It is a part of the municipality of Eemsdelta, and lies about 32 km east of Groningen.

The village was first mentioned in 1660 as "Zijl Ter Munte", and means "sluice near Termunten".

[4] In 1601, a ferry service opened to Emden in East-Frisia, Germany.

The harbour near the sluice grew in importance as well, and was used by ships to Norway, German, Russia and England.

[4] In the early 20th century, the harbour became overshadowed by neighbouring Delfzijl and Termunterzijl started to become a fishing village.