Unforgettable Experiences in Guadeloupe: Epic Activities for Every Traveler
WELCOME TO GUADELOUPE!
Something about bathing in the warm waters of the Caribbean and staying at a lush resort while your skin turns bronze will never go old. The Caribbean has such a unique smorgasbord of cultures and history, and the Island of Guadeloupe is no exception. The island offers something for everyone – from pristine beaches like Grand Anse or hiking in the rainforest. The island is known for its French influence – and you will feel like you are in a mini tropical France while visiting this destination. So you might be wondering what the 10 best things to do in Guadeloupe even are…well, besides staying at your incredible resort?
Don’t worry, I’m gonna go over all the epic things to do in Guadeloupe, but first – let me go over the weather with you.
WEATHER IN GUADELOUPE
- Guadeloupe has warm temperatures year-round, with the average temperature ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
- There are two seasons: a dry season from December to May and a rainy season from June to November.
- While hurricanes and tropical storms can occur, they are most active from August to October.
- The north of the island is wetter and has lush rainforests, while the south is sunnier and has beautiful beaches.
- The east of the island is windy and cooler, great for surfing, while the west is calmer and perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- The interior of the island is cooler due to its altitude, with stunning mountains and forests ideal for hiking and exploring.
We traveled to Guadeloupe in March, and while we were on the rainforest side, it poured down at least at one point every single day, so make sure to pack a raincoat and leave a towel in the car!
Are you looking for help planning your dream getaway? If you’re feeling overwhelm at all the options on the internet, or just don’t have the time to get into planning your dream trip – I really encourage you to check out my travel planning services! You can download my “How We Work” guide here – or submit your enquiry here!
WHERE TO STAY IN GUADELOUPE
While visiting Guadeloupe, we hopped around to many different resorts on the island (as a travel advisor, I can’t help myself). We were gifted two comped nights at La Toubana and Le Jardin Malanga – and they were by far the most superior resorts on the island. They are also our partner hotels, and when you book through our agency, you will receive special perks and amenities during your stay.
La Toubana
La Toubana Hotel is a stunning luxury resort located on the beautiful island of Guadeloupe. The resort offers the perfect blend of French and Caribbean cultures, with AMAZING views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The view from the deck, where you can watch the sunset while having an evening cocktail, is insane. La Toubana is an ideal choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The resort features a private beach club with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Of course, with the island being French, rosé from Provence is basically on tap. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious French-Caribbean cuisine, and there is even a lobster pond where guests can pick out their own fresh lobsters from a massive pond on the property for dinner. The dinner here was, by and large, my favorite dinner on the island.
The rooms at La Toubana are luxurious and well-appointed, all equipped with private balconies offering breathtaking views of the sea. For couples looking for the ultimate romantic experience, the resort also offers private villas with their own pools and stunning ocean views—this can be great for families, too. Overall, La Toubana Hotel is a perfect destination for couples looking for luxury, romance, and relaxation in the heart of the Caribbean with a French flair.
Le Jardin Malanga
Jardin Malanga is a unique and special hotel located on the island of Guadeloupe. With its combination of history, nature, and luxury it makes an epic place for a rainforest quiet getaway. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 1927 colonial building, which adds a touch of old-world charm to the property. Guests can stay in one of the hotel’s 9 rooms, which are all tastefully decorated and feature modern amenities, and are ideal for families with connecting rooms.
However, what truly sets Jardin Malanga apart is its location in the heart of a lush tropical forest. The hotel’s rooms and suites are nestled among the trees in adorable huts, which offer a truly unique and intimate experience. Guests can relax on their private terrace while listening to the sounds of the forest and enjoying the stunning views. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine, using fresh ingredients from the property’s own garden. Jardin Malanga offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience in a unique natural setting that perfectly captures the beauty and charm of Guadeloupe.
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HIKING TO THE CASCADES
The Cascades are a series of stunning waterfalls located in the lush forests of Guadeloupe. Hiking to the Cascades is an amazing way to get up close and personal with the island’s natural beauty. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, as the hike can be challenging. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, head to the rainforest for a day of hiking, zip-lining, and rappelling. There are plenty of tour companies that offer guided adventures through the lush forests of Guadeloupe.
ENJOYING DELICIOUS LOCAL CUISINE
Guadeloupe is not necessarily known for its food, which combines French and Caribbean flavors (that I normally loved!). We struggled to find places to eat that were nice, but they do exist! Plenty of restaurants on the island serve traditional dishes like accras (deep-fried fish cakes) and boudin (blood sausage). For an unforgettable dining experience, head to La Touna in Saint-Francois or Le Jardin Malanga in Trois-Rivieres. We also dined at La Rocher de Malendure which had decent food (don’t get the Poke bowl) but epic views of the sea, the Pigeon islands, and sunset.
TAKING A DAY TRIP TO THE SAINTS
Les Saintes is a beautiful archipelago located just a short boat ride from Guadeloupe. The islands are known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making them the perfect place for a day trip. Don’t miss the chance to explore the charming town of Terre-de-Haut and visit Fort Napoleon.
SAILING AROUND THE ISLAND
With its beautiful coastline and clear waters, Guadeloupe is a great place to go sailing. There are plenty of companies that offer boat rentals and guided tours. Spend the day exploring hidden coves and secluded beaches, or watch the sunset from the deck of your boat.
GO SURFING
The island is known for its surf. Catching some waves is one of the best things to do in Guadeloupe! Don’t know how to surf? Lessons are readily available on the island.
EXPLORING THE MARKET IN POINTE-A-PITRE
Pointe-a-Pitre is the largest city in Guadeloupe and is home to a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Spend a morning wandering through the market, sampling local delicacies, and picking up souvenirs to take home.
RELAXING ON THE BEACH
With its warm, clear waters and white sand beaches, Guadeloupe is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, but some of the most popular include Plage de la Caravelle and Plage de Grande Anse.
VISITING A RUM DISTILLERY
Guadeloupe is home to some of the best rum in the Caribbean, and there are plenty of distilleries on the island that offer tours and tastings. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the island’s famous rhum agricole, which is made from fresh sugarcane juice. We visited Distillerie Longueteau Abd Papa Rouyo…which may have made it home in our suitcases with us.
SNORKELING OR DIVING IN THE CORAL REEFS
Guadeloupe is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the Caribbean, making it the perfect place for snorkeling or diving. There are plenty of tour companies that offer guided trips to the best spots, so don’t miss the chance to explore the underwater world of Guadeloupe.
VISIT GUADELOUPE’S BLUE LAGOON
DISCOVERING THE ISLAND’S HISTORY AND CULTURE
Guadeloupe has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from French, African, and Caribbean traditions. There are plenty of museums and historical sites on the island.
UNFORTUNATELY, AS RABBIE BURNS ONCE WROTE, EVEN THE BEST-LAID PLANS OF MICE AND MEN OFTEN GO AWRY. THAT IS WHY WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TAKING OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE TO COVER ALL EVENTUALITIES. OUR PARTNER, TRAVEL INSURED, IS OUR PREFERRED VENDOR FOR OUR CLIENT AND PERSONAL TRAVELS.
Thanks for all the information you are sharing, very useful. And your photos are amazing
Of course, I hope you enjoy Guadeloupe!