Pointe-à-Pitre
Pointe-à-Pitre, the capital of Guadeloupe, is situated in the centre of the island. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, it lies at the junction of the two wings of the butterfly shape formed by Guadeloupe. It is the finishing point for international transatlantic races, notably the famous ‘Route du Rhum’, which takes place every four years, starting from Saint-Malo. Its marina, adjoining that of Le Gosier, is the largest on the island and the departure point for numerous boat trips and ferry crossings to the neighbouring islands.
Main attractions
- Marina
- Hotels’ water sports centres
- Boat hire
- Various water sports
- Guadeloupe Aquarium
- Large market
- Saint-John Perse Museum
- Victor Schoelcher Museum
- Cinema
Details of activities in Pointe-à-Pitre
The highlights of Guadeloupe’s capital are its museums, which offer a cultural and historical insight, as well as its marina and the surrounding hotels, which cater mainly for water-based activities. Indeed, from the marina and the hotels’ water sports centres, you can go on excursions to the neighbouring islands, either by hiring a sailing or motor boat or by contacting organised tour operators. This way, you can discover the magic of the mangroves and the magnificent islets of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, not far from Pointe-à-Pitre, or why not venture further afield to explore Les Saintes, just a stone’s throw away.
Activities such as jet skiing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, as well as snorkelling, scuba diving and new attractions such as Flyboarding can also be enjoyed in the surrounding area.
Local events
- Election of the Carnival Prince and Princess at Place de la Victoire (late January)
- Children’s carnival parade (early February)
- Carnival – Grand Shrove Tuesday Parade (February)
- Music Festival at Place de la Victoire (June)
- Cooks’ Festival, featuring a parade, a banquet, singing and dancing (August).
- Pointe-à-Pitre Neighbourhood Festival (December)
- Îlojazz Festival, a melting pot of Creole music (December)
The beaches
- None
Further information
The nearby Guadeloupe Aquarium is the largest in the Caribbean.