La Désirade
A tranquil, wild Caribbean gem offering pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and an authentic, unhurried island experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
La Désirade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, wild Caribbean gem offering pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and an authentic, unhurried island experience.
"La Désirade is for peaceful people, writers, poets and sailors. I like it!"
🚗 Rent a Vehicle Early
Secure a car, quad, or bike at the port for easy island exploration.
🥾 Pack Hiking Shoes
Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the island's diverse terrain and trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plage de la Baie Sainte-Marie
South Coast
A stunning, often deserted yellow-sand beach perfect for unwinding and enjoying the Caribbean sun.
Mont La Désirade Hike
Central Mountain
Hike to the island's highest point for breathtaking panoramic views of Guadeloupe and the surrounding sea.
Authentic Fishing Villages
Various coastal spots
Experience the genuine island life in charming, uncrowded fishing villages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Slow Pace
Getting Around is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Vehicle Early
Secure a car, quad, or bike at the port for easy island exploration. +1
🥾 Pack Hiking Shoes
Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the island's diverse terrain and trails.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
The Caribbean sun is strong; pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking or spending time on the beaches.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Vehicle Early
Secure a car, quad, or bike at the port for easy island exploration. +1
🥾 Pack Hiking Shoes
Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the island's diverse terrain and trails.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
The Caribbean sun is strong; pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking or spending time on the beaches.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty; having offline maps is a lifesaver.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Désirade is praised as a tranquil, wild paradise perfect for those seeking an escape from crowds. Visitors love its natural beauty, quiet beaches, and authentic island charm. Some note that the island could benefit from better waste management in certain areas, but this doesn't detract from its overall appeal as a peaceful retreat.
"For nomads, not for packaged tourism.
A single stretch of eleven kilometers, North to South.
You'll land in Beauséjour, the capital town. A small town.
At he Port you'll find what you want: rent a car, a quad, a bicycle ...
Or just walk.
Exit the port, head right, land to the beach: a yellow painted beach restaurant, La Paillotte, is for you. Good seafood, high level service, a simple drink if you prefer.
OK. Now turn you to the mountain above. Three stretches, spread along the eleven kilometers road, bring you to the top (I didn't check in my first trip). They tell you that the sight is amazing. It's a 250 meters high above the sea level, let's say one hour and half walking. Seems that with a small SUV you can have this at no effort (if you really want to drive in a such beautiful environment)
Wanna stay overnight? Make a reservation in advance.
Looking for nightlife? Go back to Le Gosier.
La Désirade is for peaceful people, writers, poets and sailors."
Flavio Antonio Maria Colombo
"I like it!"
Amir Azimi
"A pretty little island just opposite Pointe des Châteaux. A lovely hike to explore its diverse landscapes. Allow a full day. Bicycles and scooters are available for rent."
Daniel Briand
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Désirade is accessible by ferry from Saint-François on Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe. The ferry ride offers scenic views.
Renting a car, quad, or bicycle is highly recommended for exploring the island. You can arrange rentals at the port upon arrival. +1
Yes, La Désirade can be visited as a day trip from Grande-Terre, but staying overnight allows for a more relaxed experience.
Taxis are not a primary mode of transport on the island. Renting your own vehicle is the most practical option for getting around.
Ferry schedules can vary, so it's best to check with local operators in Saint-François for the most up-to-date times. Typically, there are a couple of crossings per day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees to visit La Désirade itself. You will need to purchase ferry tickets to reach the island.
Most natural attractions like beaches and hiking trails are accessible at all times. Restaurants and rental shops have their own operating hours.
No, the beautiful beaches on La Désirade are free to access and enjoy.
Yes, booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as options are limited.
While not as common as on larger islands, some local guides may offer tours. Renting a vehicle and exploring independently is also a popular choice.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning Baie Sainte-Marie beach, hiking Mont La Désirade for incredible views, and exploring the charming fishing villages.
Enjoy hiking, swimming, sunbathing on quiet beaches, snorkeling, and experiencing the laid-back island lifestyle.
Yes, the waters around La Désirade offer opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with colorful reefs to discover.
La Désirade is known for its peaceful, wild, and uncrowded atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and nature lovers.
While not a primary focus, the island's history is tied to its fishing heritage and natural landscapes. The small capital, Beauséjour, offers a glimpse into local life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Expect fresh seafood, local Creole dishes, and simple, delicious meals. Beachside restaurants offer a relaxed dining experience.
The island has a modest selection of restaurants, often found near the port or along the coast, offering authentic local cuisine.
La Paillotte, a yellow-painted restaurant near the port, is often recommended for its good seafood and service.
Options may be limited, but many restaurants can prepare vegetable-based dishes upon request. It's best to inquire directly.
Dining prices are generally reasonable, reflecting the island's laid-back and non-commercialized nature.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the wild beaches, panoramic views from Mont La Désirade, colorful fishing boats, and lush vegetation.
Yes, drone footage can showcase the island's dramatic coastline, untouched landscapes, and the vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea.
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer beautiful lighting for landscape and seascape photography. Midday provides clear views from the mountain.
Generally, photography is welcomed. Be respectful when photographing locals or private property.
A versatile camera with wide-angle capabilities for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife or distant views would be ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Renting a car or quad allows families to easily explore different parts of the island at their own pace. Consider booking accommodations with family-friendly amenities in advance, as options are limited.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore at your own pace, stopping at secluded beaches and scenic viewpoints.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
+1Enjoy sunset dinners at charming beachside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and the tranquil ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring La Désirade's Natural Beauty
The island's vegetation is thick and lush, contributing to its untamed charm. While beautiful, travelers have noted that some areas could benefit from more care regarding litter.
For those interested in marine life, the waters surrounding La Désirade are known for their colorful reefs, making it a good spot for snorkeling and diving.
The island's commitment to preserving its environment is evident, with ongoing efforts to manage issues like sargassum seaweed. The Authentic Island Lifestyle
The island's small size, just eleven kilometers long, means that life moves at a slower pace. This is a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the local culture.
If you're looking for vibrant nightlife or extensive shopping, La Désirade is not the place. However, for those seeking a genuine experience of island living, with beautiful natural surroundings and a tranquil ambiance, it is an ideal destination.
Getting Around and Practicalities
Accommodation on La Désirade is limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons.
When it comes to dining, expect fresh seafood and local specialties. Restaurants like La Paillotte are noted for their good food and service.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit