Petite-Terre: a guide to planning your day
Two listed islets, an emerald-green lagoon, iguanas and a lighthouse. Everything you need to know to choose your trip and respect the site.
Off the coast of Pointe des Châteaux, Petite-Terre comprises two islets: Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, both protected as nature reserves. People come here for a day away from it all: shallow waters, unspoilt wildlife and tranquillity. Here are our tips for setting off at the right time, with the right option.
A protected nature reserve
Petite-Terre is a sanctuary: no hotels, no roads, no shops. Access is strictly regulated and visitor numbers are limited to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Whilst there, please stay on the marked paths and within the designated swimming areas. This is essential to ensure the site retains what makes it so special: its tranquillity and wildlife.
The emerald-green lagoon & snorkelling
The shallow, sheltered lagoon takes on a distinctive emerald green hue. It’s the perfect spot for snorkelling: all you need is a mask and a snorkel.
You’ll come across rays, colourful fish, and sometimes turtles grazing on the seagrass beds, as well as young lemon sharks, which are completely harmless. Observe them from a distance, without touching or feeding them.
Iguanas & the lighthouse: life on the islet
Petite-Terre is home to one of the highest densities of iguanas in the Lesser Antilles. They can be seen on the footpaths and near shaded areas: we watch them go about their business, without approaching or feeding them.
The Terre-de-Bas lighthouse (19th century) can be reached via a short footpath. The climb offers a panoramic view of the two islets and the channel.
Catamaran or speedboat: how to choose
- Book early — Places are limited, particularly from December to April.
- Full coverage protection — Opt for Lycra or clothing that covers your skin; if this isn’t possible, use a suitable, reef-friendly sun cream.
- Water shoes — useful for rocky shorelines and jetties.
- No trace — Take your rubbish away with you, and stay on the footpaths and within the designated areas.
Our favourite local activities — find full details, prices and booking information on the product page.
It can be, particularly between January and April. The crews adjust the departure time to suit sea conditions; if the sea is too rough, the trip is postponed.
The shallow lagoon is ideal for families. For the crossing, the speedboat is not recommended for very young children or pregnant women; the catamaran is a better option in this case. Make sure you bring sun cream, water and water shoes.
No. There are no accommodation facilities on Petite-Terre: the reserve can only be visited on a day trip, by boat, as part of an organised excursion.