Visiting Martinique for the first time? Discover our arrival guide to help you prepare for your stay on the island of flowers!
Martinique – St. Lucia’s sister island – is a captivating combination of dense rainforests, rocky cliffs, Creole-inspired cuisine and the calmest, clearest water you’ll ever encounter. The blend of French and West Indian cultures has shaped a unique, raw and unspoilt island.
The French Caribbean island stretches over 1128 km² of wild paradise best explored by car, as every corner of the island has something spectacular to offer. Go trekking in the north, kayaking in the west and surfing in the east, while enjoying fine dishes and cheeses or freshly caught fish with a refreshing Ti-punch.
What to do in Martinique
Hiking on the Caravelle peninsula One of Martinique’s hobbies is hiking on the rugged terrain of the Caravelle peninsula. Situated on the water’s edge, this promontory offers multiple itineraries. The waves crash against the rocks, spraying your skin with a welcome freshness. As you approach a stopping point, you’ll hear voices nearby. Then you come face to face with the Trou Cochon: a magnificent watering hole in the national park. This secret little haunt is populated by locals who come to spend a quiet Sunday sitting in the translucent water, sipping glasses of rosé.
Photo credit: Flickr – Nathalie Vives
Le Mémorial de l’Anse Caffard: Perched atop Anse Caffard, the Slave Memorial pays tribute to the ship full of slaves that collided with the cliffs of Le Diamant on April 8, 1830. The group of 15 stone statues representing these slaves faces the Caribbean Sea. They bow their heads in reverence, in recognition of the death and suffering that occurred at 11 p.m. when cries broke the silence of the night. A visit to this open-air memorial reveals an important part of Martinique’s history, while offering an impressive view of the rough waters of Le Diamant beach.
Anse Noire & Anse Dufour beaches: In the southwest of the island, these two beaches lie directly next to each other. What makes these Caribbean coves so unique? As well as being known as a spectacular snorkeling spot (you’re likely to spot a turtle or two), Anse Noire is also renowned for its jet-black sand.
The contrast of black sand, green water and surrounding greenery makes Anse Noire a truly charming sight. A few minutes’ walk around the bay will take you to the white-sand beach of Anse Dufour. Palm trees and local cooking huts adorn the little cove, while locals swim in the clear water, play Frisbee or simply soak up the sun.
Where to eat?
Lunch or dinner at Le Fromager: After a 30-minute climb up the winding Saint-Pierre road, you’ll arrive at Le Fromager on your left: an unpretentious, red-roofed restaurant perched atop a cliff. Decorated with wooden tables and chairs, the open space overlooks Anse Turin and the rooftops of seductive Saint-Pierre. But the inexpensive, appetizing Creole menu is just as appealing. Feast on fresh snapper (red snapper) or local lambi (queen conch) while sipping a refreshing tropical juice. Come on a Sunday afternoon, when a casual lunch turns into a local party with live music, dancing and delicious Martinique dishes.
Photo credit: Flickr – Un Jour Au Soleil
Don’t neglect the roadside vendors: While there are plenty of restaurants to try (let’s not forget that we’re in a French region first and foremost), it would be a shame to ignore the trailers and local restaurants you may come across along the way. Order the island specialty of grilled fish with steamed rice and ratatouille (or fresh salad) or Poulet Boucane (smoked chicken). At an average of €8 per meal, these dishes are hearty enough to feed two people. You won’t regret trying this cuisine!
Where to stay in Martinique?
There are three places to stay in Martinique: Le François, about 20 km from Fort de France, Sainte-Anne, in the extreme south of the island, and Les Trois-Îlets, also in the Marin region in the southern part of the island.
Car rental in Martinique
If you’ve never been to Martinique, you should know that renting a car on the island is almost a must if you want to make the most of your stay! In fact, as we’ve already said, the island covers 1128 km², and the best way to see it all on the spot is to rent a vehicle.
Ideally, you should collect your car directly on arrival at Martinique-Aimé-Césaire international airport. You can reserve your car at www.auloc.fr, a local agency specialized in Martinique.
Main photo credit: Flickr – Steluma