If you’re a fan of the hit BBC TV series Death in Paradise, you’ve probably fallen in love with the sunny island of Saint Marie – with its turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and charming Caribbean vibes. But here’s the twist: Saint Marie doesn’t actually exist! The island is a fictional creation for the show. In reality, all those stunning scenes are filmed on the French-Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, part of the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean Sea.

Where exactly is St Marie (aka Guadeloupe) in Death in Paradise?

Guadeloupe is an overseas department of France, made up of several inhabited islands including Basse-Terre (home to lush rainforest and the active Soufrière volcano) and Grande-Terre (famous for its golden beaches and lively markets), along with smaller islands like Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and Les Saintes. The show mainly films around the town of Deshaies on Basse-Terre, which doubles as the fictional Honoré, the capital of Saint Marie. Fans will instantly recognise the colourful police station (actually a local building) and Catherine’s Bar, which is a real beachside restaurant.

How to Get There

Getting to Guadeloupe is easier than you might think:

• From Europe: Direct flights are available from Paris (approx. 8 hrs) to Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport (PTP), Guadeloupe’s main airport.
• From the USA: Seasonal flights run from Miami and New York.
• Getting around locally: Renting a car is the best way to explore, as buses are limited outside major towns.

Weather in Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with warm temperatures averaging 24–30°C.

• Dry season (December–May): Best time to visit – sunny skies and lower humidity.
• Wet season (June–November): More rain and the risk of hurricanes, though the island is still lush and vibrant.

Things to See as a Death in Paradise Fan

• Deshaies Village: Wander through the picturesque fishing town where most filming takes place.
• Plage de la Perle: The golden-sand beach where Catherine’s Bar scenes are filmed.
• Botanical Garden of Deshaies: A tropical garden once owned by French comedian Coluche.
• Local Markets: Experience the French-Caribbean blend of culture, cuisine, and crafts.

Beyond the Show – What to Do in Guadeloupe

Even if you’re not chasing filming locations, Guadeloupe is a travel treasure:

• Hike through the Guadeloupe National Park to see waterfalls and rainforest wildlife.
• Climb La Soufrière Volcano for epic views.
• Explore the underwater world with snorkelling and diving around coral reefs.
• Take a ferry to nearby Marie-Galante or Les Saintes for idyllic beaches.

So, while Saint Marie itself is fictional, the beauty of Guadeloupe is very real – a paradise of French charm, Caribbean rhythm, and unforgettable landscapes.