I’m going back to Martinique!
For those of you who don’t know, I taught English in Martinique for 14 months over two years. It was a time filled with challenges (relationship and work-related), learning, growth, fun, and a place where I was probably my healthiest (read: I had a bangin’ bod and a fabulous tan). I’ll be headed back to this place in February on my birthday, thanks to an extremely cheap flight ($179 return — hello!!) and I’m more excited than you can imagine.
For nine days I hope to spend some time surfing, visiting friends, and just reliving some of my fondest memories on a beach holiday during reading week from my master’s (maybe I have some conservative leanings after all?). If you’ve heard anything about Martinique, it probably had something to do with its beaches. I’ve written before that I prefer rivers, but there certainly is a fair share of lovely beaches in Martinique – and they aren’t called Les Salines.
Pointe Faula, Le Vauclin
Pointe Faula is on the south Atlantic coast of Martinique. Despite being popular among kite- and wind-surfers, there is a calm, shallow area perfect for children and folks who don’t know how to swim. It still has the quintessential palm tree-lined beach, but with an exciting view.
Anse Grosse Roche, Le Marin
Anse Grosse Roche is famous for the rock formation at the end of the beach with a little heart in it. The place isn’t easy to get to – it’s about a 20-minute walk from Grand Macabou (which is also an off-road drive) – but you’ll feel like you’ve gotten away from it all among the huge coconut trees and turquoise water.
La Baie du Trésors, La Trinité
It took a few trips on the Caravelle hike to finally find this place – and I’ll tell you it’s worth it! It’s on the Atlantic coast of Martinique but benefits from being tucked away in a cove, so it’s unusually calm. The sea glitters when the sun hits it, and the sand is grey and surrounded by mangroves. It comes near the end of a two- to three-hour hike, which makes it an excellent reward.
Anse Noire & Anse Dufour, Les Anses-d’Arlet
As a result of a volcanic eruption in the early 20th century, Martinique has black sand beaches that are characteristic of the north of the island. The reason I chose these two locations is because you have adjacent white sand and black sand beaches – which I’m certain is a rare occurrence.
Anse Céron, Le Precheur
If you like black sand beaches, this is the one for you. The secluded beach is at the edge of the island’s tropical jungle, so getting out here feels rewarding after a few kilometres of hiking. Since it’s a bit more off the tourist trail, you’ll find this place is wild and romantic and a far more pleasant place to spend a day.
A note of safety: Be careful when swimming in the north of the island – huge riptides and currents that can suck you out to Dominica if you’re not careful. Also, pack a pair of flip flops because black sand gets extremely hot in the Caribbean sun.
Photos courtesy of Rael Moine, Bagolina, Gael Chardon, nora_a, jessieflash2vie via Flickr — CC-licensed at time of publication.
Hello Alyssa,
My wife & I are visiting Martinique for two week in July. We love quiet secluded beaches and it sounds as though there are a few there. My question is if these secluded beaches safe? We travel to the islands every 2 years and have been to some wonderful secluded beaches.Unfortunately we were robbed while on a secluded beach area several years ago on Turks & Caicos, so we are a little cautious now.
Thanks for you input,
Steve
Hi Steve,
That’s terrible, I’m sorry that happened! Yes there are some nice secluded beaches, and I’ve never felt unsafe…but standard safety rules apply no matter where you’re travelling to. Have fun!
Hi Alyssa
Me & a group of ladies are planning to visit Martinique for 3/4 days part of my 40th b’day island hopping trip!!
What would you suggest we do, go, stay, etc
Hello, my wife ,kids, and 6 other people are headed to Martinique in February. It sounds like you have a ton of info about the island! I would love to talk with you if possible as I have a list of things that I have questions on. If possible could you call like me or I call you? Thank you so much for your time.
Steve
Hi Steve,
Absolutely! Shoot me an email through my contact page: alyssawrites.com/contact and we can arrange a Skype chat.
Hi Alyssa! I just got back from a trip to Martinique! I loved it so much, and have been studying French for a while. I spent my last semester in Dakar to learn more French as well. I’m a graduating senior majoring in English… I’m wondering how you found an English teaching position in Martinique?
Hi Haley! I went through TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France). Glad you enjoyed it, I’m headed back (again) in a couple weeks!
I’m in Martinique with my boyfriend for the winter holiday. I’m a traveling English teacher, too! So happy to have found your blog!
That’s fab, I hope you’re enjoying yourselves. I’ll be there soon – can’t wait!
Great article. I’m going to Martinique for 2 months in Nov/Dec. I’m staying in Le Precheur, which is pretty darn isolated the more I read about it. I read your article on renting a car long-term. Do you have any recommendations re: this? Thanks…and I love what you’re doing. I’m kind of embarking on my own adventures, though I’m definitely older and the body isn’t nearly as bangin’ as it used to be.
Thanks, Dory! I only have personal contacts regarding the car – you’re best asking around when you arrive. Someone always knows someone! Haha, you’ll have a blast – just live it up!
I am from Trinité and I love your article. Just wanted to comment on the fact that you can actually hike down to La baie du trésor in 35-40 minutes from Château Dubuc. You should try!
Thanks, Audrey! I know it’s possible but no one could really explain it to me easily 🙁 Maybe I will try when I’m there in February – so excited!
These are all gorgeous! And they don’t look crowded at all. Lately it seems like all beaches are getting crowded.
Well, everyone wants a good tan in a convenient way! Definitely, if you’re willing to go a little further afield, you’ll find some fab, uncrowded beaches.