Tucked away on the west coast of Basse-Terre, Deshaies is one of the most charming villages in Guadeloupe. With its legendary beach, botanical garden, colorful town made famous by a TV series, and proximity to the Cousteau Reserve, the town and its Leeward Coast offer plenty of wonderful days out. Here’s what to do in Deshaies and the surrounding area.
Grande Anse Beach, the jewel of Deshaies
A vast stretch of golden sand lined with coconut and raisiniers, Grande Anse is Deshaies’s postcard-perfect beach and one of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe. Perfect for a relaxing day and for watching the sunset, it can sometimes have a few waves: be careful when swimming.
The Deshaies Botanical Garden
Set on the former property of comedian Coluche, this lush garden features water lilies, waterfalls, parrots, and hundreds of tropical species. A peaceful outing, very popular with families, and one of the Must-See Attractions in Guadeloupe.
Strolling through the village of Deshaies
This former fishing village charms visitors with its colorful houses, small harbor, and seaside restaurants. TV series fans will recognize the setting from “Meurtres au Paradis,” which was filmed here: the police station, the beach bar, and the narrow streets are all part of the local charm. Perfect for a Creole lunch break.
Other beaches and coves along the Leeward Coast
South of Deshaies, the leeward coast is dotted with more secluded coves: the rugged Plage de la Perle, a favorite among surfers; Anse à la Barque with its calm waters; and small coves perfect for snorkeling, where the seabed slopes gently downward.
Just a stone’s throw away: the Cousteau and Malendure Nature Reserve
About 20 minutes south, Malendure Beach marks the entrance to the famous Cousteau Reserve. This is the highlight of the Leeward Coast: set out on a glass-bottom boat tour Head to the Pigeon Islets and admire the fish and coral without getting wet. To plan this stop, see Things to Do in Malendure.
What are some things to do in Deshaies with kids?
Deshaies is an ideal family destination: the waters of Grande Anse for splashing around, the botanical garden and its birds—which fascinate the little ones—and the nearby glass-bottom boat tour, suitable for even the youngest children. It’s enough to fill a wonderful, relaxing day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to see in Deshaies in one day?
Grande Anse Beach in the morning, the botanical garden in the middle of the day, then a stroll through the colorful village in the late afternoon. If you want to extend your visit, the Cousteau Reserve in Malendure is only twenty minutes away.
Where can you go swimming in Deshaies?
Grande Anse Beach is the best known, with its wide stretch of golden sand. For calmer or wilder waters, head to the nearby coves along the Leeward Coast, such as Anse à la Barque.
Is Deshaies the filming location for “Meurtres au Paradis”?
Yes. The village of Deshaies serves as the main setting for the British series *Death in Paradise*, even though the island is renamed in the show. The harbor and the narrow streets are easily recognizable.
How long does it take to get from Deshaies to the Cousteau Reserve?
It’s about a 20- to 25-minute drive south to Malendure Beach, the starting point for excursions to the Cousteau Reserve.
With its dreamy beach, tropical garden, and fishing village, Deshaies embodies all the charm of the Leeward Coast. And to experience the highlight of your trip, continue on to Malendure and book your glass-bottom boat tour in the Cousteau Reserve.