St Jean is a reef break with decent rights and lefts, sitting off the island's most popular beach. The waves break over dead coral, and a mix of wind exposure and a few badly placed coral heads keeps it from ever firing perfectly. When the cross/onshores kick in, windsurfers take over, shredding beneath the small planes that land at the adjacent airstrip.
When It Works
The break draws swell from north to east, with northeast (NE) swell the best match. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft and is moderately consistent, so expect worthwhile windows rather than everyday surf.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest (SW) offshore wind to clean things up. The reef can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers, and the lineup tends to stay fairly quiet. Mind the hazardous reef and the urchins that come with it.
Access
There's free roadside parking close to the beach.
