Visiting Martinique: must-sees in the south of the island
Visiting Martinique and enjoy unforgettable experiences
When you imagine visiting Martinique and the beaches of the Caribbean, the south of the island offers a reality that lives up to your expectations. Of course, these natural treasures attract crowds, but don’t let that put you off – they’re well worth a visit on your trip to Martinique.
Swim with turtles at Anse Dufour and Anse Noire
Located in the municipality of Anses d’Arlet, you will discover Anse Dufour and Anse Noire, two beaches that are worth a visit. Anse Dufour, with its white sand, is well-known in all tourist guides for a unique experience: swimming with turtles. However, during the high season, the beach can be a bit crowded, which can be unpleasant. Our advice: Go snorkeling between the two bays. This way, you will have the chance to admire these majestic turtles while preserving their tranquility.
As for Anse Noire, it surprises with its black volcanic sand. From this beach, you can rent sea kayaks to explore the caves and fissures of the surrounding cliffs, a unique experience not to be missed in Martinique. For thrill-seekers, it is even possible to jump from a cliff about ten meters high.
The Diamond Beach and Its Rock
The Diamond Beach, with its white sand and coconut trees stretching for kilometers, is one of the most famous in Martinique. It offers a breathtaking view of the famous Diamond Rock, a symbol of the island. Explore the surf spot in this part of the island: Anse Cafard. This beach break, with a view of the rock, is highly appreciated by bodyboarders.
While landing on Diamond Rock is not possible, it’s definitely worth a visit, whether to admire it from the surface of the water or for the fascinating dives it offers.
If you have a coastal boat license, I recommend renting a motorboat at Pointe du Bout in Les Trois-Îlets to tour Diamond Rock, a unique experience.
Dives around the Rock are also extraordinary. You’ll find a diving club in Diamond, and those located in Anses d’Arlets also offer regular dives.
Snorkeling at Pointe Borgnèse
The beach at Pointe Borgnèse, located between Sainte-Luce and Le Marin in the south of Martinique, is a must-visit destination. This less crowded beach is the perfect spot for snorkeling, offering rich coral reefs and tropical fish. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the “sleeping woman.”
Don’t look for anyone on the beach! The sleeping woman is actually a rock formation (Morne Larcher) that evokes the silhouette of a woman lying on her back.
Relaxation on Salines Beach and Devil's Table
Salines Beach is indeed the most famous in Martinique, often featured on postcards, making it very popular with visitors. However, if you prefer a bit more tranquility, Devil’s Table Beach, located a little further south, offers the same benefits with its white sand and coconut trees but is generally less crowded than its neighbor, Salines. It’s an interesting alternative to enjoy the beauty of the Martinican coast while avoiding the crowds.
Activities & Hiking
Scubadiving at Anses d'Arlet
Visiting Martinique also means discovering its seabed. The Anses d’Arlet are a true paradise for beautiful dives. This region is full of diverse diving sites, from impressive drop-offs to colorful coral gardens. You’ll encounter a rich marine life, including turtles, lobsters, barracudas, and even lionfish.
Don’t miss the opportunity to dive near the famous Diamond Rock, accessible from Grande Anse. For an unforgettable experience, we recommend diving with Plongée Passion (https://plongeepassion.com), a club whose team is both friendly and dynamic, ready to introduce you to the underwater wonders of the region.
Hiking at Morne Larcher
The hike to Morne Larcher in Martinique can be a challenge as the trail is not always in excellent condition and has an elevation gain of 400 meters, making it quite difficult. However, your efforts will be richly rewarded with breathtaking views of Diamond Bay.
This hike is not a loop. You have three options: leave a car at your final destination, hike the trail in reverse for the return, or choose the option of the coastal loop.
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