Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Guadeloupe is a little piece of France in the tropics, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, eager to explore, or simply looking for a peaceful moment on white sandy beaches, this French island has something for you. From the impressive cliffs of Grande-Terre to the turquoise waters of Basse-Terre, your stay here will be nothing short of unforgettable memories.
In this article, I will share the best activities to do in Guadeloupe for unforgettable memories, highlighting both parts of the island, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, so you don’t miss any of its incredible spots.
Ready to experience the best of Guadeloupe? Let’s dive in!
Grande-Terre: Beaches, Cliffs and Exciting Activities
Beaches & Water Fun – Relax, explore, or enjoy water sports
Island Hopping – Discover Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Petite-Terre
Clifftop Views – Explore the scenic viewpoints of Pointe des Châteaux & Grande Vigie
Sky Adventures – See Guadeloupe from a seaplane
Basse-Terre: Rainforests, Diving & More
Boat Tours & Nature – Explore the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin and more
Underwater Wonders – Dive into the Cousteau Reserve
Rainforest Treks – Hike and discover waterfalls in Basse-Terre
Les Saintes Escape – Explore the peaceful islands
Canyoning Adventures – Thrill-seekers’ paradise in Basse-Terre
Grande-Terre: White sand beaches and dramatic cliffs
Grande-Terre is known for its postcard-perfect beaches and striking cliffs. Whether you want to relax, explore by boat, or embark on an exciting jeep excursion, this part of Guadeloupe offers plenty of unforgettable experiences.
Beaches for relaxation, exploration or water fun
How could we start this article without mentioning Guadeloupe’s stunning beaches? The beaches of Grande-Terre are all covered in white sand, creating a breathtaking contrast between the clear blue waters and lush green palm trees. If you are looking for a quiet spot away from the crowds, I recommend Anse Castalia, Anse à Saint, La Douche, or Trou à Man Louis. These beaches remain relatively undiscovered by tourists, offering a peaceful retreat.
If you prefer beaches with a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities, head to Sainte-Anne, Port-Louis, or Le Gosier. These tourist hotspots offer a variety of experiences, from jet skiing and kayaking to surfing lessons. From Plage du Souffleur in Port-Louis, you can explore the northern coast on a jet ski or even take to the skies with a parasailing session! Meanwhile, the southern beaches in Le Gosier and Sainte-Anne offer similar water sports, as well as the opportunity to kayak towards Îlet du Gosier or take surf lessons.
Our tip: For an adrenaline rush, try the jet ski tours from Port-Louis—no licence required!
Explore Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Petite-Terre by Boat
Did you know that Guadeloupe is more than just its butterfly-shaped main island? It also includes Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Petite-Terre, three smaller islands that are must-visits. Each offers a unique experience, from cultural discoveries to pristine nature.
Marie-Galante, easily reachable from Saint-François, is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Guadeloupean heritage. Explore the Habitation Murat, visit the island’s many windmills, and stop by Grand-Bourg market for a taste of local specialities. Don’t forget to visit Distillerie Bellevue for a rum tasting session!
For a more nature-focused escape, Petite-Terre and La Désirade are perfect. Petite-Terre is a paradise for snorkeling, home to vibrant marine life, lemon sharks, and sea turtles in its lagoon. Meanwhile, La Désirade enchants visitors with its untouched beaches and the Botanical Garden of the Desert. Both islands can be reached by boat from Saint-François.
Our tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear for the best experience in Petite-Terre’s crystal-clear lagoon.
Clifftop views at Pointe des Châteaux and Pointe de la Grande Vigie
For those who love dramatic landscapes, a visit to Pointe des Châteaux and Pointe de la Grande Vigie is a must. These coastal viewpoints, located in the southeast and north of the island, offer breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can even spot La Désirade, Montserrat, and Antigua from the cliffs.
Pointe de la Grande Vigie also features the “Trace des Pêcheurs”, a scenic hiking trail through the northern coastal reserve, offering stunning views along the way.
Our tip: Book a jeep tour for an immersive experience and expert insights from a local guide.
Discover Guadeloupe from the sky
Why not see Guadeloupe from a new perspective? Head to Le Gosier and board a seaplane for an unforgettable flight over the island. This unique aerial adventure offers breathtaking views of the lush rainforests, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. From above, you’ll admire the lagoon of Petite-Terre, the stunning bays of Les Saintes, and La Désirade’s rugged coastline.
For an even more immersive experience, some flights include a water landing, allowing you to touch the sea before taking off again—a thrilling moment that adds to the magic of this excursion.
Our tip: Book your seaplane flight in advance to secure your spot for this unforgettable experience.
Basse-Terre: Lush rainforests and underwater wonders
Basse-Terre is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its dense tropical forests, waterfalls, and world-class diving sites, this region offers some of the most spectacular outdoor experiences in Guadeloupe.
Explore the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin by boat
Departing from Sainte-Rose or Baie-Mahault, you can embark on a boat tour of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, a stunning turquoise lagoon dotted with islets and bordered by mangroves. Whether you opt for a relaxed catamaran cruise or a guided boat tour, you’ll discover the area’s incredible biodiversity. Coral reefs, seagrass meadows teeming with sea turtles, and mangrove forests filled with birdlife create an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Many boat trips also include a stop on an islet for a swim or a snorkelling session, making this excursion the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Our tip: For a quieter experience, visit in the morning, when the waters are calmer and the wildlife is more active.
Dive into the underwater world of the Cousteau Reserve
If you want to discover Guadeloupe’s vibrant marine life, head to Bouillante and explore the Cousteau Reserve, located around Îlet Pigeon. This protected marine park within Guadeloupe National Park is a haven for snorkellers and divers. Expect to see colourful coral gardens, brain corals, sea fans, and schools of tropical fish.
The reserve is also an excellent place to encounter green turtles, making it a must-visit spot for underwater enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, every dive here promises unforgettable moments.
Our tip: Join a guided tour to learn more about the marine life and discover hidden dive spots.
Discover the Hidden Secrets of the Island’s Rainforests
As I mentioned earlier, unlike Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre is best known for its lush rainforests. During your stay on this butterfly-shaped island, make sure to explore these natural wonders and uncover the hidden treasures of Guadeloupe. Start by taking the “Route de la Traversée”, the only road crossing the island from east to west, leading you to a breathtaking national park. Here, follow the trail to the “Maison de la Forêt”, where you can learn more about the park’s unique ecosystem. Then, embark on a short hike to the Crayfish Waterfall, a perfect spot for a picnic and a refreshing swim.
If you are further south, I highly recommend visiting the Carbet Falls. These waterfalls, known since Christopher Columbus’ arrival, offer a spectacular sight and a stunning panoramic view of the region. Finally, for those looking for a romantic escape, head to the warm springs of Dolé, especially the “Bain des Amours.” This heart-shaped pool is the perfect place to unwind in a setting that is both romantic and wild.
Our tip: Join a jeep tour to explore these incredible sites and access the most remote areas of Basse-Terre.
A Tropical Escape to Les Saintes
A trip to Les Saintes is an experience you won’t forget anytime soon! These islands, considered one of Guadeloupe’s most precious gems, are rich in history and breathtaking landscapes. Known for their authentic charm, they were the site of many battles, including the famous Battle of the Saintes in 1782, which shaped Caribbean history. Today, Les Saintes are the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway, far from the crowds. You can explore Terre-de-Haut, the main island, with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, or venture to Terre-de-Bas, a quieter and wilder retreat. Don’t miss a walk up to Fort Napoléon, which offers stunning views of the archipelago and an insightful dive into local history.
There are several ways to reach Les Saintes. Boat trips depart regularly from Trois-Rivières in Basse-Terre or Le Gosier in Grande-Terre, taking you through turquoise waters. The journey lasts about 30 minutes, allowing you to soak in the beautiful scenery along the way. Once there, renting a bike, scooter, or even a taxi-boat is a great way to explore every corner of these idyllic islands.
Our tip: For a complete experience, take a ferry from Trois-Rivières to enjoy a self-guided adventure at your own pace.
A Thrilling Adventure: Canyoning in the Rainforest
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Then I’ve got just the thing for you! Canyoning in Basse-Terre’s tropical rainforest is an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers. Expect to jump into natural pools, slide down rock formations, and swim through crystal-clear rivers. This activity allows you to explore the rainforest from a completely different perspective, immersing yourself in Guadeloupe’s untamed nature. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you’ll experience thrilling moments surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Canyoning is available in several locations, including Bouillante, Deshaies, Saint-Claude, and Gourbeyre, with routes suitable for all skill levels. Popular spots such as the Galion River or the area at the foot of La Soufrière volcano offer thrilling experiences. Each site has its own unique charm, allowing you to discover different aspects of Guadeloupe’s natural beauty.
Our tip: Choose a tour that includes photos and videos so you can capture every exhilarating moment of your adventure.
Ready to create unforgettable memories? Guadeloupe perfectly blends nature, adventure, and relaxation, offering something for every traveller. Whether you’re looking for excitement in lush rainforests or peaceful moments on stunning beaches, this Caribbean paradise has it all. From exploring hidden gems by boat to soaking in local culture and breathtaking views, Guadeloupe invites you to discover everything it has to offer—and trust me, you won’t regret it!