Nestled on the west coast of Basse-Terre, Malendure is a prime destination for nature lovers and marine adventure enthusiasts. With its volcanic black sand, turquoise waters and direct access to the famous Cousteau Reserve, this little corner of paradise in Guadeloupe attracts visitors in search of unique experiences every year. Whether you’re into scuba diving, snorkeling or simply looking for a relaxing moment by the water, Malendure has something for everyone.
In this article, we take you on a tour of the must-do activities on your visit to Malendure. Get your mask and flippers ready, adventure awaits!
Scuba diving at Malendure
Malendure is undoubtedly one of the best scuba diving spots in Guadeloupe. Its flagship attraction, the Cousteau Reserve, attracts divers from all over the world, enchanted by the richness and diversity of its seabed.
Diving in the Réserve Cousteau is like diving in a natural aquarium. The waters here are incredibly clear, offering perfect visibility for exploring the coral reefs, populated by a multitude of tropical fish, turtles…
If you’re lucky, you may even come across schools of barracuda or majestic stingrays gliding silently through the depths. And for history buffs, some dives will take you to submerged wrecks, relics of the past that add a fascinating dimension to underwater exploration.
Snorkeling in Malendure
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Guadeloupe, snorkeling at Malendure is an activity not to be missed. Accessible to all, this site is perfect for exploring the underwater world without the need for deep diving. With your mask and snorkel, you can admire an abundance of marine life just beneath the surface.
Petit Malendure beach is an ideal starting point for a snorkeling session. Less crowded than the main beach, it offers direct access to crystal-clear, protected water, where turtles are a common sight. You’ll be amazed by the diversity of species you can observe, from parrotfish and stingrays to juvenile barracudas darting between the rocks. All just a few meters from the shore.
In addition to its marine life, Petit Malendure beach offers an idyllic setting for relaxing after a snorkeling session. You can bask in the volcanic black sand, while enjoying the view of the îlets Pigeon rising to the horizon.
Glass-bottom boat trip to Malendure
If you want to discover Malendure ‘s underwater world without even getting wet, a glass-bottom boat trip is the ideal solution. One of the best ways to explore these wonders is aboard the Nautilusa boat specially designed to offer a breathtaking view of the marine life lurking beneath the surface.
The Nautilus takes you on a voyage of discovery of the Cousteau Reserve and its incredible marine ecosystems. Thanks to its glass bottom, you can observe coral reefs, multicolored tropical fish and maybe even a few turtles swimming peacefully from the boat. It’s a fascinating experience, accessible to all, including children and non-divers.
This excursion lets you appreciate the richness of the îlets Pigeon without having to don mask and snorkel. You’ll be comfortably seated, while discovering the underwater wonders for which Malendure is famous. It’s also an excellent alternative for the physically challenged, the elderly, children or simply those who prefer to stay dry while enjoying the beauty of the underwater world.
Kayaking in Malendure
For those who like to combine sport and discovery, kayaking in Malendure is an ideal activity. Here, the calm sea and breathtaking scenery lend themselves perfectly to exploration in complete serenity. And what could be better than paddling quietly while enjoying the exceptional setting offered by the îlets Pigeon?
These small islets, just a stone’s throw from the coast, are famous for their protected seabed, but are just as fascinating to discover above ground. Renting a kayak in Malendure lets you get close to the îlets Pigeon at your own pace, while admiring the crystal-clear waters that surround them.
The crossing to the îlets Pigeon is generally accessible to all, even beginners. Once there, you can take a break on one of the small sandbanks or continue exploring the rocky coastline, which is teeming with life. You can also combine this outing with a snorkeling session, as the seabed around the islets is particularly rich.
Hiking in Malendure
Malendure is not only a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It’s also an ideal place for hikers in search of nature and tranquillity. Among the itineraries not to be missed, the Petit Malendure trail offers a beautiful walk, accessible to all, which allows you to discover the richness of the local vegetation and spectacular views over the Caribbean Sea.
This trail winds through dense tropical forest, where you can admire a wide variety of plants and trees typical of Guadeloupe. The hike is relatively short, but offers a complete change of scenery, far from the hustle and bustle of the beaches.
The Petit Malendure trail also leads to magnificent views over Malendure Bay and the îlets Pigeon. These panoramas are well worth the detour and are perfect for a photo break.
Relaxation in Malendure
After a day rich in marine and land adventures, it’s time to relax. And what better way to do so than on Malendure beach? This emblematic beach, with its black volcanic sand and unspoilt natural setting, is the perfect place for a well-deserved break.
Malendure beach is bordered by clear, calm waters, ideal for a relaxing swim. The atmosphere here is relaxed, and it’s easy to get carried away by the gentle rhythm of the waves. It’s the perfect place to spread out your towel, immerse yourself in a good book or simply admire the view of the îlets Pigeon in the distance.
Malendure is a true gem of Guadeloupe, offering a range of activities to suit all tastes. Whether you’re an adventurer looking for underwater thrills, a nature lover wanting to explore the trails, or simply looking to relax on an idyllic beach, Malendure has it all.
From diving in the Cousteau Reserve to a peaceful kayak or glass-bottom boat trip aboard the Nautilus, every moment spent at Malendure is an invitation to discovery and wonder. And let’s not forget moments of relaxation on Malendure beach, where the black sand and turquoise sea provide the ideal setting for recharging your batteries.
Whichever way you choose to enjoy Malendure, this unique destination will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, are you ready to dive into this Guadeloupean adventure? Malendure is waiting for you!