Le Gosier Islet

Island - Le Gosier

Protected by the Office National des Forêts (National Forestry Office), this site, the emblem of Le Gosier, is easy to get to:  the hardiest visitors may swim to it; others can take a boat (shuttles leaving from Le Gosier’s landing stage). Thanks to its lighthouse (early 20th century, iron and masonry), it is even possible to make the crossing by night. In the early 19th century, this islet of just under three hectares was home to a small plantation that had several buildings, a rabbit hutch, and a dovecote. A number of slaves worked there. At the time, it was also the location of a sand quarry, whose product was probably used for lime mortar. However, by the end of the 19th century, not a trace of these activities was left. This is the first lighthouse to be built on the islet. It included a pilot post for controlling ship entry into the natural harbor of Pointe-à-Pitre.
Although the islet was once the roosting ground of many pelicans, it is now mostly inhabited by iguanas, some of which are up to two meters long. For visitors, it offers an exceptional and exotic attraction near town, where one may relax, swim, and explore an underwater trail. It is popular on weekends for family outings. Access from the landing stage of the small town beach.