Pointe-à-Pitre, Le Gosier & Sainte-Anne: City Walk, Islet & Beach

Summary

Old town strolls, islet swims and Sainte-Anne beach time in Guadeloupe

You’ll wander Pointe-à-Pitre’s lively old town with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story, then zip over by boat to Le Gosier islet for swimming or just soaking up island quiet. Finish stretched out on Sainte-Anne’s warm sand before heading back—all with easy pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever tried bokit?" our guide, Jean-Marc, grinned as we stepped into the old streets of Pointe-à-Pitre. I hadn’t. The city was just waking up—market stalls clinking open, a faint whiff of spices and sea mixing in the air. We wandered past faded colonial facades while Jean-Marc pointed out little details I’d have missed: a carved balcony here, a plaque there. Sometimes he’d pause mid-story when someone called his name from across the street—felt like everyone knew him. It was humid but not heavy; more like you could taste the salt on your lips if you licked them.

After an hour or so (I lost track), we hopped into a small boat at the marina—just eight of us and the captain’s reggae playlist humming low. The ride to Le Gosier islet was quick, maybe ten minutes? The water was that clear turquoise you see on postcards but never quite believe until you’re squinting at it yourself. Sand got everywhere (still found some in my shoes later), and I tried to pronounce “Ilet du Gosier” right—Jean-Marc laughed and said I sounded like his cousin from Paris. We walked around the tiny island first, then had free time to swim or just sit with our feet in the water watching pelicans do their thing. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed so fast.

Back on land, we drove to Sainte-Anne—windows down because the air conditioning felt too sharp after all that sun. Sainte-Anne beach was busy but not crowded; families picnicking, kids chasing each other along the shore, music drifting from a beach bar where someone mixed ti’ punch with a practiced flick of the wrist. I bought a coconut pastry from a woman who didn’t smile until I said “merci”—then she did, big and genuine. The sea here was warmer than I thought it’d be. After about an hour and a half (could’ve stayed longer), we met up again for the ride back.

I still think about that view from Le Gosier—the way light bounced off the water and made everything seem softer somehow. If you want a day trip from Pointe-à-Pitre that’s more than just ticking boxes—a mix of city walking tour, island stopover by boat shuttle, and beach break at Sainte-Anne—this one felt real to me. Not perfect or polished, but real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pointe-à-Pitre tour and beach breaks

• Guided walk in old Pointe-à-Pitre
• Powerboat ride to Le Gosier islet
• Short guided tour of Le Gosier
• Free time on Le Gosier beach
• Travel to Sainte-Anne beach
• Free time at Sainte-Anne beach
• Return to Pointe-à-Pitre and cruise port

Top questions

How long does this Pointe-à-Pitre city tour last?

The full tour covers most of one day with stops in Pointe-à-Pitre old town, Le Gosier islet, and Sainte-Anne beach before returning to port.

Is pickup included for this day trip from Pointe-à-Pitre?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal are included in your booking.

How do you get to Le Gosier islet?

You take a short 10-minute motorboat ride from the mainland to reach Le Gosier islet.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included but you’ll have free time at Sainte-Anne beach where you can buy snacks or cocktails from local bars.

How many people are on this tour?

The group size is capped at 8 participants for a more personal experience.

Can travelers with mobility issues join this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility restrictions or wheelchairs due to walking and boat access.

Are infant seats available?

Specialized infant seats can be provided upon request during booking.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Packing swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking tours, and some cash for snacks or drinks at Sainte-Anne beach is recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walking through Pointe-à-Pitre’s old town with an English-speaking guide, fresh bottled water throughout, all boat shuttle tickets to Le Gosier islet, air-conditioned vehicle transfers between stops plus easy pickup and drop-off right at your cruise terminal before heading back in time for departure.