Diving in Guadeloupe: the Cousteau Reserve
Facing Malendure beach in Bouillante, the Pigeon islets are the most famous dive site in the French Caribbean: the “Cousteau Reserve”, protected as a core area of Guadeloupe National Park since 2009. About 40 minutes’ drive from Les Terrasses du Fort.
Dive sites
- Coral Garden (Jardin de corail) east side
- gentle slope from 5 to 25 m with sea fans and sponges, for all levels.
- Cousteau statue near the Coral Garden
- underwater bust of Jacques-Yves Cousteau at about 12 m.
- La Piscine between the islets
- shallow sandy channel, ideal for try-dives and snorkelling.
- L’Aquarium north side of the large islet
- dense schools of fish.
- Gustavia, Franjack and Augustin Fresnel wrecks Bouillante
- artificial reefs; the Augustin Fresnel lies at 30 m, for qualified divers.
Without diving
Snorkel from Malendure beach to see green turtles, rent a kayak, or take a glass-bottom boat. Respect park rules: touch nothing, reef-safe mineral sunscreen, keep your distance from turtles. Avoid flying within 24 hours after diving.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Cousteau Reserve?
Around the Pigeon islets off Malendure beach, Bouillante, about 40 minutes from Basse-Terre.
Can beginners dive there?
Yes, dive centres at Malendure offer try-dives with an instructor, no experience needed.