French Leave Beach

Club Med History

The beach's evocative name traces to the French Leave Hotel, a 75-room resort built in 1957 by actor Craig Kelly from Philadelphia. The property later became a Club Med, introducing generations of visitors to Eleuthera's charms through the all-inclusive resort format that made Caribbean vacations accessible to middle-class travelers.

Hurricane Floyd devastated the resort in 1999, and the property sat abandoned for years before redevelopment. The beach retained its French Leave name through successive generations, a reminder of the resort era that shaped tourism on the island.

Beach Characteristics

Fine pink sand extends for 6.5 kilometers along the Atlantic coast, making French Leave one of Eleuthera's longest continuous beaches. The sand derives its subtle blush from crushed coral and foraminifera shells, the same composition that creates the famous pink beaches elsewhere on the island.

The beach faces the open Atlantic, so conditions vary with weather. Calm days bring gentle waves perfect for swimming, while winter storms can create powerful surf. The water clarity rivals anywhere in the Bahamas, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet.

Snorkeling the Reefs

Good snorkeling awaits along the small reefs that dot the nearshore waters of French Leave Beach. The rocky outcroppings support colorful fish populations and provide structure for exploration without venturing far from the beach.

The best snorkeling concentrates near the rocky points rather than the long sandy stretches. Bring your own gear as rental facilities are limited. The clarity of the water makes spotting reef fish easy even without diving below the surface.

Access and Proximity

French Leave Beach is accessible via rough unpaved roads starting at the end of Haynes Avenue, northeast of Governor's Harbour village. The road conditions can challenge rental cars, particularly after rain, but access remains possible for careful drivers.

The beach's proximity to Governor's Harbour makes it easy to combine beach time with lunch in town, visits to local shops, or simply as a convenient option for those staying near the island's central hub. The French Leave Resort provides an upscale option for those seeking resort amenities alongside beach access.

Getting there

French Leave Beach is located on the Atlantic coast northeast of Governor's Harbour village. Access is via rough unpaved roads starting at the end of Haynes Avenue. The road can be challenging, particularly after rain. Governor's Harbour Airport is approximately 10 minutes away by car. The French Leave Resort provides direct beach access for guests. Public beach access is available along the northern stretches away from the resort property.

Frequently asked questions

Is French Leave Beach the same as Club Med Beach?

Yes, locals still sometimes call it Club Med Beach in reference to the resort that operated here until Hurricane Floyd destroyed it in 1999. The beach was officially known as French Leave before Club Med arrived, and that name has persisted.

Can I access French Leave Beach without staying at the resort?

Yes, the beach is public. Access points exist along the northern stretches away from the French Leave Resort property. The roads can be rough, so drive carefully. The southern portion near the resort is more convenient for guests.

Is French Leave Beach good for snorkeling?

Yes, good snorkeling can be found along the rocky outcroppings and small reefs near the beach. Bring your own gear as rental facilities are limited. The best snorkeling is near the rocky points rather than the sandy stretches.