The 8 things to do in Pointe-à-Pitre

Would you like to stay in Guadeloupe and discover its capital? Discover the 7 essential things to visit in Pointe-à-Pitre!

Guadeloupe is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Indeed, it is very appreciated for its heavenly beaches with white sand, but also for its rich colonial past. In these conditions, there is something to delight every traveler in search of escape. The climate is pleasant and tropical throughout the year and the dishes are delicious. This is why we deliver you the 8 essential things to visit in Pointe-à-Pitre to spend an unforgettable stay.

1. The beaches

The beach of Gosier

Located south of the island, the famous Gosier beach faces the islet that bears the same name. It is particularly appreciated because it is safe from the wind, which makes it a quiet and quiet corner to enjoy the joys of the farniente. In addition, you can also observe pelican colonies.

The beach of the Caravelle

Unlike the beach of Gosier, the Caravelle, known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, will be less tranquil than the previous one. Modern infrastructures make it a privileged place for diving departures and jet ski rental.

It is located on the road to Sainte-Anne and it is impossible to make the impasse on it to visit Pointe-à-Pitre.

2. Museums

Saint-John Perse Museum

This municipal museum pays tribute to the poet of the same name, also known Alexis Léger . This magnificent museum is located in a 19th century colonial house on two floors. You can find on the ground floor elements of the Creole culture, to which was part of the poet. On the top floor, works on the life of Saint John Perse are exhibited.

The special architecture of this museum is also a main curiosity for visitors. Indeed, its structure was created in the Eiffel workshops on the French continent in the metropolis, before being transported to Guadeloupe.

The Schœlcher Museum

Here it is a personal collection of the famous French abolitionist and journalist Victor Schœlcher who is honoured. The latter was a strong defender of the abolition of slavery.

You can admire the works of Antiquity in the 19th century as well as personal objects and memories of its own trips. This collection includes other works, all related to the history of slavery and abolition.

The ACT Memorial

This modern building denotes with other museums on the island, sheltered in older buildings. In the continuity of the Schœlcher Museum, it retraces the whole history of slavery in a permanent collection.

Slavery and segregationist periods are represented through elements of Antiquity up to today. This whole period represents the DNA of the island and the Caribbean. It is one of the must-sees if you want to visit Pointe-à-Pitre as a whole.

Beyond slavery, this museum presents numerous exhibitions to understand the Caribbean culture. Note that there is also a temporary exhibition and a media library to visit in the enclosure. A gateway is located outside the building and will allow you to explore the botanical garden of Morne Mémoire and have a breathtaking view of the bay of Pointe-à-Pitre.

3. Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral

Also nicknamed the Iron Cathedral, this curious church will surprise more than one. This real vestige marks an island crossed by hurricanes and earthquakes.

You can admire its composition made of arches and riveted iron beams. Especially since it has never been consecrated by the Catholic Church, yet it is locally called the cathedral.

4. Markets

This is one of the most important activities if you want to visit Pointe-à-Pitre and discover the secrets of it. Gastronomy is an integral part of the elements that define the richness of a culture. The West Indies do not escape the rule. This is why we warmly recommend you immerse yourself in the many markets of the city.

In this way, you will discover the colors and scents of Guadeloupe. There are two main markets, and many other local markets. All will offer you an authentic and unique experience. You can go to the Saint-Antoine market, the flower market, the Man Réau market, the Darse market or the Bergevin market.

5. La Place de la Victoire

Are you wondering what to do in Pointe-à-Pitre? Go visit this mythical square. Central point of the city, observe the royal mango trees and palm trees that make up the park.

This place is very appreciated by both locals and tourists. You'll find coffee to refresh yourself. Do not hesitate to stroll around and admire the style of the old houses on the east coast of the island.

6. A boat ride

Guadeloupe is an ideal destination for nautical activities, thanks to an incredible underwater richness, and for hiking through the paths lined by the miracles of nature. But why not visit Guadeloupe and Pointe-à-Pitre differently? From the Caribbean Sea for example?

Indeed, very nice excursions are to be made by boat from Pointe-à-Pitre as that leading to the island of Gosier, a paradise and bordered by a sparkling maritime life. It would be a shame not to rent a boat in Pointe-à-Pitre and thus miss the beautiful Caribbean setting that offers you.

7. Sports activities in Pointe-à-Pitre

Dive

If there is an activity not to be missed in Guadeloupe, it is scuba diving. The diversity of the island’s fauna and flora will enchant you.

For this, head to one of the many diving agencies in Guadeloupe.

Hiking

Another flagship activity on the island, the most famous hikes are easy and affordable. You can start with the Pointe des Châteaux hike, which is only 2 km without denial in an hour.

But it is also possible to hike along the coast and discover beautiful wild beaches. To do this, go to the Moule by the Year Conchou or the Salabouelle Anse. These activities take place around Pointe-à-Pitre.

The kayak

It is one of the most plebiscities of the island. Visit Pointe-à-Pitre by the sea is a fabulous opportunity to discover the mangrove and the different islands around Guadeloupe. A different and instructive way to know the corner otherwise by discovering local biodiversity.

Take mask and tuba. Diving breaks will be appreciated by tou·te·s and will allow you to learn more about the biotope and animal species of the island.

8. Nightlife

Visiting Pointe-à-Pitre is also discovering what is happening at night. For this, go to the marina of Pointe-à-Pitre/Gosier to Grande-Terre . There are many bars to celebrate the way Guadelaideans are.

Some places are very popular and lively. Thus, you can enjoy the atmosphere of restaurants turning into a night dance trail. If you're wondering what to do in Pointe-à-Pitre in the evening, more doubt about your destination.

How to get to Pointe-à-Pitre?

By plane from France

The fastest and cheapest way to reach the capital of Guadeloupe is the plane. All year round you will find very attractive prices from Paris. To find out the best times to visit Pointe-à-Pitre, go to the flight comparison Skyscanner . Know that the duration of a flight from the capital lasts approximately 8:30 a.m.

In the second place, you have several possibilities:

• Taxi : very widespread on the island;
• Bus : they are very developed and it is one of the most used means by the premises;
• Ferry : to move from one island to another;
• Car rental : the most expensive option.

Where to stay in Pointe-à-Pitre?

Would you like to find the best place to visit Pointe-à-Pitre? You will have no trouble making your choice among the many offers on the island. To help you, go on one Compare hotels .

The most pleasant areas to stay in Pointe-à-Pitre are outside the city, on the side of Lower Earth. In addition, many Airbnb charm and quality cottages are present in the capital of Guadeloupe. Prices vary depending on the season. Learn and take care to book in advance.