Just three kilometers off the northeast coast of Saint Martin lies Tintamarre Island, a flat, uninhabited oasis that feels worlds away from the busier mainland. Though small—only about 2 square kilometers—Tintamarre is big on quiet beauty, natural intrigue, and island lore. This peaceful gem is part of the Saint Martin Nature Reserve and is accessible only by boat, making it a treasured stop for day-trippers and yacht tours.

A Whisper from the Past

Tintamarre’s story stretches beyond its white sands. In the early 1900s, the island supported a small farming community, complete with livestock and simple homes. It later gained a brief but fascinating claim to fame when French aviator Rémy de Haenen established a private airstrip here—one of the region’s earliest. Though the settlement is long gone, visitors can still trace the faint outlines of the old runway and stone ruins tucked into the island’s greenery.

A Natural Playground

Now part of a protected nature reserve, Tintamarre Island is prized for its raw, undeveloped terrain. The main beach is a sweeping crescent of soft, golden sand lapped by turquoise waters. Gentle waves make it perfect for a relaxed swim or a sandy barefoot stroll. Inland, hiking paths lead across dry grasslands, small cliffs, and even a salt pond, offering sweeping views of the sea and nearby islands.

But the real magic may lie beneath the surface. Snorkelers and divers are treated to a colorful world of reef life: sea turtles, rays, and vibrant fish dart among corals and rock ledges. On calm days, the waters around Tintamarre are as clear as glass.

A Hint of Spa in the Wild

Among the island’s unexpected pleasures are the natural mud baths found near its salt pond. These iron-rich clays, when applied to the skin, are said to offer gentle exfoliation and detoxifying benefits. Many visitors enjoy a playful yet rejuvenating experience, slathering on the earthy mud before rinsing off in the warm Caribbean Sea—an all-natural spa ritual in the wild.

Simple Adventures, Lasting Memories

Part of what makes Tintamarre so special is its simplicity. There are no restaurants, no shops, and no crowds—just sun, sand, sea, and silence. Most guests arrive via small boat charters or catamaran excursions from Saint Martin. These tours often include snorkeling stops, picnic lunches, and time to relax or explore. And while the island may appear flat and quiet, its blend of history, nature, and off-the-grid charm leaves a deep impression.

Wildlife enthusiasts may spot nesting seabirds or sunbathing iguanas, while amateur historians can piece together the island’s past among the stone foundations and scattered relics.

A Protected Jewel

As part of the Saint Martin Nature Reserve, Tintamarre benefits from ongoing conservation efforts. These initiatives help safeguard the coral reefs, protect turtle nesting zones, and preserve the island’s rare flora. Visitors are asked to tread lightly—take only photos, leave only footprints, and refrain from collecting shells or disturbing wildlife.

Whether you’re seeking clear waters, untouched landscapes, or a memorable mud bath in the open air, Tintamarre Island offers an escape unlike any other in the Caribbean. Quiet and wild, simple yet soulful, it’s a place where time slows down—and nature speaks up.

Read: Islands Close to St Maarten: Top Nearby Caribbean Destinations to Explore