Cousteau Reserve and Malendure Beach
Discover vibrant underwater life at the Cousteau Reserve, a protected marine paradise near Malendure Beach, famous for its snorkeling and turtles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer seas for better visibility
Cousteau Reserve and Malendure Beach
Best Time
Calmer seas for better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant underwater life at the Cousteau Reserve, a protected marine paradise near Malendure Beach, famous for its snorkeling and turtles.
"The diving and snorkeling around Pigeon Island is really nice by Caribbean standards."
Kayak to Explore
Opt for a kayak to easily reach the best snorkeling spots offshore. :kayak:
Bring Water Shoes
Malendure Beach has pebbles, so water shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pigeon Island Snorkeling
Near Pigeon Island
Explore vibrant coral and diverse fish species in clear Caribbean waters. A must-do for marine life enthusiasts.
Malendure Beach Relaxation
Malendure Beach
Enjoy the unique pebble beach and the calm waters. Perfect for a relaxed day by the sea.
Turtle Spotting
Offshore areas
Keep an eye out for sea turtles grazing on seaweed in the shallower seabed areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Snorkel & Dive Smart
Beach Access & Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak to Explore
Opt for a kayak to easily reach the best snorkeling spots offshore. :kayak:
Bring Water Shoes
Malendure Beach has pebbles, so water shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Marine Life
Observe turtles and fish from a distance; avoid touching or disturbing them. :turtle:
Check Fishing Activity
Be aware of potential fishing activity in the wider reserve. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak to Explore
Opt for a kayak to easily reach the best snorkeling spots offshore. :kayak:
Bring Water Shoes
Malendure Beach has pebbles, so water shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Marine Life
Observe turtles and fish from a distance; avoid touching or disturbing them. :turtle:
Check Fishing Activity
Be aware of potential fishing activity in the wider reserve. :fishing_pole:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cousteau Reserve for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, calling the marine life 'magic' by Caribbean standards. However, some note that the immediate area around Malendure Beach has limited underwater appeal, requiring a venture offshore for the best experiences. Concerns were also raised about fishing activity within the protected reserve.
"The diving and snorkling around pigeon Island is really nice by Caribbean standards
However the national park, extends a lot further north and south than just the island, and there appeared to be a lot of fishing activity within this area. To point arriving on a yacht require high vigilance. I'm not completely sure on the park rules but felt for a national park, fishing shouldn't be allowed at all."
James Wech
"Beautiful spot for snorkelling and scuba diving 🤩 🐠"
Ruben van Alebeek
"Magic"
Wafflemanmatteo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is accessible via Malendure Beach on Basse-Terre island in Guadeloupe. You can drive and park near the beach, or take local transport. Many visitors opt for boat tours that depart from the beach area to explore the reserve's prime snorkeling spots.
Yes, there is parking available near Malendure Beach, though it can get busy during peak times. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
While Malendure Beach is the primary access point for tourists, the reserve technically extends further. However, for practical snorkeling and diving, Pigeon Island near Malendure is the most popular and accessible area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Malendure Beach is generally free. However, boat tours or kayak rentals for exploring the reserve, especially around Pigeon Island, will have associated costs.
The reserve itself doesn't have strict opening hours as it's a marine area. Malendure Beach is accessible during daylight hours. Boat tour operators typically run from morning to late afternoon.
While the beach is free, some operators might charge a small fee for access to their equipment or guided tours. It's best to inquire with specific tour providers.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, coral formations, and if you're lucky, sea turtles grazing on seaweed. The area around Pigeon Island is particularly rich in biodiversity.
Snorkeling directly from Malendure Beach is limited; you'll find very little marine life close to shore. To see the best of the reserve, you need to go at least 1km offshore, ideally towards Pigeon Island.
Besides snorkeling and diving, you can relax on the pebble beach, rent kayaks, or take boat tours to explore the marine reserve.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available near Malendure Beach, though they might be simple. Showers for rinsing off after swimming are also common.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and snack bars located along Malendure Beach offering local Creole cuisine and fresh seafood.
You can find delicious local dishes like grilled fish, accras (fritters), and various seafood specialties. Many places offer a great view of the sea.
📸 📸 Photography
The underwater world offers incredible photo opportunities, especially with vibrant fish and coral. The view of Pigeon Island from Malendure Beach is also picturesque.
For underwater photography, a waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone is essential. Ensure it's properly sealed to avoid damage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and snacks. While there are facilities, they can be basic. Consider bringing a waterproof camera to capture the kids' excitement as they discover the underwater world. The calm waters near the beach are also suitable for younger children to paddle in.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
Rent a kayak or join a boat tour to access the best spots, as shore snorkeling from Malendure Beach is quite limited. Be aware of potential fishing activity in the wider reserve, and always practice responsible diving and snorkeling by not touching marine life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
To fully experience the reserve's underwater treasures, boat tours or kayak rentals are highly recommended. These options allow you to reach the deeper, more vibrant sections of the reef. Remember that the reserve is an active marine ecosystem, and while beautiful, it's important to be mindful of fishing activities that may occur in the broader protected zone.
For those interested in scuba diving, several dive centers operate in the area, offering guided dives for all skill levels. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an unforgettable diving experience. Always ensure you dive with certified professionals and respect the marine environment.
Malendure Beach: More Than Just a Shore
Visitors often find that while the immediate seabed at Malendure Beach has little to offer, the convenience of accessing boat tours and kayak rentals from here is invaluable. It's a hub for marine excursions, and the surrounding restaurants provide a great spot to refuel after a day of aquatic adventures. The unique pebble composition of the beach also means water shoes are a good idea for comfort.
Despite the pebbles, Malendure Beach provides a picturesque setting with views of the Pigeon Islands. It's a place where relaxation meets adventure, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible marine exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit