City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe, a beautiful Caribbean archipelago located in the Lesser Antilles, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, cultural heritage and diverse range of attractions. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests to historic landmarks and vibrant markets, Guadeloupe offers something for every type of traveler to do from private boat slips for rent.
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Guadeloupe, a French overseas territory, is composed of two main islands - sitting north of Dominica and Martinique and south of Antigua and Barbuda - with a thin slice of Caribbean Sea running between. Grande-Terre is on the east and Basse-Terre is to the west. There are a couple of smaller islands to the south and east (La Desirade, Marie Galente and Iles des Saintes).
Grande-Terre
Le Gosier
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Le Gosier, on the southwest coast of Guadeloupe, boasts stunning beaches, azure water and a vibrant cultural scene. This picturesque town offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Explore charming streets lined with colorful Creole houses, savor exquisite Caribbean cuisine or unwind at luxurious resorts.
Sainte-Anne
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Sainte-Anne is in the southern section of Grande-Terre. Renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches, turquoise water and lush tropical landscapes, it's a haven for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The town offers a vibrant atmosphere with colorful markets, authentic Creole cuisine and unique attractions. Explore historic sites such as the Church of Sainte-Anne or nearby beaches like Bois Jolan.
Situated in Le Moule, the Musée Edgar Clerc is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of Guadeloupe. Explore exhibits on topics such as pre-Columbian history, African heritage and traditional crafts and music.
Basse-Terre
Carbet Falls
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Carbet Falls is a stunning natural wonder comprising three stunning waterfalls cascading through lush rainforest foliage. Towering over the landscape, the falls offer a refreshing escape for hikers and nature enthusiasts. It’s a beautiful spot to visit from private boat dock rentals.
Guadeloupe National Park
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Guadeloupe National Park spans more than 4,2794 acres. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve encompasses lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls and towering volcanic peaks. It shelters an array of endemic flora and fauna, including the Guadeloupe woodpecker and the Lesser Antillean iguana. The park's cultural significance preserves the heritage of the Guadeloupean people by showcasing remnants of colonial history. Spend the day away from a private boat lift rental to explore its network of hiking trails, beautiful views and exotic wildlife.
Soufrière Volcano
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As the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles, the Soufrière stratovolcano is an iconic natural landmark in the Guadeloupe National Park. Adventurous travelers can embark on a challenging hike to the summit. They'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to peer into the crater of this active volcano.
Pointe-à-Pitre
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The largest city in Guadeloupe, Pointe-à-Pitre is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce and history with a New Orleans-inspired aesthetic. Explore colorful markets like the Marché de la Darse, stroll along the picturesque waterfront at the Place de la Victoire and learn about the island's history at the Schoelcher Museum.
Iles des Saintes
The idyllic islands of Iles des Saintes, or Les Saintes, lie off the southern coast of Guadeloupe. Made up of Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas (as well as several uninhabited islands), this is a must-visit destination for stunning beaches, crystal-clear water and a charming French-Caribbean atmosphere. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking and exploring picturesque villages like Terre-de-Haut.
Fort Napoleon
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Constructed in the 19th century by Napoleon III, Fort Napoleon is a historic gem and testament to the island’s rich past. This imposing structure overlooks Terre-de-Haut, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean. Its strategic position guarded against invasions and pirate raids, embodying France's colonial presence in the Caribbean.
Today, visitors wander through its well-preserved barracks, cannons and dungeons. The fort's museum showcases artifacts detailing Guadeloupe's cultural and military heritage. Fort Napoléon remains a symbol of resilience and a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike to visit from private boat dock rentals.
Pain de Sucre
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Known as the Sugar Loaf, Pain de Sucre is a distinctive rock formation rising majestically from the sea just off the coast of Terre-de-Haut. Take a short boat ride or hike up to the viewpoint for breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and coastline.
We hope you’ve found some new spots to add to your Guadeloupe adventures. Happy boating!
