Almost 7,000 km (4,349 mi) from Paris lies a Caribbean isle unlike any other. Martinique Island isn’t just another tropical getaway—it’s small, stunning, and surprisingly under the radar. With soft-sand beaches, a mountainous landscape, and an active volcano, it’s anything but average. But what truly sets it apart? A distinct French touch. Forget all-inclusive resorts—they aren’t part of the culture. The island thrives on authenticity, where Creole rhythms meet French elegance. Despite being a top destination for French travellers, it remains one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. This unusual European island blends the best of France with the soul of the Caribbean, offering experiences you won’t find anywhere else. With plenty of things to do in Martinique – expect the unexpected, when visiting this French-speaking oasis.
And the best part? Most Brits and Americans don’t bother stopping here. While they flock to bigger-name islands, you’ll be sharing pristine beaches with locals and the French—giving you a truly authentic escape.
Top things to do in Martinique
The island may be small (1,128 km2 or 436 sq mi), but it’s packed with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re staying for days or just visiting from a cruise, you’ll find postcard-perfect beaches, lush rainforest, and historic sites – all within easy reach. Fort-de-France, the capital, is the perfect starting point for exploring must-see attractions like Mount Pelée, Les Salines Beach, and the colourful Grand Marché market. Even if you only have a few hours, you can still experience some of the best attractions. So, don’t just stay near the port – get out and uncover the best things to do in Martinique.
1. Saint-Pierre
For history lovers, one of the most unforgettable things to do in Martinique is visiting Saint-Pierre. Once the island’s cultural capital was a city of French elegance, wealth, and art – often called ‘the Paris of the Caribbean.’ It was a city with a seaside charm and stunning volcano views. But history took a terrifying turn and all changed in minutes.
A DISASTER THAT SHOOK THE WORLD:
About 15 per cent of the island’s population lost their lives during the explosion that erased a city.
For weeks, the ground shook, and smoke rose from the volcano, but no one imagined what was coming. On May 8, 1902, at 8 AM, Montagne Pelée erupted with terrifying force. Without warning, a wave of superheated gas, ash, and rock raced down its slope at 160 km/h (100 mph), hitting the city in less than 60 seconds. Saint-Pierre disappeared in a few minutes. Nearly 30,000 people died instantly, making it the worst volcanic disaster of the 20th century. Even ships in the harbour burned and sank. Only one person survived: Auguste Ciparis, a prisoner locked in a tiny stone cell that saved his life.
SEE THE RUINS AND HEAR THE STORIES:
Today, Saint-Pierre is a living museum of its tragic past. Walk through ghostly ruins, and see the ruins of the staircase of the lobby of the town’s theatre, which once had a capacity of 800 people. Don’t miss the prison cell that saved a man’s life. The harbour of Saint-Piere is also a significant archaeological site; dive among sunken ships that rest beneath the sea where they fell. It’s a tragic yet breathtakingly beautiful place to explore, and everyone who comes to the island should visit it.
2. Frank A. Perret Museum
What happened in Saint-Pierre in 1902 was more than a disaster—it was a catastrophe scientists are still studying today. The Frank A. Perret Museum doesn’t just preserve the city’s lost history; it offers a deep insight into the deadly force of volcanic eruptions. Visiting the Frank A. Perret Museum is one of the best things to do in Martinique because it shows history frozen exactly as it was in May 1902.
Inside the museum’s collection, you can see photographs of Saint Pierre before and after the eruption. You can also find here 430 haunting objects pulled from the ashes of Mount Pelee’s eruption. The most shocking artefact? A deformed bronze church bell with its metal twisted by volcanic heat. Don’t miss rare documents and moving testimonies from survivors and eyewitnesses. The museum also displays a pistol that belonged to Lieutenant Marie, who was killed in the disaster (on a loan from the Musee de la Gendarmerie Nationale).
GOOD TO KNOW:
- The museum offers three self-guided tours: a family-friendly exploration, an in-depth artefact tour, and a narrative journey that brings the city’s history to life.
- Available in six languages (English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, and Creole) through Smartify, letting you explore at your own pace.
- The Frank A. Perret Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. As of February 2025, an entry ticket for an adult costs €8, children pay €6, and under 7 visits for free.
3. Hiking Mount Pelée
Mount Pelée is Martinique’s highest point and its most famous volcano. Towering at 1,397 m (5,583 ft), this active volcano became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023. While volcanologists closely monitor its activity, the volcano shows only minor signs of life and is completely safe to hike.
Mount Pelée offers some of the best hiking in the Caribbean with dramatic landscapes and beautiful ocean views. If you’re up for the challenge, several trails lead to the summit. The Aileron Trail from Morne-Rouge is the easiest and shortest, taking about 3-5 hours round trip. If you’re looking for something harder, try the Grande Savane Trail from Le Prêcheur or the Morne-Macouba Trail from Grand Rivière. These longer routes push even the fittest hikers to their limits. If you’re short on time or don’t feel like hiking, drive to the Aileron viewpoint. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the volcano and Martinique’s wild northern landscapes.
TIPS:
- START EARLY: Avoid afternoon clouds that cover the summing and can ruin the view.
- WEAR PROPER HIKING SHOES: The trails can be steep and muddy.
- BRING WATER, SNACKS AND A RAIN JACKET: The weather can change fast and the summit is much colder.
- CHECK FORECAST AND VOLCANO ACTIVITY: Volcanologists monitor Mount Pelee, but always check for updates.
4. Visit the Rum distillery
If you think all rums are the same, think again. Most rums come from molasses—a byproduct of sugar production. But not in Martinique. This tropical island doesn’t just make rum—it perfects it.
Here, rum is crafted from freshly pressed sugarcane juice, creating an entirely different taste—grassy, floral, and smooth. That’s why, according to many experts, Martinique’s rhum agricole is the best in the world. It even holds an AOC designation, the same legal status as Champagne. That’s why visiting a rum distillery is one of the best things to do in Martinique.
With around 15 distilleries, the island is famous as the rum capital of the world. Places like Habitation Clément, Saint James Distillery, and Neisson produce the highly sought-after rhum Agricole. They also offer behind-the-scenes tours where you can see, smell, and taste the journey from cane to bottle. And the best part? The tasting. Every sip reveals Martinique’s history: white rum bursting with fresh cane flavours, and aged rum with smoky complexity.
TIP:
Visit between February and June, and you’ll see the sugarcane harvest in full swing. Watch the cane get crushed, releasing its sweet juice, which ferments before being distilled into pure gold. Some distilleries still use century-old steam machinery, making you feel you’ve stepped back in time.
Take a historic rum tour and learn about the spirit’s production process from experts.
5. Route de la Trace
Want to see the real island and escape to its wild side? Drive the 40 km long Route de la Trace (the Trail Road), which winds through a lush rainforest. Built by Jesuits in the 17th century to get around the Carbet Mountains, this legendary road twists between mountains and thick jungle. The landscape is wild, untouched, and full of life. You’ll see towering bamboo, ferns, colourful exotic flowers, and a deep green jungle that seems to go on forever. Along the way, you can stop and explore hidden trails leading deep into the jungle. The Jesuits’ Trail (Trace des Jésuites) is a popular hiking trail for hikers, leading to untouched nature. The famous Route de la Trace is also home to stunning landmarks, including the Sacred Heart of Balata Church and the Balata Gardens.
Don’t forget to bookmark this post about Martinique Island so you can quickly find it when visiting it.
6. Cascade Absalon
The northern part of Martinique is full of surprises. Lush rainforests, deep valleys, and towering mountains hide some of the island’s most breathtaking secrets.
There are two types of travellers: those who stick to the main attractions and those who chase the hidden gems. If you’re the second type, then we recommend you to visit Cascade Absalon. Located off Route de la Trace, this waterfall isn’t just another tourist stop; it’s an off-the-beaten-path wonder.
SHORT BUT SLIPPERY:
Reaching the waterfall is not hard—but it’s not simple either. The short hike is steep, and the rocks can be dangerously slippery. You’ll need to hold onto tree roots for balance. But the moment you see the crystal-clear water and lush jungle surrounding you, you’ll forget the struggle.
LOCALS KNOW BEST:
The sound of cascading water blends with the calls of tropical birds, creating a jungle symphony. Tourists often miss this spot, but Absolon Waterfall is so stunning that locals try to keep it to themselves. Want it all to yourself? Come early in the morning or on a weekday.
TIP:
- Nature lovers, keep your eyes open. You might spot the Matoutou Falaise (a tarantula unique to the island) hiding in the trees. Don’t worry, it’s not aggressive, but it’s a sight you won’t forget!
- Combine the Absolon Waterfall with a visit to the Balata Garden, which lies only a 3-minute drive away.
7. Alma River
Want to experience Martinique beyond the beaches? Find your way to Alma River, where adventure meets nature most spectacularly. Locals call it the White River, and it’s easy to see why—the water sparkles as it winds through the lush rainforest. You can hike along the riverbanks, jump from basin to basin, or cool off in the refreshing, crystal-clear water. Surrounded by untouched rainforest and towering mountains, the scenery here is breathtaking. Alma River is also one of the best places to visit for canyoneering in Martinique. Hike through the dense jungle, climb over rocks, and take in views you won’t find anywhere else.
Keep an eye out for majestic mahogany trees, famous for their durability and deep, rich colour. These giants play a vital role in Martinique’s lush ecosystem.
8. Carbet Mountains
Tucked between Fort-de-France and Le Morne-Rouge, the Carbet Mountains don’t get as much attention as Mount Pelée or Martinique’s coral reefs. But don’t be fooled—these peaks are some of the most spectacular on the island. The mountains are home to one of the richest ecosystems on the island. This UNESCO-listed paradise is filled with creatures found nowhere else. The rainforest hosts the rare Martinique Northern Tarantula, the dangerous Spearhead snake, and colourful hummingbirds. The mountain’s impressive trees and dense vegetation have remained untouched for centuries.
FIVE PEAKS, ONE BIG CHALLENGE:
The Carbet Mountains have five dramatic peaks, all covered in dense, untouched rainforest. The steep slopes and wild terrain aren’t for beginners—only experienced hikers and climbers take on these trails. The trails are difficult, unpredictable, and wild. If you’re not an experienced hiker, admire the peaks from the Balata Gardens or stop along the Route de la Trace for a better view.
9. Balata Botanical Gardens
If you love plants, you must visit Balata Botanical Gardens. Located just outside Fort-de-France, it’s one of the Caribbean’s best botanical gardens, showcasing over 3,000 species of tropical plants. With collections of exotic flowers, rare plants and 300 types of palms, you’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. For a unique experience, walk along suspended bridges high above the ground. Get a bird’s-eye view of giant mahogany trees and witness stunning panoramas of the Bay of Fort-de-France and the Carbet Peaks.
FUN FACT:
Did you know that Martinique’s nickname is the island of flowers? The original name of the island in the local Creole language is “Madinina” (the Island of Flowers). The Balata Gardens perfectly showcase why.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Balata Gardens are open daily from 9 AM TO 6 PM. As of February 2025, an entry ticket for an adult costs €16, and children (4-11) pay €11.
Best things to do in Martinique for beach lovers
If you love beaches, you will love this Caribbean island. With over 50 beaches to choose from, you will always find a perfect place to relax, swim, or explore. If you want to see the best, visit Grande Anse des Salines, Anse Dufour, and Diamond Beach – each one more beautiful than the last.
WHITE OR BLACK SAND? LIVELY OR PEACEFUL?
Martinique offers two completely different beach experiences. In the south, you’ll find classic Caribbean white sand beaches with clear blue water. Some of the prettiest beaches in the south can be busy, but there’s a reason people love them. In the north, the beaches are different—dramatic, volcanic, and covered in black sand. The northern beaches feel more wild and untouched – they are perfect if you want something quieter.
10. Grande Anse du Diamant
Diamond Beach is one of Martinique’s most stunning beaches. With its white sand, swaying palm trees, and the famous Diamond Rock in the distance, it is the perfect spot for relaxation, long walks, and photography. Relaxing on Diamond Beach is one of the best things to do in Martinique if you don’t like crowded beaches. The island’s longest beach is quiet and undeveloped. You won’t find big hotels or crowded resorts here—just nature at its best.
The ocean here looks inviting, but be careful – swimming can be dangerous. The waves are strong, and the currents are unpredictable. For those reasons, we recommend you stick to sunbathing, jogging, or picnicking under the shade of coconut trees.
Unfortunately, when we visited, Diamond Beach was completely covered with sargassum. Due to climate change, more and more sargassum seaweed is washing ashore in Martinique. This is becoming a serious problem for both, sea turtles and humans, as decaying sargassum releases toxic fumes that can affect air quality and marine life.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Diamond Beach is in the village of Le Diamant, about 20 miles south of Fort-de-France. You can drive or take a taxi, but be prepared—taxi fare can cost around $100. It’s a perfect place for a day trip, but not ideal for an overnight stay.
11. Les Anses d’Arlet
If you’ve seen photos of Martinique, chances are Les Anses d’Arlet was in them. This charming fishing village is famous for its iconic wooden pier, colourful Creole houses, and a church right by the water. But what makes this place truly special? The water. The clear, calm sea is perfect for swimming and exploring underwater life. For the best snorkelling, head to Anse Dufour, one of the top places to spot sea turtles on the island. A few minutes away, Anse Noire is the island’s black sand beach, with a wild and untouched beauty.
12. Anse des Salines
Located at the southern tip of the island, five km from Sainte-Anne, this picture-perfect Caribbean beach is proof that not all beaches are created equal. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and leaning coconut palms, it looks like something from a postcard. Anse des Salines stretches almost 2 km and has three distinct sections: Grande Anse des Salines, Petite Anse des Salines, and Grande Terre des Salines. Together, they form a crescent of sand, with sun loungers and beach umbrellas you can rent for a day. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for children, and food vendors stroll along the shore, selling delicious local snacks.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The beach is extremely popular, especially on weekends, and parking fills up fast. But in the late afternoon, as the sky explodes with sunset colours, the beach becomes quiet. As the sun sets, the crowds fade away, leaving only the sound of the waves and a warm breeze rustling through the trees.
13. Sacré-Cœur de Balata Church
A Parisian Church in the heart of the island.
Sacré-Cœur de Balata is a smaller twin of the famous Parisian basilica, standing proudly on a hill just outside Fort-de-France. Though it shares the same Romano-Byzantine design, this version is five times smaller and much simpler in detail. Why was it built? After the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902, many people moved to Fort-de-France. To accommodate them, the church was built between 1923 and 1925, not only as a place of worship but also to honour fallen soldiers of World War I. Unlike its European twin, this version is made from reinforced concrete and local andesite, blending European style with Caribbean resilience.
The church sits on Morne Savon, offering stunning panoramic views over the city and the bay. Its white dome and cupolas contrast beautifully with the surrounding rainforest. However, time and weather have taken their toll—the church is in desperate need of renovation, with serious water damage visible.
14. Schoelcher Library (Bibliothèque Schoelcher)
Would you believe that one of the most unique things to do in Martinique is visit a library that came from Paris? The Schoelcher Library in Fort-de-France is no ordinary book collection—it’s a piece of French history that travelled across the sea. Originally built in 1889 for an exposition in Paris, the ornate domed building with intricate details was taken apart. After that, it was shipped across the Atlantic, and reassembled here, along with 10,000 books. Today, this iconic landmark holds more than 130,000 books, serving as both a historical site and a working library.
The Schoelcher Library’s unique coral and white architecture makes it stand out in Fort-de-France. Whether you love books or enjoy discovering hidden gems, this library is a must-visit for everyone visiting the island.
15. Memorial Cap 110
Located on a grassy hilltop in Le Diamant, this modern art installation is Martinique’s most powerful reminder of its past. The 15 giant stone figures stand together, forming a triangle that points towards the ocean. They are a tribute to the enslaved Africans who lost their lives in a tragic shipwreck in 1830—and to the thousands more who suffered under the slave trade.
Artist Laurent Valere created this powerful memorial in 1998, exactly 150 years after slavery ended on the island. The figures look towards the Atlantic, towards the lands they were stolen from. The site is beautiful yet heartbreaking. A visit here is not just sightseeing—it’s a moment of reflection. For anyone exploring unique things to do in Martinique, Mémorial Cap 110, is an attraction you’ll never forget.
Now you know what to do in Martinique!
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Do People Speak English in Martinique?
French is the official language and locals also speak Creole. While some people in tourist areas speak a little English, it’s not common outside hotels and attractions. However, outside of that, English is not widely spoken, so knowing a few basic French phrases can be helpful!
How to Explore Martinique Island if you’re on a cruise or short on time?
If you’re only on Martinique Island for a few hours, the best way to explore is with a private local tour guide. Taking a private tour ensures you experience the island’s best sights, history, and hidden gems while supporting the local community. A knowledgeable guide can take you beyond the tourist hotspots and share fascinating cultural insights. If you want to truly connect with the island, don’t miss this experience. During our trip, we explore the island with a local guide. Meri has deep knowledge, passion, and the ability to uncover off-the-beaten-path spots that make her tours unforgettable. Her tours go beyond the touristy places and make your short visit unforgettable.
Is Martinique Island Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! This small island has everything—a lush jungle with an active volcano and waterfalls in the north and golden beaches in the south. The mix of French culture and Caribbean beauty makes it one of the most unique places in the region.
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