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Port of Jacmel

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

Weather…

Jacmel, Haiti's 'City of Light,' was historically one of the world's most prosperous coffee ports and the first in the Caribbean to have electric street lighting (1925). Today, its economy is centered on culture, the arts, and tourism, while maintaining its role as a regional maritime gateway. Jacmel is world-renowned for its artisanal industry, particularly its intricate papier-mâché masks and handicrafts, which are essential to Haiti's export economy in the creative sector. The harbor currently serves small coastal traders, though plans exist to develop its potential for boutique cruise shipping. Economically, the city remains the dominant commercial outlet for the Southeast Department, facilitating the trade of regional coffee, citrus, and timber. Its historic architecture makes it a prime candidate for sustainable cultural tourism development.

Location: Haiti
Top sights: Sud-Est (department) · Jacmel Arrondissement · Diocese of Jacmel
Nearby: Bassin Bleu (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	27	27	28	28	29	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	20	18	28	37	62	47	48	73	62	90	64	35

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Port of Jacmel is an important cultural and economic hub on Haiti's southern coast. It serves as a gateway for agricultural trade and promotes tourism in the region.

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Visiting

The port area is publicly accessible, but the operational area is fenced off. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade and watch colorful fishing boats and ship traffic.

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Where to view it

The best view of the port is from the waterfront promenade at Place d'Haiti or from the hills above the town. From there, one can see the bay with anchored ships.

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Local products

The port is used for exporting coffee, cocoa, and tropical fruits. In Jacmel's markets, one finds handicrafts, especially colorful masks and textiles, as well as fresh seafood.

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Active season

Port activity is year-round, with peaks during the coffee and cocoa harvest between September and February. The fishing port is especially lively in the early morning.

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Nearby

Combine the port visit with Jacmel's historic center, featuring French colonial architecture. The nearby Bassin-Bleu waterfalls are also worth a trip.

Geography

Coordinates

18.23200, -72.53300

Facts

Formerly Haiti's premier port for high-grade coffee exports.
First Caribbean city to install a public power grid in 1925.
Global heart of Haiti's papier-mâché artisan movement.
Primary economic and administrative engine for the Southeast.
Key terminal for regional coastal shipping and local trade.
Features a well-preserved historic center built on coffee wealth.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jacmel<1 km · SEExplore →

Bassin-Bleu Children's Paradise2 km · SExplore →

Jacmel Valley3 km · SEExplore →

Jacmel Children's Paradise4 km · NExplore →

Bassin Bleu6 km · SExplore →

Bassin-Bleu9 km · SExplore →

Léogâne Animal Farm12 km · SEExplore →

Fort Biche17 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Port of Jacmel (3)

Sud-Est (department)📍 landmark

Sud-Est is a department of Haiti, capital Jacmel, known for its coastline and culture.

Jacmel Arrondissement📍 landmark

Jacmel Arrondissement includes several communes in southeastern Haiti.

Diocese of Jacmel📍 landmark

The Diocese of Jacmel is a Catholic administrative district based in the city of Jacmel.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes the Jacmel port special?

Its historical flair with old coffee warehouses and proximity to the arts district.

Do cruise ships dock here?

Large cruise ships rarely, but there are plans for increased tourism.

Can you walk along the port?

Yes, the waterfront promenade (Jetée) is a popular spot for locals and tourists.

What goods are traded today?

Predominantly local agricultural products and supplies for the south.

Are there restaurants at the port?

Yes, there are welcoming restaurants with sea views in the immediate vicinity.

Port of Jacmel: where is it located?

Port of Jacmel is located in Haiti.

Port of Jacmel: what is there to see?

Highlights include Sud-Est (department), Jacmel Arrondissement, Diocese of Jacmel.

Port of Jacmel: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Port of Jacmel: why is it worth visiting?

Jacmel, Haiti's 'City of Light,' was historically one of the world's most prosperous coffee ports and the first in the Caribbean to have electric street lighting (1925).

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →