On the west coast of Basse-Terre, in the municipality of Bouillante, Petite Anse Beach is a volcanic cove known for its dark sand, geothermal hot spring and marine beds accessible from the first few meters. Located near the Cousteau Reserve, it offers a more discreet alternative to the nearby Malendure beach.

Why Visit Petite Anse?

Petite Anse combines several distinctive features that set it apart from other beaches in Guadeloupe. The cove is framed by Pointe du Souffleur to the north and a small point near Anse à la Barque to the south. Its ochre to brown sand reveals volcanic origins, and the mouth of the Petite Anse ravine flows into the bay, bringing a source of fresh water to the beach.

The site's uniqueness primarily stems from its geothermal hot spring, which gushes between the sand and rock on the southern side of the beach. The water can reach a high temperature (around 38°C depending on the day) and warms the sea in its immediate vicinity. This phenomenon, linked to the volcanic activity of La Soufrière, attracts locals in the late afternoon.

What to See and Do

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The calm and shallow waters of Petite Anse are ideal for observing the seabed with just a mask and snorkel. Marine seagrass beds and several reef zones line the beach, accessible from the shore.

Among the species regularly observed:

• Tropical fish: angelfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish
• Starfish, sea urchins and coral
• Squid and octopus in rocky areas
• Green sea turtles, occasionally observed in seagrass beds
• More rarely, barracudas off rocky passages

To preserve these ecosystems, it is important not to touch the coral, maintain good buoyancy and avoid approaching turtles.

Scuba Diving

Several dive centers based in Bouillante and Malendure offer outings from this area, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. The immediate proximity to the Cousteau Reserve, around the Pigeon islets, makes this sector one of the most sought-after in the archipelago for diving.

Hot Spring and Relaxation

The southern portion of the beach allows you to settle in naturally warm water, where the geothermal spring blends with the sea. The experience is more pronounced at low tide. Shaded areas beneath sea grape trees and coconut palms allow you to extend your break without direct sunlight.

Hiking to Dlo Ferré

From Petite Anse, a trail leads to the Dlo Ferré site, an iron-rich spring located higher up. The walk passes through tropical vegetation and remains accessible to a regular walker. On the beach's rocks, it's not uncommon to observe iguanas basking in the sun.

Practical Information

The beach is public, free and unguarded. Caution is therefore advised, particularly with young children or inexperienced swimmers.

Amenities available on site:

• Shelters for picnicking
• Public showers and restrooms
• Large free parking lot (often full in high season)
• Creole restaurants by the sea (grilled fish, accras, bokits)

Plan for a half-day to a full day depending on your activities. Bring water shoes for rocky areas, mask and snorkel if you wish to snorkel, and sun protection.

When to Visit

The dry season, from December to April, offers the most favorable conditions: calm sea, low humidity and good underwater visibility. The hurricane season runs from June to November, with an increased risk of heavy rains in September and October.

Like much of Guadeloupe's coastline, the beach can be affected by sargassum seaweed buildup, especially between April and August. The west coast of Basse-Terre, including Bouillante, remains less exposed than the Atlantic coast.

To enjoy the site in good conditions, plan to arrive early in the morning: the parking lot fills up quickly, and crowds increase significantly late morning and on weekends.

How to Get There

The beach is located approximately 5 km south of Bouillante town center, on the west coast of Basse-Terre. Access is via National Road 2, which runs along the coast, then via D23 from the town center.

A steep alley descends from RN2 to the beach. The parking lot exit is very steep and can be tricky with a loaded vehicle or when crowded. A rental car remains the most practical solution for reaching the site.

Things to See Nearby

Petite Anse serves as a good base for exploring the west coast of Basse-Terre:

• The Cousteau Reserve and Pigeon islets, a few minutes to the north, for diving and snorkeling
• Malendure Beach, the starting point for excursions to the reserve
• Bouillante town and its hot springs
• Carbet Falls and Guadeloupe National Park, further inland

To further explore the archipelago, Pointe des Châteaux on the east side of Grande-Terre and Pain de Sucre in the Saintes offer very different landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Your Trip

Petite Anse fits easily into a circuit focused on Basse-Terre, between diving at the Cousteau Reserve, hiking in the national park and visits to volcanic sites. To organize your stay, consult our trips to Guadeloupe.