The beaches of Bouillante look nothing like the white-sand postcards of Grande-Terre, and that is exactly their charm. Here on Guadeloupe’s Leeward Coast, the Côte-sous-le-Vent, the volcano has shaped coves of grey and black sand, fringed by rainforest, with calm, clear water where you can swim with sea turtles.
And if you dream of golden sand, the big beaches of Deshaies are barely half an hour’s drive away. Here is our selection of remarkable beaches to discover from our rentals, from south to north.
Anse à la Barque, the wild bay
Between Bouillante and Vieux-Habitants, Anse à la Barque is a deep, sheltered bay of turquoise water framed by tropical vegetation. Wild and undeveloped, it appeals to lovers of nature and peace.
Please note: Anse à la Barque is not a swimming area. Come for the scenery, a stroll and photos, not for a swim. The bay is also lovely to discover from the sea, on a boat trip.
The hot springs of Bouillante village
Bouillante owes its name to its volcanic activity: in the village, hot water bubbles up naturally from the ground. The hot springs of Bouillante village are an experience not to be missed, perfect at the end of the day to unwind after a boat trip or a hike.
Take care: the water temperature varies from one spot to another and can be very high. Always test it before getting in, especially with children.
Malendure, the turtle beach facing the Cousteau Reserve
About 3 km from our rentals, Malendure is Bouillante’s signature beach. Its grey-black sand faces the Pigeon Islets, at the heart of the Cousteau Reserve. The water is calm and clear, and a few kicks of your fins from the shore are often enough to meet sea turtles grazing on the seagrass.
It is also the best-equipped beach in the area: showers, toilets, restaurants, dive centres, kayak rental and the departure point of the glass-bottom boat. It gets very busy around midday, so come early in the morning to enjoy the calm and the turtles.
To find out more about activities from the beach, read our article Water Activities in Bouillante: Diving, Snorkelling and Kayaking from Malendure.
Petite Anse, the quieter neighbour
Not far from Malendure, Petite Anse offers a calmer alternative to its famous neighbour. Its turquoise water and modest size make it a good choice for a peaceful family swim or some reading in the shade.
Less crowded, it lets you enjoy the same Leeward Coast scenery without the crowds of busy days.
Plage Caraïbe, in Pointe-Noire
Heading north, Plage Caraïbe in Pointe-Noire stands out for its reddish-brown sand and family atmosphere. With picnic tables and benches, it is a weekend favourite with local families: a great place to share a truly local moment.
For a bite to eat, don’t miss the Karoz container on the beach, which serves excellent crepes. Swimming is pleasant here, and Pointe-Noire is worth a stop for the Maison du Cacao, where you can discover cocoa growing and chocolate making.
Plage de Leroux in Ferry: the best-kept secret
Between Pointe-Noire and Deshaies, in Ferry, Plage de Leroux is a very secluded and little-visited spot. No crowds here: just a small, peaceful beach, far from the hustle and bustle.
It is remarkable for its crystal-clear water and the quality of its seabed: a mask and snorkel are a must to enjoy the underwater show. A perfect stop for anyone looking for peace and unspoilt nature.
Grande Anse and Plage de la Perle, in Deshaies
About half an hour from Bouillante, Deshaies offers the golden-sand beaches of Basse-Terre:
- Grande Anse: over a kilometre of golden sand in a wide curve, lined with sea grapes and coconut palms. One of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
- La Perle: a blond-sand beach protected by a coral reef, with calm water and a view of the island of Montserrat. Snack bars and restaurants nearby.
Combine the day with a visit to Deshaies village and its botanical garden for a lovely outing along the Leeward Coast.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful beach in Bouillante?
Malendure is the most famous, facing the Cousteau Reserve and its turtles. For more peace and quiet, choose Petite Anse, or head to the secluded Plage de Leroux in Ferry.
Why is the sand black in Bouillante?
The Côte-sous-le-Vent is volcanic: the grey or black sand comes from the erosion of Basse-Terre’s volcanic rock.
Where can I see sea turtles near Bouillante?
At Malendure, often just a few metres from the shore. Watch them without touching or chasing them, and keep your distance.
Can you bathe in the hot springs of Bouillante?
Yes, the hot springs in Bouillante village are accessible. The water can be very hot: test the temperature before getting in.
Where can I find a golden-sand beach near Bouillante?
In Deshaies, about half an hour away: Grande Anse and Plage de la Perle.
What precautions should I take on the beaches?
Black sand heats up quickly, so bring sandals. Use reef-safe sunscreen, and never shelter under manchineel trees: they are toxic and often marked with a red band on the trunk.
Stay in Bouillante
Studio Marlin and the Kaz’Basse and Foufou bungalows are in Bouillante, on the Côte-sous-le-Vent, 3 km from Malendure beach and the Cousteau Reserve. Book direct with the owners: a pool, and €60 to €100 per night.
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