Pointe-a-Pitre is the capital city of Guadeloupe, a French island in the Caribbean located near Dominica and Antigua. This is the southernmost island in the Leeward Islands. Over the years, this island has had an interesting history. It was originally named Karukera, which means the island of beautiful waters. Columbus named it Guadeloupe after the Virgin Mary image that was praised in Spain. Since the arrival of Europeans in the Caribbean, the island has been British, French and Swedish. Now the island is French and relies on tourism as its main economic industry. Featured below are some of the best ways to spend your time touring Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe:
Pointe-à-Pitre, located on the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, is a lively and charming port city that offers a unique blend of French Caribbean culture, colonial architecture, and natural beauty. With its rich history, vibrant markets, and beautiful beaches, you’re in for a delightful day of exploration. Here's how to make the most of your time in Pointe-à-Pitre during your cruise stop.
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Explore the City’s Colonial Architecture
Start your day by wandering through the downtown area of Pointe-à-Pitre to admire its colonial architecture. The city is known for its colorful buildings, French colonial-style houses, and bustling streets. A stroll around Place de la Victoire will introduce you to the central square, lined with palm trees and historical buildings.
Tip: Visit La Maison de la Canne (The Sugar Cane House) to learn about Guadeloupe’s sugar-making history and culture.
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Shop at the Local Markets
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by visiting the Pointe-à-Pitre Market. Here, you’ll find vibrant stalls selling local produce, spices, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the Marché de la Darse for fresh fish and Caribbean ingredients, or head to the Marché Saint-Antoine for traditional Caribbean food products and artisanal goods.
Tip: Sample some local delicacies like boudin créole (blood sausage) or accras (fried fritters made with saltfish).
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Visit the Memorial ACTe
For a deeper understanding of the island’s history, head to the Memorial ACTe, an impressive museum dedicated to the history of slavery and the Atlantic slave trade. The museum is housed in a striking building with interactive exhibits that explore the African diaspora and Guadeloupe's role in the transatlantic slave trade. It's a powerful and educational experience.
Tip: Allow around 1-2 hours to explore the exhibits and gain insights into Guadeloupe’s past.
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Relax at the Beach
After some sightseeing, head to Plage de la Datcha, a beautiful beach located just a short distance from Pointe-à-Pitre. This beach offers calm waters, golden sands, and great facilities, making it ideal for a relaxing swim or lounging by the sea. If you're looking for a quieter spot, consider visiting Plage de la Toubana or Plage de Gosier, both of which offer stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, as the sun can be intense, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the warm Caribbean waters.
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Take a Boat Tour to the Nearby Islands
Guadeloupe is made up of several islands, and if you have a bit more time, consider taking a boat tour to explore some of the nearby islands, such as Îles des Saintes, Marie-Galante, or La Désirade. These islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and exploring marine life.
Tip: Many boat tours depart from Pointe-à-Pitre and offer snorkeling stops or visits to secluded beaches.
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Visit the Guadeloupe Aquarium
If you're interested in marine life, the Guadeloupe Aquarium is a great stop. Located in Le Gosier, a short distance from Pointe-à-Pitre, the aquarium showcases the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Caribbean Sea, featuring a variety of tropical fish, turtles, and coral reefs. It’s both educational and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Tip: Spend around an hour here, and be sure to check out the touch tanks for a hands-on experience with marine creatures.
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Tour the Distilleries
Guadeloupe is known for its rum production, and if you enjoy spirits, visiting one of the local rum distilleries is a must. Consider taking a tour of Distillerie Bologne or Distillerie Damoiseau, where you can learn about the rum-making process, tour the sugar cane fields, and sample some of the island's finest rums.
Tip: Don't forget to purchase a bottle of local rum as a souvenir!
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Hike in the National Park of Guadeloupe
For nature lovers, the National Park of Guadeloupe offers beautiful hiking trails and lush rainforest landscapes. While this may require a short drive from Pointe-à-Pitre, the park is home to stunning waterfalls, volcanic mountains, and diverse flora and fauna. The Sainte-Rose Waterfall and Carbet Waterfalls are particularly popular.
Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and be prepared for a moderate hike to truly experience the park's natural beauty.
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Visit Fort Fleur d'Épée
Take a step back in time and visit Fort Fleur d'Épée, a historic fort dating back to the 18th century. Located in Le Gosier, the fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the island of Grande-Terre. You’ll learn about the history of Guadeloupe’s colonial past and the role the fort played during the island’s defense against invasions.
Tip: Visit the fort in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
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Indulge in Caribbean Cuisine
A trip to Guadeloupe wouldn't be complete without savoring the delicious local cuisine. Head to one of the local restaurants or beachside eateries to enjoy fresh seafood, colombo (a Caribbean curry dish), or tartes au coco (coconut tart). Be sure to try the famous Ti' Punch, a local cocktail made with rum, lime, and sugarcane syrup.
Tip: For an authentic dining experience, try a Creole feast at La Table de Mamy Nounou or Le Poisson d'Or in Pointe-à-Pitre.
Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and Caribbean charm. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historical sites, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in local cuisine, you’ll have no shortage of things to do during your one-day visit. Enjoy the warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and stunning surroundings of this beautiful island as you create unforgettable memories during your cruise stop. Safe travels!