Three shiploads of Jewish immigrants from Brazil arrived on the island in 1654, welcomed with open arms by the French proprietor. This was the first Jewish settlement on the island. The island's primary exports came from refineries and sugarcane fields started by Jews. Louis XIV's "The Black Code" of 1685 mandated the expulsion of Jews. The island was populated by Jews from France and North Africa in the latter half of the 20th century. The sameah, or synagogue, was established in 1988, along with a kosher store, a cemetery, a community center, and a Talmud Torah (Hebrew day school).

The Jewish Virtual Library estimates that roughly 50 Jews are living in Guadeloupe. 

For up to date information on Kosher restaurants and locations please see the Shamash Kosher Database.