4 Best Hotels in Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe

The seafront section of Bois Joli, which sits apart from the main hotel, houses Terre-de-Haut's best guest rooms—the architecture and design suggest a luxury yacht, including dark wood accents and portholes. Large rooms have quality bedding and contemporary baths and are just a bit more than regular rooms (and worth the upgrade); corner rooms have the best views. Seafront bungalows are a better choice for families, where bunk beds and the proximity to the pool and beach offer kid appeal. Breakfast is pleasant, and the restaurant turns out generous portions of French-Creole cuisine. The village is almost two miles (3 km, about 40 minutes by foot) down the hill; most guests learn that they do not want to walk back.

You'll feel like the king of the hill as you rock yourself to sleep in a hammock on the terrace of your apartment or gaze down on the sea below. The apartments (for four to six people) with terrace kitchens are appealing and well-maintained. Couples should ask for the newest studios, which have handcrafted stone and tile work. Tricolor bougainvillea surrounds the pool, and the beach is a 10-minute walk away. Guests share the barbecue grills and picnic table—the English-speaking manager has a fresh fish and lobster connection. Bicycles are rented out.

This charismatic landmark inn, which draws both couples and families, has simple, tile-floor rooms with enviable hillside views overlooking the bay. The main building has the charm of decades past, with dormers and gingerbread fretwork. The lobby is painted in whimsical colors—white, avocado, mango, and chocolate on the window trim. The pool and deck make up the hotel's center and have their own views of the beautiful bay. Dinner here is one of the best options on-island. 

This small, cheerful beachfront hotel is painted sunset orange with marine-blue trim; dramatic nightlights illuminate the beach area, which is furnished with chaises. The waterfront terrace is an ideal place to be at sunset, with a tropical daiquiri or planter’s punch in hand. Imaginative artwork decorates the guest rooms, which evoke faraway places like India and Africa. Soundproof double windows block out the annoying drone of the motor scooters. Breakfast (not included) offers eggs, cheese, fresh breads, homemade jams, coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.