Rifflet Beach

Beach - Deshaies

Rifflet Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand bordered by coconut palms. However, it is also an important nesting ground for sea turtles and, as such, must be protected. Over-use, frequent raking, and the development of beach amenities have reduced the nesting area and prevented the growth of vegetation. Artificial light is another hazard:  because sight is the sense sea turtles most depend on to find their way back to the sea, orienting themselves by the luminous horizon, neon lights, fires, and street lights disorient them. Therefore, measures have been taken by the national forest office (“ONF”) and the Réseau Tortues Marines de Guadeloupe (Guadeloupe Sea Turtle Network) to limit these harmful effects.