Top Things to Do in Labadee, Haiti in 2024
Labadee is a picturesque port located on the northern coast of Haiti, and is owned by Royal Caribbean. This private resort is known for its stunning natural beauty, lush green hills, crystal clear waters, and sandy beaches fringed by palm trees. Labadee offers a range of activities for all types of travelers, including water sports like snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing. The Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, one of the longest zip lines over water in the world, is a can’t-miss attraction for thrill seekers. Looking for a more relaxing vacation? Have no fear, there are countless places to relax on the beach, enjoy a complimentary barbeque lunch, or explore the local artisan market for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
You will not want to miss Labadee’s vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and scenic landscapes on your next cruise vacation. You will find the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation on the tropical shores of the Caribbean. For more ways to spend your time onboard, check out the best things to do on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.
Where is Labadee?
You can find Labadee on the northern coast of Haiti in the Caribbean sea. Specifically, the peninsula is located about 650 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, and roughly 150 miles from the eastern coast of Cuba. The dictator of Haiti made the decision to lease the area to Royal Caribbean beginning in 1985.
When is the best time to visit Labadee?
The best time to visit Labadee, Haiti is during the cruise season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with warm temperatures and lower chances of rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the beaches of Labadee.
While the peninsula can be visited at any time of year, it is important to note that you may experience different weather and less stops at this port during the rest of the year, but no matter when you visit, you will find warm, tropical waters and the beach resort ambiance that Royal Caribbean has created, making for a relaxing vacation spot during all months of the year.
Is Labadee, Haiti a good port to visit?
There is fun for the entire family while enjoying a port day at Labadee, from lounging on the beautiful beaches, enjoying the warm crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, and participating in a variety of adventurous activities fit for the most extreme thrill-seekers. Apart from the range of activities and amenities to suit different travelers, Labadee is also an incredible port to stop at for its scenic beauty.
Since it is exclusively used by Royal Caribbean ships, logistics are well-managed, and food and beverage options are readily available. There are several complimentary food options at the resort, including a beach picnic buffet-style option, which serves burgers, Caribbean Jerk chicken wings, a variety of salads and pasta salads, and several desserts that were all delicious. If you are in a suite, there are several more upscale dining options available. You can also use your beverage package while on the island, which is definitely a plus of visiting a Royal Caribbean private area.
Is Labadee, Haiti safe to travel?
As a private resort leased by Royal Caribbean, Labadee offers a controlled and secure environment for visitors, ensuring safety and peace of mind during their stay. The resort employs trained staff members who are responsible for guest safety and well-being, who are familiar with the area and can provide assistance and guidance as needed. Security measures are also in place to ensure that guests can enjoy their visit without any safety concerns.
While Labadee is considered safe, as with any travel destination, it’s essential for visitors to exercise common sense and caution. This includes following any guidelines and instructions provided by the cruise line and resort staff, being mindful of personal belongings, and staying within the designated areas.
Things to do at Labadee, Haiti
Ride the Dragon’s Tail Coaster
Experience a thrilling roller coaster ride that winds down the mountainside with twists, turns, and stunning views of Labadee’s landscape. Riders board individual coaster cars and are taken on a thrilling journey along the track. The coaster features both fast-paced sections and more relaxed segments, allowing riders to enjoy the scenery while experiencing moments of adrenaline-filled excitement. The duration of the ride is relatively short, lasting a few minutes from start to finish. However, it provides an exhilarating experience that is memorable for all who choose to ride. A single ride on the coaster costs $26 USD, but can also be purchased in combination with the Arawak Aqua Park for a discounted price.
Discover Paradise Cove and a Haitian Village Experience
Explore the local culture and history with a guided tour of Labadee, where you can visit traditional Haitian villages, learn about local crafts, and interact with artisans. In the morning, you will embark on a short boat ride to get to the cove. Please note that you will be required to wade through shallow waters to reach the shore, so be sure to bring water shoes or shoes that you can easily take on and off. Once you arrive, you will have the opportunity to watch locals make a variety of goods, such as baskets, bread, peanut butter, and coffee. Be prepared for quite a bit of walking on this tour, but you will definitely learn so much about Haitian culture and everyday life. In the afternoon, you will have free time to enjoy however you wish. Continue exploring the village, grab a complimentary welcome drink at the nearby bar, or head to the beach and explore the crystal-clear waters. This excursion can be booked through Shore Excursions or online before you leave for your cruise.
Photo Credit: Franco Caruzzo
Shop at the Artisan Market
The Artisan Market at Labadee offers visitors a vibrant and colorful shopping experience, showcasing local craftsmanship and culture. The market is filled with a variety of handcrafted items made by local artisans. These can include traditional Haitian art, wooden carvings, paintings, sculptures, and intricate beadwork. I was able to find a beautiful limestone mortar and pestle that is displayed in my kitchen to this day! We also found unique crafts that we display in our home such as handcrafted wine glasses with beautiful paintings decorating the outside and a wooden sword, with the word ‘Haiti’ carved into its sheath.
In addition to crafts, the market also offers local spices, hot sauces, coffee, and other culinary delights, allowing you to take part of Haitian culture back home with you after your cruise vacation has come to an end. Many vendors are open to bargaining and friendly negotiations, making a trip to the Artisan Market at Labadee a very interactive experience. Learn about Haitian culture, support local artisans, and purchase unique and authentic souvenirs that reflect the artistic traditions of the region. Be sure to bring cash to the market in order to easily haggle a deal! Some of the vendors accept credit cards, but many of the smaller artists are on a cash-only basis.
Soar Over the Beach on the Dragon’s Breath Zipline
This is one of the largest zip lines over water in the world, offering breathtaking views of Labadee and the surrounding coastline as you zip along. The zip line starts at 500 feet in the air and carries you 2,600 feet down the beach, cruising at nearly 50 miles per hour. This is one of the more expensive attractions at Labadee, at $109 USD, but it is definitely worth the experience! Consider booking the zipline in combination with the Dragon’s Tail Coaster to bundle and save some money. Keep in mind that this experience can also be rather time consuming, including time to travel to the top of the course, listen to safety instruction, and be fitted for the appropriate safety gear.
Indulge in a Luxury Yacht Sailing Experience
Offering the perfect blend of exclusivity, relaxation, and scenic beauty, one of the best ways you can spend your port day at Labadee is by indulging in the Haitian Sailing Yacht Experience offered as a shore excursion by Royal Caribbean. Board a 62-foot long sailing yacht as you meet the captain and crew before setting sail past scenic reefs and rock formations in the Caribbean sea. The sailing includes complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and allows you to soak up the sun while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Take a dip in the refreshing Caribbean waters or simply relax on the sun deck on the yacht. You won’t regret taking this luxury sailing trip of a lifetime during your visit to Labadee., promising a blendy of luxury, relaxation, and adventure. This experience allows you to truly relax and unwind, away from the crowds of the ship.
Take a Paint n’ Sip Class
Looking for the perfect souvenir from your trip to Haiti? What better way than to make your own, allowing yourself to put your own creative twist on a common souvenir. Enjoy a complimentary Labadee punch made with Haitian rum, a local specialty, before choosing your project for the afternoon. Pick from a variety of handmade crafts to paint and take home from you, while enjoying the scenic views of the area. Take a stroll through a local village to see how your crafts are made and get a feel for local village life. The venue is in the shade, so you will be able to paint and sip without sitting in the hot Haitian sun. This activity is the perfect excursion for all generations, allowing you to create a memory that will last forever.
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Relax on the Beach
Relaxing on the beaches of Labadee, Haiti, is a tranquil and rejuvenating experience surrounded by breathtaking beauty. One of the best beaches for relaxation is Columbus Cove, known for its powdery white sands and calm turquoise waters. Here, you can unwind under the shade of swaying palm trees, listen to the gentle lapping of waves, and bask in the warm Caribbean sun. Recline on a comfortable floating mat as you soak up the sun and listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Floating mats can be reserved in advance online, or once you arrive at the port at the Floating Mat Beach Stands.
Another top spot for beach relaxation is Nellie's Beach, offering a more secluded atmosphere and stunning views of the coastline. Whether you choose to lounge on a comfortable beach chair, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply enjoy the serenity of the ocean, Labadee's beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful escape.
Rent a Private Cabana
Nothing says luxury quite like your own private cabana overlooking the Caribbean. Private cabanas at Labadee provide a secluded and personalized space for your and your group. They are equipped with comfortable seating and lounge chairs, towels, water, and every other amenity you could imagine. You will have full-day access to your private cabana attendant, catering to all your needs throughout the day. One of the main benefits of renting a cabana is the shade it provides, ideal for escaping the intense sun in the afternoon. Although pricey, many of the options available hold between 8 and 12 people, and can easily be shared with others in your group. Choose from Barefoot Beach, Nellie’s Beach, or Columbus Cove, based on where you anticipate spending a majority of your time during your port day. Cabanas at Labadee can be reserved online prior to your cruise, and often sell out well before your sailing begins!
Sip on a Laba-doozie
Similar to the Coco Loco at Coco Cay, the Laba-doozie is the signature cocktail at Labadee! A Royal Caribbean classic, this tropical cocktail features orange, pineapple, and papaya juice, blended together with creme de coconut, dark rum, coconut rum, and grenadine. This drink is only advertised on the island, but because it is so well-known across all of Royal Caribbean’s ships, you can usually find a bartender to make you one onboard. Which is good news, because after trying one, you are going to want to be able to have another! You can also order this drink non-alcoholic, so everyone in your party can enjoy the fun.
Go Snorkeling
Snorkeling equipment is available for rent at the resort, but I highly recommend you bring your own! It is much cheaper and probably higher quality this way, and allows you to explore on your own for as long as you’d like. The best snorkeling spots at Labadee are Buccaneer’s Bay and Hideaway Beach. At Buccaneer’s Bay, you will find the clearest waters and vibrant marine life. Expect to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and other aquatic creatures. On the eastern side of Labadee at Hideaway Beach, you will find a more secluded spot ideal for snorkeling. It offers calm waters, making for great visibility, and diver marine ecosystems to discover.
Honorable mention goes to places like Adrenaline Beach and Columbus Cove. While Adrenaline Beach is more known for its, well, adrenaline, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world near the beach and encounter various fish species. We saw several barracuda and even a reef shark in this area! Columbus Cove is a picturesque cover and another great snorkeling spot in Labadee, with interesting underwater formations to explore. The area around the Dragon’s Tail Coaster can also be a rewarding spot, as it’s less crowded than some of the main beaches, allowing for a quieter underwater experience.
Discover Adrenaline Beach
Offering a wide range of exciting activities for guests looking for an adrenaline rush, Adrenaline Beach is the perfect spot for wave jet rides, parasailing, and more. Swim out to the floating bar where you can relax and enjoy cocktails and refreshments while on the water. Bounce and play on the water trampolines, adding a fun and playful element to your beach experience. Enjoy a game of beach volleyball with your friends and family, and other cruise guests. There are also opportunities to rent kayaks, paddleboards, or other watercraft to explore the coastline on your own and enjoy some independent water adventures. Of course, you can also simply relax on the beach, soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and unwind in a tropical paradise setting.
Arawak Aqua Park
This floating water park features inflatable slides, trampolines, and other fun water obstacles, perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts alike. The aqua park This is a paid experience on Labadee, and can be booked as a shore excursion offered by Royal Caribbean. To purchase access to the park, you pay hourly ($20 USD), and can enjoy any of the waterslides and amenities within the designated area. Consider booking this park in conjunction with other water activities to maximize your experience and save a little money.
Labadee offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty, adventure, and luxury. From its stunning beaches to crystal-clear waters to thrilling water activities and exclusive beach experiences like private cabanas, Labadee is a paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Labadee has something special to offer for every traveler, making it a fun and exciting port stop for any cruise vacation. Does your cruise itinerary also include a stop at Coco Cay? Check out our blog post for everything you need to know before visiting Coco Cay here.
Have you visited Labadee? Let me know what I am missing in the comments!