Part of the French Antilles, Guadeloupe is a fascinating Caribbean archipelago with a rich culture, delicious food and striking landscapes — including lush jungles, sandy beaches and an active volcano. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from rustic B&Bs to romantic luxury hotels fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst this Caribbean gem is made up of more than a dozen islands, most of the best places to stay in Guadeloupe are on Grand Terre and Basse Terre, connected like a butterfly’s delicate wings.

Many visitors choose to stay in verdant Grand Terre, home to Guadeloupe’s international airport. Bustling Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe’s economic capital, sits nearby and is a wonderful place to catch a glimpse of local life.

Once a charming fishing village and now a trendy holiday spot, Sainte-Anne is a great Grand Terre choice for families or sociable travellers. The beautiful beaches of Caravelle, Bois Jolan and Saint-Anne are within easy reach, and there are water sports aplenty. Expect a lively bar and restaurant scene, fun markets, and a collection of idyllic hotels and resorts. Neighbouring Saint-François is also a firm favourite. Tranquil Le Moule is more laid-back, with the excellent Edgar Clerc Archaeological Museum, a rum distillery and lots of spectacular cliff walks.

Adventurers should make for Basse Terre, Guadeloupe’s wilder jungle island. This is the place to go for zip-lining, forest hikes, waterfall swims and the chance to get close to fascinating La Soufrière, an active volcano set within the Parc National de la Guadeloupe. There are some superb rum distilleries in the area, too. Families will adore the Maison du Cacao, the Zoo de Guadeloupe, Deshaies’ Botanical Gardens and the golden stretch of Grand Anse beach.

Boat trips to the islands of Les Saintes and Petite Terre are spectacular, and there’s world-class diving and snorkelling in the waters of the archipelago. This part of the French Caribbean is also famed for its festivals — the best places to stay in Guadeloupe fill up fast during carnivals, saint’s days and arts celebrations, so book your trip well in advance to avoid missing out!

The Best Places to Stay in Guadeloupe

For a B&B

• Shambala Lodge has five airy guest bungalows with well-equipped kitchens and big terraces overlooking tropical gardens. There's a great swimming pool, good breakfasts and a wonderful wellness focus. Think yoga, massage and meditation onsite. A tranquil, adults-only B&B retreat.
• Carré Royal is a laid-back guesthouse, just a few minutes' walk from pretty Fort Royal beach. A low-key property run by a friendly couple, this intimate B&B features rooms and studios set within the main house and rustic bungalows — some of which have kitchens and private terraces. There's also a swimming pool. Small, simple and welcoming.
• Hotel Amaudo offers spacious guestrooms in lovely, colonial-era buildings close to Saint-François. Expect sea views from your balcony, a big infinity pool, generous breakfasts and an appealing nearby beach. For couples or families.

For Families

• Jardin Malanga consists of a heritage house — built in 1927 — and three cottages, at the foot of La Soufrière volcano. Triple rooms and family suites are ideal for those travelling with little ones, who will also adore the infinity pool and tropical gardens. One for nature lovers, this property has a rustic feel and access to heaps of outdoor activities, including scenic hikes. The chef's table is fabulous.
• Domaine Saint François has eight bungalows and two apartments in pretty Saint-François, within easy reach of some of Grand Terre's most impressive lagoons. The property abounds with fruit trees, there's a big swimming pool, and multi-room options are ideal for families. Bungalows come with their own BBQ areas so that you can cook up a Caribbean feast of your own!

For Romance

• La Toubana Hotel & Spa is an indulgent boutique hotel set right on the coast in superb Sainte-Anne. Hide away in a luxurious suite or private bungalow with glorious sea views. Spend your days at the beach, in the sea, at the soothing spa or unwinding by the infinity pool. The food and cocktails are terrific. A romantic escape — and a very special honeymoon choice.
• Le Relais du Moulin promises an elegant stay in one of 20 suites and 40 bungalows, tucked amidst lush gardens dominated by a historic windmill. Close to Sainte-Anne and Saint-François, this adult-only idyll offers gourmet dining and a restorative spa, as well as an art gallery and well-stocked library for culture aficionados. A chic base for couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Guadeloupe?

• Fly into Guadeloupe International Airport, often known as 'Pointe-à-Pitre Airport'. Travel to your destination by bus or taxi, or speak to your hotel to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• You'll find lots to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Balmy temperatures average between 25 - 28°C throughout the year, with the peak season lasting from November to mid-April. Be prepared for showers if you visit during the rainy hurricane season (June to November), although European summers are still a popular time for families to visit. To beat the crowds and make the most of great deals, time your trip for May or June.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Antigua.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Guadeloupe