Le Gosier

Le gosier : seaside resort of Guadeloupe

Founded in the 17th century, Le Gosier was initially a small fishing village before developing into a seaside resort in the 20th century. During the colonial period, the town played an economic role thanks to sugar cane cultivation and maritime trade. The development of tourism in the 1960s transformed Le Gosier into a major tourist center in Guadeloupe. Today, the town combines its rich historical heritage with a modern living environment, attractive to both residents and tourists.

It is one of the most touristic communes of Guadeloupe, located on the southern coast of Grande-Terre. Its name is often associated with its white sandy beaches, upscale hotels, and seaside activities. The etymology of the word "Gosier" would come from the presence of a large number of pelicans, birds with large throats, once abundant in the bay. Today, you can still see these birds diving into the sea to fish, much to the delight of photography enthusiasts.

The town center of Le Gosier is organized around a small marina and a very popular night market. On market evenings, colorful stalls offer artisanal products, flavored rums, spices, and Creole street food (accras, bokits, boudins, etc.). The festive atmosphere is often accompanied by Caribbean music, reminding that Le Gosier is also a place for parties and gatherings. A few hundred meters from the shore lies the îlet du Gosier, accessible by shuttle or kayak. This islet, protected by a coral reef, offers a popular snorkeling spot where tropical fish and starfish can be observed in crystal-clear waters.

Historically, Le Gosier was one of the first French colonization points on Grande-Terre. Remains of fortifications, such as the Fort Fleur d’Épée (located rather on the neighboring commune of Le Gosier, near Bas-du-Fort), testify to the Franco-English struggles for control of the archipelago. A funny anecdote tells that during these clashes, soldiers supposedly hid ammunition and gold coins in the fort’s underground tunnels. Excavations never found this alleged treasure, thus fueling local legends.

Le Gosier is also an important center for nautical activities: scuba diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, and boat excursions to nearby islands. Beaches like the plage de la Datcha attract both families and water sports enthusiasts. Culturally, the town hosts various events throughout the year, including zouk and gwoka concerts as well as sailing competitions. This balance between modernity and traditions appeals to a wide audience, making Le Gosier a must-visit destination for tourism in Guadeloupe.

Urbanism

Le gosier stands out for its dynamic urban planning, with a mix of residential areas, hotels, shops, and modern infrastructure. The town center is lively, with many restaurants, bars, and shops attracting both locals and visitors. Along the coast are large hotels and tourist complexes offering direct access to the beaches. Residential neighborhoods extend inland, in quieter, greener areas, creating harmony between urbanization and natural spaces.

Geography of the municipality of Le Gosier

Le gosier enjoys a tropical climate, with a coastline stretching several kilometers and famous beaches like la Datcha, located in the city center. Just opposite is the îlet du Gosier, a small island accessible by boat where visitors can enjoy the beach and snorkeling. The commune is also crossed by small rivers and offers some hills overlooking the ocean, with magnificent views of the bay and surrounding islands.

Economic activities

Tourism is the main economic activity in Le Gosier, with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and leisure activities. Beaches and water sports such as scuba diving, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are very popular with visitors. Le Gosier also has a casino and several nightclubs, reinforcing its festive city image. Local commerce, including craft shops and markets, also contributes to the economy. Agriculture remains present but secondary compared to tourism-related services.

Bordering communes and area

Le Gosier is surrounded by the communes of Pointe-à-Pitre and Les Abymes to the north, and Sainte-Anne to the east. With an area of about 45 km², the commune occupies a strategic position on the south coast of Grande-Terre, making it an ideal starting point to explore the island.

Access and distances to other cities

Le Gosier is located about 10 km from Pointe-à-Pitre, the largest city in Guadeloupe, and is easily accessible via the N4 national road. The commune is also well connected to other tourist destinations in Grande-Terre, such as Sainte-Anne and Saint-François, allowing visitors to move around easily. The proximity to the international airport of Pointe-à-Pitre facilitates access for international tourists.

Real estate trends of the city

The real estate market in Le Gosier is dynamic, with strong demand for secondary residences and tourist accommodations. The average price per square meter is around 3,500 euros, reflecting the attractiveness of the commune for investors and individuals. Seaside properties, villas, and apartments with sea views are particularly sought after due to their rental potential and the tourist appeal of the region.

Politics

The current mayor of Le Gosier, Ms. Cédric Cornet, supports projects aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, improving urban infrastructure, and preserving natural resources. The municipality is working to modernize its facilities while preserving the environment and promoting cultural heritage. Local initiatives are being implemented to encourage environmentally friendly practices, particularly in tourist areas.

Must-see places and monuments in Le Gosier

Le Gosier is rich in natural and cultural sites. The Gosier islet, accessible by shuttle, is one of the most iconic locations, offering white sandy beaches and magnificent views of Grande-Terre. Fort Fleur d'Épée, an ancient fortification built in the 18th century, is another place of interest for its history and panoramic views of Pointe-à-Pitre Bay.

Datcha Beach, in the heart of the town, is a popular spot for swimming and family outings. The craft market and casino in Le Gosier also contribute to the town's appeal. The Gosier Sports Center, located at GPS coordinates 16°13'07.0"N 61°31'10.7"W, is a multipurpose facility dedicated to sports and cultural activities in Guadeloupe. Located at the Cocoteraie Sports Center, Bas du Fort, 97190 Le Gosier, it hosts various indoor sports such as handball, volleyball, basketball, as well as martial arts thanks to its integrated dojo.

Opened in 2011, the Palais des Sports has a capacity of over 6,000 seats, making it an ideal venue for major sporting events, concerts, shows, and conferences. The Palais des Sports has a rich and varied program, offering events throughout the year. For example, in 2025, artists such as Anthony Kavanagh, Tai, and the Jamel Comedy Club are expected to perform.

Cultural events

Le Gosier hosts numerous cultural and festive events throughout the year. Carnival is a highlight, with colorful parades and Creole music filling the streets of the town. The patron saint's day, dedicated to Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel, brings residents together for concerts, sports competitions, and various activities. The Terre de Blues festival and events celebrating Creole culture, such as night markets and craft exhibitions, contribute to making Gosier a dynamic and lively town.