Tintamarre Island
Tintamarre Island, situated in the Caribbean archipelago of St. Martin & St. Maarten, is a magical destination that never fails to captivate its visitors. The island spans over 80 hectares and is a secluded and idyllic tropical paradise located approximately 4 kilometres from Saint Martin.
The island’s natural beauty is simply awe-inspiring. Its pristine white sandy beaches are lapped by the crystal-clear turquoise water, inviting visitors to dip in the warm, tropical sea. The beaches are surrounded by lush greenery, including tropical trees and plants home to numerous bird species. With no visible construction on the island, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
For adventure seekers, Tintamarre Island is a snorkeler’s paradise. The clear waters surrounding the island teem with marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Snorkelers can explore the underwater world and be amazed by the vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem.
In summary, Tintamarre Island is an enchanting and secluded destination that offers visitors an authentic tropical paradise experience. With its breathtaking natural beauty, stunning beaches, abundant greenery, and an array of marine life, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the unique features of Tintamarre Island is the ancient turtles that live in the waters surrounding the island. These gentle creatures are a favourite among visitors who enjoy snorkelling. The turtles are friendly and curious and often swim up close to visitors to say hello. Snorkelling in these waters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.
Tintamarre Island has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 1900s. The island was first cultivated for cotton and, later, for sheep farming and dairy production. It was eventually sold to a politician from the French side of Saint Martin and used as an air base for a small company called “Companie Aerienne Antilliaise (CAA),” which operated from a 500-meter dirt track. The island had about 20 people living on it during this time, whose job was to ensure the smooth running of the base. Today, the island is free and wild, where nature has taken over, making it a unique destination.
Tintamarre Island is now a part of the Nature Reserve of Saint Martin, where nature flourishes on land and in the underwater world. The island has hiking trails that offer a view of the red cliffs and undisturbed nature all around. The main beach is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the island’s beauty. Its sheltered location means there is no wind to worry about, and you can enjoy the white sand at your feet without any distractions.
The “wild” beach on the other side of the island is a five-minute walk across and has a vast difference in landscape from the main beach. It has plenty of different shades of blue water and a landscape made of coral reefs. Snorkelling on this side of the island offers a different experience, as you can venture along the cliffs and discover the coral reefs. An old wreck is also located on the left side of Tintamarre, a delight for divers to behold!
If you need help getting to Tintamarre Island, Eagle Tours offers a catamaran sail tour and excursion there. The tour includes tropical island music to keep you rockin’ and a fantastic crew who will take you on a tour of this hidden gem. The crew will make sure you don’t miss a beat during your time on the island.
Tintamarre Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to say hello to Crush from the movie Finding Nemo if you see him during your visit!
