A Tranquil End to Your Madagascar Adventure
Just off Madagascar’s east coast lies Ile Sainte Marie — known by some as Ile St Marie — a laid-back tropical island with calm coral lagoons, swaying palms, and soft white sands. With just one real town and a cute airport at its southern tip, it’s one of the best places to unwind after a lemur safari on the mainland.
The picturesque island of Sainte Marie boasts scenery to rival the Seychelles. The tropical climate delivers verdant green vegetation. Add in a mysterious pirate history and it has romance written all over it.
The island is only 60km long and 7km wide, making it easy to explore by bicycle or pousse-pousse (Madagascar’s charming bicycle taxis).
Whether you’re after a romantic Ile Sainte Marie hotel for two or a family-friendly beachside eco-lodge, this island offers relaxed charm without big resorts.
Don’t Miss: Ile Aux Nattes
To many people, this tiny car-free island off the south tip of Ile Sainte Marie is even better than the main island. With crystal-clear shallows, no cars, and a walkable circumference of 8km, it's ideal for a day trip—or a few nights in one of the tiny beachfront guesthouses. The north coast is postcard-perfect, with calm tides and powder-soft sand. Add in turquoise clear waters, charming seafood restaurants and orchids. Absolute paradise!
Where to Stay: Ile Sainte Marie Hotels & Lodges
Accommodation on Ile Sainte Marie is charmingly low-key. Choose from:
- Stylish beach lodges like Princess Bora Lodge or the new Voaara Resort
- Simple eco-retreats tucked into the coastal forest
- Affordable, family-friendly hotels with great locations for island hopping
- Romantic beach hideaways, perfect for honeymooners or slow travel
Chat to us about the possibilities.
How to Get to Ile Sainte Marie?
Post-Safari Chill-Out: Fly daily from Antananarivo (Tana) straight to the island’s tiny airport — only 50 minutes.
Or take a scenic drive along Madagascar’s east coast and ferry over (1–1.5 hours depending on sea conditions). This is perfect if you're combining it with Andasibe and the Canal des Pangalanes.
Eastern Highlands to Ile Sainte Marie
There are also private charters on offer from Tamatave which cut the travel time and allow you to combine Andasibe with Ile Sainte Marie.
Things to Do on Ile Sainte Marie
- Whale watching (June–Sept) — spot humpbacks breaching just off the coast
- Cycling and pousse-pousse rides through sleepy fishing villages
- Excursion to Ile aux Nattes for beachcombing and fresh seafood
- Hiking and walking trails
- Scuba diving among reefs and 19th-century wrecks
Ready to Plan Your Ile Sainte Marie Escape?
From whale-watching season to the best Ile Sainte Marie hotel for your style and budget, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch, and we’ll help you build the perfect finale to your Madagascar journey.
