Petite Anse, also known as Ti-Anse, is a discreet cove on the west coast of Basse-Terre, nestled between Deshaies and Pointe-Noire. Stretching roughly 200 metres and sheltered between two cliffs, it draws primarily snorkelling enthusiasts keen to observe green sea turtles grazing on seagrass beds mere metres from the shore.

Why visit Petite Anse

Petite Anse's appeal lies in its intimate setting. The narrow strip of sand, compressed between two rocky outcrops, breaks the dominant swell and typically offers calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The beach remains frequented by locals, without heavy tourist infrastructure: a handful of Creole houses border the back beach, and a food truck handles refreshments.

Unlike its larger neighbour Grande Anse, Petite Anse is not a beach for rows of sun loungers. Rather, it's a half-day destination, best paired with another stop along the Leeward coast.

What to see and do

Snorkelling and turtle watching

Mask and snorkel are your most essential equipment here. Three zones stand out:

• Left side (facing the sea): rocks harbour a variety of reef fish (sergeant majors, damselfish, parrotfish).
• Centre of the bay: seagrass beds are frequented by green sea turtles, visible at shallow depths.
• Towards the cliff edges: reserved for experienced swimmers, with a more pronounced drop-off.

Ecological note: do not touch corals or turtles. Even light contact can transmit bacteria or disease, and disturbance alters their feeding behaviour.

The trail to Grande Anse

A trail connects Petite Anse to Grande Anse via the wooded hillside. Allow approximately 15 minutes of walking, with short but steady elevation gain. Good footwear is recommended, especially after rain.

Practical information

• Access: from Route Nationale 2, a steep lane descends towards the beach. The sign is discreet—slow down as you approach.
• Parking: limited, with only a few spaces. The exit onto the main road is at a blind angle—use caution when leaving.
• Equipment: mask, snorkel and fins (no rental on-site), water, sun protection and water shoes useful on rocky areas.
• Services: a seasonal food truck, no permanent showers or facilities.
• Shade: a few trees in the back beach area; bring a parasol during high season.
• Cost: free access.

When to visit

The dry season, from December to April, offers the most stable swimming conditions: flat sea, decent underwater visibility, minimal rainfall. The wet season (July to November) can bring swell and cloudy water, though crowds are lighter.

During the day, favour early morning or late afternoon. Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., the heat is intense and shade is limited. Morning also offers better chances of spotting turtles, which are more active before the crowds arrive.

How to get there

Petite Anse sits on Route Nationale 2, the main artery of Basse-Terre's west coast. From Pointe-à-Pitre, allow approximately one hour's drive heading towards Deshaies. From the south (Basse-Terre town), the road hugs the coast via Bouillante and Pointe-Noire.

An alternative is to park at Grande Anse, where parking is more spacious, then walk to Petite Anse via the hillside trail in about 15 minutes. This is the simplest option during peak season.

Nearby attractions

Pointe-Noire (approximately 5 km south)

The town retains several wooden Creole houses and the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption church. In the immediate surroundings: the Notre-Dame des Larmes sanctuary and its waterfalls, Plage Caraïbe, the Aquaculture Park, Saut de l'Acomat (waterfall and swimming pool) and the Cacao House.

Grande Anse (approximately 9–10 km north)

Basse-Terre's longest stretch of golden sand. Parking, outdoor showers, restaurants. At its centre, the Mitan River forms the Étang Ziotte marshes, behind the sand ridge.

Deshaies (approximately 7 km north)

A fishing village strung along the cove, with seaside restaurants, small shops and accommodation. The town beach is accessible on foot.

Deshaies Botanical Garden (approximately 6 km away)

Once owned by Coluche, now a botanical park. Lorikeets in interactive aviaries, flamingos, trails through tropical flora. Worthwhile for families with children.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Petite Anse fits naturally into a Leeward coast itinerary, mixing rainforest hikes, Basse-Terre beaches and cultural stops. To build a complete itinerary, explore our trips to Guadeloupe.