Sugar cane was never introduced here as a plantation crop and so large numbers of black slaves never came either. The population is predominantly light-skinned and many people have blue eyes. Some still wear the same round hats, the salako, that Breton fisherfolk used to wear, and fishing is still the main occupation on the islands. They are a popular excursion from Guadeloupe now, but are not too spoilt, and with a good, natural harbour, many small cruise ships spend the day here. Nevertheless, to get a better idea of the islanders traditional way of life, staying overnight is recommended so that you can appreciate it once the day trippers leave at 1600.
Public holidays are particularly heavy days with hundreds of day trippers.
Irregularly shaped and surprisingly barren, it is about 6 km long and 2 km wide at its widest point. Most of the 1,500 inhabitants live around the Anse Mire, looking across the Ilet Cabrit. The UCPA sailing school at Petit Anse offers half or full day sailing or windsurfing courses. Boats and diving equipment can be rented at the landing stage. Goats can be a nuisance if you decide to picnic here.