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There are an array of things to do in Caribbeans, with Guadeloupe sharing quite a few of those!
Dive into a world of vibrant colors, flavors, and spirits as you explore the stunning archipelago that is Guadeloupe.
With its crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, and rich cultural heritage, this French-Caribbean gem offers endless possibilities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled activities like snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining, or simply want to bask in the sun, savor local cuisine, and sip on world-class rum, Guadeloupe has something for everyone.
So get ready to be swept away by the magic of the islands and create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Guadeloupe:
1. La Soufrière Volcano
Active volcano located on the island of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean.
What to see or do: Take a guided hike up the volcano to see the steaming crater and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: A visit to the hot springs at the base of the volcano, where you can relax and soak in the warm waters while taking in the scenic beauty.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the hike can be steep and challenging. It’s also recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Check with local authorities for any potential safety warnings, as the volcano can be unpredictable at times.
2. Les Saintes Islands
Les Saintes Islands are a group of volcanic islands in Guadeloupe known for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and French-Caribbean charm.
What to see or do: Visit the picturesque village of Terre-de-Haut and stroll through its narrow streets and colorful houses.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from Chameau Hill, the highest point on the island, for breathtaking views.
Insider travel tips: Rent a scooter or a golf cart to explore the island at your own pace.
3. Pointe-à-Pitre
Pointe-à-Pitre is the largest city in Guadeloupe, located on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre.
What to see or do: Visit the impressive Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul church, explore the lively spice and flower markets, and admire the colorful colonial buildings in the historic center.
Take a stroll along the marina and enjoy the views of the Caribbean Sea.
Don’t miss: La Place de la Victoire, one of the main squares in the city, is a great place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere.
The Musée Schœlcher is a fascinating museum that exhibits the life and work of Victor Schœlcher, a French abolitionist who fought for the abolition of slavery in the French colonies.
Insider travel tips: Visit the markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and the most lively atmosphere. Try some traditional Guadeloupean dishes like boudin, accras, and colombo at the local eateries.
Avoid traveling by car during rush hour, as traffic can be heavy and chaotic.
4. Grande Anse Beach
Grande Anse Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Guadeloupe. It is located on the island of Basse-Terre and stretches for about 1.
5 km along the Caribbean Sea.
What to see or do: Grande Anse Beach offers crystal-clear water with gentle waves perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. There are also several food stands and restaurants offering local delicacies.
The beach also provides a stunning backdrop for sunbathing and relaxing with friends and family.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views at Grande Anse Beach. The golden sun setting over the Caribbean Sea is a sight you won’t want to miss.
Insider travel tips: When visiting Grande Anse Beach, make sure to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and ensure a good spot on the beach.
Also, bring your own beach towels, sunscreen, and snacks to save money and maximize your beach experience.
5. Carbet Falls
A series of three waterfalls located on the Carbet River in the tropical rainforest of Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike through the lush forest to reach each of the three waterfalls.
The first waterfall, also known as the ‘Chute de la Levée’, falls from a height of 115 feet (35 meters) into a large pool.
The second waterfall, ‘Chute du Carbet’, is the tallest of the three at approximately 410 feet (125 meters) high. The third waterfall, ‘Chute de la Karukera’, is the smallest and is located upstream from the other two falls.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the rainforest, the flowing rivers and the natural pool at the bottom of the waterfalls. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit Carbet Falls during the dry season from January to May when the water level of the river is lower and the trek is less slippery.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks as the hike to the waterfalls can take up to 2 hours.
It is also recommended to hire a local guide for a safer and more informative experience.
6. Memorial ACTe
Memorial ACTe is a museum and cultural center dedicated to the history of slavery and its abolition in the Caribbean and beyond.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits emphasizing the social, economic, and cultural impact of slavery throughout history. The museum features interactive displays, audio-visual installations, and educational programs to engage visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the permanent exhibit “Routes and Slavery”, a detailed exploration of the transatlantic slave trade and its aftermath.
Other important exhibits include “The Two Wars of the French Antilles”, which traces the struggles for independence in Guadeloupe and Martinique, and “Memory and Future of the Caribbean”, which looks at the legacy of slavery in contemporary Caribbean society.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
7. Deshaies
Deshaies is a picturesque village located on the northwest coast of Basse-Terre, the western wing of Guadeloupe, a Caribbean island territory of France.
What to see or do: – Visit the stunning botanical garden, Jardin Botanique de Deshaies, which features a vast collection of tropical plants and flowers, waterfalls, and colorful birds.
Don’t miss: – The picturesque harbor of Deshaies, where you can stroll along the water and admire the fishing boats and yachts.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Deshaies is from December to May when the weather is dry and pleasant.
8. Fort Delgrès
Fort Delgrès is a historic fort located in Basse-Terre, the capital city of Guadeloupe. It was built in the early 19th century and played a significant role in the island’s history.
What to see or do: Visit the fort’s museum to learn about its history and significance, or take a guided tour to explore the fort’s structures and defenses.
See the cannons that defend the fort and the stunning view of the city and coastline from the top.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the memorial in honor of Louis Delgrès, a hero who commandeered the fort with a group of soldiers to fight against French colonialism, taking their own lives to avoid being captured.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable footwear as the terrain can be uneven.
As it is located in the city, it is best to park in the city center and walk to the fort.
It is open every day, and admission is free, so take advantage of this!
9. Plage de Grande Anse
Plage de Grande Anse is a beautiful beach located in the town of Deshaies on the western coast of Basse-Terre Island, Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, lounging on the soft sandy beach, and soaking up the sun. The crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, and the beach is also a popular spot for surfing.
Don’t miss: Take a walk along the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious local seafood dishes at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during peak season. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and water as the sun can be very strong.
Also, keep an eye out for strong currents and follow the safety guidelines posted on the beach.
10. Musée Saint-John Perse
Musée Saint-John Perse is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the Guadeloupian-born poet and Nobel Prize winner, Saint-John Perse.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that offer insights into Saint-John Perse’s life, his passion for literature, and his contributions to the French cultural scene.
The museum features a collection of photographs, manuscripts, documents, and artefacts related to the poet.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the poet’s literary accomplishments and his works that have been translated into several languages and have inspired readers worldwide.
Insider travel tips: The museum’s opening hours are subject to change, so visitors are advised to check the schedules before planning a visit.
11. Plage de la Perle
Plage de la Perle is a stunning beach situated in the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, in the French West Indies.
What to see or do: At Plage de la Perle, visitors can enjoy crystal clear turquoise waters, white sand, and swaying palm trees. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or just simply unwinding.
The beach also offers incredible views of the nearby islands of Marie-Galante and Les Saintes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a stroll along the beach at sunset.
The views are breathtaking, and the warm, golden light reflecting off the water creates the perfect ambiance for a romantic evening.
Insider travel tips: – Plage de la Perle can get crowded during peak season, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid the crowds.
12. Domaine de Séverin
Domaine de Séverin is a 100-acre estate in Guadeloupe that combines history, nature, and relaxation.
What to see or do: Take a walk through the estate’s lush gardens and admire the collection of Creole-style buildings, including a 19th-century windmill and a distillery.
Learn about the history of Guadeloupe and the island’s rum-making traditions at the on-site museum. Relax on the estate’s private beach or take a dip in the pool.
Don’t miss: A tour of the distillery, where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample the estate’s award-winning rums. The estate’s restaurant, which serves delicious Creole cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
Insider travel tips: Book a stay at the estate’s charming guesthouse for a truly authentic experience. The estate is also a popular wedding venue, so consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds.
13. Marina Bas du Fort
Marina Bas du Fort is a bustling marina located on the southern coast of Guadeloupe.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
14. Pointe des Châteaux
Pointe des Châteaux is a rocky promontory situated at the easternmost point of Guadeloupe island in the French Caribbean.
What to see or do: Take a scenic drive along the coast to reach Pointe des Châteaux. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighboring islands.
Take a leisurely hike amidst the rugged terrain to discover hidden coves and stunning windswept cliffs. Visit the old lighthouse and climb up for panoramic views of the island.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the beach.
Don’t miss: The natural bridge, located on the southern side of the pointe. It’s a unique rock formation created by the constant pounding of waves.
Insider travel tips: Carry sunscreen, plenty of water, and comfortable walking shoes. Consider visiting early in the morning or during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the scenic lookout points. Plan to arrive before sunset to witness stunning views of the sky and sea.
The area is also a popular spot for kite surfing and wind surfing.
15. Jardin Botanique de Deshaies
Jardin Botanique de Deshaies is a stunning botanical garden located in Deshaies, Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: The garden features a diverse range of flora and fauna from around the world, including tropical plants, palm trees, orchids, and exotic birds.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden’s various paths and trails, admiring the lush greenery and natural beauty. There is also a small on-site zoo with animals such as parrots, flamingos, and iguanas.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Japanese garden, which features a tranquil koi pond and beautiful bamboo grove. The garden also has a waterfall and a stunning view of the Caribbean sea.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and the heat of the afternoon sun.