Guadeloupe in May
Traveling to Guadeloupe in May
Travelling to Guadeloupe in May is a good idea, as May is the low tourist season. Travelers can enjoy a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere, with fewer crowds at tourist sites and accommodations. Flight and accommodation rates are also more affordable, which means savings on the travel budget. Finally, May is also the month of festivals and cultural events in Guadeloupe.
Plage de la Perle, Deshaies
All in all, a trip to Guadeloupe in May promises an unforgettable escapade, with every day filled with discoveries and pleasures under the Caribbean sun.
🎉 Major events in May in Guadeloupe
📅 Pentecost Weekend & Terre de Blues Festival – Marie-Galante
The long Pentecost weekend is eagerly awaited in Guadeloupe, marked by numerous cultural gatherings, concerts, and family activities. One of the highlights is the Terre de Blues Festival, an iconic festival on the island of Marie-Galante, which usually takes place during the Pentecost weekend. This event celebrates Afro-Caribbean and blues music, with a rich musical program featuring outdoor concerts and artistic performances that attract visitors and locals alike. 📍 Terre de Blues Fest is held on the island of Marie-Galante, easily accessible by boat from the Princess Island, and is a major cultural and festive event in May.
📆 Patron Saint's Day of Petit-Canal and Vieux-Habitants
While the patron saint's festival of De Vieux-Habitants continues throughout May, in the commune of Petit-Canal (north Grande-Terre), the traditional patron saint's festival begins. It is a popular festival combining parades, street entertainment, concerts, folklore, and fairground attractions, with a friendly atmosphere that celebrates local traditions and community spirit. 📅 It takes place around May 2, 2026, the date regularly indicated for this festival in the local events calendar.
📅 Public holidays in May 2026 in Guadeloupe
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labor Day (national holiday) Friday, May 8, 2026 – Victory Day 1945 (Commemoration of the end of World War II) Thursday, May 14, 2026 – Ascension Day (Religious holiday) Monday, May 25, 2026 – Pentecost Monday (Religious holiday) Wednesday, May 27, 2026 – Abolition of Slavery (Holiday specific to overseas departments) 👉 Local note: The abolition of slavery on May 27 is a holiday specific to Guadeloupe, which officially commemorates the end of slavery in the territory in 1848.
May in Guadeloupe: relaxed pace, warmth and authentic experiences
In May, Guadeloupe gradually enters a warmer and quieter period, making it ideal for travelers seeking a slower and more authentic experience. Beaches are less crowded, creating perfect conditions to relax at Le Souffleur Beach in Port-Louis or on the unspoiled shores of La Désirade.
Mornings are particularly well suited for cultural visits, including highlights such as the Edgar Clerc Museum in Le Moule or Fort Delgrès in Basse-Terre. Hiking remains enjoyable in Basse-Terre, especially in the tropical rainforest, as long as activities are planned during the cooler hours of the day. Overall, May is a great time to explore Guadeloupe at your own pace, combining nature, culture and tranquility.
Les Saintes
A few places to explore in Guadeloupe in
As a bonus, here are some road trip ideas for Guadeloupe.
Visit rum distilleries
Visiting rum distilleries offers insight into one of Guadeloupe’s most iconic traditions. Tours present the history of rum, sugarcane cultivation and the distillation process. Tastings complete the cultural experience. 📍 Marie-Galante, Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre
La Grivelière Residence
February is the perfect time to visit this listed site, located in the heart of a valley that is often too wet during the rainy season. The access roads are safer, the coffee plantations are being maintained, and it is more comfortable to walk around the historic buildings.
📍 Vieux-Habitants – Basse-Terre
Visit museums and cultural landmarks
Guadeloupe offers several museums and cultural sites that help visitors understand the island’s history and heritage. Places such as the Mémorial ACTe, the Saint-John Perse Museum, the Habitation La Grivelière Ecomuseum and the Edgar Clerc Museum offer complementary perspectives on Guadeloupean culture. This activity is ideal for balancing beach time with meaningful cultural discoveries throughout your stay. 📍 Pointe-à-Pitre – Le Moule – Vieux-Habitants
🍒 Fruits and vegetables available in May in Guadeloupe
Acerola (West Indian cherry): widely available in May, rich in vitamin C, enjoyed fresh or as juice.
Guava: in good supply, fragrant and commonly used in juices, jams or eaten fresh.
Avocado: in peak season, creamy and versatile in local cooking.
Coconut: abundant, used for coconut water as well as traditional dishes and desserts.
Cucumber: in season, fresh and light, perfect for salads in warm weather.
Eggplant: commonly used in Creole stews and side dishes.
Okra: increasingly present from May, a staple in Caribbean cuisine.
Vegetarian chili pepper: essential for adding flavor without heat.
Temperature in May
May in Guadeloupe brings a true tropical feel. Temperatures usually range from 24°C to 31°C, creating warm and summery days that are perfect for outdoor activities. The island becomes greener, more vibrant, and wonderfully relaxed.
Water temperature in May
The sea temperature, averaging 27–28°C, makes swimming irresistible. Whether you’re snorkeling, floating in the lagoon or enjoying a quiet beach moment, the ocean feels like a natural extension of your day.
Rain and sunshine in May
May also signals the early transition into the wetter season, with slightly more frequent showers. These are generally short-lived and refreshing, leaving plenty of sunshine behind. It’s an ideal month for travelers seeking warmth, nature and calm surroundings.
🎒What should you pack for Guadeloupe?
When traveling to Guadeloupe in November, don't forget to pack the following essentials in your luggage:
Sunglasses to protect you from intense UV rays.
Ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine ecosystem.
A hat to protect you from the sun.
Hiking shoes to explore the island's trails.
Insect repellent to protect you from bugs.
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Choose Europcar Guadeloupe
Whether you're coming to enjoy the beaches of Grande-Terre, explore the rainforest of Basse-Terre, or traveling for work, Europcar Guadeloupe offers reliable, transparent service tailored to all your car rental needs.
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