Activities in Martinique

The people of Martinique have just as much joie de vivre as their French brethren, so finding fun activities on the island is easy.

Water Sports

The lucid, turquoise colored waters off the cost of Martinique have the ability to draw even the most staunch land-lubber to the shore. Most tourists spend their time lounging in the sand, letting the water lap at their toes, or dive in for a quick swim, but if you are someone who wants to dive a little deeper, there are plenty of options available.

Diving and snorkeling are two of the most popular water sports in Martinique.  Snorkeling can be done at any beach, though Pointe du Bout, Anse Mitan, Anses d'Arlet, and Ste-Anne are top spots.  Meanwhile, there are about 20 dive operators in Martinique, and numerous sites.  Most notably, the dozens of ships off the Western coast that sank during the Mt. Pele eruption in 1902.

Anglers won't want to miss the deep sea fishing opportunities that exist in Martinique.  A day of fishing will cost around $215(USD) per person, which will include time on the boat, bait, tackle, drinks, and sometimes a snack or a meal.  If you want to get out on a boat, but don't fancy fishing, you can hop on a day sailing tour, or rent your own Hobie Cat for a few hours of sailing fun.

Other water sports that you may want to consider include kayaking, windsurfing, and waterskiing.

Sports

Physical activity is made more fun when done with the beautiful scenery of Martinique as your backdrop.  With 31 designated trails, Martinique is a great place for hiking, and horseback riding can make for a fun activity as well. 

If you just can't bare to be without your clubs during the duration of your Martinique stay,  the 18-hole Empress Josephine Golf Course at the Martinique Golf and Country Club is your only option on the island.  Tennis players have much more luck – there are numerous resorts that offer tennis courts in Martinique and 40 tennis clubs. 

Events and Festivals

Whether your interests are musical, nautical, culinary, or cultural, there's a festival or event for it on Martinique. And you don't have to sit on the sidelines – runners, yachters, and sailors can enter several international competitions which the island hosts. If parades and street parties are more your style, you'll love Vaval, Martinique's Carnival.

Shopping

Vacationers can score some excellent deals on high end items in Martinique if they know where to look.  Many luxury stores offer discounts of up to 20 percent when you pay with traveler's cheques and credit cards, and items such as perfume, jewelry, and designer clothing is already deeply discounted.

If you want to go home with a unique island craft in hand, be on the lookout for local art galleries, handmade dolls, and jewelry made from regional shells.

Nightlife

Nightclubs are plentiful in Martinique, but tend to be expensive.  Options range from sports bars to piano bars, night clubs to casinos.  Fort-de-France in particular has about a dozen nightclubs, and some very good family-friendly nightlife (such as theaters and ballet) exists in the city as well. Click here to read more about Martinique's nightlife.

And there is more to explore.  As you traverse the island, you will most likely come across many other activities that you'd like to participate in.  Keep an open mind and a flexible schedule, and you are sure to make the most of your Martinique vacation.