Guadeloupe is a popular Caribbean cruise stop and you’ll soon discover that there’s no shortage of things to do on your cruise port day at this French island.
What’s interesting to know is that Guadeloupe is actually two main islands connected by a bridge:
- Basse-Terre | A wild, mountainous region full of waterfalls, jungles, and black-sand beaches
- Grande-Terre | Home to white-sand beaches, vibrant towns, and dramatic coastal cliffs
If you’re visiting on a cruise, planning ahead is key. On our MSC Virtuosa itinerary, we stopped in Guadeloupe twice, giving us the chance to experience both sides of the island. If you only have one day, just pick what sounds most appealing to you.
Ready to explore Guadeloupe? Then let’s dive in!
Below, I’ve divided the best activities into three categories: nature & adventure, beaches & coastal highlights, and culture & local life.
What To do In Guadeloupe | Nature & Adventure Activities
Hike to Chutes du Carbet
These spectacular waterfalls cascade down the mountains of Basse-Terre, surrounded by lush rainforest. The trail to the second waterfall is the easiest and most popular, taking about 45 minutes.
If you have a little extra time though, or want to avoid cruise ship crowds, then consider hiking to the first waterfall that’s are deeper inside the Guadeloupe National Park.
Explore Guadeloupe National Park
Covering 173 km² of rainforest, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. Trails lead to waterfalls, such as the Chutes du Carbet, volcanic peaks, and hot springs.
Check out some of the best options below, but you would need two or three days to explore it all:
- Summit La Soufrière volcano | Embark on a hike to the top of La Soufrière, an active volcano standing at 1,467 meters. The trail leads you through lush rainforest to the summit, where you’ll experience unique volcanic landscapes and panoramic views of the island. This activity alone takes a full day.
- Explore the two Mamelles | The park features two prominent peaks known as the Mamelles, each approximately 768 meters high. Hiking trails take you through dense rainforest, offering opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna.
- Drive the Route de la Traversée | This scenic road cuts through the heart of the park, providing access to various trailheads, picnic areas, and waterfalls. It’s a great way to experience the park’s interior without extensive hiking.
- Visit the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin Nature Reserve | Located within the park’s boundaries, this marine reserve is where you can explore mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds in between Grand-Terre and Basse-Terre. To discover this area it’s best to join this half-day boat tour from Sainte-Rose.
- Discover the Cascade aux Écrevisses | A short, accessible trail leads to this picturesque waterfall and natural pool, perfect for a refreshing swim amidst the tropical forest.
Snorkel in Réserve Cousteau
The Réserve Cousteau, just off Guadeloupe’s west coast is one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean. In this protected marine reserve you can swim with sea turtles, and spot colourful coral reefs.
The reserve is accessible via boat from Malendure Beach. From there most tour operators and dive centers include transportation to the reserve in their packages. It’s advisable to book your chosen activity, such as this guided boat tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
What To Do In Guadeloupe | Beaches & Coastal Highlights
Relax at Plage de la Caravelle
Plage de la Caravelle, located near Sainte-Anne, is one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful beaches. Here you’ll find soft white sand and crystal-clear water that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a beachside cocktail.
This beach is also often referred to as the “Club Med Beach” due to the adjacent resort. However, the beach remains open to the public, so you can also experience this peace of Caribbean paradise.
Visit Pointe des Châteaux
One of my favourite things to do in Guadeloupe was our visit to Pointe des Châteaux. This dramatic coastal viewpoint at Guadeloupe’s easternmost tip offers some breathtaking ocean views.
Here’s what you can do during your visit:
- Hike to the Cross | The best thing to do here at Pointe des Châteaux is an ascent to the Pointes des Colibris, where a 10-meter-high cross stands. The trail begins at the parking lot near Morne Petite Saline and winds through woody shrubs. Upon reaching the top, which takes about 20-30 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
- Walk on the beach | A walk on the Anse des Châteaux beach is another must-do here. However, due to powerful waves and strong currents, it’s not suitable for swimming. Instead of swimming enjoy the refreshing spray coming off the waves.
- Wander across the limestone rocks | This area is also perfect for wandering across the rugged limestone rocks, while soaking in the endless ocean views.
Swim at Plage Anse Bertrand
For a more tranquil beach escape, away from the crowds of Plage de la Caravelle, head to Plage Anse Bertrand. This picturesque stretch of sand, along with much of the northern coastline of Grande-Terre, is well worth exploring.
Beyond the stunning beach, make time for a visit to Pointe de la Grande Vigie, the northernmost point of the island. Here, you’ll find some pretty impressive cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, accessible via well-marked hiking trails.
What To Do In Guadeloupe | Culture & Local Life
Wander the Streets of Pointe-à-Pitre
This bustling city blends colonial history with modern Caribbean life. Stroll through Place de la Victoire, browse the colourful street markets, and soak in the vibrant energy. For a little more background on Pointe-à-Pitre’s history consider this guided afternoon walking tour.
One my personal highlights of Pointe-à-Pitre was the Centre des Arts et de la Culture, where you’ll find incredible graffiti murals and street art. The walls here are covered in bold, thought-provoking artwork, reflecting Guadeloupe’s history, identity, and social issues. If you loved the street art in Fort-de-France, you’ll definitely enjoy this!
Also read: 9 Things To Do In Fort-De-France On A Cruise Port Day
Tour a Rum Distillery
Like Martinique, Guadeloupe is renowned for its agricultural rum, crafted from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses. If you haven’t visited a rum distillery elsewhere in the Caribbean, this is a great opportunity.
Head to Damoiseau (the only distillery on Grand-Terre) or Bologne (on Basse-Terre), two of the island’s most well-known distilleries. At both these distilleries you can enjoy tastings and guided tours to learn more about the island’s rich rum-making tradition.
Please note that both are closed on Sunday and that tours in English are limited.
Visit Memorial ACTe
This powerful museum tells the story of slavery and the Caribbean’s colonial past. Its modern design and interactive exhibits make it a must-visit not just for history lovers, but also for architecture lovers.
Unfortunately we were not able to visit this museum during our time in Guadeloupe. But when we asked the host of our guesthouse in Dominica about some of her favourite things to do in the Caribbean, she praised this museum highly. So check it out if you have the chance, especially since it’s just a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise port terminal of Pointe-à-Pitre.
What To Do In Guadeloupe On A Cruise Port Day
If you’re visiting Guadeloupe on a cruise, you’ll likely dock in Pointe-à-Pitre, the island’s lively commercial center. With limited time, it’s important to plan your day wisely.
Since we had the chance to visit twice on our MSC Virtuosa cruise, we explored both sides of the island. Grande-Terre on one stop and Basse-Terre on the other.
Below, I’ve outlined two ideal cruise port day itineraries depending on what interests you most. To make the most of your day on the island I recommend to hire a vehicle to get around.
Cruise Port Day Option 1: Explore Grande-Terre (Beaches & Cliffs)
If you only have one day and want to see spectacular coastal views, enjoy some history and spend time on the beach, then Grand-Terre is where you should be headed.
Total travel time: ~2.5 hours on the road if you follow the attractions in the order described.
Morning: Morne-à-l’Eau Cemetery & Pointe des Châteaux
Morne-à-l’Eau Cemetery | Start your day driving to the Morne-à-l’Eau Cemetery. This one-of-a-kind burial ground with black-and-white checkerboard tombs is one of Guadeloupe’s most striking sights.
Pointe des Châteaux | From the cemetery continue your morning by heading to Pointe des Châteaux, a dramatic rocky cape at Guadeloupe’s easternmost point. The panoramic views of crashing waves and offshore islands are breathtaking.
Afternoon: Relax at Anse à la Gourde Beach
Anse à la Gourde | End your day unwinding at Anse à la Gourde, a gorgeous, less crowded beach with golden sand and turquoise waters.
Grab a drink at Chez Honoré, a local beach shack serving up fresh seafood and cocktails before heading back to the ship.
Cruise Port Day Option 2: Discover Basse-Terre (Rainforests & Waterfalls)
Alternatively, go for option 2 if you want to discover Basse-Terre if you enjoy hiking in nature and seek adventure at the island’s rainforest and waterfalls.
If you’re on the MSC Virtuosa’s Caribbean itinerary of two weeks your cruise will have a port day in Guadeloupe twice. Perfect if you cannot choose between the two options.
Total travel time: ~3 hours on the road if you follow the attractions in the order described.
Morning: Hike to Chutes du Carbet Waterfalls
Chutes du Carbet | Start your day with a visit to Chutes du Carbet, a series of towering waterfalls deep in the rainforest.
The trail to the second waterfall is the most accessible (about 45 minutes each way), offering stunning views. Be careful though as the paths are covered in moss and get very slippery.
Changy Hindu Temple | Before heading into the rainforest, make a quick stop at Changy Hindu Temple, one of the most important Hindu sites in Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe has a significant Indo-Caribbean population, descended from Indian laborers brought to the island in the 19th century.
Afternoon: Snorkel or kayak in Réserve Cousteau
Réserve Cousteau | After the hike, head to Réserve Cousteau, one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean.
To discover the Réserve Cousteau you best book a guided boat tour that departs from Bouillande. They can provide you with snorkeling equipment and take you to the best coral reefs as well as spots to find sea turtles.
Or if you want to go independently, then you can also rent a kayak with some snorkel gear and discover Réserve Cousteau on your own.
Food In Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe’s food scene is a delicious fusion of French cuisine and Creole flavours. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite in Pointe-à-Pitre or savouring fresh seafood by the beach, the island offers plenty of tasty options.
What to Eat in Guadeloupe
Here are some must-try dishes while you are in Guadeloupe, and in the next section where to eat them.
- Colombo de Poulet | A fragrant Creole chicken curry cooked with turmeric, cumin, and coconut milk. A must-try!
- Bokit | A deep-fried sandwich stuffed with anything from chicken to salted cod. Think of it as Guadeloupe’s take on a burger.
- Accras de Morue | Addictive little salted cod fritters, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Perfect as a snack or starter.
- Ti’ Punch | The signature Caribbean drink, made with rum, lime, and cane syrup. Strong but refreshing!
- Flambéed Bananas | A simple yet delicious dessert where bananas are caramelized in sugar and flambéed with rum.
Where to Eat in Pointe-à-Pitre & Beyond
Now that you know what to eat, let’s find out where to eat those dishes.
- Le Zagaya (Saint-François) | A waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood, Creole specialties, and cocktails with a view.
- Chez Honoré (Anse à la Gourde Beach) | Perfect for a laid-back beachside meal, serving grilled fish and local rum punch.
- La Touna (Bouillante, near Réserve Cousteau) | Great spot to grab lunch after snorkeling. Known for fresh seafood and Creole flavours.
- Coconut Coast (Le Gosier) | Fantastic Creole restaurant where you can try some of those typical Guadeloupe dishes.
Final Thoughts on Guadeloupe Cruise Port Day
So is Guadeloupe worth visiting? Absolutely! Whether you’re here for a few days or just stopping in Guadeloupe on a cruise port day, this island offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
With my two suggested itineraries, you can make the most of your time if visiting Guadeloupe on your Caribbean cruise. And apart from the sights, don’t leave without trying Colombo, bokit sandwiches, and a Ti’ Punch!
Have you been to Guadeloupe, or have any questions? Let me know in the comments below or on Instagram! I’d love to hear about your favourite experiences. And for more travel inspiration, sign up for my newsletter.
Planning your trip to the Caribbean? Check out my Caribbean Travel Guide for more inspiration, or continue reading with the lastest articles:
- Boiling Lake Hike in Dominica | A Tough Trek to a Bubbling Wonder
- Things To Do in Dominica & 3-Day Itinerary on the Nature Island
- What To Do In Antigua & Barbuda On A Cruise Port Day
- Saint Kitts Cruise Port Guide | What to See & Do in One Day
- St Maarten Cruise Port Guide | What to See & Do in One Day
- What to Do in Virgin Gorda & How to Visit On a Cruise Stop in Tortola
- What To Do In Grenada On A Cruise Stop | A One-Day Itinerary
- Cruising to Saint Vincent? Here’s How to Visit Bequia for the Day
- What To Do In Barbados On A Cruise Stop: Perfect One-Day Guide
- Saint Lucia | How to Make the Most of Your Cruise Port Day
