What are the things to do in Martinique?

If you're a fan of beautiful beaches, hiking, history and splendid food, then Martinique is the perfect place for you.
This is the one destination to go to while it’s still off-the-beaten-track. However, before you take flight to the French Caribbean Island, you may want to gain some local insights on what exactly are the things to do in Martinique?

Why Go to Martinique

Martinique or Lamatinik, like Guadeloupe, is a French overseas region that was conquered by Columbus in 1502. The island is situated in the Lesser Antilles and is a popular destination for French tourists in search of a break from the mainland. To make your choice easier, the island is split into two. The north is renowned for its mountains and opulent jungles, whilst in the south is attractive due to its gorgeous beaches and luxurious hotels.

The island has gone through many changes over the years: colonial times, colonialism, volcanic eruptions and much more. Now, it's reached a modern tourism era where you can hear about its tumultuous history and truly enjoy its present. And what better way to do so in the mountains, the jungle or at the beach!

For the culture lovers

Fort-de-France is the capital of Martinique and is also the home base for tourists visiting the island. This is a beautiful town with lots of things to do. To learn in depth about the island, museums are a wonderful place to start. The Musée Départemental d’Archéologie et de Préhistoire is full of pre-Colombian history while the Musée d’Histoire et d’Ethnographie has an emphasis on local culture. The Schoelcher library is a magnificent achievement of architecture. You can find lots of avenues, plazas and monuments with the name Victor Schoelcher — his role in abolishing slavery in the French colonies merits all recognition.
The Grand Marché is the best place for shopping - It’s insulated, and if you do get caught in a storm, consider ducking inside for shelter. For Martinique, La Savane is what Central Park is to New York — with the added advantage of palm trees! Go to the store, and then relax under the tall trees for a good dose of sun.

In addition, for an insight into local history, you definitely have to visit Martinique during the Carnaval de Fort-de-France. The celebration typically takes place in February or March, from Fat Sunday to Ash Wednesday. It's a celebration of happiness, laughter and, most importantly, liberty — accomplished when the island ended slavery. There are orchestras, costumes, plenty of snacks, the option of a king and queen and plenty of other festivities. Being a spectator at the Carnival is an experience like no other.

Saint Anne

Sainte-Anne is a town that is every so often used as a point of kicking off for greater adventures, but it deserves more respect as a destination in itself. The village is quaint and it boasts a lovely cathedral, Notre-Dame, and a craft market. After you have wandered the city, you can now go on to enjoy one of the many hikes that start nearby or go to the beach of Les Salines, one of Martinique's prettiest.

Saint-Pierre – Gaze at the Mountains

Saint-Pierre has Montagne Pelée's most spectacular view, although the cost to visit the viewpont is very high. The peak isn't just a mound of gravel, but a volcano. Pelée is currently dormant, but this has not always been the case. In 1902 the city of Saint-Pierre was decimated by an eruption. What once had been a trading center became ash and debris. A modern Saint-Pierre was built on top of the ruins and is now visited by many visitors taking in both the old and the new. The remains of the prison, the theatre and ancient towns are must-sees. Although the city attracts history buffs in droves, it also appeals to its fair share of divers — the volcanic eruption sunk many ships that can now be explored.

For the hiking enthusiasts and Nature Lovers

Hike the Gorges de la Falaise

The town of Ajoupa-Bouillon is just below the Pelée volcano. From there, you can hike the Gorges de la Falaise. Gorges mean canyons and Falaise means cliff — you get the picture. This hike should only be done with a guide because the trek involves several difficult routes. If you’re not feeling so brave, you can take a peaceful stroll through Les Ombrage botanical gardens which are also in Ajoupa-Bouillon.

Grand’Rivière Hike

You can enjoy one of the most pituresque hikes on the island from the village of Grand'Rivière. During this 6-hour trek, you'll go from pristine jungle views, to admiring the Caribbean's blue waters. If you want to extend your 18 km hike into 36 km, make sure to schedule your boat ride back with the village's tourism office.

Explore the Gardens

L'Île aux fleurs — another Martinique nickname — it translates to the island of flowers. Approximately 10 minutes from Fort-de-France, you can find the Garden of Balata, home to around 3,000 tropical plant species. While away an hour or two of your time with a stroll around the gardens, one of the best things to do in Martinique. The "Jardin" opens at 9 am, so arrive early in order to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking hummingbirds.

La Route de la Trace to Morne-Rouge

La Route de la Trace is a beautiful road that stretches all the way from Fort-de-France to Morne-Rouge and runs through several other towns. RN 3, the road's actual name, is a 29 km stretch which takes you to the beginning of many hiking trails. The Domaine d'Emeraude is a tropical forest park with three trails that are calling out for exploration. The Trace des Jésuites at Fonds-Saint-Denis is a fantastic 3-hour jungle walk. Although some say they don't chase waterfalls — The Cascade of "saut de Gendarme" and Absalon thermal station are definitely worth the chase.

Things to do in Martinique for the ocean Lovers

La Plage des Salines

The Plage des Salines, right by the village of Sainte-Anne, is probably the most famous of all the island's beaches. Saline loosely translates to salt-based, so you'll find lots of salt ponds nearby. This resort is the Caribbean at it’s best: cool turquoise water and white beaches. If possible, avoid the weekends as the beach is crowded with residents as well as visitors. A peaceful weekday is a much better way to enjoy the Salines.

La Pointe du Bout

Photographie by @caribbeandontcare

This is Martinique's most upmarket area. Based in the commune of Trois-Îlets, this is where you can find all the large hotels with the finest facilities. The marina is a perfect spot to hang out and Anse Mitan's beach is among the island's most visited. La Pointe du Bout is accessible from the capital by ferry.

The Diamond Rock

Le Rocher du Diamant is a small uninhabited island off the coast of Martinique named after its diamond shape. Made of volcanic rock, for the experienced diver, this is a perfect spot. The waters aren't the smoothest, so don't venture in if you've never dived before. But if you do, head over to catch sight of the underwater coral reefs and volcanic rocks. The beach, La Plage du Diamant, is also ideal for body boarders since the waves are awesome!

Grand’Rivière

Grand'Rivière is a small fishing village located in the north of the island. It features black sand beaches, breathtaking views of surrounding islands and delicious seafood creoles served by vibrant locals.

Anses

Anse means bay or cove, and in Martinique, there are quite a few, not all of them are included in guidebooks. If you want to see turtles, travel to Anse Noire or, Anse d'Arlets or Anse Dufour. Anse Bonneville is the spot to catch a few waves and try out surfing in Martinique – one to tick off the bucket list! Travel to Anse Céron for a beautiful, secluded black sand beach. Anse Couleuvre is great for snorkeling — to get there you may have to walk through the tropical jungle, so pack your sports shoes along with your scuba gear.

For the Foodies

Martinique Drinks

One of the most important cultural aspects of Martinique, and one available in abundance, is the rum. Go to a distillery, or the rhumeries, to try one or two (or five!) different liquor varieties. Tasting is usually free in the boutiques but visiting the services is normally not. Check out these rhumeries: La Favorite in Fort-de-France, Depaz in Saint-Pierre, Neisson in Le Carbet, Trois-Rivières in Sainte-Luce and Saint-James in Sainte-Marie (where there is also a rum museum). This is one place you're not going to be thirsty!

Martinique Eateries

Photography by @simplemets

Martinique's primary (national) dish is the Colombo. It’s a dish with veal, pork, beef or chicken and then lots of fruit, coconut milk and spices. It's got quite a kick so consider yourself warned!

As with any other island, seafood is king. There are too many fish species to list, like crayfish, and lambi, a type of seashell that's much tastier than it sounds.

A pomme-cannelle is vital for someone with a sweet tooth. Similar to a slice of cinnamon, but tressed rather than sliced, and with apples thrown in. Anywhere on the island you can get your fix. Different types of flan, such as blanc-manger, are widely available to satisfy your sugar cravings.

Stay in Martinique

The island is small, just 70 km long and 30 km wide, so you can base yourself in one place or travel around a little.

Fort-de-France is a popular option when it comes to choosing where to stay. Choose the Simon Hotel for a luxurious and elegant alternative, right in the town center. If you're looking for something new, a mere 30 minutes from Fort-de-France, Domaine des Bulles will blow your mind. Have you ever fancied living in a tropical paradise within your own bubble? Or paddling around in a kayak for relaxation? Now is your moment, don't waste it!

Surprisingly enough, in Martinique, there is only one all-inclusive resort which is the Club Med Les Boucaniers. Located in Sainte-Anne, this is the best spot.

Also in Sainte-Anne, but more budget-friendly: camping! The town's civic campsite is located on the island's south side. Camping Sauvage, which means pitching your tent anywhere you like, including on the beach. This is not necessarily legal, but is widely accepted — at your own risk. Want to combine luxury and a bit of wilderness? French Coco in the Caravelle National Park is the way to go.

French Coco Hotel

Getting Around in Martinique

Most people who visit Martinique will rent a car. Bear in mind that cars over here drive on the right side. Prices aren't too bad, so this is the ideal chance to take La Route de la Trace, allowing you to literally drive around the country. Taxis are available in the major towns on the island like any other city. Choose a Taxi-co for a cheaper option. They have shared taxis where passengers share the cost. Of course, where distance is manageable, bikes and your own two feet are a perfectly suitable option.

If you're a sailing enthusiast, you can rent a sailing boat or a motorboat. You can rent one with or without a captain. It's a great way to get off the mainland and explore the prime views and gorgeous beaches of the islands. If you suffer from seasickness, it is a good idea to rent out a kayak for a relaxing afternoon.

The Island of Flowers

Sure, an island holiday can sound cliché, but often it is just what you need. There are plenty of things to do in Martinique and there is something for everyone, whatever your type of travel may be. It's now time to welcome more visitors to this beautiful island. We can't let the French have all the fun now, right?

Recap of essential information about things to discover in Martinique