Top 10 Guadeloupe beaches you can reach by car

From La Caravelle to Grande-Anse, our shortlist of beaches where you can park the car and roll out the towel. With drive times, hidden spots and parking tips.

Why a car changes everything in Guadeloupe

Between Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the best spots aren't served by public transport. A rental car makes you self-sufficient — leave when the sun decides, stop wherever you feel like.

1. La Caravelle beach (Sainte-Anne)

A classic: fine sand, coconut trees, shallow lagoon — ideal for kids. Free parking at the village entrance, then a 3-minute walk. Tip: arrive before 10am in high season.

2. Grande-Anse (Deshaies)

On the leeward coast of Basse-Terre, Grande-Anse is a golden half-moon of sand edged by tropical forest. Paid parking managed by the tourist desk. Winding road — a city car is enough.

3. Pointe-des-Châteaux (Saint-François)

More than a beach — a scene: cliffs, cacti, raging Atlantic. Free parking at road's end. Take the path to the cross for a 360° view.

4. Anse Laborde (Anse-Bertrand)

The wild north: near-empty beach on weekdays, reached via a small dirt road. A Duster-type SUV is more comfortable. No services — bring water and a parasol.

5. Malendure beach (Bouillante)

Facing Pigeon Islets and the Cousteau reserve. Free parking, snorkel-gear rental stalls, feet-in-the-sand restaurants.

6. Anse à la Gourde (Saint-François)

Hidden paradise 5 min from Pointe-des-Châteaux. Informal roadside parking. Great for escaping crowds.

7. Le Souffleur beach (Port-Louis)

Long stretch of white sand protected by the coral reef. Free parking, beach shelters, creole restaurants nearby. Fully local vibe.

8. Bois-Jolan beach (Sainte-Anne)

Quieter than La Caravelle, equally beautiful. Shaded parking under sea-grape trees.

9. Anse des Salines (Saint-François)

Tucked behind a short dirt path from Pointe-des-Châteaux. Crystal water, rarely more than 10 people.

10. Petite Anse (Bouillante)

Black volcanic sand and tropical forest spilling into the sea. A very different experience — and a gorgeous one.

Our practical tip

Cool box in the boot, beach shoes for rocky paths, and start early. A compact SUV (Peugeot 2008 or Dacia Duster) makes a real difference for the north of the island or the leeward coast.