The best beaches in the North of Martinique
The North looks nothing like the postcards from the South. Here the beaches are wild, often with grey volcanic sand, lined with coconut palms and cliffs. On the Atlantic side the swell is a surfer's delight; for calm swimming, head to La Caravelle or the Caribbean coast.
Here are our favourite beaches, sorted by mood, with driving times from Villa Orchidée.
For surfing or watching the waves
Le Lorrain beach (15 min)
The closest beach to the villa. A small bay with regular waves, suited to beginner and intermediate surfers. Non-surfers come to watch the sessions from the beach.
Anse Charpentier (Sainte-Marie)
Nearly 800 m of fine sand between the river mouth and the Pain de Sucre peak. Swimming is prohibited here (strong currents and powerful waves): come for the walk, the photos and to watch experienced surfers. It is also the starting point of the coastal trail to Basse-Pointe.
For calm swimming
Anse l'Étang, Caravelle peninsula (35 min)
A bay of light sand shaded by coconut palms, protected by a rocky reef that breaks part of the swell. Lifeguards on duty during the day: swim between the flags. Perfect for a first surf lesson with one of the schools in Tartane, followed by a fish lunch in the village.
The beaches of Le Carbet, Caribbean coast (35 min)
Grey sand, calm water and fishing boats. Plage du Coin, just past the Neisson distillery, is known for its water quality and its beachfront restaurants. Combine it with a visit to Saint-Pierre.
From Villa Orchidée
Leave early for the best light and easy parking. On the Atlantic coast, always respect the flags and swimming bans. If sargassum seaweed washes up, head for the Caribbean coast instead. Back at the villa, the hot tub is waiting.
Check availability and book direct at the best rate.