
Pointe-Noire
Pointe-Noire
On the Leeward Coast of Basse-Terre, Pointe-Noire blends cascading waterfalls, rust-colored sand beaches and a rich cacao heritage. Our comprehensive guide.
Looking to escape to the Caribbean? Pointe-Noire welcomes you with open arms for a unique and unforgettable holiday. This peaceful village ranks among the most attractive destinations on the west coast of Basse-Terre. With its rustic charm and picturesque landscapes, Pointe-Noire will captivate you without question!
Pointe-Noire at a Glance
Nestled in the Guadeloupe region, Pointe-Noire is home to approximately 7,000 inhabitants. Once isolated, this coastal town now thrives across several industries: timber, fishing, agriculture and ecotourism among others.
Pointe-Noire takes pride in its agricultural heritage, which has long established the village's reputation.
Blessed with beautiful rust-colored sand beaches, this charming town attracts many visitors. You'll also see wooden Creole houses dotting the Caribbean shoreline. Rocky outcrops, beaches and forest combine to create breathtaking landscapes. Pointe-Noire is also the gathering spot for water sports enthusiasts.
A Bit of History
This village came into being in 1696, when Reverend Father Labat found it ideal for agriculture and decided to settle there. Pointe-Noire was transformed into an entire parish. At that time, the village was named "Caillou" by Joseph Caillou, one of the first settlers of the town.
During colonization, this Guadeloupe community was the paradise of colonists and the hell of enslaved people. More than four thousand "maroons" were brought to Pointe-Noire in the second half of the 18th century. A secret trail was even built to escape government bounty hunters.
Various artifacts found at the site also attest to the presence of indigenous peoples in the area. The village's history is strongly marked by the Naval Battle of Pointe-Noire, which took place on January 22, 1809.
Pointe-Noire takes its name from the chain of black rocks that dominate the northern point of the village. In Creole, this place is called "Pwentnwa".
What to See in Pointe-Noire?
Habitation Côte Sous le Vent
The perfect spot for a family outing where you'll have fun while learning part of Guadeloupe's history. The estate features a botanical garden, a pirate zone, a play area for children, a small zoo, a traditional Creole house and a park. And as a bonus, the estate offers flying bikes that let you soar about thirty meters above the trees. You'll glide across the park over a distance of 500 meters. The panorama is breathtaking. Don't miss it!
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Tears
According to locals, the Virgin Mary appeared at the sanctuary's location. An open-air altar has been erected there. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Tears sits on the banks of a stream, at the edge of the Guadeloupe forest.
Exploring the Orchid Park
The ideal spot for nature lovers! This park invites you to discover its wooded garden, home to a wealth of orchid collections. Immerse yourself in a tropical atmosphere and rejuvenate in the park by enjoying spa sessions offered on-site. Jacuzzi, body scrubs, massage… you'll be pampered from head to toe.
What to Do in Pointe-Noire?
Taste Local Culinary Specialties
Pointe-Noire will delight you with its gastronomic offerings. You'll be spoiled while sampling different coffee and chocolate preparations at the Cacao House and La Caféière Beauséjour. The town is also renowned for its array of seafood. A culinary experience not to be missed!
Swimming at Petite Anse or Caraïbe Beach
To relax and make the most of your Caribbean stay, the beaches are perfect. Pointe-Noire has two beach sites: Petite Anse Beach and Caraïbe Beach. Anse Caraïbe beach is characterized by black sand and pebbles. After playing with your little ones in the water, you can enjoy a cocktail and sunbathe on the warm sand. Under the beach shelters, you can take a little nap and have a picnic.
Visiting Saut d'Acomat and Its Remarkable Pool
At 10 meters high, the Saut d'Acomat will get your adrenaline pumping. Located on the Grande Plaine River, this magnificent waterfall with emerald waters is very popular with tourists who flock there on weekends. A must-see in Pointe-Noire! To reach it, you'll need to walk for a few minutes through the tropical forest.
Discovering Ouassous
One of the village's must-see attractions, the Aquaculture Park is among the educational spaces in Pointe-Noire. A guided tour is a must! The park is famous for its ouassou larvae. The site will also allow you to observe different bird species in the region. If you enjoy fishing, you're in the right place. The park allows visitors to fish with a rod in its pools.
Hiking
Pointe-Noire boasts several natural settings highly favorable for hiking: marked trails through lush vegetation and rivers. The village is indeed a well-known starting point for hiking, kayaking and biking expeditions.
Water Sports
Pointe-Noire is highly suitable for water activities. Do you love snorkeling or diving, spearfishing, free diving, etc.? An-ba Dlo La at Anse Caraïbe will fulfill all your wishes. It will take you on a thrilling adventure to the ocean floor.
When to Visit?
Pointe-Noire has a tropical climate. It's best to avoid the rainy season, which will limit your excursion days. This period runs from August through September. Saut d'Acomat cannot be visited during the rainy season, in fact. The first quarter of the year remains the most favorable for visiting Pointe-Noire.
From Pointe-à-Pitre, you can take either a bus or taxi to reach Pointe-Noire. There are also buses departing from Pointe-à-Pitre that will take you to Lamentin. From there, you'll need to rent a car or take a taxi to get to Pointe-Noire.
It's also possible to drive from Pointe-à-Pitre to Pointe-Noire. 42 km separates the two towns. You'll therefore need at least an hour of travel time (depending on road conditions).
With an area not exceeding 60 km², Pointe-Noire is easy to explore. You can get around by car, motorcycle, bus, taxi, kayak, or on foot.
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