The islets
Guadeloupe, located between 15°50' and 16°30' north latitude and 61° and 61°40' west longitude, has numerous islets scattered around its coastline. These small formations, often of coral origin or resulting from sedimentary accumulations, range in size from a few tens of square meters to several tens of hectares. The climatic conditions, with air temperatures between 24°C and 30°C all year round and water temperatures ranging from 26°C to 29°C, favor the development of rich marine and coastal ecosystems.
A diversity of coastal and marine ecosystems
The islets form mosaics of habitats. Some, such as Îlet à Fajou, in the heart of Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, protected by a coral reef, are home to mangroves, seagrass beds, and sandy beaches. Îlet Caret, a tiny sandbank measuring just a few hundred square meters, offers a coral reef that can be seen while snorkeling and is a stopping point for seabirds. The seagrass beds, composed of marine phanerogams such as Thalassia testudinum, retain sedimen…
…ts and feed green turtles. Islets with dry vegetation, such as certain islets in Les Saintes such as Îlet à Cabrit, are covered with halophytic plants, salt-resistant shrubs, and sometimes introduced species.
Emblematic fauna and flora
The Guadeloupean islets are refuges for specific wildlife. Sea turtles, such as Chelonia mydas (green turtle) and Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle), feed in the nearby seagrass beds and reefs. The islets of Petite-Terre, particularly Terre-de-Bas, are a sanctuary for the Caribbean iguana (Iguana delicatissima), with a density sometimes exceeding 500 individuals/km² in certain protected areas. Seabirds such as the brown noddy, tern, and brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) use these islands as nesting sites. The surrounding coral reefs, formed by species such as Acropora palmata and Montastraea cavernosa, are home to more than 200 species of fish, including surgeonfish, parrotfish, and triggerfish, and provide a vital fishery resource.
Historical and cultural heritage
Some islets bear witness to the region's history. Îlet du Gosier, accessible in a few minutes by boat from the town of the same name, has a small lighthouse built in the 20th century, which was once used as a landmark for coastal navigation. The islets of Les Saintes, such as Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas—much larger than simple islets but sometimes considered part of a larger island group—reveal a past marked by fishing, salt production, and maritime trade. The uninhabited Îlet à Cabrit preserves a few ruins from the colonial era. These historical traces are integrated into a landscape where intangible heritage (fishing skills, local legends) contributes to the cultural identity.
Tourism and ecotourism activities
The islets, protected from the open sea by reefs, create calm lagoons that are ideal for excursions. Boat trips allow visitors to observe schools of fish, coral reefs, and sometimes dolphins (Stenella frontalis) and turtles. The Îlet de Petite-Terre, classified as a Nature Reserve, welcomes more than 10,000 visitors per year and offers snorkeling, hiking on marked trails, and the opportunity to discover endemic iguanas. Îlet Caret, which has been reduced over time by erosion, remains a popular stop for day trippers for a swim and to sample local products. The Îlet du Gosier, which is very popular, offers a more family-friendly environment with accessible beaches, while the Îlet de Vieux-Fort, which is less well known, stands out for its wilder and more isolated appearance.
Preservation and regulations
Many islets include protected areas, such as the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, listed as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Activities are regulated: visitor numbers are limited, anchoring is restricted to ecological buoys to prevent the destruction of seagrass beds, the collection of corals and shells is prohibited, and certain species are fully protected. Îlet à Fajou, part of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin Nature Reserve, is the subject of scientific research on birds and floristic monitoring. Îlet Macou, less frequented, is monitored to preserve its plant heritage. National Park rangers and agents from the French Office for Biodiversity carry out regular checks, raise awareness among visitors, and punish violations.
Role of mangroves and seagrass beds
Some islets are lined with mangroves, consisting of red (Rhizophora mangle), black, or white mangroves, which stabilize sediments and protect the coastline from erosion. Seagrass beds, dominated by Thalassia testudinum, provide a nursery for many species of coastal fish and are a source of food for green turtles. Around Îlet La Biche, the presence of these seagrass beds and the calm inland waters create a stable habitat. Without these ecosystems, coastal erosion would increase and marine biodiversity would decline. The supply of organic matter from the mangroves and the photosynthesis of the seagrass beds maintain high productivity, supporting complex food chains.
Access conditions and transportation
Access to the islets is usually by boat from ports such as Saint-François, Gosier, Deshaies, or Sainte-Rose. Travel times vary from 5 minutes (Îlet du Gosier) to over 1 hour (Petite-Terre from Saint-François, approximately 18 km by boat). Regular shuttles, water taxis, and organized excursions ensure a steady flow of tourists. The dry season, between December and May, guarantees calmer sea conditions, while the wet season (June to November) can bring stronger winds, rain, and swells, sometimes limiting access. Operators are required to comply with regulations, use life jackets, and inform visitors about environmental guidelines.