Hike· St Barthelemy· Leeward Islands
Natural Pools of Grand Fond (Washing Machine)
17° 53.5′ N · 62° 48.5′ W · approximate
A rugged walk along the wild south-east coast from Grand Fond to rock pools carved into the volcanic shore, where Atlantic waves churn and spill in - hence the 'washing machine'.
Practical
Position is the Grand Fond beach trailhead (OpenStreetMap); the pools are about 20-30 minutes' walk along the coast - follow cairns and the coastal path. Rocky, uneven, no shade: sturdy shoes, water and sun protection. Go only at low tide in calm seas - in big swell waves sweep over the rocks and the pools are dangerous. Swimming off Grand Fond beach itself is not advised. Reach the trailhead by car from Gustavia.
Best for
Half-day coastal hike away from the boats