Martinique, often called “The Island of Flowers,” is a Caribbean paradise of breathtaking beaches, lush vegetation, vibrant culture, and UNESCO Heritage treasures. Whether it’s the colorful blooms of Jardin de Balata, the rhythmic beats of the island’s famous Carnival, or a journey through 400 years of history at La Savane des Esclaves, this destination offers an unforgettable blend of beauty and tradition.
Local historian Gilbert Larose, a native of Martinique and a self-taught historian and founder of La Savane des Esclaves, an open-air museum that brings 400 years of the island’s history to life, invites you to experience Martinique through his eyes, uncovering hidden gems, savoring Creole flavors, and immersing yourself in the island’s unique culture and history.
From the flowers of the Jardin de Balata to the initiation to the yole, through the Savannah of the Slaves, Martinique reserves you a magnificent stay with a great M.
The Best Time to Visit: Martinique Carnival
It is preferable to visit Martinique during the carnival period.
Why? The Martinique carnival is unique in the world, it is colorful and for music lovers it is the ideal place to discover new sounds. Carnival is the time for the Martinican people to decompress and honour their traditions but also to denounce politics or various important events that have occurred during the year. For that there are in the tradition the “Bwadjak”, the “red devils” and the famous “King Vaval”.
Beachside Dining: Savor Local Flavors by the Sea
If you want to eat local dishes I recommend the Beach Grill restaurant at Carbet on the beach of the Grand Anse. On site, you will have the choice to settle on the deck or on the sand facing an idyllic setting. I also recommend the Kano restaurant, located on the beach of Anse Mitan in Trois îlets, a restaurant that opens onto the sea and offers exceptional dishes.
Brunch Bliss in Fort-de-France
In my opinion, the right place to have brunch in Martinique will be Zakari (@zakari.mq). Zakari is a café inspired by English coffee shops that offers a soothing setting in the heart of the city of Fort-de-France, but also homemade dishes with fresh seasonal products. Between traditional products and others from elsewhere worked in the manner of home, you will have an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
Sip and Savor at The Baywatch
The Baywatch is a very appreciated place to enjoy cocktails and/or mocktails in the evening and during the day. Located at the marina de l’Étang Zabricot in Fort-de-France, it is close to everything. The Baywatch offers classic cocktails but also creative cocktails that will delight your taste buds. For information, it is also a place where you can find pancakes, pizzas, salads and burgers.
Step Back in Time at La Savane des Esclaves
The Slave Savannah is the only museum that will make you discover 400 years of history of the island through the first inhabitants of Martinique, the slave period, to life after slavery. In addition, you will be able to carry out a cultural activity such as making the cocoa stick in the manner of Yesteryear. During this workshop, you will be taught the process of making cocoa mass starting from the tree.
A Feast for Art Lovers at Clément Foundation
You can find contemporary works of art at the Clément au François Foundation. The Clément Foundation is located on the same property as the Clément Housing. This place rather exhibits Caribbean art in 3 rooms the “cuveriez”, the “nef”, and the “Clement” room. Photo spots are made available outdoors with life-size sculptures.
Anse Couleuvre: A Hiker’s Paradise to Volcanic Sands
Discover the charming and wild beach of Anse Couleuvre in the extreme North Caribbean of Martinique. To access it you will have to go on a hike where you will see a typical northern vegetation, an endemic fauna and the ruins of an old house. At the finish, a beach with volcanic sand, clear water and beautiful seabeds for divers awaits you.
LGBTQIA+ Friendly Spots in Caribbean Fort-de-France
There is not really a place to book only for the LGBTQIA + community in Martinique, however, there are a few evenings for the community in places like “Patio 19” and “Boa Rosa” which are both located in Fort-de-France opposite the waterfront. They are also coworking and instagrammable spaces.
Boutique Luxury at French Coco & Relax at Orcea Residence & Spa
The French Coco is a 4-star boutique hotel located in Trinité and more precisely in Tartane. At French Coco we offer several types of suites that can accommodate up to 3 people. This boutique hotel offers undeniable comfort, free Wi-Fi, room service, but also a restaurant with refined cuisine mixing Creole and contemporary flavors.
For a moment of relaxation, I recommend the Orcea residence & SPA. In this place, you will be pampered by professionals with local products that have therapeutic benefits.
Shopping & Îlet Chancel: A Glimpse of Endemic Iguanas
The best place to shop will be the Galleria Shopping Center. This shopping center is the largest on the island and you can find major brands, especially at “Galerie Lafayette”. However, you will not find luxury brands through the shops because they have not settled on the island.
On an island of Robert, called the islet Chancel, you will be able to see the endemic iguanas of Martinique. To get there you can go to the tourist office of Northern Martinique to book your excursion for this special moment. Sometimes, some companies will offer a circuit with the “Baignoire de Joséphine” which is also an essential and unique place in Martinique.
The Local’s Guide to Martinique – Top Places to Explore
- Jardin de Balata – A garden with vibrant flowers and lush vegetation.
- La Savane des Esclaves – An outdoor museum showcasing 400 years of Martinique’s history.
- Beach Grill Restaurant – Located on the beach of Grand Anse in Carbet, serving local dishes.
- Kano Restaurant – Situated on the beach of Anse Mitan in Trois-Îlets, offering exceptional dishes.
- Zakari Café – A cozy café in Fort-de-France inspired by English coffee shops.
- The Baywatch – A spot for cocktails, mocktails, and light meals at the marina of Étang Zabricot in Fort-de-France.
- Clément Foundation – A cultural site displaying contemporary Caribbean art at Clément Housing.
- Anse Couleuvre Beach – A wild and charming volcanic beach in the North Caribbean, accessible via a scenic hike.
- Patio 19 – An LGBTQIA+ friendly space in Fort-de-France.
- Boa Rosa – Another LGBTQIA+ friendly spot in Fort-de-France, also serving as a coworking space.
- French Coco – A 4-star boutique hotel in Tartane, Trinité.
- Orcea Residence & Spa – A relaxation and wellness spot offering therapeutic treatments with local products.
- Galleria Shopping Center – The largest shopping center on the island, featuring brands like Galerie Lafayette.
- Îlet Chancel – An island in Robert known for its endemic iguanas and excursions.
- Baignoire de Joséphine – A unique and essential excursion spot often paired with tours to Îlet Chancel.
These locations capture the diverse experiences Martinique has to offer, from historical landmarks and natural wonders to culinary and cultural highlights.
