Pigeon Island Guadeloupe

Sunday

11/09/16

It was raining yesterday and we couldn't do much except doing house chores and some shopping. Since we arrived in Guadeloupe, we haven't went to any snorkeling trip and unfortunately weather report says that its goin to be raining this weekend and we are pretty disappointed. 

We woke up late sunday morning expected that its going to be raining but surprisingly it was hot and sunny. So as usual, we pack our lunch and drove to Bouillante in Basse-terre to Plage de Malendure. 

If you are not sure that you are at the right beach, just stop at the first beach you came across with a lot of car parked along the road. The area can be crowded if u came in the afternoon but you still can find place to park your car.

Plage de Malendure is not so big but there's not many people too. This is also the starting point for people who wish to go for diving and snorkeling. You can go diving, snorkeling and boat tour by arrange it with many operator at the beach.

The sea in Basse-Terre lacked of turquoise color compared to those in Grand-terre which is due to volcano activity that change the color around the island. But nevertheless, the water still nice and clear. This is also the beach that we heard we could see many turtles if we snorkeling a little bit further from the beach, but since we came in the afternoon, we doubt we will see any. 

We took a little swim after lunch and decided to go snorkeling at Pigeon Island instead of around the beach. It didn't look there's anything much to see and i am so keen to see a good snorkeling area.  So we rent a kayak for 25 euro per pax at the beach and off to pigeon island. 

Pigeon island is beautiful and its also a national park. It is forbidden for visitors to take anything from the island even if it is a small shell. There's 2 small beaches at this island where you can PARKED your kayak and directly snorkeling from the beach. The good news is, there's not many people do kayak and you almost have the entire island for yourself. There are people coming for diving (and they are underwater) and boat tour who did snorkeling service, but this island is still far from being crowded. We had a very good afternoon snorkeling from this 2 beach and also at the other area behind the hill where they called the aquarium. 

Reaching the island, see how clear the water is?

Plenty of fish around

if u fast enough you can grab the fish and have bbq, lol

The aquarium behind, its stony area. Handle with care

2nd beach with a lot of parking area

First beach where snorkeling is the best, but kayak parking is limited

Unfortunately, we didnt get to see any turtle on this trip probably since its late afternoon and turtle usually came out in the morning. better luck next time.