Pearl Beach
La Perle beach in Guadeloupe… The name alone conjures up images of escape, wild beauty and a little corner of paradise. Imagine golden sands caressed by crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation offering soothing shade, and spectacular panoramic views of Kawan Island. Can you already feel the sea breeze ?
In this article, we take you on a tour of this rare jewel of Deshaies. You'll learn all there is to know about how to make the most of your day: must-do activities, hidden treasures for snorkeling enthusiasts, tips for enjoying a perfect picnic under the palm trees and, of course, the secrets to respecting this fragile ecosystem.
Presentation of the Pearl beach
What if you discovered a corner of paradise where time seems to stand still? La Plage de la Perle, located in Deshaies, is much more than a simple strip of blond sand. It’s an invitation to escape, a place where nature expresses itself in all its splendor. Did you know this beach is often called the "jewel of Guadeloupe"? With its crystal-clear waters and unique panorama of Kawan Island, it rivals the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Here, everything is designed to reconnect: the gentle sound of the waves, the soothing shade of raisin trees and palm trees, and the fine sand that slips through your fingers like a caress. Why not hang a hammock and forget the rest of the world? One last tip: enjoy the early hours, when the beach is almost deserted and the light is perfect for your best shots!
Activities to do on the Pearl beach
What can you do at La Plage de la Perle to turn a simple day into an unforgettable moment? It all starts with a swim in its clear waters, where the temperature hovers around a pleasant 26 to 28 degrees Celsius all year round. But be careful, watch the swell, especially between November and March, when waves can reach over one meter.
For snorkeling enthusiasts, head to the northern part of the beach, near the cliffs. With a mask and snorkel, you can explore a rich marine ecosystem, home to tropical fish and corals, especially when the sea is calm. Prefer to relax? The five carbets, located at the southern end, are perfect for a picnic in the shade of the raisin trees and palm trees. Arrive early if you go on weekends: these shelters are popular with local families.
And why not extend the experience with lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants? La « Paillote de la Perle » is a must for enjoying typical Creole dishes. With so many options, this beach is not just beautiful: it is also lively, accessible, and full of surprises.
Tips for enjoying the beach
To make the most of your visit to La Plage de la Perle, a few precautions and tips are necessary. First, if you visit between November and March, be especially attentive to the waves. The swell can create powerful waves called “short breaks,” which are unpredictable and dangerous near the shore. If the waves are over one meter high, it’s better to favor activities out of the water.
Regarding the environment, this beach is a nesting site for sea turtles, especially between March and July. Respecting their habitat is essential: pick up your trash, use organic sunscreens to protect the marine ecosystem, and do not make fires, as this could disturb these protected species.
Finally, regarding access, opt for closed shoes if you want to explore the sandy paths around the parking area. Avoid venturing into sandy zones with a low-clearance car, as getting stuck is a common problem. Planning your day in advance ensures you fully enjoy this unique beach while preserving it for future generations.
Discoveries around the Pearl Beach
Exploring the surroundings of La Plage de la Perle offers a unique opportunity to enrich your experience. Just 2.3 kilometers away, the famous Plage de Grande Anse stretches out with its golden sand and calm waters, perfect for a family swim. More secluded, the Anse Tillet, located about 1.6 kilometers away, is a hidden gem, ideal for those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the coastal trail connecting La Plage de la Perle to Anse Rifflet, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. This trail is also a great opportunity to observe local wildlife and flora, including majestic coconut palms and tropical birds.
For a cultural experience, be sure to visit the iconic locations from the series "Death in Paradise", filmed nearby. The sets, such as the detective’s house and the famous bar, are a treat for fans. Finally, just a few minutes’ drive away, the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies immerses you in a lush world where exotic plant species reign supreme.
Each of these discoveries adds richness to your stay, balancing relaxation with immersion in Guadeloupe’s natural beauty.
How to access the Pearl Beach in Guadeloupe
Getting to La Plage de la Perle is relatively easy thanks to its strategic location in northern Basse-Terre, in Deshaies. From Pointe-à-Pitre, follow the N2 toward Sainte-Rose, then follow the signs for “Plage de la Perle.” The route is well-marked, making it an easy destination to reach by car.
A main parking lot is located just steps from the beach, but it fills up quickly on weekends and during holidays. If it’s full, you can park along the main road, as long as you don’t obstruct traffic. However, be cautious in sandy areas—vehicles with low clearance risk getting stuck.
For those who enjoy walking, accessing the beach on foot from nearby beaches like Grande Anse is a pleasant option, offering full immersion in the coastal landscape. As for public transport, the area is served by local buses, though schedules may be irregular.
Plan to arrive early in the day, especially if you want to enjoy the shaded carbets or activities like snorkeling. Careful planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience on this Guadeloupean gem.
Is the Pearl Beach suitable for children ?
La Plage de la Perle, with its fine sand and wild beauty, seems like an ideal spot for a family outing. However, certain precautions should be taken if you're bringing children. During the depression season, from November to March, the waves can be particularly strong, with “short breaks” at the shore that are both impressive and dangerous. It's recommended to limit young children’s swimming to areas where the water is calm.
Outside of those months, the beach offers shaded areas under raisin trees and palm trees—perfect for relaxing away from the sun. The carbets located on the southern part of the beach are also very convenient for organizing a picnic or a lunch break. Be sure to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
The lack of lifeguard supervision on this beach requires extra vigilance, but it doesn't prevent families from enjoying the experience. Don’t forget to bring beach games or a ball—the nearby basketball court can turn into a fun play area. By following these few tips, your visit to La Plage de la Perle can become a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
When Is the best time to see turtles At the Pearl Beach ?
La Plage de la Perle in Guadeloupe is a prime location for observing sea turtles, especially during their nesting season. This natural and moving phenomenon generally occurs between March and July. During these months, turtles come to lay their eggs in the sand, offering a unique sight for nature lovers.
The best times to witness this are usually late at night or early in the morning, when the beach is quiet and undisturbed. Turtles, which are sensitive to light and movement, prefer calm surroundings to carry out this crucial part of their life cycle. To maximize your chances, bring a flashlight with a red filter to minimize disturbance.
It is essential to follow a few rules: do not touch the turtles, do not use flash photography, and keep a respectful distance to avoid stressing them.
