Rolling surf, crackling sunshine and unspoiled nature. There’s a lot to love about Martinique.
Martinique is home to some god damn DAZZLING beaches in the Caribbean. From magical stretches of white sand to the contrasting volcanic black sand – Martinique has both the ying and the yang when it comes to it’s beaches.
Not only does Martinique boast incredible beaches but it is also well known for producing world class rum. They use a unique process to create their liquid gold that I encourage you to dive into during your stay.
Martinique is a French overseas region, but it has a culture, history and vibrancy of its own, which is what makes it such a unique place to visit. Silky white beaches, fascinating museums and amazing views across the Atlantic are what you’ll find as you discover this amazing island.
With so much on offer, it can be quite overwhelming when trying to decide where to stay in Martinique. But don’t worry about a thing! I’m here to help.
I’ve compiled the top areas to stay in Martinique depending on your travel style and budget. Whether you’re after a slice of luxury or a budget bed in a hostel – I’ve got you covered.
Without further ado, let’s get into the good stuff and find where is best for you in Martinique.
- Where to Stay in Martinique
- Martinique Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Martinique
- Martinique’s Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay In
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Martinique
- What To Pack For Martinique
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Martinique
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Martinique, France
Looking for a specific stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Martinique …
Grand apartment equipe ec terasse sur ‘leau | Best Airbnb in Martinique
Located near Sainte Marie is this delightful apartment which boasts some of the best views you’ll find on the island. Having the privacy of your own space means you can enjoy peace and quiet, with the freedom of cooking for yourself in the fully equipped kitchen. Laze in the hammocks on your very own balcony right on the seafront, and watch the sun go down on the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean.
Martinique Hostel | Best Hostel in Martinique
This hostel is located in the area of Sainte Luce, which is our recommendation for the best place to stay in Martinique for nightlife. Featuring an outdoor pool, this hostel is just a three-minute walk away from a beautiful beach where you can enjoy some amazing views across the ocean. Breakfast is included and there’s no curfew, so you can enjoy the nightlife of this neighborhood without any constraints!
Diamant les Bains Residence Hoteliere | Best Hotel in Martinique
Just steps away from the beautiful Diamond Beach is this charming hotel which has so many brilliant features. Take a dip in the outdoor pools or read a book on one of the sun loungers.
Enjoy some delicious local food at the onsite restaurant and sit out at night on the terrace enjoying your beachfront views.
Fort-de-France
As the capital of the country, Fort-de-France has so much to offer as the bustling centre of the island. Whether it’s food tours, dolphin watching or exploring some local art, there are tonnes for you to do here to really soak up the local culture.
Sainte Anne
Martinique doesn’t have to be just for people who want to splash the cash. If you’re travelling with a more limited budget then you can still have an incredible time, with reasonably priced accommodation and free activities!
Sainte Luce
If you’re coming to Martinique for a bit of a party, then we have some great activities for you here. Not only are there fabulous restaurants and bars in Sainte Luce around every corner, but there are also some amazing things for you to try out with your friends.
Tartane
Fascinating historical sites and amazing geological features characterize this slightly less touristy part of Martinique. On the Atlantic side of the island, it has panoramic views of the oceans from some of its highest peaks which you can climb.
Les Anses d’Arlet
Trying to organize a family holiday that will suit everyone can often be an uphill struggle, but don’t worry, we’ve done all the hard work for you.
Located in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies in the Caribbean is this jewel of an island country. Martinique is an overseas region of France but has an eclectic and fascinating culture and history of its own. Although the majority of the population speak French and they use the Euro as their currency, you won’t have the weather of Europe! You can enjoy the blazing sunshine of the Caribbean and the breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean all on your doorstep.
With an almost thousand-year history, this small island has experienced some significant changes over the years. First inhabited by the Carib people, it was later colonised by the French and therefore has a harsh history of the slave trade and plantations. You can learn all about this terrible era of history at one of the many museums across the island and see the remains of what was once part of one of the greatest empires in the world.
Martinique boasts incredible beaches with a plethora of marine wildlife just below the surface for you to explore. The best way to do this is by getting on the sea itself, which you can do to a vast extent in Les Anses d’Arlet. This is the neighborhood we recommend for you to stay with your family because there are so many different adventures for you to embark on. Whether it’s lazing on a beach or taking on the surrounding mountains, you’ll be able to keep all generations of the family happy.
The coolest place to stay in Martinique is Tartane – a rocky outcrop on the western side of the island, facing the tumultuous Atlantic. There are ancient ruins here to explore, amazing hiking trails to embark on and some locally run museums for you to visit. A unique landscape on this island, you’ll be spoilt for choice for what to do.
Another area where you’ll find some amazing outdoor spaces is Sainte Anne. This is the area we recommend for where to stay in Martinique if you’re travelling on a budget because there are so many outdoor activities you can try out free of charge! Travel along the coast to find a plethora of beaches to explore and there is also a network of hiking trails and forest lands for you to explore.
Martinique isn’t just a great place to stay for great day time activities. It also boasts some fantastic restaurants serving up brilliant local cuisine, as well as some amazing bars and nightclubs where you can dance the night away. The best place for this experience is Sainte Luce. Not only does this neighborhood have an incredible nightlife, but it also has access to some great activities for you to do with your friends beforehand, like water skiing or jet skiing!
The best neighborhood, however, for you to visit if you’re coming to Martinique for the first time is the capital of this brilliant island country, Fort-de-France. Here, you can truly understand the amazing culture you’re now surrounded by, with food tours, museums, street art tours and local walks. You’ll be at the bustling, beating heart of the country, have the chance to get to know the local people and their eclectic history.
Getting to Martinique isn’t something to stress about either. If you’re coming from around the world, you can fly into Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport, or if you’re coming from neighboring islands, you can jump on the ferry into Fort-de-France. Once you’re here, you’ll be able to get around easily on extensive and well-maintained roads, as well as buses which run between the major towns on the island.
Martinique’s Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay In
With so much history, culture and scenery to enjoy, Curacao is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean!
#1 Fort-de-France – Best Place to Stay in Martinique for Your First Time
As the capital of the country, Fort-de-France has so much to offer as the bustling centre of the island. Whether it’s food tours, dolphin watching or exploring some local art, there are tonnes for you to do here to really soak up the local culture.
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Being a coastal city, you’ll still have access to beautiful beaches and the stunning ocean, but you’ll also have the option to delve into the urban lifestyle of this remote island.
Centre International De Sejour Hostel | Best Hostel in Fort-de-France
This simple yet charming hostel will give you the chance to enjoy being in the centre of the capital of Martinique without having to empty your pockets! There are a range of rooms available and a complimentary breakfast will set you up before a day of exploring.
The 24-hour front desk means you can come and go as you please and the whole place is air-conditioned to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
Simon Hotel | Best Hotel in Fort-de-France
With oceanfront views available, this stylish and modern hotel will offer you a cool and calm place to rest after your day of exploring – and what a place to relax in! Head up to the rooftop terrace where you can lay back on the sun loungers and enjoy views across the bay, and enjoy a meal in the restaurant which enjoys panoramic views of the sea!
Escapade sur l’eau dormait a la belle toile | Best Airbnb in Fort-de-France
This Airbnb is something a little different. If you want to be rocked to sleep by the gentle ebb and flow of the ocean, then this is the perfect stay for you – it’s a boat! It sleeps 4 people comfortably and even has access to electricity and a huge TV! Enjoy breakfast on the water and easy access to the centre of town via the marina.
Things to See and Do in Fort-de-France:
- Discover some of the fascinating residents of the sea with a day of dolphin and sea turtle watching.
- Balata’s Garden is a breath-taking Eden of some of Martinique’s most incredible flora and fauna, located in the heart of the city!
- Fancy trying out a bit of local cuisine? Then head on one of Karambole Tour’s food tours! It will take you along the coast north, with a different dish at every stop. It’s the only tour of its kind on the whole island!
- If you’re into your art, but want to try something a little different, then why not head on a Street Art Tour? La Savana is the largest park in Fort-de-France and features some incredible street art murals, which your tour guides will be happy to show you!
- A green space with a difference is Trenelle Citron. It’s a shared urban garden which can teach you all about the local plant life right next to some of the city’s most built-up areas!
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Sainte Anne – Best Place to Stay in Martinique on a Budget
Martinique doesn’t have to be just for people who want to splash the cash. If you’re travelling with a more limited budget then you can still have an incredible time, with reasonably priced accommodation and free activities!
This southern part of the island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, all of which are free-of-charge to visit and enjoy. Hikes, boardwalks and waterparks will characterise your stay here, as you can immerse yourself in some of the most remote areas of Martinique!
Studio clim, jardin tropical, mer a 5 min | Best Airbnb in Sainte Anne
As you may have guessed from the name of this property, this is a relaxing apartment with a tropical garden, and the beach is just a 5-minute walk away! The interior is simple yet functional, and as it’s part of a resort, you’ll have access to an onsite bar and restaurant too, if you fancy treating yourself to a drink or two. There’s even a swimming pool on-site too if you feel like the walk to the beach is simply too much!
La Dunette Hotel & Restaurant | Best Luxury Hotel in Sainte Anne
If you’re looking for beachfront perfection at a perfectly reasonable price, then look no further. This hotel has so much to offer, you simply won’t want to leave. Enjoy a dip in the sea or just relax on the waterside on the hotels very own pontoon with a bar! There’s also a private beach for guests to enjoy and the restaurant and bar, a cool and calm place by day, turns into a fun and vibrant space by night!
Hotel Cap Macabou | Best Hotel in Sainte Anne
This rustic hotel exudes true Caribbean style, with wooden buildings and authentic furnishings. Enjoy a cocktail beside the outdoor pool or take the ten-minute walk down to the nearest cove and brave the Atlantic! Almost all of the rooms have lovely views of the gardens and you can enjoy a taste of the local cuisine in the onsite restaurant.
Things to See and Do in Sainte Anne:
- La Pointe Marin is just one of many beaches to choose from in Sainte Anne, but what sets it aside is that there is also a Beach Museum here for you to escape the sun if it’s getting a bit hot!
- If you’re into hiking, then why not take on Piton de Creve Coeur. You’ll get breath-taking panoramic views across the island once you reach the top.
- If a mountain is a little ambitious for you, why not settle for a boardwalk? Etang des Salines is a lovely path over the water, and right next to Salines Beach if you fancy a swim after.
- Maya Beach Club is a floating fun park and will give you the chance to be a kid for the day! Jump around on trampolines and inflatables on the (hopefully) calm Caribbean Sea.
- Take a boat taxi out to Ilet Chevalier and walk around this secluded island’s empty beaches and small forests.
- Other beaches in Sainte Anne include Anse Trabaud and Anse Meunier, so if you just want a day of relaxing under a palm tree, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
#3 Sainte Luce – Best Place to Stay In Martinique for Nightlife
If you’re coming to Martinique for a bit of a party, then we have some great activities for you here. Not only are there fabulous restaurants and bars in Sainte Luce around every corner, but there are also some amazing things for you to try out with your friends.
Adventurous sports, fascinating walks or relaxing on the beach are just some of the options you’ll have for your daytime excursions, and by night, you’ll be able to get some great food and dance the night away.
KAWAIDA – Hebergement insolite – Glamping | Best Airbnb in Sainte Luce
If you’ve never tried glamping, let this be a first for you. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, you’ll find these tranquil and quirky glamping pods, with a cosy bedroom, outdoor kitchen and even a hot tub on your private terrace!
Karibea Sainte Luce Hotel | Best Hotel in Sainte Luce
This hotel offers a range of spaces for you to enjoy, whether you simply want a room for yourself or an apartment to enjoy with your friends. To recover from your hangover, head down to the spa to have a day of pampering or take a dip in the pool. You’ll also be just a short walk from the beach if you want to watch the sunset (or rise!) over the Atlantic.
Eden Paradise Spa Ecolodge | Best Luxury Hotel in Sainte Luce
For something a little bit different, why not try staying in an Ecolodge? As you may have guessed, this is an environmentally conscious choice where you’ll be close to nature and just a two-minute drive from a local rum distillery! There is a hot tub, indoor pool and outdoor pool for you to enjoy!
Things to See and Do in Sainte Luce:
- Fight off the hangover by relaxing on Anse Mabouya. One of the quieter beaches in the area, you’ll be sure to be able to relax peacefully here.
- If you’re not feeling quite up to full-on hike then why not try a slightly less challenging stroll through the Foret departmentale-domanialede Montravail? A fascinating forest environment with sculptures and visitor centres!
- Take on the river with Tropicanyon – you can abseil, hike or go gorge walking!
- Try your hand at Water Skiing with Jet Al’O on the coast at Trois-Rivieres! The best way to see the beauty of the coast is from the sea itself.
- Sainte Luce boasts some brilliant restaurants and bars, but our favourites are ChaletVillage, COSMOPOLITE and the Zanzibar Restaurant.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Tartane – Coolest Place to Stay in Martinique
Fascinating historical sites and amazing geological features characterize this slightly less touristy part of Martinique. On the Atlantic side of the island, it has panoramic views of the oceans from some of its highest peaks which you can climb.
But if you’d rather stay at sea level, there is an abundance of beaches to relax on and museums to explore.
Studio Tartane | Best Airbnb in Tartane
If you want the luxury of having your own space, then we have found the perfect place for you! Enjoy a homemade meal on your balcony and sit back and relax next to your own outdoor pool. Just 150m from the beach, you’ll be able to stroll through the surf every evening if you want to!
Hotel Residence Oceane | Best Hotel in Tartane
Just steps away from the beach is this lovely hotel with balconies overlooking the breath-taking views. There’s an outdoor pool for you to enjoy for a morning swim before heading out on an exploration of your surroundings. Unique about this hotel is that you can have your own private space in studios rather than rooms!
Hotel Le Manguier | Best Luxury Hotel in Tartane
Enjoy breakfast on the balcony looking over the Atlantic Sea in this luxurious hotel. Just a six-minute walk from the beach, you can either head to the seaside or enjoy your own outdoor pool onsite.
Things to See and Do in Tartane:
- If you’re a bit of a history nut, then head to Chateau Dubuc. You can explore these 17th-century castle ruins and learn all about them at the adjoining museum.
- Hike along some of the most beautiful trails on the island, with amazing views across the Atlantic Ocean at Presqu’ile de la Caravelle.
- Relax on the beach or stroll along the promenade at Plage de La Breche, or head a little further down the coast so the silky white sands of the Plage des Raisiniers.
- Head up the coast to the Musee de la banane, which is on the site of an old banane plantation. Learn all about the history of the site and stroll around its lovely gardens.
- Wait for low tide to walk along the Tombolo de Sainte Marie, where you can make it to the let Sainte Marie!
#5 Les Anses d’Arlet – Best Place to Stay in Martinique For Families
Trying to organize a family holiday that will suit everyone can often be an uphill struggle, but don’t worry, we’ve done all the hard work for you. Whether you’re a family of adventurers or just fancy a week away in the sun, there are a whole host of activities and places to visit to meet all your needs.
Martinique isn’t just famous for its beaches, it’s also home to some incredible wildlife and important social history, all of which Les Anses d’Arlet can offer you!
La tit kay des anses | Best Airbnb in Les Anses d’Arlet
This is a beautiful seaside shack with a private pool and relaxed outdoor space for you to immerse yourself in a book or have a late-night drink under the stars. The host has lots of hiking recommendations for you to take the kids on an adventure, but the beach is a short walk away if you’d prefer a swim in the ocean!
Hotel Bakoua Les Trois Ilets | Best Hotel in Les Anses d’Arlet
Just a four-minute walk from a private beach is this hotel, which is the perfect place to bring the kids for an inexpensive break. There’s a large pool for the kids to have fun in while you sit back and relax on the sun loungers. There are also tennis courts for you to enjoy a family game or a pool table for the evening!
Hotel Bambou | Best Luxury Hotel in Les Anses d’Arlet
Overlooking the sea yet again is this delightful hotel which boasts some of the most brilliant views in Les Anses d’Arlet! This hotel is also known for its brilliant restaurant serving up some of the best local cuisines in the neighborhood. There’s an airport shuttle so you can get here really easily and you’ll be set up for all your adventures with the complimentary breakfast!
Things to See and Do in Les Anses d’Arlet:
- Something for all the family is a diving and snorkelling trip from a catamaran! You can do whatever you feel comfortable with, even if it’s just sitting on the boat enjoying the ride.
- Find out all about Martinique’s economic history with a visit to the South Imperial Plantation and Sugar Cane Museum.
- If you’re a family of thrill-seekers, why not enjoy a sit down on a sofa, with a difference! You’ll be pulled along by a speed boat off the coast of Les Anses d’Arlet in an inflatable sofa!
- Relax on the dusty grey sands of Plage de Gros Raisin where you can bathe in the clear waters or in the beating sunshine!
- Head off on a family walk in the gorgeous hiking area of Sentier Sous-Marin.
- Learn about local slave trade history and those who controlled it at La Savane des enclaves and La Pagerie.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Martinique
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Martinique and where to stay.
What To Pack For Martinique
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Martinique
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Martinique, France
Stunning scenery, eclectic culture and fascinating activities – Martinique has so much to offer to travellers of all types! It comes as no surprise that Martinique is the perfect place to visit for all ages!
To recap: Fort-de-France is the best place to stay in Martinique for your first time. As the capital of this island, you’ll be at the beating heart of all that goes on here – the perfect balance of an urban lifestyle with access to some incredible beaches.
To recap: Martinique’s most luxurious hotel is Diamant les Bains Residence Hoteliere. Vibrant, exciting and top of the range!
If you are travelling on a budget, then the best place to stay in Martinique is Martinique Hostel. Comfort and convenience for a super low price!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below! Otherwise, enjoy your travels!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around France.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in France instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for France.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
