Located on the south side of Grande-Terre island, the seaside resort of Saint-François is brimming with attractions for holidaymakers. Its superb sandy beaches and proximity to the famous Castles Headland (Pointe des Châteaux), with its wild cliffs reminiscent of the landscapes of Brittany, no doubt have something to do with it!
While strolling through the streets of Saint-François, you will find an exhibition and heritage conservation room in a former prison of the 19th century, as well as pretty wooden huts and a picturesque fishing port. After visiting the town, it's time to relax at the Raisins Clairs beach, one of the most famous in Guadeloupe, with its fine sand and beautiful turquoise lagoon for swimming. The sea grape bushes, whose round fruits look like grapes, and carbets (traditional huts) dotting the beach promise a pleasant picnic break...
Leisure activities abound, with the resort offering an 18-hole golf course, a water sports centre, a casino and a marina filled with shops and restaurants. Saint-François also has a delightful market, which is particularly lively and offers many exotic fruits and vegetables, spices and tasty punch. To stock up on fresh fish, head towards the fishing port and its fish market where seafood is sold directly by the fishermen.
The famous sailors' festival takes place in August, with fish for sale, angling competitions, a sailors' mass, parade, sea procession, musical entertainment and the "Miss Marin" contest.
