Surfing in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is one of the East Caribbean’s most consistent surf destinations. Located in the Leeward Islands the waves in Guadeloupe are consistent but rarely huge in size. The stunning scenery, the warm water and the beautiful coastline makes it a great surf destination for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation. Guadeloupe consistent surf conditions take advantage of the strategic position between 2 seas. The country receives swells both from the Atlantic Ocean and from the tropical cyclones generated in the Gulf of Mexico. Besides that a deep offshore underwater valley attracts most of the Atlantic northeast winter swells as well as trade wind swells. Guadeloupe is a french territory and has the same food and cultural approach with a “creole” twist. Most of the well known surf spots in the country are located in the island of Grand Terre but other exposed islands like Marie Galante and La Desirade also have many breaks to be explored. Guadeloupe has good waves all year round but the best time to surf in the country is from November to April but August also register amazing conditions.
Climate in Guadeloupe
The climate in Guadeloupe is tropical with hot and humid weather all year round. There is a cool and dry season from January to mid-April, and a hot, humid rainy season from mid-June to mid-November. During the wet season the northeast trade winds prevail with medium intensity. During the dry season the trade winds are less intense increasing the heat index. There are two transitional periods: from mid November to early January the northeast trade wind starts to blow, lowering the temperature creating pleasant weather. From mid-April to Mid-June the temperature and the amount of rainfall gradually increases. The best period of the year to find constant quality waves is from November to April, but in August you can also find good days with great surf conditions. The water is warm throughout the entire year.
Best surf spots in Guadeloupe
Anse Bertrand is a world class left-hander reef break and it’s one of the favorite waves from the locals. It is located on the North of the island and works regularly from December to April. Port Louis is a reef break located in the northwest of the island of Grand Terre. There are right and left waves suitable for all kinds of surfers.. It’s a bit fickle but when it turns on it is a very long wave. Le Moule is probably the most popular surf spot. It’s located on the northeast coast of Grand Terre and it's a high quality left-hander reef break. Port Saint François is situated on the south of Grand Terre. It breaks on a mixed sand and reef bottom making it a perfect right-hander for beginners and intermediate. Petit Havre is considered the best spot on the South Coast of Grand Terre. It’s a fun left-hander reef break suitable for all levels of surfers.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $10 USD. Mid-range meals start at $20 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $50-70 USD
Equipment rental
There are plenty of shops/surf schools where you’ll be able to rent gear. A surfboard starts at $12 for 2 hours.
Prepaid SIM cards
Orange is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from supermarkets or at the airport.
Prepaid packages start at $7 USD.
Public transport
For travelers visiting more than one place in Guadeloupe, a rental car is almost a necessity.
There is a good public bus system that operates from about 5:30am to 6:30pm on weekdays, with fairly frequent service on main routes. The Saturday-afternoon service is much lighter, and there are almost no buses on Sunday.
Taxis are easy to find but note, from 9pm until 7am AND on Sundays, they are legally entitled to charge you 40% more than the regular fare.
Ferries are the main way to get between the various islands of Guadeloupe.
Car rentals start at $20 USD a day.
Gas prices
$1.48 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Hurricanes (June to October)
How to prepare
Visa
Citizens from the EU can enter and reside in Guadeloupe for an unlimited amount of time. Citizens from the US, Australia, the UK and many other regions may enter visa-free for anywhere from 3-6 months, depending on what nationality you are.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
Things to know
Language & Currency
French is the official language. English is not widely spoken. It’s recommended that you learn common French phrases before you arrive.
The Euro (€) is the currency.
Best time to go
November to April, but in August you can also find great days of pure surf.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 112 in emergencies
Check surf pictures of Guadeloupe at #surfguadeloupe
