Discover a Realm of Aquatic Treasures
The waters of Guadeloupe hold sunken treasures. Not pirate's gold, but something many consider far more valuable: vibrant coral reefs rich in marine life and ripe for exploration. Some reefs will require scuba gear to enjoy, but many more rise close to the surface, or begin in protected bays where snorkelers can wade in from the beach to discover coral heads in sunlit shallows. Near deserted islands, eagle rays and turtles lead the way to ridges covered in sea fans and multi-colored sponge gardens. These sites, which were once a favorite of diving legend Jacque Cousteau, are now incorporated into marine reserves that can be enjoyed by all.
Highlights
- Best for: Solos, couples and families, beach lovers and adventurers
- Best season to visit: Year round
- Weather: Steady trade winds account for relatively minor differences in seasonal air temperatures, which range from the 70s into the mid 80s. Rain showers are less common from December to May
Guadeloupe Islands Information
Snorkeling in the Guadeloupe Islands Overview
There are a number of areas around the Guadeloupe Islands that offer good snorkeling. The best sites are found near a pair of small islands in the Petit Terre Nature Reserve, which can be reached with a six-mile boat trip from the town of Saint-François on Grande-Terre. A reef to the east blocks ocean swells to create calm conditions in the channel between the islands. This area is rich in fish life, including turtles, rays, small sharks and numerous tropical fish.
Snorkeling in the Guadeloupe Islands Tips
When you reach the snorkel site, ask the guide if there is any current. If so, swim up-current to begin your tour, so that you can relax and drift back to your starting point if you become tired. From the surface, look for patches of yellow or brown in the water, which indicates a coral reef.
Best Places to Snorkel in the Guadeloupe Islands
At the Petit Terre Nature Reserve, juvenile lemon sharks come right up to the beach, while stingrays and eagle rays cruise just offshore. Gentle currents carry snorkelers over the reefs between Terre de Bas and Terre de Hau. Turtles gather near the underwater statue of Jacques Cousteau at Pigeon Island.
What to Pack for Snorkeling in the Guadeloupe Islands
A gear bag will help keep the various beach and snorkel items organized. The most versatile footwear for wading ashore and island walking are waterproof sandals with a heel strap that keeps them in place. Toss in a spare pair of lightweight shorts and an extra shirt for the return cruise.
Passport and/or Visa Requirements
Entry Requirements: U.S. citizens must have a valid Passport and a return or ongoing ticket. Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond date of entry and 1 page required for entry stamp.
Immunizations
No vaccinations or preventative medications are required for travel to Guadeloupe Islands. Yellow Fever is not a problem here. Check with the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel at cdc.gov.
Culture and Customs
The Guadeloupe Islands are a department of France, but they are also very much a part of the Caribbean. In bustling Pointe-à-Pitre, a stroll along Rue Frébault provides boutiques stocking perfumes, haute couture and delicacies straight from Paris. The scene shifts at Rue Duplessis when shoppers are immersed in the sights, sounds and scents of the St. Antoine Spice Market. In this open-air celebration of micro-capitalism, animated vendors hawk handicrafts, seafood and produce, and the smells of exotic spices permeate. Similar dualities abound across the islands. One can linger over buttery croissants and cafe au late at a sidewalk cafe, or duck into a corner rum shop for a bokit sandwich washed down by a Ti Punch. A local favorite, bokit is similar to fried naan bread stuffed with delicious hams and cheeses. Guadeloupe's dining scene is among the most celebrated in the Caribbean, with island chefs drawing on both French and Creole traditions. Lively dance traditions such as zouk, quadrille and toumbélé are enjoying newfound popularity in a culture that celebrates its roots, but also enjoys fusion jazz and dancehall music. The islands also support a vibrant arts community and have produced some of the region's most respected writers. For an immersion in island culture, plan a visit to the lively market days staged on alternating Sundays at the towns of Le Moule, Sainte-Anne and Saint-Claudeon. Grande-Terre's magnificent beaches host a number of upscale hotels, while the green slopes of Basse-Terre are home to nature preserves and parks where hiking trails lead to hidden waterfalls. Harbors on the island's western shore are launching points for whale watching excursions, and as many as 15 species of marine mammals are known to frequent the area. A network of excellent roads facilitates land travel while an efficient ferry system making island hopping easy. Favorite destinations include postcard-quaint bays of Les Santes and the quiet island of Marie-Galante, which provides a glimpse of old-school Caribbean life. When on Les Saintes, be sure to try a Tourment D’Amour -a pastry that resembles a height- challenged cupcake flavored with coconut and tropical fruits.
Electricity, Phone and Internet Access
Electricity is 220 Volt, 50 cycle with European standard wall plugs. U.S. appliances will require an adapter. WiFi is available at many hotels.
Guadeloupe Island's country/area code is 590. It is recommended that you check with your local provider to see what data plans are available or roaming charges will apply.
Water Quality
The water is safe to drink Guadeloupe. Many brands of local and imported bottled water is available for purchase at most restaurants and stores if preferred.
Language & Currency
French is the official language of the Guadeloupe Islands. You will hear locals speaking Creole. While at the hotels and tourist areas, English may be spoken, but outside of these areas very little English is spoken. A French translation book is recommended.
The Euro is the currency in the Guadeloupe Islands. U.S. Dollars and sometimes traveler checks may be accepted. It is a good idea to rely on your credit cards for purchases. Please let your credit card company know that you will be travelling out of the country to make sure your card is available while on vacation and see if they charge any foreign transaction fees due to the currency exchange.
Time
Guadeloupe Islands is on Atlantic Standard Time (AST) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time. Guadeloupe Islands are 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-4 GMT).
Location, Size and Population
Guadeloupe Islands are located in the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean and are part of the Lesser Antilles. The islands encompass nearly 630 square miles including the 2 connected main islands of Basse-Terre and Grand-Terre and the smaller islands of Les Saintes, Marie-Galante and La Desirade.
The population of the Guadeloupe Islands is 470,755 (2016).