Beach and Chill Holidays
With its stunning beaches lapped by turquoise waters, Martinique is the perfect place to kick off your sandals and unwind. Whether you’re lounging in the golden sands of Les Salines or snorkelling in the calm bays of Les Anses d’Arlet, the island offers sun, sea and that sweet slow pace that holidays are made for.
Adventure and Eco Holidays
If you like your holidays with a bit of action, Martinique delivers. Hike through rainforest trails, climb the dramatic Mont Pelée volcano, or kayak through mangrove-lined waterways. Nature lovers will be in paradise with so much to explore above and below the surface.
Cultural and Culinary Escapes
Martinique is a foodie’s dream with a delicious blend of French technique and Creole spice. Pair that with vibrant local markets, historic plantations, and charming towns full of colonial architecture, and you've got a rich cultural journey waiting to be discovered—preferably with a ti’ punch in hand.
Welcome to Martinique, the "Isle of Flowers"—a tropical gem where French flair meets Caribbean soul. From emerald rainforests and volcanoes to white and black sand beaches, this island is as diverse as it is beautiful. Whether you're sipping local rhum agricole, hiking through lush jungle, or exploring charming seaside villages, Martinique offers an island experience that’s exotic, elegant and effortlessly cool.
It’s Part of France—But in the Caribbean
Martinique is technically a French overseas department, meaning it’s as much a part of France as Paris or Nice. That means French laws, French baguettes, and French wine—but with palm trees, Creole culture, and tropical flair. It’s a brilliant blend of European elegance and island ease, all under the Caribbean sun.
Home to Mont Pelée, a Volcano with a Powerful Past
Mont Pelée looms large over the island—both literally and historically. In 1902, it famously erupted and destroyed the town of Saint-Pierre, claiming thousands of lives. Today, you can hike its lush trails and peer into the crater, with panoramic views that stretch across the island. It’s a striking reminder of nature’s power and beauty.
Birthplace of Empress Joséphine
Martinique is the birthplace of Joséphine de Beauharnais, the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and the first Empress of France. You can visit her childhood home, La Pagerie Museum, and learn all about her life—from island girl to imperial royalty. Her legacy is still part of Martinique’s layered and fascinating history.
Weather
Martinique enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, generally between 24°C and 30°C. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April, when the skies are blue, the sea is calm, and the island is buzzing with festivals and cultural events.
Spoken Languages and Currency
French is the official language, and Martinican Creole is widely spoken by locals. While English is not as commonly spoken as in some other Caribbean islands, you’ll find English speakers in most tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. The currency is the Euro (EUR), making it easy for travellers from Europe and beyond.
Popular Destinations
Fort de France
Martinique’s lively capital is a mix of markets, museums and colonial charm. Stroll along the waterfront, explore the Schoelcher Library, and sample local street food at the Grand Marché.
Les Anses d'Arlet
This postcard-worthy fishing village boasts colourful creole houses, a charming beachfront church, and calm turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. It’s a peaceful and pretty slice of coastal paradise.
Sainte-Anne
Home to the famous Les Salines beach, Sainte-Anne is the ultimate beach destination. Its palm-lined shore and crystal-clear waters are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and sipping cocktails in the shade.
Sainte-Luce
A picturesque seaside town known for its welcoming vibe and local rum distilleries. Sainte-Luce is the place to go for fresh seafood, charming streets, and a laid-back Creole atmosphere.
Top Things to See and Do in Martinique
Climb Mont Pelée
Take on the challenge of Martinique’s volcano for a rewarding hike through lush greenery and misty mountaintops. The views from the summit are jaw-dropping, and the experience is unforgettable for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Snorkel at Anse Dufour
This little beach is a hidden gem on the Caribbean coast, known for its calm waters and excellent snorkelling. Turtles often glide just offshore, and the coral is vibrant and teeming with marine life.
Visit a Rum Distillery
Martinique is world-famous for its rhum agricole, made from sugarcane juice rather than molasses. Tour distilleries like Habitation Clément or Trois Rivières to learn the history, see the process, and—of course—taste the goods.
Explore the Balata Botanical Garden
Just outside Fort-de-France, this lush garden is home to hundreds of exotic plant species and offers treetop walkways for sweeping views of the jungle canopy. It’s a peaceful escape full of colour, fragrance and natural beauty.
Martinique: A Caribbean Island with Parisian Panache
With its dreamy beaches, vibrant culture, and French-Caribbean flair, Martinique is an island like no other. Whether you’re hiking through rainforests, sipping rum by the sea, or dancing to the rhythm of zouk music, every day on this magical island feels like a celebration. Vive la Martinique!
All Martinique Destinations
- Fort de France
- Les Anses d'Arlet
- Sainte-Anne
- Sainte-Luce
