Les Saintes is a small archipelago located just south of Basse-Terre, composed primarily of the two inhabited islands: Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas. Known for having one of the most beautiful bays in the world, this destination offers a distinct change of pace that feels entirely separate from the main island of Guadeloupe. For families, the adventure begins with the ferry ride, which departs from Trois-Rivières or Pointe-à-Pitre. The crossing can be a bit bouncy, so sea-sickness preparation is wise, but the arrival into the sparkling harbor is unforgettable.
Terre-de-Haut is the main tourist hub and is delightfully low-traffic. There are very few regular cars; instead, the primary mode of transport is the electric golf cart or scooter. Renting a four-seater golf cart is a highlight for children, turning the simple act of getting around into a fun expedition. The village itself features red-roofed houses, a church with a maritime history, and shops selling the local specialty, Tourment d'Amour, a soft tart filled with coconut, banana, or guava jam.
History comes alive at Fort Napoléon, perched high above the bay. While the museum detailing naval battles is interesting, the real draw for kids is the surrounding cactus garden, which is inhabited by dozens of local iguanas. These prehistoric-looking creatures are often found sunning themselves on the stone walls. For beach time, Plage de Pompierre is the clear winner for families. Protected by a natural reef and a large rock formation, the water is as still as a swimming pool and shaded by palm trees, providing a safe and relaxing environment for all ages.
Travel Tips: While many visit as a day trip, staying overnight allows families to experience the island after the last ferry leaves, when the streets become quiet and magical. Dining is casual, with many waterfront restaurants offering crêpes, salads, and fresh fish. The vibe is safe, walkable, and incredibly picturesque, making it an excellent spot for family photos.
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Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to the Baie des Saintes, recognized as one of the world's most beautiful bays, offering exceptional snorkeling and sailing in an authentic, upscale setting. Peak months feature the lowest rainfall (<70mm) and perfect water visibility; off-season coincides with peak hurricane risk and heavy tropical downpours.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Offers pristine volcanic landscapes and marine reserves perfect for hiking to panoramic viewpoints like Le Chameau. Peak dry months provide the best trail stability and visibility; the off-season sees excessive humidity and rainfall exceeding 170mm, which degrades the hiking experience.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A world-class destination for sailing and windsurfing due to consistent trade winds and protected turquoise waters. Optimal conditions occur during the drier winter months; high rainfall and storm potential from July to November make active water sports unpredictable and less safe.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Terre-de-Haut features charming, red-roofed architecture and the historic Fort Napoléon, reflecting a unique French-Caribbean heritage. Best explored during the cooler, drier months of February and March; the intense rain and heat of the late summer months can make outdoor cultural exploration uncomfortable.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Fort Napoléon provides high-quality historical exhibits and a botanical garden focusing on regional maritime history and ecology. These outdoor-centric educational sites are best visited in the dry season to ensure full access to the grounds and guided tours.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
The Fête des Saintes in mid-August is a major authentic cultural celebration featuring boat races and traditional music. While August is a peak for the festival itself, the dry winter months offer a more consistent schedule of local cultural events and a vibrant seasonal atmosphere.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
The archipelago's quiet, car-free atmosphere provides a sophisticated sense of isolation and tranquility for families. Peak months offer comfortable humidity levels for outdoor relaxation; the off-season's heavy precipitation and high humidity are less conducive to a peaceful wellness retreat.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
While traditional cars are prohibited, touring the scenic island in an electric golf cart is a signature, charming family experience. This open-air exploration is best enjoyed during the sunny dry season to avoid getting caught in the heavy tropical rains of the off-season.
Attractions (22 total)
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Baie des Saintes
Terre-de-Haut
Widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful bays, this stunning natural harbor offers families calm turquoise waters and picturesque views of volcanic hills.
Le Pain de Sucre
Terre-de-Haut
This iconic basaltic rock formation towers over a secluded beach, providing a dramatic backdrop for family snorkeling in crystal-clear Caribbean waters.
Grande Anse (Terre-de-Bas)
Terre-de-Bas
A large and tranquil golden sand beach on the quieter sister island, perfect for families looking to escape the crowds in a pristine natural setting.
Morne du Chameau
Terre-de-Haut
The highest point on the island provides a rewarding hike for active families, ending with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Saintes and surrounding islands.
Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Exotic Garden of Fort Napoléon
Terre-de-Haut
Located within a historic hilltop fortress, this cactarium features a diverse collection of succulents and cacti alongside panoramic views of Les Saintes bay.
Health Garden (Jardin de la Santé)
Terre-de-Bas
An educational botanical garden dedicated to traditional Caribbean medicinal plants and local biodiversity, offering a quiet cultural experience for families.
Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Fort Napoléon
Terre-de-Haut
A beautifully restored 19th-century fortification housing a history museum and a renowned botanical garden featuring numerous iguanas and cacti.
Visit website →Le Bourg de Terre-de-Haut
Terre-de-Haut
A picturesque seaside village famous for its colorful wooden houses, red-tiled roofs, and its ranking among France's most beautiful coastal communities.
Visit website →Petite-Anse Village
Terre-de-Bas
A tranquil and authentic fishing village on the archipelago's quieter island, known for the traditional craft of Salako hat-making and the historic Église Saint Nicolas.
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Fort Napoléon des Saintes
Terre-de-Haut
A well-preserved 19th-century fort featuring a history museum and a botanical garden with panoramic views of the bay.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Le Chameau Hike
Terre-de-Haut
4.2km moderate out-and-back trail to the highest point of the archipelago (309m). 1.5 to 2 hours duration, 285m elevation gain. Features panoramic views from a former Napoleonic lookout. Electric bike rentals available at the ferry terminal via Green Velo (greenvelosaintes.com).
Visit website →Morne Morel Trail
Terre-de-Haut
3.2km moderate loop trail traversing the northern peninsula. 1.5 hours duration, 140m elevation gain. Path leads through dry forests and cactus groves to viewpoints overlooking Marigot Bay and the Baie des Saintes.
Visit website →Trace de la Grande Pointe
Terre-de-Bas
3.8km easy coastal walk. 1.5 hours duration, 90m elevation gain. Pass through historical ruins of an old pottery factory and a lighthouse, following the southern coastline with views toward Dominica. Well-marked and relatively flat.
Visit website →Trace des Falaises
Terre-de-Bas
5.5km moderate point-to-point trail along the rugged northern cliffs. 2.5 hours duration, 160m elevation gain. Offers dramatic views of the Atlantic waves crashing against volcanic rock. Connects Grande-Anse to the village of Petite-Anse.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Pain de Sucre
Terre-de-Haut
Named after Rio's Sugarloaf, this small beach features clear turquoise water and dramatic basaltic cliffs ideal for swimming.
Plage de Pompierre
Terre-de-Haut
A stunning, sheltered bay lined with coconut palms and calm waters, perfect for families and snorkeling.
Anse Crawen
Terre-de-Haut
A quiet, wild beach on the western end of the island, offering a peaceful escape with excellent views and clear water.
Plage de Grande Anse
Terre-de-Bas
A long, golden sand beach on the sister island, offering a more tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of the archipelago.
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Terre-de-Haut Scenic Island Loop
Circular
10km paved loop (2-4 hours) typically explored via rental electric golf cart or scooter. The route encircles the island, featuring steep climbs to the Fort Napoléon overlook, the coastal stretch towards Plage de Pompierre, and panoramic views of the Bay of Les Saintes and the southern Grand Anse beach.
Visit website →Terre-de-Bas Scenic Coastal Route
Grande-Anse
6km paved cross-island road (1-2 hours) connecting the villages of Grande-Anse and Petite-Anse. This tranquil drive offers views of the rugged cliffs at Gros-Cap, the historic ruins of the 18th-century pottery works, and the lush volcanic landscape of the archipelago's quieter island.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption
Terre-de-Haut
A charming stone church in the center of the village, famous for its unique architecture built with volcanic rock and its coastal location.
Le Chameau
Terre-de-Haut
The highest peak of the archipelago featuring an old signal tower and providing a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the islands.