Things To Do
in Les Anglais
Les Anglais is a small coastal town on Haiti's southern shore, known for its palm-fringed beaches and active fishing harbor. Nestled between green hills and the Caribbean Sea, it offers a laid-back vibe and authentic Haitian hospitality. Local markets bustle with seafood, fruit, and handmade crafts, giving visitors a vivid window into everyday life.
The town's rugged coast, welcoming residents, and close-knit communities make it a compelling base for exploring rural Haiti, with the caveat of variable infrastructure and weather during hurricane season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Les Anglais and take in the serene coastal views as you settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring local Haitian fruits and coffee while you acclimatize to the vibrant atmosphere. Spend the morning strolling along the beach to soak in the sun's warmth and the gentle ocean breeze.
Visit the local market to experience the bustling life of Les Anglais, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly locals and try some tasty street food delicacies as you wander through the colorful stalls. Take a relaxing dip in the ocean afterward to cool off from the midday sun.
Savor a traditional Haitian dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where the rhythmic sounds of live music create a festive atmosphere. Engage with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter over delicious dishes. End the night with a leisurely walk along the shore under the starlit sky.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the historic landmarks in Les Anglais, learning about the rich cultural heritage of the town. Visit local churches and community centers where artisans share their craftsmanship and stories. Enjoy a breakfast of akasan, a sweet cornmeal porridge, to fuel your morning exploration.
Join a local artisan workshop to try your hand at crafting traditional Haitian art or pottery. Discover the significance of these crafts while creating your own souvenir to take home. Afterward, relax on the beach with a refreshing beverage while admiring the picturesque coastline.
Engage in a community dance event, often held at local squares, celebrating the vibrant music and dance traditions of Haiti. Experience the joyful atmosphere and join in the dancing, allowing yourself to immerse in the rhythms of the island. Conclude your evening with a quiet moment on the beach, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal Haitian culture with friendly locals
- Affordable living costs and vibrant markets
- Limited infrastructure and variable road conditions
- Access to some services and healthcare may require travel to larger towns
- "Bonjou" - Hello
- "Bonswa" - Good evening
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Tanpri" - Please
- "Èske ou pale angle?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eskize m" - Excuse me
- "Mwen pa pale kreyòl byen" - I do not speak Creole well
Places to Visit in Les Anglais
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over calm turquoise water with silhouettes of palm trees and fishing boats along the shore.
Colorful nets, wooden boats, and dock activity provide candid portrait and action shots.
Panoramic views of the coastline where the sea meets rugged hillside, ideal for wide-angle landscapes.
Vibrant chaos of colors, textures, and people—great for street photography with candid moments.
Food in Les Anglais
Les Anglais Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple meal served with meat or fish, often accompanied by pikliz and fried plantains.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried pork morsels served with pikliz and rice or fried plantains.
Freshly caught fish seasoned and grilled, typically served with lime and a side of root vegetables.
A hearty Creole vegetable stew made with leafy greens, okra, and sometimes meat.
A traditional Haitian soup enjoyed on special occasions, rich in vegetables and beef or squash.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls selling fresh fish, tropical fruits, spices, and handmade crafts; great for people-watching and tasting street snacks.
Vendors offer fried plantains, patties, marinated vegetables, and sweet treats to nosh on while you wander.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjou' (good morning) or 'Bonswa' (good evening); a friendly exchange is valued.
Ask before photographing people, dress modestly in public spaces, and avoid noisy behavior late at night in residential areas.
Haitian culture is deeply religious; be respectful during religious events and ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Les Anglais
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service: 5-10% in restaurants; small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are common.
Cash in Haitian gourde (HTG) or US dollars is widely used; credit cards are rarely accepted outside larger hotels or resorts; ATMs can be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent short rain showers; the hurricane season begins in June, so plan for weather variability and keep essential gear ready.
Dry season patterns bring more comfortable daytime temperatures and clearer skies, with cooler evenings near the coast.
Warmth gradually builds; occasional showers can occur but there are many dry, sunny mornings suitable for outdoor activities.
Les Anglais at Night
Hiking in Les Anglais
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with sea views, passing through scrub and small settlements; suitable for a half-day outing.
Short to medium-length trails that offer panoramic views of the coast and nearby villages.
Airports
How to reach Les Anglais by plane.
Port-au-Prince's main international gateway; range of international and domestic flights; access to Les Anglais typically by road with several hours of travel.
Small domestic airport near Jacmel; faster connection from Port-au-Prince for travelers heading toward southern Haiti, used for local flights and charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Haitian families and fishing communities; a young demographic with a strong sense of community.
Haitian families with connections in Canada, the United States, and other parts of the Caribbean who visit or maintain ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played informally on streets and in local clubs.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games are frequent in the evenings.
A traditional sport with local gyms and occasional matches in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Les Anglais.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on vegetable stews (legim), tubers like manioc and plantains, rice with beans, and market-fresh fruit; clearly communicate requests to cooks as dishes are often meat-based by default.