
Îlet Caret
A tiny, protected sandbar paradise in Guadeloupe, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs teeming with sea turtles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace

Îlet Caret
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tiny, protected sandbar paradise in Guadeloupe, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs teeming with sea turtles.
"An excellent place to be!!! A paradise!!!"

Arrive Early for Best Spots
Get there before the tour boats to claim your perfect patch of sand and enjoy the tranquility. :clock1:
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reef and spot sea turtles. :mask:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turquoise Waters & White Sand
The entire island
A postcard-perfect sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear, shallow turquoise waters. Pure tropical bliss!

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles
Protected coral reef
Dive into vibrant underwater worlds and swim alongside graceful sea turtles in this protected marine reserve.

Island Vibes & Music
Various boats and beach areas
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with music, welcome drinks, and a relaxed island vibe that makes you want to stay all day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Protecting Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Best Spots
Get there before the tour boats to claim your perfect patch of sand and enjoy the tranquility. :clock1:
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reef and spot sea turtles. :mask:
Pack Your Own Snacks
While some boats offer drinks, bringing your own food or BBQ supplies is recommended for a full day of enjoyment. :sandwich:
Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and consider a rash guard for extended water time. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Best Spots
Get there before the tour boats to claim your perfect patch of sand and enjoy the tranquility. :clock1:
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reef and spot sea turtles. :mask:
Pack Your Own Snacks
While some boats offer drinks, bringing your own food or BBQ supplies is recommended for a full day of enjoyment. :sandwich:
Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and consider a rash guard for extended water time. :sunwithface:
Respect the Environment
This is a protected area. Avoid touching coral and take all your trash with you. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Îlet Caret's stunning beauty, describing it as a true paradise with warm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The lively atmosphere with music and welcome drinks adds to the fun, though some note the island's fragile nature and diminishing palm trees due to rising sea levels.
"Super fun and super beautiful. Warm water, music, welcome drinks 😉 I can be here all dayyyyy long."
ceta
"An excellent place to be!!! A paradise!!!"
Saltogiannis Dimitrios
"This is a fun little island in the middle of Guadeloupe to the North. Great snorkeling and beautiful isolated beach. A few boats come by with other groups. You make your own food or BBQ here and just enjoy your time soaking up the views and the sun."
Adam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Îlet Caret is typically accessed by boat tours or private boat rentals from the mainland of Guadeloupe. Many excursions depart from Sainte-Anne or Saint-François. Some popular options include catamaran trips or smaller boat services. :boat:
No, there are no public transport options directly to Îlet Caret. Access is exclusively via boat. Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended. :ticket:
Travel time varies depending on your departure point, but boat trips to Îlet Caret usually range from 30 minutes to an hour. :stopwatch:
You cannot drive to Îlet Caret as it is a small island accessible only by sea. You'll need to arrange boat transportation from the main island. :car:
Sainte-Anne and Saint-François are the most common departure points for Îlet Caret excursions. Many tour operators are based in these areas. :marina:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't typically buy separate 'entry tickets' for Îlet Caret itself, as it's a natural sandbar. However, you will need to book a boat tour or charter, which includes access to the island. :moneywithwings:
Prices for boat tours vary, but expect to pay anywhere from €50 to €100+ per person, depending on the duration, inclusions (like lunch and drinks), and type of boat. :euro:
While the reef is protected, most tours include snorkeling access. Some operators might have a small conservation fee, but it's usually bundled into the tour price. :shield:
It's possible to rent a private boat or jet ski, but most visitors opt for organized tours for convenience and to experience the full offerings. :motorboat:
Tours typically run during daylight hours, often departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. It's best to check with specific tour operators for their schedules. :sunrise:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming in the warm, shallow waters, snorkeling to see marine life and sea turtles, sunbathing on the sandbar, and simply relaxing in a tropical paradise. :tropical_fish:
Yes, Îlet Caret is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially around the protected coral reef where you can often spot sea turtles. :mask:
Facilities are minimal as it's a natural sandbar. Some tour boats offer amenities like welcome drinks and music. There are no permanent structures or restrooms on the island itself. :toilet:
Absolutely! Bringing your own food, snacks, and drinks is highly recommended, as options on the island are limited to what tour boats provide. :apple:
Yes, the shallow, calm waters make it generally safe for children. However, supervision is essential, and there are no lifeguards. :child:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no traditional restaurants on Îlet Caret. Some boat tours may offer BBQ or local specialties as part of their package. :hamburger:
Tours often include welcome drinks and sometimes a BBQ lunch featuring local seafood or grilled meats. It's best to confirm with your tour operator. :fish:
You might be able to purchase drinks from some of the tour boats, but it's not guaranteed. Bringing your own provisions is the most reliable option. :beverage_box:
When you return to the mainland, try local Creole dishes like accras (cod fritters), boudin (sausage), and fresh grilled fish. :rice:
Yes, a picnic is a great idea! Pack your favorite sandwiches, fruits, and snacks to enjoy on the beautiful sandbar. :bread:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the turquoise water, white sand, palm trees (though fewer now), and especially the sea turtles during snorkeling. The panoramic views are breathtaking. :camera:
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for serene shots. Midday provides vibrant colors, but can be harsh. Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light. :golden_hour:
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is highly recommended for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling. :iphone:
Generally, no specific restrictions apply, but always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of marine life. :no_photography:
The classic shot is the expanse of the sandbar meeting the turquoise sea. Also, look for opportunities to photograph the sea turtles in their natural habitat. :star:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing snacks and drinks is a must, as food options are limited to what tour boats provide. Consider bringing sand toys for beach play. While the snorkeling is excellent, ensure children are comfortable and supervised in the water. Many boat tours are family-friendly and can accommodate younger travelers, making the journey to the island enjoyable for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday as prices might be slightly lower than on weekends. Some operators might offer simpler excursions without elaborate meals, which can also reduce the overall cost. Compare prices from different tour providers before booking to find the best value for your money.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Pack a picnic basket with your favorite treats and a bottle of champagne to enjoy a romantic lunch with a view. The calm waters are perfect for a leisurely swim or snorkel side-by-side. As the day winds down, the golden hour light can create a magical atmosphere for unforgettable photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Îlet Caret
Many tours are designed as half-day or full-day trips, allowing ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. Some excursions might also include stops at other nearby islets or coves. When selecting a tour, check what's included: often, welcome drinks are provided, and some packages feature a BBQ lunch. It's wise to confirm these details to manage your expectations and plan accordingly. Remember that Îlet Caret is a natural sandbar, so amenities are limited to what your boat provides.
While the journey is part of the charm, be aware that the island's popularity means it can get crowded. Arriving early, ideally on a weekday, can offer a more peaceful experience. Some travelers have noted that the island's palm trees are diminishing due to rising sea levels, a poignant reminder of its delicate nature. This makes capturing its current beauty even more special.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling at Îlet Caret
Beyond turtles, you can expect to see a variety of colorful tropical fish darting amongst the coral formations. The visibility is generally excellent, allowing for clear views of the underwater world. It's crucial to remember that this is a protected marine reserve, so responsible snorkeling practices are paramount. Avoid touching or standing on the coral, as it is a living organism and easily damaged. Do not feed the fish or turtles, and ensure you don't disturb their natural behavior.
It's highly recommended to bring your own snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, and fins) as rental options might be limited or of varying quality. A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is a fantastic investment to capture the magic beneath the waves. Remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the delicate marine environment.
The Evolving Landscape of Îlet Caret
Despite these changes, the island remains incredibly beautiful, offering a quintessential tropical paradise experience. The white sand and turquoise waters are as stunning as ever, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and water activities. The charm of Îlet Caret lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, offering a temporary escape to a serene environment.
Travelers often describe the island as a 'paradise' and a 'must-visit' for its sheer aesthetic appeal. The experience is enhanced by the lively atmosphere often created by tour boats, complete with music and welcome drinks, contributing to a festive island vibe. However, the diminishing natural features serve as a reminder to appreciate and protect such fragile ecosystems.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit