Things To Do
in Pointe-à-Pitre
Pointe-à-Pitre is Guadeloupe's dynamic economic hub and a gateway to the archipelago, blending French influence with Caribbean warmth. The city buzzes with colorful markets, lively street life, and a marina framed by palm trees and the turquoise sea. Its historic architecture, blend of Creole culture, and nearby natural beauty make it a great base for exploring the island chain.
Expect warm hospitality, delicious seafood, and easy access to both Grande-Terre beaches and the lush landscapes of Basse-Terre.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land at Pointe-à-Pitre Le Raizet Airport and take in the warm trade winds on the drive to your beachfront hotel. Check in, unpack, and slip on your flip-flops for the first taste of Caribbean relaxation. Wander down to Plage de la Datcha for soft sand underfoot and gentle waves lapping at the shore.
Settle into a beach chair and sip a cold ti-punch under a swaying palm. Dive into the clear blue water for a refreshing swim or try paddleboarding along the coastline. Sample local street food at a nearby kiosk—fresh fruit juices, accras, and grilled mahi-mahi.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner. Head to a waterfront restaurant and savor Creole flavors—spicy creole chicken, sautéed vegetables, and plantains. End the night with a stroll along the shore under a sky filled with stars and the sound of distant steel drum music.
Wake up to the buzz of the city and head to Marché Saint-Antoine, where vivid stalls overflow with tropical fruits, spices, and local handicrafts. Chat with vendors selling vanilla pods, coffee beans, and handmade jewelry crafted from seashells. Enjoy a quick bite of fresh tropical fruits and guava pastries as you explore the vibrant scene.
Tour the nearby Musée Saint-John Perse to learn about Guadeloupe's literary heritage set in a charming colonial edifice. Stroll through Place de la Victoire, admiring colorful Creole architecture and uncovering secret courtyards. Stop at a café for a leisurely lunch of bokit sandwiches filled with spicy meats and crunchy vegetables.
As the sun dips low, join a sunset cruise departing from the marina for a glass-bottom boat tour of the lagoon. Sip a rum cocktail while watching the sky shift in hues of orange and pink. Wrap up the evening with live zouk music at a local bar, dancing alongside friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week for 1 person | $40-90 |
| 💶Taxi ride (short trip within town) | $6-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/night | $60-120 |
| ☕Cafe coffee | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming culture and excellent Creole cuisine
- Beautiful beaches and easy access to nature and other islands
- Humidity and heat can be intense
- Some areas require longer drives to reach nature spots
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché central?" - Where is the central market?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Pointe-à-Pitre
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant stalls and colorful canopies create dynamic compositions early in the morning.
Industrial-chic harbor with fishing boats, cranes, and sunlit water—great for reflections.
Classic colonial architecture with arched windows and a tropical backdrop.
Cobbled streets, murals, and palm-fringed corners ideal for street photography.
Food in Pointe-à-Pitre
Pointe-à-Pitre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod fritters, a staple snack found in markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
A fluffy fried bread sandwich stuffed with meats, fish, or vegetables.
A fragrant Creole curry with chicken, pork, or seafood, typically served with rice.
Conch stews or grills, a local seafood specialty.
Smoked chicken with smoky, Caribbean flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant fruit stalls, spices, fresh seafood, and ready-to-eat Creole dishes.
Compact markets offering local snacks, fruits, and juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and a handshake; politeness goes a long way.
French is the official language; Creole is widely spoken in informal settings. Try to use basic French phrases.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; avoid loud behavior in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Pointe-à-Pitre
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, service is typically included; if not, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated. Taxis may round up to the nearest euro or dollar; guides and hotel staff often receive small tips for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns and hotels; euros are common, but US dollars are often easy to exchange. Cash is handy for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with lively festivals; brief showers possible in the afternoon; sea breezes help with heat.
Pleasant days with less rain; ideal for beach time, outdoor activities, and photography; evenings can be cooler.
Increased risk of tropical storms; monitor weather updates and secure plans during peak months.
Pointe-à-Pitre at Night
Hiking in Pointe-à-Pitre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Active volcanic peak in Guadeloupe National Park; challenging hike with summit views.
A trio of waterfalls along a rainforest trail in Basse-Terre; a popular multi-tier hike.
Forest trails with diverse flora and scenic viewpoints near Bouillante.
Airports
How to reach Pointe-à-Pitre by plane.
Also known as Le Raizet, the main gateway to Guadeloupe; located near Les Abymes, about 7-10 km from Pointe-à-Pitre; access by taxi or rental car.
Small domestic airport on Grande-Terre serving inter-island flights; convenient for quick island-hopping or scenic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group with a mix of African, French, and Caribbean influences.
A smaller but notable presence contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport on the island, with local leagues and casual pickup games.
Diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing are popular given the archipelago’s rich marine life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pointe-à-Pitre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In markets and most restaurants, ask for 'sans viande' or 'sans poisson'. Look for bean dishes, plantains, and fresh vegetables; you can often customize a vegetarian plate with rice, beans, plantains, and grilled vegetables.