Things to Do in Martinique – Top Attractions, Hidden Gems & More

Welcome to Martinique, where French sophistication meets Caribbean soul. This lush volcanic island in the Windward Islands is a sailor’s paradise — vibrant coastal villages, rainforest-covered peaks, and secluded anchorages make it one of the most rewarding Boating Vacations in the Caribbean. Whether you’re dropping anchor for a day or exploring the coast on a week-long charter, Martinique offers a perfect mix of by-sea and on-land adventures.

Explore Martinique with Neptune’s Daughter and discover why this French Caribbean gem should be at the top of your island-hopping itinerary.

Best Things to Do in Martinique

1. Sail Along the Leeward Coast

Sailing down the western coast from Fort-de-France to Les Anses-d’Arlet is one of the best things to do in Martinique for anyone on a yacht or catamaran. You’ll find calm waters, charming fishing villages, and beautiful anchorages. Stop at Anse Dufour or Anse Noire to snorkel with sea turtles, or enjoy sunset cocktails from your cockpit with views of Diamond Rock rising dramatically from the sea.

2. Visit Diamond Rock & Cap 110 Memorial

Visible from miles away, Diamond Rock is one of the island’s most striking landmarks. It’s a favorite stop on sailing itineraries, and snorkeling nearby reefs offers a glimpse of colorful marine life. Just ashore, visit Cap 110 – Anse Caffard Slave Memorial, a moving seaside monument commemorating the lives lost to the transatlantic slave trade.

3. Snorkel or Dive Josephine’s Bath and the Bat Caves

Near François Bay, the famous “Baignoire de Joséphine” (Josephine’s Bath) is a shallow sandbar between islets where sailors gather for swimming and sipping ti’ punch in waist-deep turquoise water. Continue south to the Bat Cave and coral gardens near Anse Dufour for incredible diving opportunities.

4. Explore Les Anses-d’Arlet

This postcard-perfect village is one of the top things to do in Martinique island for cruisers. Moor right off the beach, swim ashore for lunch at a seaside café, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. The colorful church of Saint-Henry framed against the bay is one of Martinique’s most photographed views.

5. Relax at Les Salines Beach

Even sailors need a beach day! Anchor near Sainte-Anne and take your dinghy ashore to Plage des Salines, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Powder-white sand, palm shade, and calm swimming waters make it one of the fun things to do in Martinique after a few days at sea.

6. Discover Habitation Clément

Sail or drive inland to Habitation Clément, a historic rum estate in Le François. Tour its distillery, sculpture-filled gardens, and art gallery. Sampling AOC-certified Rhum Agricole straight from the source is a cultural must-do.

7. Hike Mount Pelée

For adventurous sailors craving a land excursion, a guided hike up Mount Pelée offers dramatic views of the island and surrounding Caribbean Sea. It’s one of the top things to do in Martinique for nature lovers, showcasing the island’s volcanic legacy and biodiversity.

8. Wander Through Saint-Pierre’s Ruins

Once the “Paris of the Caribbean,” Saint-Pierre was destroyed by the 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée. Today, its haunting ruins, museums, and cobblestone streets tell the story of resilience. You can anchor nearby and tender ashore to explore the town’s history.

9. Visit Jardin de Balata

A short trip inland from Fort-de-France, Jardin de Balata is a botanical wonderland of over 3,000 tropical plant species. Walk its canopy bridges and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains — a serene contrast to the island’s bustling ports.

10. Experience La Savane des Esclaves

Located near Les Trois-Îlets, this open-air museum recreates a traditional Creole village and shares the story of enslaved peoples and early Martinican life. It’s an enriching cultural stop that deepens your connection to the island beyond its beaches.

11. Indulge in Creole Cuisine

End your day with local flavors — crispy accras (salt-cod fritters), spicy colombo curry, or fresh grilled lobster paired with a ti’ punch. Many coastal restaurants welcome sailors right off the dinghy dock, making this one of the most rewarding things to do in Martinique after sunset.

Practical Travel Tips for Martinique

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from December to May offers ideal sailing and sightseeing conditions — calm seas, clear skies, and warm trade winds.

• Getting Around: If you’re exploring inland, renting a car is easiest. Roads are well-maintained but hilly. Many sailors prefer combining car exploration with anchoring in key bays.

• Language: French is the official language. English is understood in marinas and tourist areas, but a few French phrases go a long way.

• Currency: Martinique uses the Euro (€), reflecting its status as an overseas department of France. Most restaurants and marinas accept major credit cards.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring coral gardens from your yacht, tasting world-class rum, or hiking volcanic peaks, Martinique offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture. For sailors, it’s more than just another stop — it’s a destination that invites you to linger, savor, and discover.

Plan your next Boating Vacation with Neptune’s Daughter and explore Martinique the way it’s meant to be experienced — from the water up.

FAQs

What is Martinique best known for?

Martinique is known for its blend of French and Creole culture, world-class rum, volcanic landscapes, and sailing-friendly coastline dotted with charming anchorages.

Is Martinique worth visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Martinique combines European elegance with Caribbean warmth, making it one of the best sailing destinations in the region.

Why is Martinique so expensive?

As a French territory, Martinique uses the Euro and imports many goods from France, which increases prices slightly compared to neighboring islands.

How many days to explore Martinique?

For sailors, a week offers a good rhythm — a few days on the water, plus time for inland excursions like Mount Pelée and Habitation Clément.

Is Martinique safe to walk around?

Yes. Martinique is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Exercise standard precautions and enjoy its friendly communities.

What is the most popular food in Martinique?

Creole dishes like accras, colombo, and grilled fish are staples, often served with plantains and local rum.