Anse à la Gourde
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Anse à la Gourde

4.4
·129 reviews·, Guadeloupe

A stunning white-sand beach in Saint-François, Guadeloupe, known for its clear shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with dramatic coast...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Calmer waters for snorkeling

CrowdLow
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Anse à la Gourde

Anse à la Gourde

Best Time

Early mornings

Calmer waters for snorkeling

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning white-sand beach in Saint-François, Guadeloupe, known for its clear shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with dramatic coastal views nearby.

4.4
(129 reviews)

"Beautiful beach with clear waters, even if there are a lot of waves."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Shade ⛱️

Little natural shade here! Pack an umbrella or tent for comfort.

Snorkel Gear Ready! 🐠

Clear waters are great for snorkeling, but check conditions as currents can be strong.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands

Pristine White Sands

The main beach area

Miles of soft, white sand perfect for sunbathing and long walks along the shore.

Shallow Water Snorkeling

Shallow Water Snorkeling

Areas with calmer waters

Explore vibrant underwater life in the clear, shallow waters, ideal for beginner snorkelers.

Scenic Coastal Views

Scenic Coastal Views

Near Pointe des Châteaux

Breathtaking vistas of the turquoise ocean and rugged coastline, especially near Pointe des Châteaux.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Anse à la Gourde is known for its beauty, but can get windy. Check local conditions before you go, especially if snorkeling is your priority. Early mornings often offer calmer waters and fewer crowds.

Sun Protection is Key

This stunning white-sand beach offers little natural shade. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and consider bringing your own umbrella or beach tent to stay comfortable all day.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Calmer waters for snorkeling
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer people on the beach
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Great for sunbathing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

➡️ BoOOMmm !!! Départ à 6h00 pour une marche active avec Jacques, ancien marathonien qui garde la forme et Johanna en direction de la Pointe de Cabrit et Anse à la Gourde !!! 🌴 15km de découverte avec un très beau parcours et une vue magnifique de la Guadeloupe !!! Jacques nous a confectionné en chemin un éventail en Feuille palmier et nous a offert une dégustation de canne à sucre et l'eau de c...
r.anthony_h24
6 likes • 1.1K views

Bring Your Own Shade ⛱️

Little natural shade here! Pack an umbrella or tent for comfort. Reddit

Snorkel Gear Ready! 🐠

Clear waters are great for snorkeling, but check conditions as currents can be strong. Instagram

Plage Paradisiaque de l'Anse à la Gourde St François #nature #beach #plage #perfect #merveille #ocean #guadeloupe #touristique #tourisme #visit #karukera #island #love #couplegoals #bienetre #traveldestination #beautifuldestinations #paradis #relaxation #bronzage #turquoise #water #familly #earth
travel_island_guadeloupe
1.7K likes • 33.4K views
Jour 1 en Guadeloupe 🇬🇵 - Pointe des châteaux. - Plage de l’Anse à la gourde et ses fonds marins. - Plage Bois Jolan (Saint-Anne) #guadeloupe #guadaloupe #guada #saintanne #plage #beach #grandeterre #diving #palmier #sun #world #trip #travel #france #sable #passion #motivation #randonnee #hiking #plongee #jungle #pointedeschateaux #anse
adelamare__
0 likes • 968 views

Sunscreen is a Must! ☀️

The sun is intense. Reapply often to avoid sunburn. Instagram

Watch for Wind 💨

Can be windy, which is great for cooling off but can affect snorkeling. Reddit

Here are Guadeloupe’s must-visit beaches and islands: 🌴 La Caravelle, Bois-Jolan, Bourg Beach in Sainte-Anne: Iconic turquoise lagoons perfect for families. 🌴 La Coulée, Raisins Clairs, Anse à la Gourde in Saint-François: Stunning scenic shores. 🌴 Anse du Souffleur, La Chapelle in Port-Louis and Anse-Bertrand: Ideal for water sports like surfing and kayaking. 🌴 Grande-Anse in Deshaies: Known for...
stephaniedeluxe_
122 likes • 3.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Shade ⛱️

Little natural shade here! Pack an umbrella or tent for comfort. Reddit

Snorkel Gear Ready! 🐠

Clear waters are great for snorkeling, but check conditions as currents can be strong. Instagram

Sunscreen is a Must! ☀️

The sun is intense. Reapply often to avoid sunburn. Instagram

Watch for Wind 💨

Can be windy, which is great for cooling off but can affect snorkeling. Reddit

Explore the Coastline 🚶‍♀️

Combine your beach visit with a hike towards Pointe des Châteaux for stunning views. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(129 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Anse à la Gourde is praised for its beautiful white sands and clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors appreciate the scenic coastal views, especially near Pointe des Châteaux. However, many note the strong winds and lack of natural shade, making sun protection essential.

"Maybe it was the time of the year, but it was super choppy, this not good for snorkeling. Beautiful beach tho…but some areas had the strong seaweed smell."

Cindy W

"Great white beach with snorkling options. Not that crowed on the right side. No shade."

Matthias Schotte

"Magic"

Bernard “BERNY” Laboureau

What People Like

Beautiful white sand
Clear shallow water
Scenic coastal views

What People Dislike

Windy conditions
Lack of shade
Seaweed smell (occasional)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Anse à la Gourde is located in Saint-François, Grande-Terre. It's accessible by car, and there's usually parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with a visit to Pointe des Châteaux. Instagram

Yes, it's a well-known beach. Follow signs for Saint-François and then look for signs directing you towards Pointe des Châteaux; Anse à la Gourde is along this route. Instagram

Public transport options are limited for reaching more remote beaches like Anse à la Gourde. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and ease of access. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy hiking along the coast towards Pointe des Châteaux for spectacular views. Consider combining your beach visit with these scenic walks. Instagram+1

Yes, the dramatic Pointe des Châteaux is very close by and offers stunning cliffside views. Other beaches like Plage de Bois Jolan are also in the vicinity. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Anse à la Gourde is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its beauty for free. Instagram

As a natural beach, Anse à la Gourde is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

No advance booking is necessary as it's a public beach. Just show up and enjoy the scenery! Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of the natural environment and any posted local guidelines. Instagram

Absolutely! Anse à la Gourde is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery, swimming, and snorkeling opportunities. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the clear, shallow waters. It's also a great spot for beach walks and enjoying the natural beauty. Instagram+1

Yes, the shallow waters are generally good for snorkeling, with some marine life visible. However, conditions can vary, and it can get windy or choppy. InstagramReddit

There is very little natural shade. It's highly recommended to bring your own umbrella, hat, or beach tent. Reddit

Basic facilities might be limited. It's advisable to come prepared with everything you need for the day. Instagram

Crowds can vary. Weekdays and early mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends or peak season afternoons. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, there are no restaurants or food vendors directly on Anse à la Gourde. It's best to pack your own snacks and drinks or dine in Saint-François. Instagram

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider a cooler to keep your items fresh, especially on a warm day. Instagram

The town of Saint-François, located a short drive away, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving local Creole cuisine. Instagram

Yes, picnics are generally welcome. Just remember to clean up after yourself and take all your trash with you to preserve the beach's beauty. Instagram

Direct beach bars are uncommon at Anse à la Gourde. For beachside drinks, you might need to explore other beaches or the town of Saint-François. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the expansive white sands, the clear turquoise waters, and the dramatic coastline near Pointe des Châteaux. Sunsets can also be stunning here. Instagram

Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for serene beach shots. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. Waterproof gear is useful if you plan on snorkeling or getting close to the water. Instagram

The stretch of beach leading towards Pointe des Châteaux offers dramatic perspectives. The contrast between the white sand and blue water is always photogenic. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anse à la Gourde offers a beautiful, shallow beach that's generally safe for children to play in the water. The soft white sand is perfect for sandcastle building. However, families should be aware of the strong sun and lack of shade, so bringing plenty of sun protection, including hats and a beach umbrella, is essential. Packing snacks and drinks is also recommended as there are no facilities on-site. Instagram

Consider visiting in the early morning for calmer waters, which can be more enjoyable for younger swimmers. While snorkeling is possible, the wind can sometimes make it less ideal for very young children. The nearby Pointe des Châteaux offers a more adventurous exploration for older kids who enjoy dramatic landscapes. Instagram

☀️ Sun Seekers & Beach Lovers

For those who dream of endless white sand and turquoise waters, Anse à la Gourde is a paradise. Its long stretch of beach is perfect for sunbathing and soaking up the Caribbean rays. The clear, shallow waters are inviting for a refreshing dip. Instagram

Be prepared for a full day of sun by bringing ample sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a beach umbrella or tent, as shade is scarce. The beach is known to be windy, which can be a welcome relief from the heat. It's an ideal spot to simply relax, read a book, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers

Anse à la Gourde serves as a fantastic base for active exploration. Its location near the dramatic Pointe des Châteaux provides excellent opportunities for coastal hikes with spectacular views. The trails offer a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Guadeloupe's coastline. Instagram+1

Combine your beach visit with a trek along the paths, enjoying the sea breeze and the unique flora. This blend of beach relaxation and invigorating activity makes it a great choice for travelers who like to stay active during their vacation. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring water for your hikes. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Waters: Swimming & Snorkeling

Anse à la Gourde is celebrated for its clear, shallow waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The gentle slope of the seabed means you can wade out quite a distance, and the visibility is often excellent, revealing colorful fish and marine life. However, it's important to note that the beach can be quite windy, which can sometimes lead to choppier conditions or stronger currents, especially further out. Visitors have noted that the snorkeling experience can be affected by these conditions, so checking the weather and sea state before entering the water is advisable. InstagramReddit

For the best snorkeling experience, aim for early mornings when the water is typically calmer and the light is ideal for underwater photography. While the reef isn't as extensive as some other Caribbean destinations, the accessibility and the vibrant marine life in the shallows make it a rewarding experience for casual snorkelers and families. Remember to bring your own gear, as rentals are not usually available directly on the beach. Instagram

The Beach Experience: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

The defining feature of Anse à la Gourde is its stunning expanse of soft, white sand fringed by characteristic grape vines and almond trees. This picturesque setting is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. The beach stretches for a considerable distance, offering plenty of space even during busier times. However, a key piece of advice from visitors is the lack of natural shade. Reddit

To fully enjoy your time at Anse à la Gourde, it's crucial to come prepared. Bringing your own beach umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat, and ample sunscreen is essential to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun. Many visitors opt to bring a beach tent for added comfort, especially if planning to spend several hours. Despite the wind, the beach offers a tranquil escape, particularly on weekdays or during the quieter hours of the day. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Beach: Hiking and Coastal Exploration

Anse à la Gourde is ideally situated for those who love to explore beyond the sand. Its proximity to the dramatic Pointe des Châteaux makes it a perfect starting or ending point for a scenic hike. This rugged promontory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands, with its distinctive rock formations and crashing waves providing a stark contrast to the calm beach. Instagram+1

Many visitors combine their beach visit with a walk along the coastal paths. These trails offer a chance to experience the wilder side of Guadeloupe's coastline, with opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty. The combination of a relaxing beach day with an invigorating hike makes Anse à la Gourde a versatile destination for various types of travelers. Instagram+1