Saint-Francois is a sunny resort set around a yacht-filled marina. Relax on white-sand beaches framed by lush coconut palms and swim in the crystalline Caribbean Sea. There’s plenty to keep you entertained off the beach, including a lively market and a championship-standard golf course.
Things to do in Saint-François
Find some of the best beaches on La Pointe des Chateaux. White-sand beaches fringe the peninsula and are popular with local sunseekers looking to escape the crowds. Rent a bike and cycle to the end of the peninsula for spectacular views over the Caribbean Sea and nearby La Désirade Island. Look down to see frothy waves crashing onto the rocks.
Arrive early to check out the scene at Marché La Rotonde. The circle-shaped building hosts the daily market where you can stock up on everything from fresh produce to colourful spices, artisan preserves and bottles of Ti’ Punch. It’s the national cocktail of Guadeloupe and made with a lip-smacking combination of sugar cane syrup, lime and white rum. Buy handcrafted souvenirs like woven baskets and colourful textiles at the weekly night market.
Swim, sunbathe and snorkel at Plage des Raisins Clairs. The palm-fringed beach features calm, shallow water that’s perfect for kids. There’s plenty of shade, plus several restaurants and food trucks. Order fruity rum cocktails and “bokit” fried sandwiches, both local specialties.
Tee off on Golf Municipal de St-François, one of the only courses in Guadeloupe. Legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Sr designed the course with wide open fairways, artificial lakes and challenging sand bunkers. Gorgeous views add to the picturesque setting.
Getting around Saint-François
Saint-Francois is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is on the main island of Guadeloupe, a 1.5-hour drive from Basse-Terre and 45 minutes from Pointe-à-Pitre. Taxis are a good way to get around the island or you can rent a car. Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.