Best things to do in Guadeloupe

• Capital: Basse-Terre
• Language(s): French
• Currency: Euro (€) (EUR)
• Dial Code: + 590

Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Guadeloupe: Caribbean Charm with a French Accent

Looking for a dreamy tropical getaway that mixes Caribbean beaches with croissants? Say bonjour to Guadeloupe, the French-Caribbean archipelago you probably didn’t realize you needed in your life—until now. With its lush rainforests, volcanoes, colorful markets, and beach towns that could charm the sand off your flip-flops, Guadeloupe offers some of the best places to visit and things to do in the Lesser Antilles.

This travel guide to Guadeloupe is packed with everything you need to know, from the island’s fascinating history to the top attractions you simply can’t miss. Whether you're a beach bum, a hiker, a foodie, or just someone who loves saying "baguette" with a tan, Guadeloupe has you covered.

Where in the world is Guadeloupe?

Let’s start with geography, because this island has some serious range. Guadeloupe is a butterfly-shaped archipelago located in the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean. It's made up of two main islands—Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre—plus several smaller islands like Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Les Saintes.

With a land area of about 1,628 square kilometers and a population of around 400,000, Guadeloupe may be small in size, but it’s overflowing with adventure, beauty, and just the right amount of French flair.

Wait, it’s part of France?

Oui! Guadeloupe is not just influenced by France—it is France. It's an overseas department and region, which means it’s just as French as Paris, minus the Eiffel Tower and plus a lot more coconut trees. Guadeloupe is part of the European Union, uses the euro as its currency, and has delicious bakeries where you can buy croissants after a morning at the beach. However, note that it’s not part of the Schengen Area, so check your visa requirements before booking that flight.

The capital city is Basse-Terre, located on the island of the same name. And while that might confuse your GPS for a minute, don’t worry—you’ll be too busy enjoying paradise to care.

A dash of history

The island was named Santa María de Guadalupe by none other than Christopher Columbus in 1493. He named it after a monastery in Extremadura, Spain, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Over the centuries, Guadeloupe saw colonial struggles, sugar plantations, slavery, and revolts, eventually becoming fully integrated into France.

Today, it’s a vibrant melting pot of cultures—Caribbean, African, Indian, and French—all wrapped in sunshine and served with a side of rum.

Top attractions in Guadeloupe

Let’s dive into the good stuff: what should be on your Guadeloupe bucket list? Here's a rundown of the top attractions and places to visit in this tropical paradise.

La Soufrière Volcano

For the adventurous souls, La Soufrière is a must. It’s an active volcano (yes, active—but friendly) located in Basse-Terre National Park. Hiking to the summit offers stunning views, bubbling sulfur springs, and the chance to brag to your friends that you climbed a volcano on vacation.

Plage de la Caravelle

Located on Grande-Terre, this is one of the best beaches in Guadeloupe and possibly the entire Caribbean. Plage de la Caravelle features powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and calm turquoise waters that feel like a warm hug from the sea.

It’s also home to a Club Med resort, but don’t worry—this beach is open to everyone, whether you're staying there or not.

Pointe-à-Pitre

While Basse-Terre is the capital, the bustling heart of Guadeloupe is Pointe-à-Pitre, the largest city. It’s a colorful, noisy, flavorful whirlwind where markets overflow with spices, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts.

Don’t miss the Marché Saint-Antoine, and be sure to try some local specialties like bokit (Caribbean sandwich), accras (fried cod fritters), and ti-punch (rum-based drink that packs a punch, literally).

Les Saintes

Take a ferry to the picturesque Les Saintes islands for a change of pace. Terre-de-Haut, the most popular island, is a postcard-perfect town where scooters buzz past pastel-colored houses and boats float lazily in the harbor.

Climb up to Fort Napoléon for panoramic views and a peek at iguanas sunbathing like royalty.

Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin Nature Reserve

Nature lovers, rejoice! This massive marine reserve is home to mangroves, coral reefs, and all kinds of exotic sea life. Join a boat tour or go snorkeling to experience Guadeloupe’s underwater beauty firsthand. It’s like an aquarium, but without the glass walls or entrance fee.

Things to do in Guadeloupe

There’s no shortage of things to do in Guadeloupe, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

• Snorkeling and scuba diving: The waters around Guadeloupe are full of colorful coral, sea turtles, and schools of fish that shimmer like disco balls.

• Hiking: Besides La Soufrière, there are dozens of trails through rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.

• Sailing: The calm waters make this archipelago perfect for island hopping by boat.

• Beach hopping: With beaches ranging from soft white sand to dramatic black volcanic shores, you can hit a different beach every day of your trip.

• Cultural experiences: Visit the Memorial ACTe, a powerful museum in Pointe-à-Pitre dedicated to the history of slavery and Guadeloupe’s Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Travel tips for your trip

• Best time to visit: December to May is the dry season—expect sunshine and warm weather. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so plan accordingly.

• Language: French is the official language, but many locals speak Guadeloupean Creole. A few friendly bonjours will go a long way.

• Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore both Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. Public transport exists but can be inconsistent.

• Cuisine: Think French flair with Caribbean fire. From fresh seafood to spicy stews and heavenly desserts, your taste buds are in for a wild ride.

Why Guadeloupe should be your next destination

Guadeloupe is that rare kind of travel destination that has something for everyone. Want to lie on the beach and sip something fruity? Done. Want to hike through a rainforest and stare into the mouth of a volcano? Go for it. Craving French pastries but with a side of reggae? You got it.

This travel guide to Guadeloupe only scratches the surface. Whether you're planning a week of sightseeing, chasing top attractions, or just looking for new places to visit with serious Caribbean character, Guadeloupe delivers. And it does it with style, sass, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

Ready to pack your bags yet?