Reserve Cousteau
Guadeloupe
Réserve Cousteau is a protected marine area located mainly in the municipality of Bouillante and partly in Pointe-Noire on the coast of Basse-Terre island in Guadeloupe. Covering approximately 400 hectares around the Pigeon Islands near Malendure beach, the reserve was established to protect the seabed and limit fishing activities. It is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, including coral reefs, sponges, tropical fish, sea turtles, lobsters, eels, and seahorses. The reserve is part of the Guadeloupe National Park and is a popular destination for recreational diving, attracting divers worldwide. The clear waters and abundant marine life offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and underwater photography. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding around the islets, as well as hiking nearby to appreciate the surrounding tropical flora and scenic Caribbean views. The area is also notable for seasonal sightings of humpback whales during their mating displays. The reserve’s name honors the famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, who explored the underwater beauty of Malendure in 1959 and advocated for its protection. Today, it stands as a vital ecological zone and a must-visit for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to visit Réserve Cousteau is during the dry season from December to April for optimal underwater visibility. Booking diving or snorkeling excursions in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure spots and equipment. Visitors can benefit from eco-friendly tours that support conservation efforts. Access to the reserve is easiest via Malendure beach, where parking and rental services for diving gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are available. Beginners should consider guided dives or snorkeling tours for safety and enhanced experience. Avoid anchoring boats to protect the fragile seabed, and respect local regulations prohibiting fishing within the reserve.
Interesting facts
- •The reserve spans about 400 hectares around the Pigeon Islands near Malendure beach.
- •It is part of the Guadeloupe National Park and the UNESCO-designated Guadeloupe Biosphere Reserve.
- •Jacques Cousteau explored the area in 1959 using a new submersible and advocated for its protection.
- •The site hosts diverse marine life including corals, gorgonians, tropical fish, lobsters, and sea turtles.
- •Humpback whales can be heard during their mating displays near the reserve in January and February.
History
The Réserve Cousteau was named after Jacques-Yves Cousteau following his 1959 exploration of the Malendure seabed using a newly developed submersible.
Although often mistakenly linked to his 1954-55 Red Sea film, the reserve's designation followed Cousteau's discovery and advocacy to protect the site.
Initially, protection was limited to a prefectural decree banning fishing and anchoring.
In 2009, the reserve was incorporated into the Guadeloupe National Park, gaining stronger legal protections as part of a larger ecological solidarity zone.
The designation aligns with the UNESCO Guadeloupe Biosphere Reserve established in 1992, enhancing conservation efforts for the marine and terrestrial environments around the Pigeon Islands.
Place Guide
Pigeon Islands
Two small islands around which the reserve is centered, offering rich coral reefs and abundant marine species. Popular for snorkeling and diving excursions.
Malendure Beach
The main access point to the reserve, featuring facilities for parking, diving centers, and equipment rentals. It provides easy entry for visitors to explore the marine ecosystem.
Coral Reefs and Marine Life
The underwater landscape includes vibrant coral reefs, sponges, brain corals, and a variety of tropical fish species such as sea turtles, lobsters, and seahorses, making it a hotspot for underwater photography and marine observation.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding Routes
Designated areas around the Pigeon Islands where visitors can kayak or paddleboard to explore the reserve from the surface, offering opportunities to observe marine life and coastal scenery.
