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Guadeloupe is a French-Caribbean archipelago that is made up of several islands. While it’s become increasingly easy for U.S travelers to get to thanks to new cheap flight routes, it’s still a relatively hidden gem in the Caribbean. There are nearly three hundred beaches across the five main islands that make up Guadeloupe, so you’re truly spoiled with choices. We’ve selected six of the best beaches in Guadeloupe, so you can kick back with a fresh coconut. From black, volcanic sand beaches through to perfect, golden bays, here are our top picks:
1. Grande-Anse Beach, Basse-Terre
Grande-Anse Beach in Basse-Terre is the largest and most famous beach in Guadeloupe. The beach has a perfect, golden bay and is framed by dense palm trees, where you can take a nap when it’s time to escape the midday sun. The sea can sometimes be a bit choppy, so take care when swimming and keep an eye on children at all times. The beach has an incredible sunset, so kick back with a beer from one of the shacks and marvel at the sky.
2. Datcha Beach, Gosier
Datcha Beach on the island of Grand-Terre has sugary white sand and turquoise waters. From the beach, you can see a traditional red and white lighthouse that is located on the nearby Gosier island. There are a couple of shacks offering watersports including kayaking and windsurfing.
3. Plage de la Perle, Basse-Terre
Plage de la Perle is a golden beach on the island of Basse-Terre. The bay is protected by a coral reef and it’s an amazing place to snorkel or dive. The beach has a couple of restaurants that serve up fresh fish at lunchtime, alongside delicious French-Creole dishes.
4. Plage Malendure, Basse-Terre
Plage Malendure on the island of Basse-Terre is a striking beach with black, volcanic sand. For serious divers, this is the beach for you. Many people head here to start their dive outings as it’s close to the incredible coral reefs on the Cousteau Reserve and Pigeon Islands. When you need to cool down, there are some great beach shacks serving up fresh coconuts and tropical juices.
5. Bois Jolan Beach, Saint Anne
Bois Jolan Beach on the island of Grand-Terre is a family-friendly beach with shallow waters and minimal development. The beach has plenty of palm trees for shade and during the week you can see only a handful of tourists and a few locals taking a dip. There are a couple of restaurants serving up lunchtime meals.
6. Petite Anse du Pain de Sucre, Terre-de-Haut
Petite Anse du Pain de Sucre on the island of Terre-de-Haut is a secret beach that is easier to get to by sea than to access by land, due to the incredibly steep path down to the water’s edge. The beach has perfectly clear emerald waters and is relatively empty during the weekdays. On the weekends the beach draws in a crowd.