Tombolo de Sainte-Marie, Natural coastal formation in Sainte-Marie, Martinique.
The Tombolo de Sainte-Marie is a natural sand bridge along the Martinique coast that links Petite-Anse beach to an offshore islet. This formation results from ocean currents and tidal movements that continuously shift and redistribute sediment along the shoreline.
The sand bridge has long connected the mainland to Sainte-Marie islet, shaping how fishing communities used the area. Over time, coastal processes and shifting currents have constantly reshaped this natural passage.
The tombolo area features regular gatherings where residents and visitors engage in traditional Martinican activities, especially during February's carnival season.
Access and walkability depend heavily on tides and seasonal conditions, with the best access during drier months. Visitors should check local conditions before visiting and wear sturdy footwear to navigate the shifting sand safely.
The sand bridge disappears seasonally and reappears, regularly changing access to the islet. While visible, seabirds use the shallow area for nesting and resting.
Location: Sainte-Marie
GPS coordinates: 14.78658,-60.99051
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09
The island reveals itself beyond familiar paths with nature reserves, historic sites and remote beaches. The region contains botanical gardens, volcano museums and former plantations. The coast features black sand beaches, coves and islets. Inland areas include waterfalls, hiking trails and colonial architecture.
Balata Garden
11.1 km
Château Dubuc
11 km
Église du Sacré-Cœur de Balata
18 km
Phare de La Caravelle
11.8 km
Habitation Leyritz
14.5 km
Our Lady Church
15.7 km
Habitation Gradis
16.2 km
Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Sainte-Marie
450 m
Observatoire du Morne des Cadets
17.7 km
Réserve naturelle nationale de la presqu'île de la Caravelle
11.5 km
Saint Hyacinth Church
8.8 km
Église de l'Immaculée-Conception de L'Ajoupa-Bouillon
14 km
West Paradise
16.4 km
Domaine d'Emeraude
12.6 km
Église Sainte Jeanne d’Arc du Vert-Pré
10.7 km
Église de la Sainte-Trinité de La Trinité
5.9 km
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Basse-Pointe
16.2 km
Monument aux morts de Sainte-Marie
943 m
Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Visitation de Gros-Morne
8.6 km
Cascade Didier
18 km
Église Saint-Martin du Morne-Vert
18.8 km
Église Saint-Denis de Fonds-Saint-Denis
16.1 km
Calvaire de Morne-Rouge
15.3 km
Monument aux morts de Saint-Joseph
14.4 km
Volcanoes and Forests of Mount Pelée and the Pitons of Northern Martinique
9.4 km
Sous-préfecture de La Trinité
5.8 km
Chapelle du domaine de Fonds-Saint-Jacques
2.3 km
Habitation Pécoul
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