Set between Dominica and St Lucia, the French Caribbean island of Martinique offers picturesque beaches, verdant rainforest and an intriguing history — as well as some top-notch rum! Particularly popular with visitors from France, Martinique boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from cosy guesthouses to blissful boutique hotels, catering to a whole spectrum of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Martinique promises Creole charm aplenty, and a real taste of the island’s leafy, laid-back style.

Martinique’s southern half is its most touristic, home to many of the island’s hotels, delicious eateries and cultural sites, as well as being fringed with beautiful beaches. Those on the Caribbean side have a reputation for being calmer and more protected than the Atlantic Ocean beaches — ideal for tranquil swims or days of sandcastle-building with the kids. The sandy stretches of Grande Anse des Salines and Pointe Marin in the Sainte-Anne area are popular for good reason!

Beaches aside, head to the island’s capital of Fort-de-France for evidence of the French-Creole architectural fusion which makes Martinique so special. Whether you’re on the hunt for some gorgeous beachwear, spices or a bottle of local rum, this is absolutely the place to go. Across the bay sits Les Trois-îlets, a historic town best-known as the birthplace of Napoleon’s first wife, Josephine. Her family’s eighteenth-century sugar plantation is now open to visitors as La Pagerie Museum, whilst the nearby La Savane des Esclaves details the history of slavery in Martinique through moving, informative exhibitions and a wonderful medicinal garden.

The north, on the other hand, is Martinique’s eco-tourism centre, enveloped in the lush rainforest which covers almost one-third of the island, and dominated by dramatic Mount Pelée. Don’t miss hiking through the verdant undergrowth, discovering cascading waterfalls and spotting all manner of flora and fauna. Close to the island’s northern tip sits Habitation Céron, an old plantation with spectacular gardens and an excellent alfresco restaurant — highly recommended for foodies or nature lovers eager to marvel at towering trees and bright tropical flowers. The coastal town of Saint-Pierre, at the foot of Mount Pelée, is also worth a stop. Destroyed within minutes when the volcano erupted in 1902, the town was previously a key cultural and trading hub. It has since been rebuilt, and the nearby bay is great for diving amidst the wrecks of fishing boats, sunk during the blast. Getting out on the water is also a brilliant way to see the island’s many wonders, whether on a day cruise or a fun, family snorkeling trip.

Back in the south, round things off at Habitation Clément, a striking rum distillery with extensive tropical gardens, as well as a contemporary art gallery. Pick up a bottle to sip at home, and retreat to one of the best places to stay in Martinique for fantastic fresh seafood and the chance to bask in the sunshine.

The Best Places to Stay in Martinique

For Couples

• French Coco has 17 chic suites, many of which feature private plunge pools. Tucked away in a traditional fishing village on the east coast, the hotel has a tranquil, intimate feel, with leafy gardens, spacious bedrooms and a lovely, laid-back cocktail and tapas lounge. Kick back with a classic rum punch amidst elegant, Creole-style decor. A romantic couples' retreat.
• Apolline is an elegant guesthouse nestled under century-old trees in a residential part of Fort-de-France. The four rooms and suites are airy and characterful, there's a gorgeous swimming pool, a funky bar and delightful 'table d'hôte' menus to choose from if you decide to dine in. Ideal for couples.

For Families or Groups

• La Pagerie is a tropical garden resort with 95 rooms and family-friendly suites in Les Trois Ilets. The large swimming pool has an all-day swim-up bar; there are fun cocktails, fabulous food and frequent live music evenings. Speak to the team about arranging everything from watersports to golf, before unwinding with a poolside massage. A welcoming pick for families or groups.
• Hotel Pelican offers five simple, stylish studios with sea-facing balconies, a shared swimming pool and direct beach access. Perfect for longer, self-catering stays as a couple, small group of friends or family. Some studios have sofa beds for additional guests.
• The Bahi Villa can be booked by the room or on an exclusive basis for up to 14 guests. Expect sea views, a private swimming pool, modern interiors and great food. The in-house yacht is a seriously special addition! Brilliant for big family or group gatherings.

For Foodies

• La Suite Villa is a striking hilltop property with 15 suites and garden villas. Chef Florent Boucher and Director Nicolas Magie cook up a storm using organic island produce at Le Zandoli, one of the best restaurants on Martinique. The lively party feel and the beautiful views from the infinity pool add to the appeal. For fun-loving, food-minded couples and groups of friends.
• Hotel Simon boasts cool, contemporary decor, panoramic ocean views and excellent meeting facilities from its base in central Fort-de-France. Michelin-starred Chef Marcel Ravin crafts Creole-influenced gourmet fare at the intimate La Table de Marcel, as well as at Le Bistrot des Flamands and Le Bolibar, a more informal lounge space. A sophisticated foodie choice.

For an apartment or villa

If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly from London or Paris directly to Martinique's Aimé Césaire International Airport. You can also fly to nearby St Lucia, and take a ferry or 10-minute plane ride to Martinique from there.
• Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup, or you can hop in a taxi to your villa. The island's small size means that journeys shouldn't take more than a couple of hours.
• Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car to explore Martinique's many attractions. Well set-up and easy to navigate, this is an excellent place to drive.
• Martinique is a wonderful year-round destination, with balmy temperatures of around 27 - 30°C. Peak season is between February and May, so travel outside those months to avoid the crowds! Do expect more rainfall from September to November.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in St Lucia.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.