Guadeloupe is an archipelago of five main islands: Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie Galante, La Desirade and Les Saintes. Each one is different from the next and has a unique set of things to see and do.
For example, Basse Terre has a lot of black sand beaches due to volcanic rocks while Grande Terre has white sand and palm-fringed beach resorts. But there are plenty of other things to do in the area.
1. La Soufriere Volcano
One of the biggest natural attractions in Guadeloupe, La Soufriere Volcano is the highest point in the Lesser Antilles. Hikers can climb to the top of this active volcano on a guided shore excursion and take in a wide array of flora, fauna, and thermal hot springs along the way.
While hiking, visitors should try to avoid volcanic fissures and crevasses as these can be as dangerous as a crater collapse. The hike is popular and can be done on a self-guided basis or with a local guide.
A short drive from the cruise port, La Soufriere is a beautiful hike in an enchanting landscape. After a stroll around the 30deg hot water pool called Bains Jaunes, you’ll walk through the dense tropical forest on a paved trail called Pas du Roy. This is a 6 hours hike that will allow you to explore the unique lunar landscapes of this volcano!
2. Reserve Cousteau
The Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, a protected marine area off Bouillante, Basse-Terre, is an amazing place for scuba diving and snorkeling. This underwater nature preserve is home to a vast variety of tropical fish, turtles, and coral reefs.
For a more immersive experience, you can take a boat tour of the reserve, which is part of Guadeloupe National Park and surrounding Pigeon Islands. The excursion usually takes you along mangroves and to the tiny island of Ilet Caret, surrounded by luminous turquoise water.
The zoo, which is nestled in the heart of a lush tropical rain forest, features around 85 species of animals, including tortoises, raccoons, monkeys, jaguars, snakes, and parrots. The hiking trails and hanging bridges give visitors the feel of being deep in the jungle as they view these exotic animals.
3. Grande Anse Salines Beach
If you’re looking for a postcard-perfect Caribbean beach, then Grande Anse Salines is a great choice. It’s a mile-long stretch of white sand lined by coconut trees and boasts crystal clear waters.
It is a popular beach during holidays and weekends, but it is less crowded during the week. In addition to being a beautiful beach, Grande Anse Salines also has a restaurant and bars that offer delicious food and drinks.
This beach offers many amenities including loungers, umbrellas, a beach restaurant, changing rooms and toilets. You can also find plenty of water activities like catamarans and jet skis.
4. Anse Du Souffleur Beach
A charming beach in the coastal town of Port-Louis, Anse Du Souffleur boasts a beautiful length of white sand and an azure sea. You can find plenty of shaded spots to lay down your towel, and you could also try snorkeling when the ocean is calm.
- A few steps from the beach you’ll find a marine cemetery featuring sand tombs adorned with conch shells. It’s a truly moving and picturesque experience.
- This long, sandy stretch is lapped by gentle waves, making it an ideal beach for a day of sunbathing or body surfing. You’ll also find a number of water-side restaurants and dining areas, as well as shops for renting snorkeling equipment.
- If you’re looking for a nature-filled getaway, check out Guadeloupe National Park, which is the largest in the Caribbean. This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has trails and a variety of plants and wildlife to explore.
5. Sainte-Anne Beach
One of the most popular beaches on Guadeloupe, Sainte-Anne has a mile-long stretch of white sand and is protected by a coral reef. The calm water makes it ideal for kids to swim, and there's a variety of beachfront restaurants serving local cuisine.
There are also plenty of activities for active families, including beach volleyball and street snacks. During the day, it's a quieter place, but after sunset it comes alive with food trucks, ice cream, and beach volleyball.
Set on a 543-acre private island that's part of a national marine park, the upscale Beachcomber Sainte Anne Resort and Spa offers 87 spacious villas. Its secluded location and optional all-inclusive rates make it an appealing option for families and honeymooners.
