Our article deals with sustainable development in the context of small islands developping states (SIDS). Our article unfolds in three steps. First, we diagnose the disadvantages SIDS usually face to (small size, remoteness, vulnerability). Second, we analyse some societal features commonly described as strong characteristics of ‘islandness’ (social links, cultural homogeneity, sociability, propensity to collective action etc.) and their contribution to sustainable development. We then consider these social determinants as factors of resilience. Third, we discuss specific management projects in the Caribbean showing the role of local co-ordination in promoting (or hindering) effective sustainable development strategies.