This post is sponsored by the Martinique Tourism Authority
Ah, spring is here and summer is right around the corner! If you’re like me, when the weather warms up the beach starts calling your name. But also, if you’re like me, you have no desire to sit on a crowded, rowdy beach. Before you pack up the kids and head to the coast, let me offer another suggestion: board a plane and put your toes in the white sands of Martinique.
Now I know what you’re thinking, Caribbean islands are reserved for honeymoons and cruises without the kids. But Martinique is a Caribbean island that has something to offer for the whole family. From crystal clear waters to luscious rainforests to vibrant cities that reflect its French heritage, Martinique is the perfect break from your go-to beach destination.
Picturesque Beaches
Whether you would rather relax in the sand or enjoy hanging out in the sea, Martinique’s beaches don’t disappoint. From white sands and shallow waters to black sand beaches and perfect surfing spots, you’re sure to find a beach suited to your family.
Les Salines beach is one of Martinique’s most popular beaches. Miles of beach lined with coconut trees make Les Salines a picturesque slice of paradise. Les Salines is great for spending the day in the shade and letting the kids play in the sand. Attracting tourist and locals alike, this beach is well stocked with local restaurants and vendors.
If Les Salines is a little too crowded for your style, just follow the coastline down to Grande Terre des Salines, which has the same postcard scenery as Les Salines but with more seclusion. The only downside of Grande Terre des Salines are its rougher seas less suitable for swimming.
For families with kiddos who love the water, Grand Anse beach is the perfect spot. Calm seas make swimming in the turquoise waters safe for all ages but expect to find many vacationers here.
Looking for solitude? Head to Diamant beach. It’s rarely crowded, and often deserted due to rough water. So if your family isn’t interested in swimming, it’s a great place to walk, picnic, or just enjoy the beach.
Adventures for the Whole Family
You could spend your entire time in Martinique experiencing all of the different beaches, but no trip would be complete without finding time to explore.
Mount Pelée offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island. Start by visiting the Regional Volcano House in Le Morne-Rouge to learn about the Mount Pelée’s history and its impact on the island. Then hike one of the many paths up the volcano to see exceptional views of the sea and Martinique. Don’t worry, though it is an active volcano it is closely monitored for activity. Even if your family can’t trek all the way up, it’s still a fantastic opportunity for your kids to learn about the geology of volcanoes. Plus what kid wouldn’t love to tell their friends that they’ve climbed a real volcano?
Back on the coast, the Caravelle peninsula is another great hiking location. With everything from banana plantations, prairies, and mangroves to lighthouses, coves, and coastal cliffs, Caravelle peninsula rounds up the breadth of Martinique’s landscape all in one place.
Chateau Dubuc is also located on the peninsula. Besides being a historical site that tells of the rich history of Martinique, these ruins of a 17th-century sugar plantation hold secrets of a wealthy family and tales of pirates in Treasure bay. Seriously, this is better than any cartoon your kids are watching, so take a few hours to explore the ruins and the museum that tells its history.
If your family is looking to get adventurous out at sea, you’ll find the whole line-up of water sport activities in Martinique. The crystal clear waters allow snorkelers and divers to experience the beauty of Martinique under the sea, including hundreds of aquatic wildlife species. There are even diving opportunities for children.
Want to see what’s under the water without getting in it? Take a glass-bottom boat tour! If you’ve got small children or kids who aren’t strong swimmers, this is a great way to see the Caribbean’s aquatic life.
For the more adventurous, there’s always kitesurfing, kayaking, tubing, and pretty much any other water sport you can think of.
You can find a list of the island’s sea-based activities here.
All of this sounds amazing, I’m sure. Beaches in paradise and adventures your whole family would love are anyone’s dream as they’re planning their family vacation.
So what’s stopping you from taking your island getaway in Martinique? If you said travel costs you’d be wrong. Norwegian Air currently offers flights to Martinique for less than $100, which makes it affordable to take your entire family. Heck, it’d cost you at least twice as much to fly most places in the U.S.
Warmer weather has arrived, and it’s time to trade in the winter coats for flip flops in the sand. Starting planning your Martinique family vacation today, and don’t hesitate to to win round-trip flights for two to Martinique – you’re that much closer to the perfect island getaway!