Interested in visiting Martinique? Discover the must-sees and must-do’s to plan your next vacation on the island of flowers!
A little piece of paradise, nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Martinique is undoubtedly an island worth visiting. With its exceptional panoramas, it also boasts a warm, authentic culture.
Stroll along its incredible white-sand coastline, explore its lush forests sheltering superb waterfalls, immerse yourself in the bustle of its markets and take time to appreciate its unique atmosphere that you won’t soon forget.
Whether you’re a fan of idleness, a budding explorer, a water sports enthusiast or simply curious about all its secrets, you can’t help but succumb to its charm. Here’s a selection of must-sees in Martinique!
1. The beaches
Renowned or more confidential, with white or black sand, lined with coconut palms or lush vegetation, Martinique’s beaches are an invitation to relax, have fun and let go.
Visiting Martinique also means basking in the sun for long minutes, taking a dip in the warm, translucent waters, starting a game of beach volleyball or trying out one of the many water sports available in the area.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of must-visit beaches when visiting Martinique:
- Salines beach – Sainte-Anne ;
- Anse-Couleuvre beach – Le Prêcheur ;
- Anse Dufour and Anse-Noire beaches – Les Anses-d’Arlet ;
- Anse Michel Beach – Sainte-Anne.
2. The islets
There are no fewer than 48 islets dotting Martinique’s waters, providing a superb alternative for sunny days in the water. Among those that stand out the most, whether for their history, accessibility or scenery, are the islets in the Bay of Robert, such as the renowned îlets Madame and Chancel.
The Baie du François, meanwhile, is home to the very popular îlets Thierry and Oscar. In Sainte-Anne,îlet Chevalier is the star of the show. Once there, whether you arrive by boat or kayak, there are plenty of activities to choose from: sunbathing, lunching in wooden cabins, snorkelling, rum tasting and more.
It’s worth noting that, while they obviously have their own characteristics, they all share a fabulous propensity to shelter flora and fauna that must be preserved at all costs.
3. Diving
If a good swim in the warm turquoise waters of the coastline is a must when visiting Martinique, the underwater life is not lacking in arguments to seduce you either. North or south, close to shore or further offshore, from well-known to lesser-known sites, give in to the call of the seabed, where a beautifully varied flora and fauna awaits you.
From Diamant rock to Saint-Pierre bay, from Cap Salomon to Anse-Noire, there’s no shortage of places to marvel at the endless ballets of colorful fish darting between coral and gorgonian sea fans. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced diver, you’re sure to find the spot that suits you best during your stay in Martinique.
4. Josephine’s Bathtub
Located between Oscar and Thierry islets, the Baignoire de Joséphine is a famous strip of white shoals offering a unique setting for a swim amidst an extraordinary cameo of blues.
It has become a must-see tourist attraction over the years, and regularly hosts the traditional « baptême du rhum » (rum baptism), a popular event with tourists. There, bordered by the coral reef, you’ll be invited to share a homemade planteur accompanied by delicious accras laid out on a floating bar. Is this what paradise is all about?
5. The rivers
Sheltered by dense green vegetation, the rivers and waterfalls promise a refreshing and invigorating break. Most of them are to be found in the north of the island, and are generally accessible by hikes of varying lengths.
Make the most of your trip to Martinique to immerse yourself in a wilderness setting and take your courage in both hands by diving into the clear, icy waters. For the more adventurous, these are fantastic playgrounds for canyoning.
6. Hiking
Discover the many facets of Martinique by indulging in the joys of hiking. With more than 250 km of trails all over the island, you can explore the length and breadth of the island to your heart’s content.
Armed with bottled water and a good pair of sneakers, venture into the heart of the rainforest, skirt its coastline, climb a few mornes, cross mangroves and continually marvel at the sensational panoramas.
From the majestic Mount Pelée to the unmissable Caravelle peninsula, via Morne Larcher and lesser-known trails such as Trou Cochon, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to getting your feet wet on your visit to Martinique.
7. Other outdoor activities
As well as hiking and scuba diving, there are many other outdoor activities to be enjoyed on site. Whether you’re looking for a thrill or a fun way to immerse yourself in your surroundings, we’ve got you covered. On land or at sea, here’s a selection of outdoor activities to try out on your vacation in Martinique:
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8. A boat trip
Gliding on the turquoise waters of Martinique is undeniably a must when visiting the West Indies. But doing it on your own is much more satisfying. Have you always dreamed of taking the helm with your hair blowing in the wind? Be the captain for a day and rent a boat in Martinique for a fully autonomous trip. Departing from Sable Blanc, for example, you can explore the splendid Baie du Robert and its paradise-like islets.
In small groups of 2 to 6 people, let the onboard GPS guide you to the island’s must-see sites. Admire the magnificent scenery along the way, and don’t hesitate to stop off at the must-see islets Madame and Chancel. Although there are no fewer than 10 islets in the Bay of Robert, the latter two are the most accessible, with idyllic beaches ideal for lazing around. But there are plenty of other ways to discover Martinique’s paradise waters!
If you don’t have a boating license or are not comfortable at the helm, you can hire the services of a skipper who will show you the island’s most beautiful spots throughout the excursion. If you’re lucky, you’ll even be able to swim in some of the island’s most magical spots, for an unforgettable day out with your loved ones.
Find a boat for rent in Martinique
9. Helicopter flight
What better way to contemplate the beauty of the island as a whole? Choose to experience a breathtaking moment aboard a helicopter.
Accompanied by an experienced pilot, you’ll fly over magnificent places that are even more beautiful from the air. Fly, admire and enjoy unforgettable images!
10. The Tombolo
If there’s one thing worth seeing from above when visiting Martinique, it’s the Tombolo. Literally meaning « sand arrow » in Italian, this ephemeral phenomenon offers visitors a most surprising spectacle.
No, Moses didn’t come here, but rather the combined result of tides, currents and wind. Generally occurring from December to April, you can take advantage of this period to walk toîlet Sainte Marie without getting wet… or almost.
Please note: this area is closed to swimming.
11. Balata garden
Treat yourself to a bucolic interlude, just a few kilometers from the center of Fort-de-France, with a visit to the Balata Garden. The most beautiful botanical garden on the island, this verdant, flower-filled setting is home to some 3,000 varieties of exotic plants and flowers from all over the world.
If you’re looking for something to do during your stay in Martinique, this place – created in 1982 by landscape gardener and horticulturist Jean-Philippe Thorze – is perfect for a colorful and refreshing stroll with the family.
Walk in the shade of the gigantic palm trees, stroll among the hibiscus and porcelain roses or take a closer look at the Creole house transformed into a museum. Younger visitors will be delighted by the tree-hanging trail, from which they can get the best possible view of the flora and fauna.
12. Céron dwelling
Are you looking for a unique experience that will awaken all your senses? L’habitation Céron is the place for you! Dating back to the 17th century, this former sugar refinery – nestled in the heart of the Prêcheur rainforest – now offers a magical setting where you’ll love getting lost.
Stroll along the riverbank, inhale the fragrance of the « remarkable » garden, learn how to work with cocoa and taste the various in-house creations. At the end of your visit, don’t hesitate to drop into our delicatessen to pick up some delicious souvenirs.
13. The village of Poterie
Located at the entrance to the commune of Trois-îlets, on the site of what was once a Jesuit dwelling around the 17th century, the village of La Poterie is one of Martinique’s must-sees. As you walk along its reddish earth path, you’ll be transported to a place where the past still seems very much alive.
A hotbed of tile and pottery production for many years, today it’s an essential stop-off point for discovering different craft workshops and appreciating the work of small creators in an authentic atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to take home a souvenir from the Flower Island!
14. Museums
Slave Savannah
Covering almost three hectares, the Savane des esclaves is a surprising open-air museum located in Les Trois-Îlets. With its main objectives of « bearing witness, teaching and preserving », it immerses you in over 400 years of Martinican history.
A recreation of an Amerindian village, a visit to the mythical Rue Case-Nègres and a glimpse of rural life after the abolition of slavery are just a few of the fun and original ways to find out more.
The Franck Perret Museum
Founded in 1933 by American vulcanologist Franck Alvord Perret, the eponymous museum is located in the heart of the town of Saint-Pierre. Dedicated in its entirety to the infamous volcanic eruption of May 8, 1902, the memorial brings together several archives dating from before and after the disaster.
As you browse through the photos, objects and documents recounting the eruption, you’ll appreciate the scale of the damage – both human and material – caused by this phenomenon that changed the face of Martinique forever.
It’s also an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the major role once played by what was nicknamed « Little Paris », which still bears the indelible scars of the devastating power of Mount Pelée.
- The Banana Museum;
- La Maison du Bèlè;
- The Pagerie Museum;
- La Maison de la canne.
15. Distilleries
If museums are an excellent way of familiarizing yourself with Martinique’s history and culture, distilleries are also – in their own way – a way of stepping back into the island’s past. Renowned the world over, and one of the few to be awarded the « AOC » appellation, Martinique’s rums are the pride of many.
Discover the origins and behind-the-scenes secrets of this head-turning nectar by visiting one or more of the dozen distilleries scattered across the island. Among the most famous are:Habitation Clément, Neisson, Saint-James andHabitation Saint-Étienne.
16. Cap 110
Perched atop the rock ofAnse Cafard, Cap 110 is a group of sculptures paying tribute to the countless victims of the slave trade.
Composed of fifteen 2.50-meter statues facing the Bay of Diamant, on the very spot where the murderous shipwreck of a slave ship took place in 1830, the memorial is an emotionally-charged place where symbols, solemnity and art meet.
17. The carnival
Born of a blend of African, Amerindian and European cultures, Martinique’s carnival has become a key event in the local heritage. A unifying and festive event, it is an opportunity for the population to give free rein to their creativity through costumes, songs and bradjak (motorized cars transformed into works of art).
While the festivities generally get underway in January, it’s not until February – starting with the « jours gras » – that the carnival procession fills the streets for five days of madness.
Imagination, masquerade costume, conviviality and music galore make for a unique atmosphere. There’s no question of being mere spectators: everyone participates. And that’s what makes Carnival such an essential part of your stay in Martinique.
18. Tour des Yoles Rondes
With no fewer than 36 editions to its credit, the Tour des Yoles Rondes is one of the island’s most eagerly awaited events. An important part of local culture, this canoe race creates a buzz as soon as August rolls around.
But more than just an attraction, the Tour des Yoles is also, and above all, a sporting discipline where you can witness fabulous teamwork and coordination that thrills the crowds.
Each of the crews has its own set of supporters who show their support at the finish line, on board the following boats or in front of their televisions.
Come and admire the parade of colorful sails as you mingle with the crowds in the finish town, or hire a catamaran for an unforgettable experience on the water during your trip to Martinique.
19. Nightlife
Did you think Martinique could only be discovered during the day? The island still has plenty of surprises in store for you once night falls. It’s transformed into a night owl’s paradise. Get your evening off to a good start by reserving a table at a restaurant in town or by the sea.
Continue with a drink in one of its trendy bars, such as the Cloud – rising above the rooftops of Fort-de-France – or the Coco Bar at the Bakoua hotel.
To round off your stay in Martinique in style, head for one of its nightclubs, where you can have fun until the wee hours of the morning.
20. Beach bars
For a more relaxed atmosphere, beach bars are a must during your stopover in Martinique. With your feet in the water and a generally boho-chic atmosphere, you’ll be delighted to spend a moment with two or more people over a cocktail or a tasty dish.
Along the beaches of the south or the north, you’ll find several of these establishments inviting you to relax and indulge your taste buds. From the Yemanja to the Flamingo, via the Black Diamond or the Chill, the hardest part will be choosing.
21. Local gastronomy
It’s impossible to visit Martinique without taking an interest in its wonderful local cuisine, a blend of generosity, gourmandise and explosions of flavors that will leave you speechless. Especially if you choose to spice up your meal with a piece of the famous Bondamanjak pepper.
An experience in its own right, traditional cuisine is not simply a matter of tasting, but of living. Work up an appetite with fried balaouts in the sand, sit down to chicken colombo or grilled fish with yellow banana gratin, and finish off with a sip of the famous Ti Punch.
At snack time, enjoy an incredible coconut sorbet as you leave the beaches, or opt for the nougats and coconut bars sold by the shopkeepers.
22. The markets
It’s hard to spend a holiday in Martinique without taking in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of its markets. Let yourself be carried away by the pleasant bustle of the place, smell the spice mix and browse the various stalls where liqueurs, medicinal plants and local delicacies await you.
From Fort-de-France’s unmissable large covered market to the Lafcadio Hearn market, not to mention the myriad of other communal markets, there’s no shortage of places to fill your bags with goodies.
How to get to Martinique
How to get to Martinique
Want to come to Martinique? Nothing could be simpler! You’ll find flights from France to Fort-de-France every day. But, as prices can rise quite quickly from one period to the next, we advise you to use a flight comparator such as Ulysse to be sure of finding the best deal.
Getting around Martinique
To guarantee total autonomy during your visit to Martinique, the best option is to rent a car. You’ll be able to get around as you please and explore the island at your own pace.
Be careful, though, as demand is high during the summer months, so be sure to get in early.
Where to sleep in Martinique?
From north to south, from the Caribbean coast to the Atlantic, the island of flowers offers visitors a wide range of accommodation! From dream villas with swimming pools to ecolodges and traditional hotel rooms, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for when you visit Martinique.
And, to get your hands on the offer that matches both your budget and your tastes for your visit to Martinique, don’t hesitate to use a hotel comparator. To stay like a local, you can also opt for one of the many Airbnb properties available on the island.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Martinique,fr