over fishing boats, nets drying on the quay, and reflections in calm water make for atmospheric seaside portraits.
Cliffside vantage point with sweeping views of the coastline, perfect for wide-angle coastal shots and sunsets.
Vibrant storefronts and market stalls with bold hues provide dynamic backdrops for street photography.
Old wooden doors, wrought-iron balconies, and narrow lanes offer charming architectural frames.
Food in La Pointe
La Pointe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and beans cooked with coconut and served with a savory sauce or meat; a Haitian staple commonly found in family-run eateries near the harbor.
Must-Try!
Spiced fried pork served with pikliz (pickled vegetables) and a side of rice; popular at roadside stands and casual eateries.
Conch prepared in a Creole tomato and herb sauce, often available at seaside stalls with fresh catch of the day.
A hearty soup made with beef or chicken, vegetables, and sometimes dumplings; enjoyed at markets and local cafés.
Marinated grilled chicken, cooked over open flame and served with plantains or rice; a common beachside option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where fishers, farmers, and vendors sell fresh seafood, produce, and spices; great for sampling prepared foods.
Seafood-focused stalls along the quay offering fried fish, grilled shellfish, and plantain chips with bright flavors.
Casual spots serving fritay and street snacks like fried plantains and garlicky vegetable sides, perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a cheerful Bonjou or Bonswa; smiles and polite conversation are valued.
Ask permission before photographing people or sensitive situations; some individuals may decline.
Dress modestly in public spaces and show respect during religious or community ceremonies.
Many locals speak Haitian Creole; French is common in business; a few phrases in Creole go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in La Pointe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips of around 5-10% are common for good service in restaurants and bars; small tips for street vendors are appreciated. Round up cab fares and hotel staff for notable assistance.
Cash is the most widely accepted method, especially in markets and small eateries. Some larger restaurants and hotels may take mobile money or credit cards, but carry local currency for street purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November through April brings sunny days, lower humidity, and excellent beach conditions. It’s ideal for outdoor exploration, market visits, and coastal walks, with cooler evenings on some days.
May through October features higher humidity and frequent daytime showers. Pack lightweight rain gear, sturdy footwear, and plan flexible outdoor activities around weather windows.
June through November carries a risk of tropical storms and hurricanes. Stay informed via local forecasts, have a safety plan, and consider indoor activities during peak storm periods.
La Pointe at Night
Hiking in La Pointe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the headlands with panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot seabirds.
A hillside hike that offers sweeping views over the coastline and on clear days distant towns.
Airports
How to reach La Pointe by plane.
Closest international gateway to the northern coast; convenient for reaching La Pointe via road or a short domestic flight.
Main international airport serving Port-au-Prince; provides broader international connections but is farther from La Pointe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Haitian Creole-speaking; French is used in business and official settings. The community blends fishing families with market workers and small business owners.
Primarily visitors seeking coastal scenery, seafood, and an authentic small-town Haitian experience.
Visitors and returnees with ties to Haiti who often participate in family-owned eateries and craft shops.
Skilled labor force centered around the harbor, with deep knowledge of local seas and seasonal catches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Haiti, with informal games and local leagues visible in towns and on beaches.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games and pickup matches are often played in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Pointe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in larger eateries and markets, but choice can be limited. Look for vegetable stews, beans and rice, plantains, tubers, and salads. When in doubt, ask for dishes featuring legumes, vegetables, and grains, and consider customizing meat dishes to skip meat or request extra vegetables.