Saint-François Fish Market
A vibrant morning market where local fishermen bring in their fresh catches, offering a taste of Guadeloupe's coastal bounty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More stalls open
Saint-François Fish Market
Best Time
More stalls open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant morning market where local fishermen bring in their fresh catches, offering a taste of Guadeloupe's coastal bounty.
"Friendly fishermen and a picturesque market make this a must-visit for fresh seafood."
🎯 Arrive After 8 AM
More stalls open up, giving you a better chance at a good selection of fresh fish. :fish:
🦞 Lobster Boat Watch
Try to be there around 8:15 AM for a chance to buy lobsters directly from returning boats. :shell:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Direct from the Boats
Across from the main market
Lobsters and fresh fish straight from fishermen returning around 8:15 AM. A true taste of the sea!
The Open Fish Market
Central area
A bustling hub for a variety of fresh catches. Selection can vary with the sea conditions.
Covered Market Finds
Left side of the market
A sheltered spot offering a good selection of fish, often with a lid on the building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Fresh Catches
Understand Your Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive After 8 AM
More stalls open up, giving you a better chance at a good selection of fresh fish. :fish:
🦞 Lobster Boat Watch
Try to be there around 8:15 AM for a chance to buy lobsters directly from returning boats. :shell:
🌊 Check the Swell
Strong swells can affect the day's catch, so be prepared for potentially limited fish selection. :ocean:
💰 Prices Aren't Cheap
While the fish is fresh, expect prices to be on the higher side. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive After 8 AM
More stalls open up, giving you a better chance at a good selection of fresh fish. :fish:
🦞 Lobster Boat Watch
Try to be there around 8:15 AM for a chance to buy lobsters directly from returning boats. :shell:
🌊 Check the Swell
Strong swells can affect the day's catch, so be prepared for potentially limited fish selection. :ocean:
💰 Prices Aren't Cheap
While the fish is fresh, expect prices to be on the higher side. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the freshness of the seafood and the picturesque setting of the Saint-François Fish Market. The opportunity to buy directly from fishermen, especially lobsters, is a highlight. However, some note that the selection can be limited due to sea conditions and that prices are not the cheapest.
"Three places to buy fish: 1. Covered building with a lid on the left. 2. Open fish market in the middle. 3. Across from the market, you can buy lobsters from the boats around 8:15 a.m. when they return from fishing.
The selection of fish isn't always extensive, but it's probably the largest compared to Saint-Anne and Gosier."
Ksenia Pilon
"Picturesque and adapted to the size of the customers who show up... the strong swell that has existed for several days prevents the trawling of multiple fish!!"
Papet de L'espi P
"Friendly fishermen from whom to buy lobsters, cicadas and fish"
Olivier “Olivier” Olivier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located in Saint-François, Guadeloupe. If you're driving, it's usually well-signposted within the town. Parking can be found nearby, though it might get busy during peak hours.
Information on direct public transport can be limited. Renting a car is often the most convenient way to explore Guadeloupe and reach places like the fish market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Saint-François Fish Market is generally free. You only pay for the fish or seafood you decide to purchase.
The market is most active in the morning. It's best to arrive after 8 AM when most stalls are open, and some fishermen return with their catch around 8:15 AM.
There is no admission fee to browse the market. You can explore the different stalls and see the fresh catches without any charge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can find a variety of local fish, including potentially mahi-mahi, snapper, and other reef fish. Lobsters and 'cicadas' (a type of shellfish) are also available. The selection can vary daily based on fishing conditions.
Yes, you can buy lobsters and fish directly from fishermen, especially if you arrive around 8:15 AM when they return with their catch. There's a specific spot across from the main market for this.
Mornings after 8 AM tend to be busier as more stalls open. Arriving very early, around 8:15 AM, might offer a less crowded experience, especially if you're targeting the lobster boats.
There's a covered building on the left, an open market in the middle, and direct sales from boats across the way. Each offers a slightly different experience and selection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market is primarily for purchasing fresh seafood to cook yourself. There aren't typically on-site restaurants, but you can buy fresh ingredients to prepare later.
While the market itself focuses on raw seafood, the town of Saint-François has various restaurants and eateries where you can enjoy local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the market offers picturesque scenes with colorful boats, fresh catches, and local fishermen. The morning light can be beautiful for photography.
Capture the moment fishermen return with their catch, the vibrant displays of seafood, and the general bustling atmosphere of the market. The boats across the way are also a great subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Point out the different types of fish and shellfish, and if you're lucky, you might see the lobster boats returning. It's a chance to engage with local culture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Remember that this is a working market, so keeping a close eye on children is advised.
💰 Budget Travelers
Compare prices between the different stalls if possible. While you might not find bargain-basement deals, the quality and freshness are generally excellent, offering good value for the experience. It's a place to splurge on a truly local delicacy rather than a budget grocery run.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Market's Layout
Understanding these different zones helps you plan your visit. If you're after specific items like lobsters, knowing the boat return time is crucial. For a broader selection, the open market is your best bet. The covered building provides a good alternative, especially if the weather is less cooperative.
Understanding the Catch and Conditions
Fishermen are generally friendly, and purchasing directly from them can be a rewarding experience. Be prepared that prices might not be the cheapest, reflecting the freshness and the effort involved in the catch. Arriving after 8 AM is recommended as more stalls tend to open up, increasing your options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit