The Surf Window

Deshaies

Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe

Beach breakBeginner

Tucked into a sheltered bay in northwest Guadeloupe, Deshaies is one of the island's most consistent spots when trade winds howl elsewhere, clean walls in a picturesque village setting.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–N 1.5–2.5m at 12–16s

Wind

E

Light to SE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Feb for NW swells

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach and point break

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Peaky with rights off the point

Length

60–120m on the point

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: The bay filters swell size manageable but still fun

Hazards

  • •Boat traffic in the bay, this is an active anchorage
  • •Shallow rocks on the inside at low tide
  • •Ferry wakes can disrupt the lineup

Local Tips

  • •Best on rare north swells when everywhere else is blown out
  • •The village has excellent seafood restaurants for post-surf meals
  • •Park near the church and walk the path to the point

Location

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

16.3062, -61.7939