Guadeloupe, the jewel of the Caribbean, is a dream destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs and exceptional marine life, every snorkeling experience is an unforgettable adventure.
Among the many spots to discover, some stand out for their beauty and accessibility, such as the famous Cousteau Reserve and the îlets Pigeons. For an even more immersive and secure experience, Le Nautilus, with its glass-bottomed boat, invites you to explore these marine treasures from another angle, combining wonder and respect for the environment.
La Réserve Cousteau: Malendure beach and Pigeon islets
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, the Réserve Cousteau is a veritable sanctuary for sea lovers. This emblematic Guadeloupe site is internationally recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. Its beating heart? The îlets Pigeons, marine jewels surrounded by crystal-clear waters where time seems to stand still.
A preserved ecosystem to discover
The Cousteau Reserve is a protected area of vibrant coral reefs. From parrotfish to sea turtles and schools of tropical fish, each dive reveals a unique spectacle. The calm, clear waters around Plage de Malendure, the reserve’s gateway, make this site perfect for snorkeling, even for beginners.
An authentic experience with Le Nautilus
For immersive exploration, nothing beats a glass-bottom boat excursion with Le Nautilus. This activity, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, lets you observe the seabed without getting wet. You’ll marvel at the colors of the coral and the dance of the fish beneath your feet, all accompanied by the fascinating explanations of an expert guide.
For the more adventurous, the experience continues in the water, mask and snorkel in hand, to get closer to the marine treasures of the îlets Pigeons. It’s an unforgettable encounter with a fascinating world, where every minute spent underwater becomes a memory engraved forever.
Why the Cousteau Reserve is a must-see
Ranked among the most beautiful marine spots in the Caribbean, the Réserve Cousteau is an invitation to escape. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or simply curious to discover the magic of the seabed, this site offers total immersion in the natural wealth of Guadeloupe.
Anse à la Barque: peaceful immersion
Anse à la Barque, located on the west coast of Guadeloupe, more precisely in the commune of Bouillante, offers a different, more intimate and serene experience for snorkeling enthusiasts. This site, still untouched by mass tourism, seduces with its authenticity and peaceful atmosphere.
A cove rich in biodiversity
Surrounded by green hills, Anse à la Barque is a natural cove where marine life flourishes. The calm, shallow waters make it easy to explore the coral reefs and observe a variety of species, including angelfish, juvenile barracuda and starfish.
This site is particularly popular with beginner snorkelers, thanks to its accessible depth and waters protected from currents. It’s also perfect for those looking for immersion away from the hustle and bustle of tourist beaches.
A timeless experience
Snorkeling at Anse à la Barque means diving in an exceptional natural setting, surrounded by absolute calm. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, as the environment here is so well preserved.
For history buffs, the area also abounds in marine relics, testimony to Guadeloupe’s colonial past. A perfect combination of underwater exploration and cultural discovery.
Plage du souffleur: snorkeling from the shore
Plage du Souffleur, located on the Grande-Terre in Port-Louis, is much more than just a place to relax. Behind its golden sands and turquoise waters lies an accessible snorkeling spot, perfect for a light, pleasant immersion in the seabed.
An experience just a mask away
Here, there’s no need for a boat to enjoy the underwater beauty. From the shore, simply don your mask and snorkel to discover a rich and colorful ecosystem. The proximity of coral reefs allows you to observe tropical fish such as damselfish and butterflyfish, as well as anemones and sea urchins in their natural habitat.
The shallow waters make this site particularly suitable for beginners and families. With just a few strokes of the fins, you’re immersed in a captivating aquatic spectacle, with no logistical constraints.
Between idleness and exploration
Plage du Souffleur is the perfect place to combine snorkeling and relaxation. After a session in the water, you can relax on the warm sand, surrounded by postcard-perfect scenery. It’s also an ideal spot to watch the sunset after a day of marine exploration.
Leroux Beach: a rendezvous for sea turtles
Leroux beach, a jewel nestling on the southwest coast of Guadeloupe in Deshaies, is a must for snorkeling enthusiasts in search of magical encounters. The site is particularly renowned for its population of sea turtles, which gracefully evolve in its crystal-clear waters.
An unforgettable encounter with turtles
At Leroux beach, it’s not uncommon to come across green or hawksbill turtles during a snorkeling session. These majestic creatures, often seen near seagrass beds, are a fascinating and moving sight for anyone observing them.
The site’s clear, shallow waters allow a respectful approach, ideal for contemplating these turtles in their natural habitat without disturbing them. The site is perfect for a family experience, with children and adults alike able to enjoy this unique encounter.
Much more than a snorkelling spot
As well as turtles, Leroux beach is home to a rich and varied biodiversity. The coral reefs teem with colorful tropical fish, lobsters and sometimes even stingrays. With its calm, unspoilt atmosphere, Leroux beach is a true immersion in Guadeloupean nature.
Les Salines at Pointe des Châteaux: wild snorkeling
The Salines beach at Pointe des Châteaux, located at the eastern tip of Grande-Terre, is best known for its breathtaking scenery and wind-sculpted cliffs. But for adventurers looking for a different kind of snorkeling experience, it also offers a unique immersion in a wild and unspoilt marine environment.
Raw nature to explore
Unlike the calm waters of the more sheltered coves and beaches, those of Pointe des Châteaux offer a more adventurous experience. The seabed here is rich in marine life, but requires some caution due to the sometimes powerful currents. Experienced snorkelers will discover a variety of species, including boxfish, triggerfish and, with a little luck, stingrays and barracudas.
Coral reefs here are often more robust, a testament to their exposure to the waves. This spectacular and impressive underwater scenery adds a whole new dimension to snorkeling.
Between sea and land
Pointe des Châteaux is also a place where the grandeur of the Caribbean Sea meets theimmensity of the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views. After your underwater exploration, a hike to the cross at the top of the point will allow you to embrace this natural beauty in its entirety.
This site is a perfect marriage of land adventure and water exploration, where every visitor can feel the power and magic of Guadeloupe’s nature.
Tips for a successful snorkeling trip in Guadeloupe
To make the most of your snorkeling sessions in Guadeloupe, there are a few precautions and tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right equipment: a suitable mask, a comfortable snorkel and fins are essential. And don’t forget a flotation jacket for beginners.
- Check the weather conditions: calm seas and good visibility guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Respect the flora and fauna: don’t touch the coral or disturb the marine animals. Observe them with discretion to preserve these fragile ecosystems.
- Choose supervised activities: like the excursions offered by Le Nautilus, for a guided, safe discovery of the best spots.
With these tips, you can enjoy unforgettable moments while helping to protect Guadeloupe’s marine riches.
Snorkeling in Guadeloupe is a must for discovering the richness of its seabed. Whether you prefer calm, accessible waters or wilder sites, each spot offers a unique adventure, suitable for all levels.
To enhance your experience, be sure to visit the Réserve Cousteau and the îlets Pigeons with Le Nautilus. Let yourself be guided by passionate experts and discover a fascinating marine world, visible both from the boat and underwater. An adventure you’ll never forget, in the heart of the wonders of Guadeloupe.