The Surf Window

Capesterre

Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe

Beach breakIntermediate

On Guadeloupe's southern coast, Capesterre-Belle-Eau sits at the foot of rainforest-covered mountains where Caribbean swells wrap into a consistent beach break.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–SE 1–2m at 8–12s

Wind

NE

Light under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Jun–Oct for south swells

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Dark volcanic sand

Shape

Multiple peaks, mostly rights

Length

40–80m rides

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner to intermediate
  • •Why: Mellow peaks are forgiving and consistent in trade-wind swell

Hazards

  • •River mouth after heavy rain brings debris and currents
  • •Sea urchins on rocks at the edges
  • •Jellyfish in calmer periods

Local Tips

  • •The wave is best on summer south swells when the east coast goes flat
  • •Local fishermen launch boats here, respect their right of way
  • •Great spot for beginners learning to read reef-influenced beach breaks

Location

Map showing the location of Capesterre in Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe

16.0423, -61.5697