Island Activities

Guadeloupe's beaches can be outstanding, but few resorts are on the island's best, which are mostly along the southern shore of Grande-Terre and the out-islands.

Visitors come instead for good diving, and the chance to hike and explore in Basse-Terre's wild national park.

Good water sports make up for sometimes mediocre hotel beaches; windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and Jet-skiing are all fun. Biking isn't limited to the annual race.

Enjoy dining at one of Guadeloupe's fine restaurants serving creole cuisine or aFranco-Caribbean fusion.

Although shopping isn't the best, night owls will find fun bars and clubs, and a lively music scene.

On the smaller islands —Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Les Saintes—relaxing, sunbathing, and soaking up some old-time Caribbean atmosphere usually rank among the top activities.

Guadeloupe has become a pioneer in certain sectors such as ecotourism, from canyoning to hiking to the volcano, every manner of boating excursion, major diving activity, and attractions such as Jardin Botanique.