The Banana Islands include three islands: Dublin, the largest and most visited one, Ricketts, and Mes-Meheux. Dublin and Ricketts are linked by a stone walkway making it easy to move from one island to the other, whereas Mes-Meheux is uninhabited. Dublin Island is known for its beaches, while Ricketts Island is best known for its forests.

Dublin and Ricketts were first settled by formerly enslaved Africans returning from the Americas – many of the current residents are their descendants. About 600 people inhabit Dublin, and 200 live in Ricketts. Walking around the islands you’ll come across local houses, brightly painted, immersed in the jungle and surrounded by mango and papaya trees. In Dublin you’ll also find two small churches and a few shops, but there are no cars, no roads and no electricity on the islands. The ‘off-grid’ feel is part of their charm of the islands.

Both Dublin and Ricketts are small enough to walk around, and friendly locals will be happy to direct you if you get lost. Amongst the trees, you’ll come across historical relics dating back to a time when the islands were and important stop for the transatlantic slave trade. There are also two 18th century shipwrecks off the coast of Dublin.

You can choose between chilling on Big Sand Beach, the nicest beach on Dublin, stroll around the island, go snorkelling, scuba diving or hire a kayak or pedal boat to search for hidden coves. There’s also a diving school in Dublin to hire guides and equipment from.