Surrounded by the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, Guadeloupe is a French overseas department that attracts visitors looking for a mix of maritime adventure, beautiful beaches, and great food. While many people visit for a day on a shore excursion on Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre (the two main islands in the archipelago), it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to experience some of the many things to do in Guadeloupe. Highlights include sailing and snorkeling adventures, sampling local cuisine, and learning about Guadeloupe’s music and dance traditions such as Gwoka, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage tradition.
If you don’t mind crowds and premium prices, consider visiting Guadeloupe during the December–May dry season, when the weather is at its most pleasant. If you’re willing to risk the chance of rain, you can get much better deals on hotels and airfare if you come during one of the shoulder seasons (June–July and October–November). If you come in August or September, you risk getting caught in a hurricane.
The best way to get around Guadeloupe is to either rent a car and drive yourself or rely on taxis and guided tours. There is public transportation on the main island, but it’s not very reliable. Many people opt not to rent cars and instead base themselves in a beach town, as most island tours and excursions include pickup from local hotels.
If you're looking for souvenirs or just want to enjoy a bit of shopping and strolling without the sun beating down on you, pay a visit to Le Gosier Night Market, a seafront market held every Friday evening. Vendors at this open-air market sell everything from locally crafted jewelry to street food treats along with fruits, vegetables, and even bottles of rum.
