The 7 best diving spots in Martinique

Let yourself be enchanted by the underwater riches of the Flower Island by discovering the best diving spots in Martinique!

Bathed by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Martinique – a small island in the Antilles archipelago – is what might be defined as a remarkable « marine crossroads ». Renowned for its authentic culture and myriad paradise-like landscapes, it has everything it takes to be a must-see destination.

But beyond its sublime white-sand coastline and lush rainforest, it also holds treasures that can only be discovered underwater. From north to south, close to shore or further offshore, you’ll enjoy exploring the seabed, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.

And, from spots that have acquired an international reputation over the years to those that are a little more confidential, you’ll find it hard to resist the call of these warm waters full of surprises. So, are you in the mood for some eye candy? Here’s a selection of the best diving spots in Martinique!

Get your masks and snorkels…ready…dive!

1. Diamond Rock

Photo credit: Shutterstock – JVPHOT

Nestled in the Caribbean Sea, just a few kilometers from the town of the same name, the Rocher du Diamant has long since established itself as one of the symbols of Martinique. Appreciated by locals and tourists alike, this 175-metre-high jewel – classified as a nature reserve for seabird breeding – sparkles under the various flashbulbs that have made it an Instagram star.

But much more than a must-see for postcard shots, it’s one of Martinique’s most famous diving sites. And for good reason: underwater, it’s a dazzling spectacle.

Where volcanic rock meets coral, you can watch a ballet of colorful fish and sea turtles, swim between spectacular faults and arches, explore underwater caves and marvel at the unparalleled light show illuminating the crystal-clear waters.

2. Saint-Pierre Bay

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Damien VERRIER

Discover a unique part of Martinique’s history by venturing into the famous Bay of Saint-Pierre. The scene of the 20th century’s deadliest volcanic eruption, this mythical spot at the foot of Montagne Pelée bears witness to this fateful event.

Divers of all levels can discover some of the shipwrecks – such as Le Roraima and L’Amélie – which are now home to exceptional flora and fauna. After your visit to this marine cemetery, part of Martinique’s archaeological heritage, you may be seduced by the gentle song of the Manman dlo and Yemaya mermaids who watch over the waters of Saint-Pierre.

Created by Laurent Valère, these impressive sculptures – which over the years have become a popular reef for underwater species – form an astonishing sculptural trail for scuba divers and snorkelers, where you’ll be delighted to swim among tropical fish, turtles, sharks and starfish!

3. l’Anse Dufour and l’Anse Noire

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jeferson Techera

Renowned for the richness of their seabed and as favorite rendezvous spots for green turtles,Anse Noire andAnse Dufour – the two sisters of black and white sand – attract snorkelers and divers alike.

Immerse yourself in translucent waters where you can observe tropical fish and an abundantly vegetated seabed. Contemplate the colorful corals, seahorses and angelfish that animate this marvelous aquatic life.

And don’t forget to immortalize your encounter with the stars of the place: the turtles that come to graze on the famous Thalassia Testudinum – known as « turtle grass » – that covers the northern part of the bay.

4. l’Anse Couleuvre and l’Anse Céron

Photo credit: Shutterstock – JFMark

Away from the hustle and bustle of tourism, in the heart of one of the wildest parts of the island, you’ll find – nestled at the foot of cliffs and surrounded by verdant vegetation – the magnificent black sand beaches ofAnse Céron andAnse Couleuvre. While their natural, unspoilt settings are sure to charm you, the stunning seascapes of the neighboring coves will leave you speechless.

Put on your flippers and masks and enter the crystal-clear waters, where you can swim alongside angelfish darting between the gorgonian sea fans, spot a moray eel lurking in the hollow of a cavity and observe impressive schools of tropical fish. You’ll come away with stars in your eyes!

Warning: beware of currents and rollers that may form depending on the weather.

5. the Citadel

Photo credit: Shutterstock – JVPHOT

Located off Le Prêcheur, between Anse Belleville and Les Abymes – La Citadelle is one of the best diving spots in Martinique if you want to discover a variety of environments in one go. This coral plateau, bordered by a spectacular chasm, offers three distinct sections that you’ll enjoy exploring.

Initially, from around 6 to 30 meters, you’ll find a first plateau where corals, sorbs, jacks and parrotfish are easy to spot. If you look hard enough, you may even find a few lobsters hidden in the rocks.

Further on, more experienced divers can continue their journey with a 60-metre drop-off colonized by gorgonians and sponges. You’ll also have the chance to contemplate the black sand plateaus formed by lava flows from Montagne Pelée. Enough to build unforgettable memories!

6. Cape Solomon

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Misha Lynxie

North of Grande Anse, in the beautiful commune of Anses d’Arlet, you’ll find the fantastic Cap Salomon. Its steep relief of large boulders and a drop-off of up to 40 meters create a stunning landscape, where a rich underwater life and many surprises await you.

Head to the Salomon pool, where you can swim along a colorful backdrop and explore a cave where spider crabs have made their home. Take a swim in the Jardins de Salomon – an ideal spot for first dives in Martinique – and marvel at the colorful corals and sponges that share the stage with a wide variety of fish.

Keep your eyes peeled! Digging through the rocks, you’re sure to come across some octopus or lobster.

7. Le Cap Enragé

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Shin Okamoto

Head north of Case-Pilote to find one of Martinique’s finest diving spots: Cap Enragé. Accessible to all levels, this dive will satisfy everyone. Immerse yourself in what can only be described as a splendid aquarium, and admire one of the island’s greatest concentrations of underwater fauna in an astonishing aquatic panorama.

Explore a rugged landscape with a pretty coral garden studded with gorgonians, and discover a succession of small canyons, caves and corridors where you’ll come across scorpionfish, barracudas, moray eels and many other tropical species.

A breathtaking visit guaranteed to be immortalized by photo enthusiasts!