Warm sand, turquoise waters, lush forests and a gentle pace of life… In Guadeloupe, every day feels designed for slowing down. But when is the best time to visit and enjoy it to the fullest ?
Between sun-soaked seasons, colourful festivities, the trade winds and quieter moments perfect for relaxing, Guadeloupe offers a different experience depending on the time of year.
The truth is, there’s no bad season to visit the island. It all depends on the kind of trip you dream of: long lazy days on the beach, hiking through tropical forests, dancing at carnival or enjoying a more intimate escape off the beaten path.
Every year, Top Hôte welcomes travellers eager to experience Guadeloupe in all its colours.
And we can tell you this: there are a thousand ways to fall in love with the island, whether under the breeze of the trade winds or to the rhythm of carnival drums.
In this article, we help you choose the best time to visit, based on your wishes, your budget and your mood.
Weather in Guadeloupe: An (almost) eternal Summer
If there’s one thing travellers adore about Guadeloupe, it’s the feeling that summer never ends.
Temperatures range from 25 to 31°C all year long, the sea averages 27°C, and the sun shines generously more than 300 days a year.
But behind this dream climate lie two major seasons that shape island life: the dry season (called carême) and the wet season (hivernage). Each one has its own charm and advantages !
1) The dry Season (December to April) – The Island at Its Best
This is travellers’ favourite time of year! The sky is a brilliant blue, the sea is calm and soothing, and the beaches are at their most beautiful.
Rainfall is scarce and temperatures remain pleasant thanks to the gentle trade winds. It’s the ideal time to:
→ explore lagoons and go snorkelling
→ hike in the tropical forest without stifling heat
→ or simply lounge on the beach with a cocktail in hand
The small drawback? It’s also the high tourist season. Flights and accommodations sell out quickly, so don’t wait until the last minute.
With Top Hôte, you can enjoy comfortable, well-located, fully equipped stays—perfect for experiencing Guadeloupe like a local, stress-free.
2) The wet Season (June to November) – The Island in its Tropical Glory
Don’t be fooled by the name : “wet season” doesn’t mean constant rain.
The sun shines between tropical rains, the sea stays warm and sunsets are often spectacular.
It’s the perfect season for:
→ nature lovers
→ those who want to avoid crowds
→ travellers seeking a more authentic experience
A major bonus : prices drop by 20 to 40% on flights and accommodation.
And since our Top Hôte rentals are air-conditioned and well-ventilated, even a short rain shower becomes the perfect excuse to enjoy a coffee on the terrace while watching the rain fall on the palm trees.
The Trade Winds Season – When the Breeze Becomes Your Best Ally
If there’s one word you’ll hear often in Guadeloupe, it’s “trade winds”.
These tropical winds blow from the Atlantic between December and May, bringing a constant, light and refreshing breeze.
Thanks to the trade winds, the heat in Guadeloupe stays pleasant, even at midday.
This subtle breeze transforms daily life: days are warm but never stifling, evenings are perfect for dining outdoors, and your laundry dries in a flash (seasoned travellers know exactly what we mean 😄).
1) A Blessed Season for Watersports Lovers
The trade winds are pure joy for fans of gliding sports: kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing and wingfoil.
The spots in Sainte-Anne, Saint-François and Le Moule offer ideal conditions for sailing, learning or simply watching colourful sails dance across the water.
And even if you prefer keeping your feet in the sand, this gentle wind gives the beaches a soothing atmosphere.
2) The Top Hôte Experience, Elevated by the Trade Winds
At Top Hôte, we love this season for another reason: it makes our rentals even more enjoyable.
No need for the air-conditioning to work overtime, the breeze takes care of everything!
The Grenadine rental, for example, just steps from the beach, makes the most of this airy, pleasant atmosphere.
Major Festivals and Events You Shouldn’t Miss
In Guadeloupe, seasons aren’t just celebrated, they’re danced, sung and lived to the fullest!
The island is a kaleidoscope of colours and music, with each month bringing new celebrations.
Whether you prefer drums and costumes, jazz at sunset or friendly gatherings by the sea, there’s always a reason to celebrate under the tropics.
1) Guadeloupe Carnival (January to March)
The carnival is the island’s most emblematic event—a vibrant celebration of Creole culture in all its splendour.
For several weeks, flamboyant costumes, lively music, energetic dances… the streets pulse to the rhythm of the drums.
Don’t miss:
→ the big Sunday parades in Basse-Terre and Pointe-à-Pitre
→ Mardi Gras and Ash Wednesday, when the festivities reach their peak
Book your accommodation early, especially in Saint-François or Le Gosier, to stay close to the action without dealing with traffic jams.
2) Terre de Blues Festival (May – Marie-Galante)
More intimate and authentic, the Terre de Blues Festival brings together artists from the Caribbean and beyond on the island of Marie-Galante.
It’s one of Top Hôte travellers’ favourite events, perfect for a sunny musical long weekend.
3) Guadarun – The Island-Hopping Marathon (April)
Five stages, five islands, one incredible challenge.
Guadarun is much more than a race: it’s a human and athletic journey through some of the archipelago’s most beautiful landscapes.
Even as a spectator, the atmosphere is incredible, locals cheer, beaches fill up and the energy is contagious.
4) Gwo Ka Festival & Cultural Events (Summer)
From July to August, Guadeloupe beats to the rhythm of Gwo Ka, the emblematic drum recognised as UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
It’s a season of sharing, music, markets, dance and local craftsmanship.
Village festivals multiply, terraces fill up and evenings stretch late into the night.
5) An Island That Celebrates All Year Long
Even outside the major festivals, Guadeloupe never stops buzzing: craft markets, sailing regattas, patronal festivals, culinary events…
There is always something happening!
Check the cultural programme from the tourist office before your trip so you don’t miss anything and leave room for the unexpected.
That’s often where the best memories are made.
So, When Is the Best Time to Visit ?
The truth is, there’s no wrong time to discover Guadeloupe.
The island offers different experiences depending on the season, just choose the one that matches your desires.
1) For Families : December to April
This is the ideal period to enjoy the best of Guadeloupe without (too many) weather surprises.
Days are sunny, the sea is calm and temperatures are perfect for alternating between beach time, excursions and family relaxation.
Top Hôte’s family-friendly rentals, like Grenadine, are located steps from the beach, perfect for kids (and tired parents 😄).
2) For Couples : May to June or October to November
Looking for a peaceful, romantic getaway ?
Choose the low season.
Beaches are nearly empty, prices are lower and the atmosphere more authentic.
It’s the perfect time to reconnect, away from the crowds, in a postcard-perfect setting.
It’s also ideal for exploring waterfalls, markets and small local villages at your own pace.
3) For adventure lovers : June to November
Nature lovers will fall in love with this season.
Forests are lush, rivers full of life and hiking trails spectacular.
And between tropical showers, the island’s colours become even more vibrant.
Just don’t forget to pack a lightweight rain jacket and sturdy walking shoes!
4) For culture and festivity lovers : January to March
The start of the year is a cultural firework: carnival, concerts, local festivities…
It’s the perfect season to soak up Guadeloupe’s generous, colourful and festive spirit.
Book early ! Rentals fill up quickly, especially near the major events.
→ December – April : Sun, calm seas, high season, ideal for families and first-time visitors
→ May – June : Serenity, authenticity and lower prices, perfect for couples
→ July – November : Nature, culture, local vibes and lush landscapes
Conclusion – Guadeloupe, an Island to experience all year long
In Guadeloupe, each season reveals a different facet : festive, peaceful, wild or romantic, but always full of life.
And while weather may influence some travellers’ choices, the true secret to a perfect stay is simply living at the island’s rhythm: waking with the sun, wandering through local markets, diving into 27°C waters, and more.
So, dry season or trade winds? Carnival or a peaceful escape?
Whatever the time of year, Guadeloupe will always welcome you with the gentle way of life that makes it so beloved.
At Top Hôte, our rentals, located near the most beautiful beaches and designed for your comfort, allow you to make the most of your stay, no matter the season you choose.
