Malendure beach
Plage Malendure - a public beach with unusual dark gray sand. It is located on the west coast of Basse-Terre, near Bouillante. The main attraction is the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve. In addition, local waters are very popular with scuba diving enthusiasts.
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Beach description
Tropical forests on mountainous terrain reach the beach from the opposite side of the shore. The sea bottom farther from the beach is covered in sea plants, which is why many green turtles that curious tourists like to feed live here. You can see small "crowds" of 2-3 turtles where the water is the clearest.
The best diving spots are located in the north, where there are less boats.
You can lay here for a whole day, relax, swim and sunbathe, which is why Malendure is so beloved by families with children. Children will be safe here, as the sand is soft, the water is warm and calm, and the descent is smooth. And also:
- Only natural sights surround the beach, no urban jungles.
- The entry is free and accessible all year long.
- Reefs are located 400 meters away from the beach, where underwater inhabitants big and small spend their time. Underwater explorers make their way there.
- Many small restaurants are located on the beach where visitors can eat or use a toilet (as there are none on the beach).
- Several diving centers and other facilities where one can partake in water sports regardless of their skill are operating in the area.
- If you don't like big crowds, it's better to come to the beach as early as possible. Although large crowds won't bother you anyway, tourists spread around the beach or visit the local underwater sights of the natural reserve.
- Parking may be a problem during high noon. It has more spots and the road to it isn't as busy before 9:00 and after 15:00.
When is the best time to go?
It is best to go to Guadeloupe from December to May, as the weather at this time is set dry and fresher than in other months. However, it should be borne in mind that in December, during the holidays, many tourists arrive to celebrate Christmas and New Year, which affects prices.
Video: Beach Malendure
Infrastructure
For those who are used to staying in 5* apartments, the service near Plage Malendure may seem somewhat simple. But everything is compensated by the exceptional attentiveness and friendliness of the employees of local hotels and cafes.
If you have risen a little up from the beach, you can stay in a cozy budget hotel Gites Couleur Caraibes. Due to its hillside location, air conditioning in the room may not be necessary. A light breeze and mosquito nets keep insects out. Rooms for every taste, double or multi-bedroom suites for a large company. Only 12 euros per day will cost the guest a wonderful dinner or breakfast. There is a small swimming pool in the garden, shops are in a 5-minute drive away. The hotel has a laundry room, kitchenette, pets are allowed here. The hosts are very welcoming.
Regarding the cuisine, it can be called the "Caribbean branch" of the French. Culinary traditions are largely similar, but have a local Creole touch. In addition to fast food, French and Caribbean food, Chinese, Mexican or Indian dishes are popular. The coast of the island is rich in fish, shellfish. Traditionally, lobsters, octopuses and turtles are served here. It is worth trying a stew called "La Creole", "Gut-Colombo" made from wild goats. For meat, take rice, potatoes with vegetables. Freshly squeezed juices are almost always present on the table; rum is a popular choice from alcoholic drinks. The cost of lunch is usually equal to European cost.
Close to the beaches always are located many bars and restaurants for every budget.
Weather in Malendure
Best hotels of Malendure
All hotels of MalendureUseful information
- You can always relax on Plage Malendure, even on New Year's Eve, this is a real paradise with even temperatures. It is always humid here. In July-November is officially the rainy season, when rains and even tropical hurricanes occur.
- From Pointe a Pier, Plage Malendure can be reached in about 40 minutes by car, following the signs. It is advisable to choose daylight hours.
- The traveler should always be careful, but no cases of theft were noticed near Malendur.
- Smoking is not accepted, almost no one smokes here. And cigarettes brought with them quickly damp and acquire a peculiar taste.
- Do not disturb turtles, while turtle watching: do not touch, do not chase, try to be at a distance when they rise to the surface for breathing.
- When engaging in underwater sports, you should avoid places near the congestion of boats and listen to the advice of a trainer. There are no lifeguards on the beach.
What to see:
- The Zoo.
- National Nature Reserve.
- Waterfall.
- Botanical Garden.
- Basse-Terre Cathedral.
- Take a tour of the volcano (but not in the rain).
- Nearby Islands.