The islets of Le François

Le François bay, on Martinique’s Atlantic coast, is dotted with small islets that, together with the white sandbanks, create one of the island’s most striking seascapes. They are the remains of an ancient volcanic chain, isolated by erosion.

How many islets?

There is no official count. Guidebooks usually list eight: Thierry, Oscar, Long, Métrente, Frégate, Lavigne, Lapin and Pelé. Several are protected nature areas, best admired from the boat.

Îlet Thierry

Star-shaped, about 10 hectares and 30 metres high, Îlet Thierry has cliffs to the north and east, pebble coves and a sand spit to the south and west. Look out for birds such as the bananaquit. It has been protected since 2005 and listed as a heritage site since 2007. It’s the first stop on our guided tour.

Îlet Oscar

About fifteen minutes by boat from Le François, Îlet Oscar is home to a guesthouse in a Creole wooden house and the remains of an old lime kiln. Spend the afternoon there with our full day with lunch on Îlet Oscar.

Îlet Long and Îlet Métrente

With Thierry and Oscar, they frame the white sandbanks, where you’ll find Joséphine’s Bathtub. Îlet Long is part of our guided tour.

Îlet Frégate

Smaller (about 3.5 hectares), Îlet Frégate is also a protected nature area.

Not to be confused: Îlet Chancel

Îlet Chancel is often mentioned alongside the Le François islets, but it lies in Le Robert bay, next door. It is home to Martinique’s largest population of Lesser Antillean iguanas, an endangered species.

How to visit

Only by boat. With MOWATA, in a small group of 11 guests maximum:

• the 4-hour guided tour;
• the full day with lunch on Îlet Oscar;
• the water taxi;
• a private charter for your group.