Caret Islet
L'îlet Caret is a small island paradise in the heart of Guadeloupe's Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin. Known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters and totally escapist atmosphere, this islet is a must for those looking to explore the archipelago's natural beauty. Although modest in size, îlet Caret offers a unique experience: a secluded haven of peace that seems to have been plucked straight out of a postcard. In this article, we invite you to discover everything you need to know to fully enjoy this tropical gem.
Caret Islet is located in the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, a vast lagoon area classified as a national nature reserve, between the islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. This sandbank, emerging from crystal-clear waters, is about 10 kilometers off the coast of Sainte-Rose. The approximate GPS coordinates of the islet are 16.359° N, 61.610° W.
Access is only possible by boat. Several excursions are organized from the ports of Sainte-Rose or Petit-Canal, with crossings lasting about twenty minutes. These trips often include guided tours of nearby ecosystems, such as the mangroves and the coral reefs.
Caret Islet is a stretch of white sand bordered by turquoise, translucent waters. Despite its small size, it offers a minimalist yet breathtaking landscape. The name “Caret” comes from the sea turtles with scales (“carets”), once abundant in the region.
The island mainly consists of sand and is dotted with a few coconut trees that provide welcome shade. Due to its low elevation, the islet is vulnerable to erosion and its area decreases each year. It is part of monitored zones for protection within the nature reserve.
Despite its isolation, Caret Islet is a popular destination for day-trippers. It attracts both tourists and locals who come to enjoy its ideal setting for picnics, relaxation, and swimming in warm, shallow waters. The tranquility and beauty of the place also make it a favored spot for photography or intimate ceremonies such as weddings.
Activities and points of interest
Main activities on the islet include swimming in shallow waters, snorkeling around the reefs to observe tropical fish and corals, and relaxing on the sand. Many boat excursions offer guided visits including Caret Islet, often with options for lunch on site.
Tips and practices for visitors
It is essential to bring everything needed for a comfortable day on Caret Islet, as this natural site is devoid of infrastructure. Bring water, a generous amount of environmentally friendly sunscreen, and snacks to fully enjoy your visit independently.
Caret Islet, due to its fragility and exposure to erosion, requires special care. Please respect this unique ecosystem by taking all your waste with you and avoiding any activities that could disturb local wildlife and plants. These simple actions help preserve this precious place, ensuring it can continue to offer its idyllic setting to visitors while protecting its exceptional biodiversity.
List of activities to do nearby
The mangroves of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin are a fascinating ecosystem, accessible by boat excursions. These channels lined with mangrove trees are essential for local biodiversity, providing a unique habitat for many marine and bird species.
About 30 minutes by boat away, the Cousteau Reserve is one of Guadeloupe’s most renowned scuba diving sites. This underwater jewel features spectacular coral reefs where you can observe rich aquatic wildlife, including tropical fish and sea turtles.
Sainte-Rose, the ideal departure point for exploring these wonders, is a lively town offering many local restaurants and shops. It’s a great place to savor Guadeloupean specialties or find souvenirs before or after your excursions in this exceptional natural region.
FAQ
How long does it take to get to Caret Islet ? About 20 to 30 minutes by boat from Sainte-Rose.
Can you go snorkeling ? Yes, snorkeling is one of the main activities around the islet to discover the coral reefs.
Are there restaurants on site ? No, it is recommended to bring snacks and water, as the islet is uninhabited.
Do you need to book to visit the islet ? Yes, it is advisable to book a boat excursion in advance, especially during the high season.
Is the islet accessible to people with disabilities ? The islet is not accessible to people with reduced mobility due to access only by boat and the absence of infrastructure.