Anse Cochon

Anse Cochon is a small bay of dark volcanic sand between two headlands on the west coast, and it is one of the better snorkelling spots on the island: reef runs along both sides within easy swimming distance, and the Lesleen M, a freighter sunk deliberately in 1986, lies in about twenty metres just offshore and is a straightforward dive. The bay is reached either down a very steep road or, more usually, by boat from Marigot or Soufrière, which is how most day trips arrive. There is a beach bar and a dive operation and nothing else.

What you actually see

• The reef - along both headlands within swimming distance.
• The Lesleen M - a freighter sunk in 1986 in twenty metres.
• The dark sand - volcanic, unlike the pale beaches of the north.
• The boat approach - the usual way in, from Marigot or Soufrière.

When to go

December to April is the dry season with the calmest water and best visibility. Day boats arrive mid-morning and leave in the afternoon; before and after that it is quiet. The road down is very steep and hire cars struggle.

Honest expectations

The road in is extremely steep and rough; most people arrive by boat. Day boats fill the small beach for a few hours. Facilities are one bar and a dive shop. The bay is exposed to northwest swell in winter, which stirs it up.

Nearby

Anse La Raye is ten minutes north; Soufrière is half an hour south.