Are you looking for a sunny destination with 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 looking to escape south while experiencing a culture steeped in traditions and supported by hospitable people.
A trip of about 14 days will allow you to discover the capital Fort-de-France, the bays, the departments and the hinterland of this island, 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, vendors gather under this metal roof to showcase the region’s colorful delicacies. Stock up on sweet fruits, spices, fabrics, cane sugar and typical Martinican products. The ideal place to feel the community spirit, explore the culture and stock up on souvenirs to take with you in your suitcase.
2. Visit the Balata Garden with its exotic plants.
Chromoprism / Adobe Stock / stock.adobe.com
This Martinique garden from 1982 is in fact a botanical garden not far from Fort-de-France, created around a “family house” (estate) with typical Creole architecture. It is an invitation to discover the island’s plant diversity and the beauty of the exotic species that live there. A Creole restaurant welcomes us on site where we can taste fresh dishes such as acras, tartare and smoked chicken.
3. Enjoy a traditional round boat adventure with Trade winds Yoles.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these boats with colorful sails crisscross the waters of the Atlantic, offering a unique experience. These small boats, once used for fishing, allow you to have an authentic Martinique experience at sea in Marin Bay.
24jef / Adobe Stock / stock.adobe.com
4. Hike to the summit Pelee Mountain.
Mount Pelée is a must-see for experienced adventurers. This hike to the highest peak in the Caribbean passes through the remains of the ancient volcano. The efforts are rewarded with spectacular views and the discovery of the caldera, a hollow formed by the collapse of the upper part of the volcano.
kovalenkovpetr / Adobe Stock / stock.adobe.com
In an activity that combines nature and knowledge, in this museum you can learn more about banana cultivation, from the plantation to the fruits and their different varieties. The tour is a truly educational journey and offers the opportunity to stroll through the gardens and discover the banana trees in Sainte Marie.
6. Share tapas in the restaurant and at the pool bar Coconut mango.
Photos from Coco Mango’s Facebook page
This recently opened restaurant in Fort-de-France offers a relaxed and friendly dining experience. Sometimes artists are welcomed to perform on site. The place is extremely welcoming at any time of the day. Take a break for brunch, an aperitif or to end the evening with one of the famous colorful cocktails, a glass of Planter cocktail or a traditional Ti-Punch before refreshing yourself in the pool!
Martinique offers ideal conditions for this exceptional water sports activity. In several bays you can see these colorful kites floating to the rhythm of the sea winds. The Blue Lagoon School allows participants to learn this sport in an idyllic setting.
kovalenkovpetr – stock.adobe.com
The capital Fort-de-France is full of little architectural treasures and this neo-Gothic library with around 130,000 works is a perfect example. It was classified as a historical monument in 1973 and features impressive architecture with a glass dome, testifying to the island’s cultural and historical heritage.
With waves coming from both sides, a strange strip of sand called Tombolo forms a natural passageway leading to Sainte Marie Island. This small island, a former port, has a few hiking trails where you can enjoy wonderful views of this special formation. There are other raffles worth visiting in Martinique, but Sainte-Marie’s is undoubtedly the most famous.
jlazouphoto / Adobe Stockl / stock.adobe.com
10. Have fun Jet skis with Jet Adventure.
A dream activity for adventure seekers is definitely leapfrogging on the waves of the Atlantic. There are various rental points along the coast of Martinique, where Jet Adventure guides navigate the azure waters. It’s an exciting way to discover Martinique’s magnificent seascapes. To experience this activity, two departure zones are available: one in Sainte-Luce and the other in Trois-Îlets.
11. Try out the canyoning experience Mada Canyon.
For a more daring adventure, head to Absalon in northern Martinique to explore the island’s gorges. On the program: abseiling, jumping into natural pools and much more. Madacanyon offers courses for all levels to experience unforgettable moments immersed in Martinica’s nature.
12. Discover the history of Martinique below Slave Savannah.
PackShot / Adobe Stock / stock.adobe.com
A true open-air museum, this place traces the island’s past and the history of slavery, detailing the way of life of the enslaved people on agricultural properties (so-called dwellings). Prized for its gardens, the town of Trois-Îlets offers various activities that allow you to get to know the country’s ancient knowledge. In particular, visitors can be instructed in the production 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 considered a habitat for turtles, which are naturally curious. Swimmers often have the opportunity to marvel at these fascinating creatures. This is an opportunity to discover Martinique’s marine life up close.
14. Enjoy the mixed cuisine in the restaurant Pura Vida.
Photo from the Pura Vida restaurant Facebook page.
Would you like to treat yourself to a meal with sophisticated and colorful flavors? This restaurant in Sainte-Luce offers a menu that combines traditional French cuisine with local products from Martinique. The dishes are served in Zen Tiki style and are a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
15. Visit the old rum distillery Clement Housing.
Marvin / Unsplash
Classified as a historical monument since 1996, this agricultural property in the municipality of François, in the southeast of the island, offers the opportunity to get acquainted with the production methods of the prestigious Clément rum. During their visit, visitors have the opportunity to explore the house, the old distillery and the gardens. For those looking to deepen their understanding of the art of rum making, the JM Distillery is another unforgettable location.
16. Discover the Cap 110 overlooking the famous Diamond Rock.
Teddy Chart / Unsplash
This place offers a breathtaking panorama of one of Martinique’s landmarks: the Diamond Rock, which gets its name from its sloping shape and its sparkling reflections depending on the position of the sun. For 25 years, a monument dedicated to the abolition of slavery has been erected on this vast green space overlooking Anse Caffard.
17. Go for a morning jog on the Sainte-Luce Coves Trail.
Daniel Oberg / Unsplash
This flat path leads from bay to bay, allowing you to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the coastal landscapes. This place, loved by runners, is perfect for soaking up the sun and salt air and starting the day right. Stop in the coves to relax for a few minutes and admire the views.
18. Enjoy views of the diamond from the restaurant’s swimming pool the big blue.
Photo from Le Grand Bleu restaurant Facebook page
This restaurant offers refined Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood and offers endless views of the horizon thanks to the large terrace where you can enjoy a meal while admiring the spectacular scenery. The infinity pool adds a touch of luxury to the experience.
19. Relax on the beach at Grande Anse des Salines.
goyoconde / Adobe Stock / stock.adobe.com
Martinique is lined with beautiful beaches where you can relax on the fine sand in the shade of palm trees. Anse des Salines is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and is the dream place to cool off in the crystal clear water.
This restaurant-bar in the heart of the capital, very popular with locals, is the only roof terrace on the island. It offers an exceptional panoramic view of Martinique and is the place where you can admire a sunset, a drink in hand, accompanied by dishes with Martinic flavors.
21. Try the local coffee Ti’kafe.
Photo from Facebook Ti Kafé Martinique
After rum, cocoa, acras and smoked chicken, coffee is another flagship product of the island. Founded in 2012, Tartane Roastery has various counters and aims to offer quality coffees roasted using traditional methods. A simple gift to take in your suitcase to remember the scents of the country at home.
Jametlene Resk / Unsplash
Wil Zaid / Unsplash