Guadeloupe with Kids: The Best Family Activities and Boat Excursions

Picture this: your feet in warm sand, children splashing in crystal-clear waters under the Caribbean sun… Welcome to Guadeloupe! The Butterfly Island promises paradise beaches, a rich and authentic culture, and tropical adventures that will create unforgettable family memories.

For a fantastic family trip, here are the best activities specially suited for children.

You’ll also find practical tips for traveling comfortably from island to island with kids, thanks to the ferries operated by FRS Express des Îles.

Why travel to Guadeloupe with children? What are the best family-friendly activities to do there?

1. Why is Guadeloupe Perfect for a Family Trip?

Guadeloupe is a top choice for a family vacation for several reasons:

  • The archipelago's rich and diverse landscapes offer families a real natural playground: fine sandy beaches with turquoise waters, lush rainforests, the Soufrière volcano, and beautiful islands easily accessible by boat. Boredom is not an option!
  • Child-friendly tourist infrastructure delights families: spacious accommodations, fully equipped rentals, kid-friendly restaurants, and many sites arranged for safety and comfort.
  • Plenty of kid-friendly activities are available: easy hikes, boat trips, snorkeling for children, cultural visits, and craft workshops.
  • It’s also easy to explore nearby islands like Marie-Galante or Les Saintes from Guadeloupe, especially with the ferry connections provided by FRS Express.

2. The Best Activities to Do with Kids in Guadeloupe

Calm Beaches and Safe Swimming

Guadeloupe boasts many safe beaches with calm, shallow waters. These beaches offer a range of family activities: sandcastle building, swimming, marine life observation via snorkeling, kayaking, children's playgrounds (slides, trampolines), kids' jet-skiing ("jetskid"), towable tubing, and more.

Some of the most family-friendly beaches include Sainte-Anne, Le Helleux, Plage de la Datcha, and Anse du Souffleur in Port Louis.

Educational and Nature Visits

Guadeloupe is a dream destination for children to discover many marine and terrestrial animals!

For marine life, the Cousteau Reserve in Pointe-Noire is a natural aquarium teeming with colorful corals and fish—perfect for an introduction to snorkeling.

Take your kids to Parc des Mamelles, an incredible zoo nestled in the heart of Basse-Terre's rainforest. The park dedicates 2 hectares of tropical forest to conserving rare and endangered animal species.

Nearby, the Maison de la Forêt invites visitors of all ages to explore the forest ecosystem along an accessible, educational trail.

Relaxing Boat Trips

In Guadeloupe, a boat outing is a must. These sea adventures are accessible to all, even the youngest travelers.

From Saint-François, mini-cruises explore the marine cul-de-sac aboard speedboats or catamarans.

In Bouillante, departures from Malendure Beach offer glass-bottom boat tours to admire coral reefs, colorful fish, and sometimes even sea turtles.

Depending on the season, boat excursions may also include dolphin, sperm whale, and whale watching.

Some tours even feature fun and educational workshops on board to raise awareness about marine biodiversity among children and adults alike.

3. Must-Do Boat Excursions with Kids

Take advantage of your stay in Guadeloupe to explore the nearby islands! Here are 3 family-friendly island trips:

Petite-Terre: An Accessible Nature Reserve

The Petite-Terre islets form a natural reserve off the coast of Guadeloupe.

These islands are uninhabited, with only reserve wardens residing there. However, excursions departing from Saint-François Marina allow visitors to explore this little piece of paradise.

Expect turquoise lagoons for snorkeling, encounters with sea turtles, and exploration of an exceptionally beautiful coral reef.

Excursions typically last half a day or a full day. For the best experience, bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and lightweight clothing to stay protected while enjoying this magical place.

Marie-Galante: An Authentic Getaway

Located 30 km south of mainland Guadeloupe, Marie-Galante is a peaceful, enchanting island.

Easily accessible from Pointe-à-Pitre via FRS Express ferries, the "Island of a Hundred Windmills" charms visitors with its peaceful beaches, unspoiled landscapes, and timeless ambiance.

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace: visit rum distilleries, stroll through villages, discover rich historical heritage, and enjoy the local flavors.

For a perfect family moment, have a picnic under a coconut tree or carbet, followed by a refreshing swim at Anse Canotor Petite Anse, known for their exceptional marine life.

Îlet Caret: A Dreamy Island for Families

Located in the heart of the longest coral reef in the Lesser Antilles—a 25 km ribbon of reefs—Îlet Caret is a protected gem at the northern edge of the Grand-Cul-de-Sac Marin. Although overnight stays are not allowed, day trips are frequently offered.

This is a dream destination for a family outing: immaculate white sand, turquoise lagoons, colorful reefs, and a peaceful vibe await.

Several excursion options are available: discover Îlet Macou, paddle through the mangroves, snorkel over the reef or around a shipwreck, or simply relax on enchanting islets. Private guided tours or catamaran trips are also available.

Departures are available from several points: Sainte-Rose, Saint-François, Sainte-Anne, or Le Gosier, depending on the tour operator.

4. Traveling by Ferry with Kids: Practical Tips

Traveling by ferry with children? A great idea! Ferry crossings offer a comfortable, enjoyable experience for the whole family. FRS Express des Îles provides flexible crossings, comfortable onboard amenities, and luggage allowance (25 kilos per person).

Unlike air travel, ferries allow kids to stretch their legs during the journey. They can play card games, draw, watch the waves through the portholes, or even spot dolphins!

Parents are advised to bring a light sweater for cooler air-conditioned spaces and windy decks. For the little ones, earplugs or a soft cap can help dampen ambient noise. Snacks and water are handy, although a bar is available onboard for refreshing drinks.

Good to know: ferry routes to Marie-Galante or Les Saintes are generally short and the seas usually calm, making it ideal for a first sea trip with young children.

5. 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas by Ferry and Boat

Here are three itinerary suggestions for exploring nearby islands as a family:

Itinerary 1: Guadeloupe + Petite-Terre

Off the coast of Grande-Terre, the Petite-Terre islets form a preserved atoll accessible only by boat from Saint-François. There are no accommodations, and even camping is prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem. However, excursions are available via speedboat or catamaran.

Enjoy a 100% nature day: snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, relaxing on the beach, and observing exceptional wildlife like iguanas and seabirds.

Itinerary 2: Guadeloupe + Marie-Galante

If you have more time, plan a 1-2 night stay on the tranquil island of Marie-Galante, a favorite among families.

Hop on an FRS Express des Îles ferry from Pointe-à-Pitre to Grand-Bourg, the capital of Marie-Galante.

What’s on the agenda? Peaceful, paradisiacal beaches, nature walks, immersion in local life through markets, and visits to historic sites. You won’t run out of family fun!

Itinerary 3: Guadeloupe + Îlet Pigeon + Cousteau Reserve

The Cousteau Reserve is a protected marine area spanning about 400 hectares around Îlet Pigeon, opposite Malendure Beach.

Magical excursions take families to discover spectacular marine life, visible from just one meter below the surface—ideal for young snorkelers!

This itinerary is perfect for families seeking natural beauty and a break from daily life.

Expect gentle snorkeling adventures, exploration of diverse ecosystems, and relaxing picnics on a dreamlike islet.

6. Safety and Comfort Tips for Kids

To ensure a safe and enjoyable boat trip, here are some essential tips for young travelers:

  • Make sure each child has a properly fitted, certified life jacket.
  • Protect their sensitive skin with water-resistant, reef-friendly sunscreen, and reapply regularly.
  • Keep kids hydrated throughout the day and pack snacks to prevent energy slumps.
  • Bring towels, spare clothes, sunglasses, and hats for complete sun protection.
  • For children who cannot swim, bring floatation devices like armbands or a swim ring.

These simple precautions will make your family’s sea adventure both comfortable and stress-free.

Conclusion

Guadeloupe is a magical destination for families: nature, swimming, boat excursions, easy hikes, beach fun, and animal encounters—so many experiences to enjoy together in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

During your stay in Guadeloupe, be sure to schedule a boat excursion to create magical, unforgettable memories, even with young children.

Easily organize your family trip by ferry with FRS Express des Îles and explore the jewels of the archipelago in complete peace of mind !