21 things to do in Martinique for an unforgettable trip

Looking for a sun destination offering exotic landscapes, rich history and picturesque architecture? Known for its beaches, its mountains and its gardens, Martinique is becoming a destination of choice for travelers who wish to escape to the South while meeting a culture characterized by traditions and supported by welcoming people.

A trip of approximately 14 days will allow you to discover the capital Fort-de-France, the coves, the departments and the hinterland of this island which is easily explored by car.

Here are 21 unusual activities to explore the treasures of this French island in the heart of the Caribbean.

In the heart of the capital, traders gather under this metal roof to display the region’s colorful delights. Stock up on sweet fruits, spices, fabrics, cane sugar and typical Martinican products. The ideal place to feel the spirit of community, explore the culture and stock up on souvenirs to bring back in your suitcases.

2. Visit the Balata garden with its exotic plants.

This Martinique garden dating from 1982 is in fact a botanical garden not far from Fort-de-France designed around a “family home” (estate) with typically Creole architecture. It is an invitation to discover the plant diversity of the island and the beauty of the exotic species that live there. On site, a Creole restaurant welcomes us to taste fresh dishes such as acras, tartares and smoked chicken.

3. Enjoy a traditional round skiff adventure with Trade winds Yoles.

These boats with colorful sails, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, crisscross the waters of the Atlantic, offering a unique experience. Formerly used for fishing, these small boats allow you to live an authentic Martinique experience at sea, in Marin Bay.

4. Hike to the top of the Pelée mountain.

Mount Pelée is a must-see for experienced adventurers. This hike which climbs to the highest peak in the Caribbean winds through the remains of the ancient volcano. The efforts are rewarded with a spectacular view and the discovery of the caldera, a hollow formed by the collapse of the upper part of the volcano.

For an activity that combines nature and knowledge, this museum allows you to learn more about banana cultivation, from the plantation to the fruit and its different varieties. The tour is a truly educational journey, offering the chance to stroll through the gardens to discover the banana trees in Sainte Marie.

6. Share tapas at the restaurant and pool bar Coco Mango.

Recently opened, this restaurant in Fort-de-France offers a relaxed and friendly culinary experience. Sometimes welcoming artists who perform on site, the place is most welcoming, whatever the time of day. Stop for brunch, an aperitif or to end the evening with one of its famous colorful cocktails, a glass of planter or a traditional ti-punch before having a dip in the pool!

Martinique offers ideal conditions for this extraordinary nautical activity. In several coves, you can see these colorful kites floating to the rhythm of the sea winds. The Blue Lagoon school allows participants to master this sport in an idyllic setting.

The capital of Fort-de-France is full of small architectural treasures and this neo-Gothic library, housing around 130,000 works, is a perfect example. Classified as a historic monument in 1973, it has impressive architecture marked by its glass dome and testifies to the cultural and historical heritage of the island.

With waves coming from both sides, a curious strip of sand called tombolo creates a natural passage leading to Sainte Marie islet. A former port, this small island has a few hiking trails where you can discover magnificent views of this particular formation. In Martinique, there are other tombolos worth visiting, but that of Sainte-Marie is undoubtedly the most famous.

10. Have fun jet ski with Jet Adventure.

A dream activity for thrill-seekers is definitely playing leapfrog on the waves of the Atlantic. Along the Martinique coast there are various rental points where Jet Adventure guides navigate the azure waters. It’s an exciting way to discover the magnificent seascapes of Martinique. Two departure zones are offered to experience this activity: one in Sainte-Luce and the other in Trois-Îlets.

11. Try the canyoning experience with Madacanyon.

For a more daring adventure in Absalon, in the north of Martinique, it is possible to explore the island’s canyons. On the menu: abseiling, jumping into natural pools and much more. Madacanyon offers courses adapted to all levels to experience memorable moments in the heart of Martinican nature.

12. Discover the history of Martinique at Slave Savanna.

A true open-air museum, this place traces the island’s past and the history of slavery, detailing the way of life of enslaved people on agricultural estates (called dwellings). Appreciated for these gardens, the place in Trois-Îlets offers various activities allowing you to become familiar with the ancestral knowledge of the country. Visitors can notably be guided in the making of cocoa sticks or attend traditional dance performances.

13. Swim with turtles at Anse Dufour.

For an unforgettable diving experience, Dufour Cove is the perfect place. The site is recognized as an environment where turtles are curious by nature. Swimmers often have the opportunity to marvel at these fascinating creatures. This is an opportunity to discover Martinique’s marine life up close.

14. Savor mixed cuisine at the restaurant Pura Vida.

Want to treat yourself to a meal with refined and colorful flavors? This restaurant in Sainte-Luce offers a menu combining traditional French cuisine with local Martinique products. Served in a zen tiki-style setting, the dishes are a feast for the eyes and taste buds.

15. Visit the old rum distillery Clement Housing.

Classified as a historic monument since 1996, this agricultural estate in the commune of François, in the south-east of the island, offers the opportunity to delve into the manufacturing methods of the prestigious Clément rum. During their visit, visitors have the opportunity to explore the house, the old distillery, as well as the gardens. For those who want to deepen their understanding of the art of rum production, the JM Distillery is another place to remember.

16. Explore the Cap 110 with a view of the famous Diamond Rock.

This place offers a breathtaking panorama of one of the emblematic symbols of Martinique: the Diamond Rock which owes its name to its beveled shape and its sparkling reflections depending on the position of the sun. On this vast green expanse overlooking Anse Caffard, a memorial dedicated to the abolition of slavery has been erected for 25 years.

17. Go for a morning jog on the Sainte-Luce Coves trail.

Passing from cove to cove, this flat path will allow you to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the coastal landscapes. Appreciated by runners, it’s the perfect place to get your fill of sun and salty air to start your day off right. Stop in the coves to relax for a few minutes and admire the view.

18. Enjoy a view of the Diamond from the restaurant’s swimming pool the big Blue.

This restaurant offers refined Mediterranean cuisine highlighting seafood. It offers an endless view of the horizon thanks to its vast terrace where you can enjoy a meal while admiring a spectacular landscape. The infinity pool adds a touch of luxury to the experience.

19. Relax on the beach of Grande Anse des Salines.

Martinique is lined with magnificent beaches where you can relax on the fine sand in the shade of the palm trees. Recognized as one of the most beautiful on the island, Anse des Salines is the dream place to cool off in crystal clear waters.

An address very popular with “locals”, this restaurant-bar in the heart of the capital is the only rooftop terrace on the island. Offering an exceptional panoramic view of Martinique, it is the place to admire a sunset, with a drink in hand and accompanied by dishes with Martinican flavors.

21. Taste the local coffee at Ti’kafé.

After rum, cocoa, acras and smoked chicken, another flagship product of the island is coffee. Founded in 2012, this Tartane roastery has different counters and is committed to offering quality coffees, roasted using traditional methods. An easy gift to take in your suitcase to remind yourself of the aromas of the country at home.

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