Plage de Grande Anse
Guadeloupe
Plage de Grande Anse is a spectacular natural beach located near Deshaies on the northwest coast of Basse-Terre Island, Guadeloupe. Stretching 2.15 kilometers in a graceful arc from Pointe le Breton to Pointe Le Gouffre, it is the longest beach in the Guadeloupe archipelago. The beach is known for its wide golden sands, clear Caribbean waters, and a scenic lagoon fed by the Mitan River, which occasionally breaks through the dunes after heavy rains, creating a unique brackish water environment. Surrounded by tropical vegetation and overlooked by the Gros Morne mountain, the beach offers both natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant local ecosystem including mangroves and diverse marine life. The beach is easily accessible from the nearby town of Deshaies, which itself has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Plage de Grande Anse remains a favored destination for both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential Caribbean beach experience in a picturesque and relatively unspoiled setting.
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Tip: The best time to visit Plage de Grande Anse is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is sunny and pleasant. Visitors are advised to check local conditions as the lagoon's water can become brackish after heavy rains. It is recommended to arrive early to find good parking and to enjoy the beach before it gets crowded. While the beach is public and free to access, some nearby restaurants and facilities offer refreshments and amenities. Booking accommodations in Deshaies in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons.
Interesting facts
- •Plage de Grande Anse is the longest beach in the Guadeloupe archipelago at 2.15 kilometers.
- •The lagoon on the beach is fed by the Mitan River and can become brackish after heavy rainfall.
- •The beach is overlooked by the Gros Morne mountain, a notable natural landmark.
- •Deshaies, the nearby town, was the original settlement site before relocating inland for strategic reasons.
- •The beach area is part of a region that preserves some of Guadeloupe's primitive vegetation dating back to the arrival of Christopher Columbus.
History
The area around Plage de Grande Anse was originally the site of the founding settlement of Deshaies in 1671 before the town moved inland for better protection.
The beach and its surroundings have witnessed the historical transformations of Guadeloupe, including colonial plantations and pirate activity.
Its geographical features, including the protective bay and fertile lands, have long made it an important natural resource for local communities.
Over the centuries, Deshaies evolved from a plantation economy to a modern commune known for tourism and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
The Beach Arc
The 2.15 km crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand stretching from Pointe le Breton to Pointe Le Gouffre, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and scenic walks.
The Lagoon and Mangrove
A lagoon fed by the Mitan River located on the eastern part of the beach, featuring mangrove vegetation and a unique ecosystem that sometimes connects with the sea after heavy rains.
Gros Morne Mountain Viewpoint
A prominent mountain overlooking the beach, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the Caribbean Sea, enhancing the natural beauty of the area.
Contact
Phone: 0590 22 28 50
