Cap Chevalier and Îlet Chevalier

Cap Chevalier is a low cape on the southeastern coast where the reef holds the Atlantic off and leaves shallow flats of pale sand behind it, water clear and warm and rarely more than waist deep over long stretches. Îlet Chevalier lies a few hundred metres out and small boats run across to it. The steady trade wind on this coast makes it a kitesurfing area, and the flats are used for that as much as for swimming.

What you actually see

• The shallow flats - warm clear water over pale sand behind the reef.
• Îlet Chevalier - the islet a short boat ride from the shore.
• The kitesurfing - the flats used for the wind that blows here constantly.
• The reef line - the barrier holding the Atlantic off the cape.

When to go

December to April is dry with the steadiest wind. Kitesurfing conditions are best in the winter months. Weekends are busiest on the flats.

Honest expectations

The wind that makes it good for kiting makes it uncomfortable for lying on the sand. Boats to the islet run informally rather than on a timetable. Facilities are limited to a couple of beach restaurants.

Nearby

Sainte-Anne is west, and Pointe Faula is north.