Planning a stay on Guadeloupe’s Côte-sous-le-Vent and wondering where to base yourself? Bouillante is one of the best bases on Basse-Terre: a calm sea, the Cousteau Reserve right on the doorstep and the whole island within driving distance.
You still need to pick the right area and the right kind of accommodation. Here is our advice as locals on where to stay in Bouillante, whatever your plans and budget.
Why choose Bouillante for your stay
Bouillante lies on the west coast of Basse-Terre, sheltered from the trade winds. The Caribbean Sea is usually calm here, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Off Malendure beach, the Pigeon Islands and the Cousteau Reserve are among the finest dive sites in the Caribbean.
The town is also central:
- to the north, Deshaies, its botanical garden and pale-sand beaches are about thirty minutes away;
- to the south, Vieux-Habitants, the Carbet Falls and the Soufrière volcano are easy to reach;
- the Route de la Traversée, which cuts through the National Park, takes you across to Grande-Terre in about thirty minutes from its start.
Finally, Bouillante owes its name to its hot springs: you can still bathe in natural pools such as the Bain du Curé or the Thomas spring.
Which part of Bouillante should you choose?
The town stretches along the coast, between the sea and the hills. Each area has its own character.
Pigeon and Malendure: for sea lovers
This is the best-known area, facing the Pigeon Islands. Dive centres, kayak rentals and boat trips all leave from Malendure beach, which is lined with restaurants. Ideal if you plan to spend your days in the water. Our property is in this area, on the hillside above Pigeon, 3 km from the beach.
The town centre: for convenience
Around the centre of Bouillante you will find shops, services and hot springs. A practical choice if you like to have everything close at hand.
The hills: for peace and views
Away from the coast, accommodation is quieter and often has a sea view and sunsets. The trade-off: you will need the car for every outing.
What kind of accommodation?
Private rentals: bungalow, studio or villa
This is the most common option on the Côte-sous-le-Vent. You get a kitchen, a terrace and your independence, often for less than a hotel. By booking direct with the owners, you avoid platform fees and benefit from their local advice.
A whole villa: for families and groups
For a large group, a villa with a private pool offers space and privacy. Budgets are higher and minimum stays often longer.
A hotel or aparthotel: for services
On-site restaurant, daily cleaning, reception: handy for a short stay, at the cost of a less authentic atmosphere.
What to check before booking
- the official holiday-rental classification (meublé de tourisme, 1 to 5 stars), a sign of an inspected property;
- air conditioning or ceiling fans, and mosquito nets;
- access to a pool and the distance to the beach;
- what the price includes: linen, cleaning, tourist tax;
- the cancellation terms and the deposit amount.
Our practical tips
- Rent a car. Public transport is limited on the Côte-sous-le-Vent; allow about an hour’s drive from Pointe-à-Pitre airport.
- Book early for the high season, from December to April, and for French school holidays: small rentals fill up quickly.
- Watch out for big events. In Route du Rhum years, in November, the Côte-sous-le-Vent is in high demand.
- Plan at least five nights. That is often the minimum stay, and the time you need to enjoy both the sea and the island’s interior.
- Shop locally: supermarket, bakery, pharmacy and petrol station are all in the town.
Staying at Les Chalets sous le Vent, in Pigeon
Our property is in Bouillante, in the Pigeon area, 3 km from Malendure beach. We rent out three places to stay, all with access to the shared pool:
- Studio Marlin: 45 m² for 2 adults, sea view, October to May, €65 per night;
- Kaz’Basse bungalow: air-conditioned 35 m² Creole bungalow for 2 adults, open all year, €60 to €75 per night;
- Foufou bungalow: 75 m² for 4 guests, two en-suite bedrooms and a 500 m² private garden, open all year, €100 per night.
Linen provided, snorkelling gear lent free of charge, 5-night minimum stay. See our accommodation in detail, check our rates and, to plan your days, read our guide to water activities at Malendure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Bouillante?
For diving and the beach, Pigeon and Malendure, facing the Pigeon Islands. For peace and sea views, the hills above the town. For convenience, the area around the town centre.
Do you need a car in Bouillante?
Yes, it is strongly recommended: public transport is limited and Basse-Terre’s best sites are reached by car.
How much does a night in Bouillante cost?
It depends on the type of accommodation and the season. At our property, allow €60 to €100 per night depending on the rental, plus cleaning fee and tourist tax.
When should you book accommodation in Bouillante?
As early as possible for the high season (December to April), for school holidays and for events such as the Route du Rhum.
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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