Plage des Hattes, capitale des Luths

Leatherback turtles come to nest on Plage des Hattes from March to July, peaking in April and May. It is one of the last major nesting sites for this species, protected by the Amana National Nature Reserve.

Enter the town of Mana: a signpost points toward Awala-Yalimapo. The commune is about 22 kilometres from Mana, at the far north-west of French Guiana.

Yes. The beach is well maintained and relatively clean, with several picnic tables and palm trees under which to hang a hammock. Local artisans sell their products there.

The beach is being eroded: a large section has disappeared in recent years, likely linked to rising sea levels. Turtle poaching and illegal fishing also remain dangers for marine turtles.