Must-see beaches & sights in Guadeloupe

Long pale-sand beach on the road to Pointe des Châteaux.

White-sand beach with coconut palms on Marie-Galante.

Aquarium modernised in 2018, with over 50 tanks recreating the archipelago's coral reef, mangrove and sandy seabeds. The visit includes interactive areas, such as a turtle hospital, and free audio guides.

Short rainforest walk on the Route de la Traversée.

The National Park's iconic waterfalls, with a developed path to the 2nd fall.

Founded in 1942 on the former Bellevue estate, this family distillery is the only one still operating on Grande-Terre. The tour covers the agricultural rum production line, the distillation columns and the ageing cellar, with an on-site shop.

Short crossing to Les Saintes.

Ferries to Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Désirade.

Former sugar estate, now Marie-Galante's eco-museum.

Small islet reachable by shuttle boat or kayak; snorkelling.

Tropical garden designed by landscape architect Michel Gaillard on Coluche's former estate, with rare plants, waterfalls and viewpoints. You can also see flamingos and lorikeets, and the site has a restaurant and a shop.

Discovery site devoted to cocoa, from plantation to artisan chocolate making. Guided or self-guided tours, workshops and tastings all year round.

Colourful harbourside market: fruit, spices, fish.

Spices, fruit, flavoured rums and crafts by the sea.

Cultural centre opened in 2015 on the site of the former Darboussier sugar factory, dedicated to the memory of slavery and the slave trade. Its permanent exhibition traces history from the late 15th century to the present day; allow at least half a day.

Shallow lagoon sheltered by the coral reef, very calm.

One of the island's largest beaches, with golden sand.

Volcanic-sand beach; swimming depends on the swell.

Reef-sheltered beach popular with families.

Large white-sand beach with calm water and a lagoon, ideal for families.

Town beach overlooking the Îlet du Gosier.

Departure point for diving and snorkelling trips to the Pigeon Islets.

Shady town beach with snack bars nearby.

The northernmost point of Guadeloupe, with 80 m cliffs.