Pointe noire

Pointe-noire : at the heart of wood craftsmanship

Founded in the 17th century, Pointe-Noire began as an agricultural commune, specializing in sugar cane and coffee. Over the centuries, the town evolved into a center for woodworking and production, with artisans creating furniture, sculptures, and fine art pieces from precious woods. The arrival of indentured Indian workers after the abolition of slavery added richness to the local culture. Today, Pointe‑Noire remains rooted in its artisanal heritage while embracing ecotourism to showcase its natural landscapes and heritage.

Pointe‑Noire, as its name suggests, lies on the west coast of Basse-Terre, bordered by the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by tropical forests. Often nicknamed the “wood capital” of Guadeloupe, many carpenters and woodworkers continue an ancestral craft. Several workshops are open to the public, showcasing furniture and sculptures made from local wood species, such as mahogany, rosewood, and poirier‑pays.

Beyond woodworking traditions, Pointe‑Noire is home to the Maison du Cacao, a living museum dedicated to cacao cultivation and processing. Visitors can explore the chocolate-making process—from pod to bar—and taste artisanal products of exceptional quality. A delightful anecdote suggests that cacao pods were first planted in the region in the 17th century by settlers seeking crop diversification. Today, local cacao is celebrated through short supply chains and remains a sought-after niche product.

Pointe‑Noire is also known for its waterfalls and rivers ideal for swimming. The Saut d’Acomat is among the best-known sites, offering a clear water pool surrounded by lush vegetation. The surrounding trails are a paradise for hikers, winding through the tropical forest. Along the coast, black volcanic beaches, like Anse Caraïbe, offer a stunning contrast to the light sands of Grande-Terre.

Local culture is deeply embedded in gwo ka music and patronal celebrations, bringing the community together with concerts, parades, and traditional dishes. The creole fish court-bouillon, créole blood sausage, and accras are especially beloved. Additionally, the commune prides itself on its underwater heritage: the coastline features diving spots that are less crowded than the Cousteau Reserve but equally rich in coral and tropical fish. In the end, Pointe‑Noire strikes a harmonious balance between woodcraft, cacao delights, abundant nature, and Creole traditions—making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authenticity on the Caribbean coast.

Urbanism

The town of Pointe‑Noire stands out for its Creole architecture and vibrant, colorful houses. The commune maintains modest, well-integrated infrastructure within its natural environment, featuring low buildings and green public areas. Urban planning emphasizes environmental conservation, preserving an authentic, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can stroll down quiet streets lined with artisan workshops. The local market is a popular gathering spot, offering a variety of artisanal goods, tropical fruits, and local specialties.

Geography of the commune of Pointe‑Noire

Pointe‑Noire is surrounded by tropical forest and bordered by the Caribbean Sea, offering remarkable landscape diversity. The commune includes multiple rivers and waterfalls, with surrounding mountains forming part of the Guadeloupe National Park. Pebble beaches and hidden coves provide ideal swimming and snorkeling spots, featuring clear waters and pristine underwater environments. The humid tropical climate supports rich biodiversity, including endemic plant and animal species visible along many hiking trails.

Economic activities

Pointe‑Noire’s economy relies mainly on woodcraft and tourism. The commune is famed for its woodworking workshops, sculptors, and artisans creating furniture, decorative items, and artwork. Ecotourism is thriving, attracting visitors to natural landscapes, hiking trails, and aquatic activities. Forest excursions, visits to artisan studios, and sea trips are among the top attractions. Although limited, agriculture also plays a role, with cultivation of tropical fruits and coffee plantations.

Neighboring communes and area

Pointe‑Noire is bordered by Deshaies to the north and Bouillante to the south. Covering an area of about 59 km², the commune extends between the mountains and the sea, offering varied landscapes ranging from beaches to tropical forests. Its geographical position grants direct access to the Caribbean Sea and protected natural areas of the national park.

Access and distances to other towns

Located about 40 km from Pointe‑à‑Pitre, Pointe‑Noire is accessible via the coastal national road along western Basse-Terre. Its proximity to Deshaies and Bouillante allows visitors to easily explore nearby natural sites and beaches. The winding roads through the mountains provide scenic views and interesting stopping points to admire the landscapes.

Real estate trends in the town

The real estate market in Pointe-Noire is stable, with demand focused on single-family homes and vacation residences. The average price per square meter is around €2,000, making the commune accessible to families and individuals looking to settle in a natural setting. Creole houses and properties with views of the sea or forest are particularly sought after by buyers.

Politics

The current mayor of Pointe-Noire, Ms. Camille Elisabeth, supports projects aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, ecotourism, and the preservation of artisanal traditions. The municipality highlights initiatives to protect the environment, particularly the forests and coastal areas. Efforts are also being made to modernize infrastructure while preserving the commune’s authentic character.

Must-see sites and monuments in Pointe-Noire

Pointe-Noire is rich in natural and cultural sites. The Maison du Bois is an emblematic place where visitors can discover the history and techniques of woodworking, reflecting the commune's artisanal heritage. Plage Caraïbe, with its crystal-clear waters, is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The Rivière Caillou trail offers an opportunity to explore the tropical forest and enjoy spectacular sea views. The commune also features several artisan workshops open to the public, where visitors can observe woodworking techniques and purchase unique handmade pieces.

Cultural events

The cultural life of Pointe-Noire is punctuated by traditional events and popular festivals. The patronal feast, dedicated to Saint-Philippe, is a highlight for locals, featuring religious ceremonies, parades, and concerts of Creole music. The Guadeloupe Carnival is also a much-anticipated event, where residents parade through the streets in colorful costumes and dance to the sound of Gwoka, a traditional Guadeloupean rhythm. The commune also organizes artisan markets and discovery days focused on woodworking, showcasing local craftsmanship.