Where to Stay in Martinique 🇲🇶: 6 Best Places, Hotels & Beaches Guide

Martinique is a place that feels both French and Caribbean at the same time. Colorful houses, soft sand beaches, lively local markets, and the smell of fresh pastries or spices invite you to explore something different every day. Whether you dream of swimming in warm, blue water or tasting Creole food in little family restaurants, you’ll find your own favorite corner here.

But choosing where to stay in Martinique can feel tricky. Each part of the island is unique and offers its own special feeling—some are busy and full of life, while others are quiet and peaceful. In this guide, I’ll show you the best areas for all types of travelers. No matter if you want adventure, total relaxation, or a place perfect for a family, you’ll see how to pick the right spot for your own dream holiday. Let’s explore Martinique together!

🏠 Best Hotels:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: La Suite Villa
• 🏨 4-Star: Simon Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Bambou & Spa
• 🏢 Apartment: Foyal Suites
• 💸 Cheap: Centre International de Séjour
• 👪 For Families: La Pagerie - Tropical Garden Hotel
• 🏩 For Couples: Villa Gaïa

📋 Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay:

• 🗺️ For First-Time Visitors: Fort-de-France
• ⛴️ For Car-Free Travel: Pointe du Bout & Les Trois-Ilets
• 👪 For Families or One Week: Sainte-Luce
• 🏖️ For Beach Lovers & Peaceful Villages: La Diamant
• 🌴 For Relaxation & Long Stays: Sainte-Anne
• 🌊 For Surf & Nature: Trinité & Tartane

1. Fort-de-France – Where to Stay in Martinique for First Timers

Central location. Everything radiates from the waterfront: the ferry to Pointe du Bout departs every 30 minutes, TCSP buses fan across the island for 1.50 USD, and Grand Marché scents drift into side streets. I like how newcomers sample authentic Martinique culture without renting a car or leaving the urban heartbeat.

Airport access. Aimé Césaire International sits 15 minutes away on the fast dual-carriageway. Airport taxis start at 11 USD plus 2 USD per kilometre, while the #A1 public bus costs 1.55 USD and runs 05:38–19:28. Skip winding mountain roads and step into Fort-de-France cafés before jet-lag settles in.

City beaches. Plage de la Française, ten minutes from La Savane park, delivers sunrise swims and Martinique sea view lunches. Pain au chocolat sells for 2 EUR, umbrellas rent for 6 EUR per day, and showers are free. The setting blends local families, fishing skiffs, and distant cruise-ship silhouettes.

Local flavors. I hunt dinner in narrow alleys where accras de morue cost 8 EUR and plates of lionfish or octopus stew range 15–25 EUR. Order a ti-punch for 4 EUR; bartenders expect you to squeeze your own lime. These small spots reveal Martinique food culture better than any polished resort buffet.

Must-try experiences. Keep this quick list handy:

• Ferry to Trois-Îlets, 7 USD return, 20 min
• Grand Marché spice haul, 1 USD per pouch
• Three-hour food walk with eight tastings, 73 USD
• Day bus pass covering entire bay, 5 USD
  Armed with those four moves, first timers unlock the island on local terms.

Best Hotels in Fort-de-France

Luxury Hotels

• Simon Hotel – This boutique property sits in Fort-de-France’s vibrant heart, where sophisticated rooms overlook the bustling capital of Martinique. The hotel offers modern amenities and two restaurants, making it the perfect place for travelers seeking luxury near international airport.
• B&B HOME Fort-de-France Marina – Located near the marina, this upscale property boasts spacious suites with full kitchens and spa facilities. The beachfront location provides stunning views across the bay, where guests can watch boats sail toward the caribbean sea.
• Foyal Suites – These premium serviced apartments feature one-bedroom suites with separate living areas and balconies that capture the essence of this french caribbean island.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Casa Hugo – This charming guesthouse provides comfortable rooms with authentic caribbean flavor and easy access to Fort-de-France’s main attractions. The hotel in Martinique doesn’t get more locally authentic than this budget-friendly gem near the city center.
• Apolline Hotel – A cozy mid-range option offering clean, comfortable accommodations with friendly service in a convenient location. Guests can explore the island easily from this base, whether heading to the best beaches or discovering the history of the island.

Best Hostels

• Centre International de Séjour – This youth hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms at budget-friendly rates, one of the top places for backpackers exploring this tropical island. The hostel provides an excellent base for discovering both the northern Martinique wilderness and southern part of the island’s famous beaches.
• Le Patio Foyalais – This affordable property features simple but well-maintained rooms with essential amenities, perfect for travelers who want to stay centrally without needing to hire a car. The location puts you within walking distance of local markets selling fresh island produce.

2. Pointe du Bout & Les Trois-Ilets – Where to Stay in Martinique Without a Car

Ferry connections. The Blue Lines ferry connects Pointe du Bout to Fort-de-France every 20 minutes, costing 6 USD each way. I discovered this water taxi eliminates car rental needs entirely – stepping off the boat into Martinique nightlife, local restaurants, and authentic culture feels effortless. From Les Trois-Îlets, ferries run every 5 minutes to Fort-de-France for the same 6 USD fare.

Walkable resort area. Everything clusters within 300 meters of the marina: Anse Mitan beach, shops, bars, and Creole restaurants where I’ve eaten grilled fish for 18 USD. The area around Pointe du Bout creates a perfect pedestrian bubble – no transport needed between your accommodation, beach access, and evening entertainment. Local buses connect to other parts of the island when you want day trips.

Beach and marina access. Pointe du Bout Beach sits steps from accommodations, while Anse Mitan offers 300 meters of soft sand. The marina creates a scenic boardwalk where I watch boats while sipping ti-punch for 4 USD. Water sports rentals operate directly from both beaches – no transportation required for snorkeling, kayaking, or sailing excursions.

Essential amenities within walking distance:

• Supermarket Champion for groceries, 200m from marina
• ATM and pharmacy at Place du Marché, 150m
• Tourist information center with island maps, marina level
• Bike rental shop for 15 USD daily, marina entrance

Day trip connections. From Pointe du Bout’s transport hub, you reach Martinique’s best destinations without car hire: ferry to Fort-de-France costs 6 USD, taxi to Sainte-Anne runs 117 USD, and airport transfers cost 30 USD. The Sudlib bus system connects to Diamond Beach and other southern attractions for budget-friendly exploration.

Best Hotels in Pointe du Bout & Les Trois-Îlets

Luxury Hotels

• La Pagerie - Tropical Garden Hotel – This elegant 4-star property features two restaurants and extensive spa facilities, set in lush tropical gardens just 800 feet from the beach with stunning caribbean sea views.
• La Suite Villa – A luxurious boutique retreat offering spacious suites with private pools, spa services, and two gourmet restaurants showcasing the best of French Caribbean island cuisine.
• Hôtel Bambou & Spa – This beachfront resort boasts three restaurants, extensive spa facilities, and direct beach access, perfect for guests who want to explore the island while enjoying world-class amenities.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Villa Campeche – This family-friendly property offers excellent value with spacious rooms and easy access to local attractions, making it one of the perfect places to stay for budget-conscious travelers.
• Habitation Desrosiers – A traditional plantation-style property providing comfortable accommodations with authentic caribbean flavor, perfect for guests who need to rent a car to explore the whole island.

Best Hostels

• Courbaril – This budget-friendly accommodation offers simple yet comfortable rooms in a peaceful setting, ideal for backpackers exploring the southern part of the island and its picturesque fishing village atmosphere.
• Courbaril Village – A community-style lodging option providing affordable stays with shared facilities, perfect for solo travelers seeking authentic experiences on this volcanic tropical island.
• Kaouanne – This hostel-style accommodation offers basic amenities at budget prices, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to stay near the best beaches while keeping costs low.

3. Sainte-Luce – Where to Stay in Martinique with Family or for a Week

Family-friendly beaches. Sainte-Luce offers three protected beaches where kids can splash safely in shallow Caribbean waters. I watched my six-year-old cousin build sandcastles at Plage de Gros Raisin while adults enjoyed fresh coconut water for 3 USD. The beach stretches 800 meters with natural shade from palm trees – no sunshade rental fees required. Plage Désert and Anse Corps de Garde provide calmer waters perfect for Martinique with kids exploration.

Local markets and supermarkets. Every Tuesday and Friday, Sainte-Luce market sells fresh produce, spices, and local crafts from 6 AM to 1 PM. I filled shopping bags with mangoes at 2 USD per pound and homemade hot sauce for 5 USD. The Carrefour Market stays open until 8 PM daily, stocking everything families need for Martinique long stay or extended stay Martinique arrangements. Fresh fish costs 15-18 USD per pound, while local vegetables average 1-3 USD.

Nature activities. The Montravail Forest Trail begins just 10 minutes from central Sainte-Luce, offering easy hiking for families with children over eight. Guided nature walks cost 25 USD per adult and 15 USD per child, lasting two hours through tropical plants and bird watching spots. I discovered hidden waterfalls where kids can cool off after trekking Martinique paths. The trail connects to longer hiking base Martinique routes for adventurous families.

Weekly stay practicalities. Sainte-Luce works perfectly for Martinique for a week because local amenities support daily life without tourist prices. The post office, pharmacy, and medical center sit within walking distance of most accommodations. I found apartment-style lodging with kitchen facilities reduces dining costs – fresh bread costs 1.50 USD daily, while local cheese averages 8-12 USD per wheel.

Essential weekly supplies:

• Grocery budget: 80-120 USD per family weekly
• Pharmacy basics and sunscreen: 25-35 USD
• Local SIM card with data: 20 USD for 2 weeks
• Bus pass for island exploration: 35 USD weekly

Cultural immersion opportunities. Sainte-Luce residents welcome families into authentic Martinique cultural experiences without overwhelming tourist crowds. The village church hosts evening concerts where local musicians perform traditional Caribbean music. Saturday evening fish markets let kids watch fishermen unload daily catches while parents select dinner ingredients.

Best Hotels in Sainte-Luce

Luxury Hotels

• Les Cayalines – This upscale beachfront property overlooks the Caribbean Sea with sophisticated suites featuring private terraces and direct beach access, making it the perfect place for travelers seeking luxury accommodation in Martinique.
• Buddha Bleu – A boutique retreat offering zen-inspired accommodations with stunning ocean views and spa services, where guests can enjoy the picturesque setting while exploring this French Caribbean island’s natural beauty.
• Carré Coco – This elegant property boasts spacious villas with private pools and tropical gardens, providing one of the best places to experience authentic Caribbean flavor while enjoying luxury amenities on the southern part of the island.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Tropik-Appart - Studio – A comfortable mid-range option offering well-equipped studio apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for travelers who want to stay longer and don’t need a car to explore nearby attractions.
• Ti Colibri – This bright, fully-equipped apartment provides excellent value with modern amenities and a convenient location, perfect for families seeking wide choice of accommodation options at reasonable prices.
• Brise Marine – A charming guesthouse offering comfortable rooms with authentic Caribbean atmosphere, where guests can experience the real Martinique culture while staying close to the best beaches in this volcanic island paradise.

4. La Diamant – Where to Stay in Martinique for Beach Lovers and Quiet Villages

Famous Diamond Beach. The 2-kilometer stretch of white sand and calm Caribbean waters makes La Diamant legendary among Martinique beach lovers. I spend hours watching Diamond Rock rise 175 meters from the ocean while waves lap gently at my feet. Beach chair rentals cost 8 USD daily, while fresh coconut vendors charge 3 USD per drink. The shallow waters extend 50 meters from shore – perfect for relaxed swimming without strong currents.

Quiet village atmosphere. La Diamant maintains authentic Martinique quiet village charm with just 3,200 residents and minimal tourist development. I discovered local bakeries selling fresh pain de mie for 2.50 USD and family-run grocery stores where shopkeepers know regular customers by name. The village center clusters around Place de l’Église, where locals gather for evening domino games and children play football until sunset.

Local dining scene. Three beachfront restaurants serve grilled fish caught that morning, with main dishes ranging 15-25 USD and locally-brewed beer for 4 USD. I particularly enjoyed Chez Jojo’s accras de morue appetizer for 8 USD and their catch-of-the-day special. The village market operates Thursday mornings from 7 AM to noon, where fishermen sell red snapper for 18 USD per pound and local women offer homemade pepper sauce. Evening dining happens early – most kitchens close by 9 PM.

Nature access and hiking. The Sentier de la Trace trail begins 15 minutes from La Diamant hotels, leading through tropical forest to panoramic ocean views. Guided nature walks cost 30 USD per person and last 2.5 hours, revealing endemic plants and bird species. I discovered secret viewpoints where Diamond Rock photographs perfectly without crowds. The trail connects to longer hiking base Martinique routes for serious trekkers, while families enjoy shorter coastal paths suitable for children over six.

Perfect for extended stays:

• Village pharmacy and post office within 200 meters
• Supermarket Champion for weekly grocery runs, average 75 USD
• Car rental agency for day trips, 35 USD daily
• Laundromat service, 7 USD per load
• ATM and small medical clinic for emergencies

Transport connections. Local buses connect La Diamant to Fort-de-France every 45 minutes for 3 USD, making day trips to the capital manageable without car hire Martinique expenses. Taxi services to Aimé Césaire Airport cost 45 USD and take 25 minutes via coastal roads. The village’s central location allows easy access to other quiet areas Martinique destinations like Les Anses-d’Arlet (15 minutes).

Perfect Hotels in Le Diamant

Luxury Hotels

• Villa Gaïa – This stunning Creole-style bungalow features a private jacuzzi nestled in lush tropical gardens, offering an intimate luxury experience with authentic Caribbean flavor and complete privacy for couples.
• Diamantchery - Vue mer avec Deck privatif – A sophisticated beachfront property boasting panoramic ocean views from private decks, just 1,800 feet from the beach with a private pool and the Black Diamond restaurant on-site.
• Coco Paradise – This exclusive retreat features an infinity pool with exceptional views overlooking Diamond Rock and the Caribbean Sea, perfect for guests seeking one of the best places to experience Le Diamant’s natural beauty.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Dayana Diamond – A comfortable studio apartment offering excellent value with essential amenities and easy access to the best beaches, ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay near Diamond Beach without luxury resort prices.
• Coco Soley – This charming mid-range accommodation provides a good balance of comfort and affordability in a peaceful setting, where guests can explore the island easily while enjoying authentic Martinique hospitality.
• La Perle Marine – A family-friendly property offering comfortable rooms with local character, perfectly positioned for visitors who don’t need to rent a car to reach the picturesque fishing village atmosphere and volcanic coastline of this island.

5. Sainte-Anne – Top Place to Stay in Martinique for Relaxation and Long Stays

Peaceful village atmosphere. Sainte-Anne radiates calm through cobblestone streets and traditional Caribbean architecture, where locals gather under almond trees for evening domino games. I discovered this authentic quiet village charm during my extended stay Martinique experience – no traffic noise or aggressive vendors disrupt the peaceful escape Martinique visitors seek. The village population of 4,500 people creates intimate community vibes perfect for long stay arrangements.

Exceptional beaches for relaxation. Grande Anse Beach stretches 1.2 kilometers with powdery white sand and incredibly shallow waters extending 100 meters from shore. I spent countless mornings reading under natural palm shade while gentle waves provided nature’s soundtrack. Beach chair rentals cost 6 USD daily, fresh coconut water sells for 3 USD, and local vendors offer grilled fish lunches for 12-18 USD. The southern exposure creates consistent afternoon sea breezes that naturally cool beachgoers – no artificial air conditioning needed for comfort.

Spa and wellness culture. Sainte-Anne features numerous eco-friendly spa retreats and wellness centers where Martinique relaxation reaches professional levels. I experienced traditional Caribbean massage techniques using local essential oils for 45 USD per session. Several accommodation options include private spa facilities, infinity pools, and wellness programs designed for stress reduction. The village’s natural setting among tropical gardens creates healing environments where visitors decompress from urban pressures.

Extended stay practicalities. The weekly market operates Saturdays from 6 AM to 1 PM, where I bought fresh produce, spices, and local crafts at reasonable prices. Supermarket Champion provides international groceries with prices similar to mainland France – approximately 280-350 USD monthly for basic supplies.

Essential weekly routines for long stays:

• Saturday morning market visits for fresh produce and local culture
• Sunset walks along Grande Anse Beach, free daily entertainment
• Wednesday afternoon spa treatments at local wellness centers
• Evening French language practice with friendly shopkeepers
• Weekend exploration of nearby beaches using public transport

Perfect Hotels in Sainte-Anne

Luxury Hotels

• Villa Fleur de Lys – This exclusive villa offers luxury accommodations with private pool and garden setting, providing the perfect place for discerning travelers seeking boutique elegance near Grande Anse des Salines beach.
• Résidence Les Bougainvilliers Martinique – A sophisticated residence featuring upscale apartments with modern amenities and tropical garden views, ideal for guests who want to stay in comfort while exploring this area of the Caribbean island.
• VillaCalmflor – This tranquil villa boasts stunning ocean views and private terraces where trade winds provide natural cooling, offering one of the best places to experience authentic Martinique relaxation.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• La Villa Noémie parking proche des plages – A comfortable mid-range option with convenient parking and close proximity to the beaches, perfect for families who need to rent a car to explore the southern part.
• Orcea Résidence & Spa – This residence offers excellent value with spa facilities and well-equipped apartments, providing a wide choice of accommodation options for travelers seeking comfort without luxury prices.
• Vacances Martinique – An affordable property offering practical accommodations with authentic island spirit, ideal for budget-conscious visitors who want to experience this tropical island paradise near Des Salines beach.

6. Trinité & Tartane – Where to Stay in Martinique for Surf and Nature

Atlantic coast surfing. Tartane Beach produces consistent swells year-round on Martinique’s Atlantic side, where I learned to surf with local instructors charging 45 USD for 2-hour lessons. The reef break creates waves ranging 2-6 feet, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers seeking authentic Caribbean surf culture. Surfboard rentals cost 25 USD daily from Ecole de Surf Tartane, while wetsuit rental adds 8 USD.

Wild nature access. The Presqu’île de la Caravelle Nature Reserve begins 5 minutes from Tartane village, offering 12 kilometers of hiking trails through dry tropical forest and coastal paths. I discovered endemic plants and 85 bird species during guided nature walks costing 35 USD per person for 3-hour explorations. The lighthouse trail provides panoramic Atlantic views after a 45-minute hike, while mangrove boardwalks let visitors observe local wildlife without disturbing ecosystems.

Laid-back village atmosphere. Trinité maintains authentic Martinique quiet village charm with 12,000 residents and minimal tourist development along its scenic Atlantic coastline. I discovered local fishermen selling fresh catch directly from colorful boats at the small harbor, where red snapper costs 16 USD per pound and tuna averages 14 USD. The village center features family-run restaurants serving grilled fish for 18-24 USD and locally-brewed beer for 4 USD.

Adventure base activities. Trinité serves as the departure point for serious hiking base Martinique expeditions, including Mount Pelée approaches and rainforest treks through northern wilderness areas. I arranged day tours to remote waterfalls for 55 USD per person, including transportation and local guide services. The area offers excellent opportunities for trekking Martinique trails that lead to untouched beaches and hidden swimming holes.

Essential gear and supplies for adventure stays:

• Surf gear rental shop 100m from Tartane Beach
• Nature equipment store for hiking boots and rain gear
• Local market Thursdays 7 AM-1 PM for fresh produce
• Pharmacy and medical clinic for adventure-related injuries
• ATM and small grocery stores for basic supplies

Transport and location benefits. The drive from Fort-de-France takes 45 minutes via scenic coastal roads, while taxi services charge 65 USD for airport transfers. Local buses connect to the capital twice daily for 4 USD, though schedules require flexibility for nature lovers prioritizing outdoor activities over urban convenience. I found this Atlantic coast location ideal for exploring Martinique’s wild northern regions while avoiding crowded southern beach areas.

Best Hotels in Trinité & Tartane

Luxury Hotels

• Villa Bwa Kannel – This exclusive 4-star villa offers stunning ocean views from its private terrace, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen set in beautiful tropical gardens with BBQ facilities and hiking access nearby. The property provides direct access to some of the top places to visit in northern Martinique, where guests can experience the dramatic landscape between sea and mountains.
• Habitation Merveilleuse Trinité – A luxurious plantation-style retreat that Martinique boasts as one of its finest accommodations, featuring authentic flavor with upscale amenities and panoramic views.
• Le Brin d'Amour – This romantic luxury accommodation features sophisticated suites with private terraces overlooking the Atlantic Caribbean coast, where Martinique is a paradise for couples seeking tranquility.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• La Caravelle – A comfortable studio apartment offering excellent value with essential amenities and stunning bay views, ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay near the Presqu’île de la Caravelle Nature Reserve.
• Villa Belle Lune La Trinité – This charming mid-range villa provides spacious accommodations with authentic local character, perfect for families seeking resorts and flat alternatives while exploring this volcanic tropical island.
• Heaven Peace – A peaceful retreat offering comfortable rooms with garden views and local hospitality, where guests can experience authentic culture while staying close to surf beaches and hiking trails.

FAQ

What is the most beautiful part of Martinique?

The most beautiful part of Martinique is often considered to be Les Salines Beach near Sainte-Anne—famous for its white sand, turquoise waters, and palm trees.

How long should you stay in Martinique?

You’ll get a real feel for the island with 5 to 7 days. This timeframe lets you unwind on different beaches, hike lush trails, explore rainforests, and experience the Creole food scene without rushing.

Is Martinique a good place to vacation?

Absolutely! Martinique is a perfect blend of French and Caribbean influences, with beautiful beaches, delicious food, lively markets, scenic hiking, and rich cultural traditions.

What’s the best time to visit Martinique?

The best time to visit Martinique is between mid-December and April during the dry season. Expect plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures, and calm seas—ideal for swimming and outdoor adventures.

Is it safe to swim in Martinique?

Yes, it’s safe to swim in Martinique—especially at main beaches like Les Salines, Anse Mitan, and Grande Anse d’Arlet. Always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present.