Plage des Salines

Plage des Salines is arguably the most famous and photographed beach in Martinique, located at the extreme south of the island near Sainte-Anne. This stunning Caribbean paradise stretches for over a kilometer, offering a perfect crescent of powdery white sand gracefully lined with iconic, leaning coconut palms. It is the quintessential tropical postcard destination, drawing both locals and international visitors who seek the ultimate Caribbean beach experience.

The scenery here is breathtaking, characterized by the striking contrast between the bright, fine sand, the lush green vegetation, and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The beach is protected from the strong Atlantic currents, resulting in calm and inviting waters that are ideal for swimming and wading. Behind the tree line, the Étang des Salines, a large salt pond, provides a unique ecological environment that is home to various bird species.

Beyond its natural beauty, Plage des Salines has a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. On weekends, it comes alive with families enjoying picnics, while the colorful local food stalls, known as 'lolos', fill the air with the tantalizing aroma of Creole spices and grilled seafood. Whether you are looking for a tranquil morning swim, a scenic walk along the coast towards the Savane des Pétrifications, or a taste of authentic Martinican beach culture, this pristine coastal stretch delivers an unforgettable tropical escape.

Practical info

Beach typesandy

WaterThe water is crystal clear, turquoise, and generally very calm with a gentle slope into the sea. It is exceptionally warm, typical of the Caribbean Sea, making it perfect for long swims.

Getting thereEasily accessible by car via the D9 road heading south from the town of Sainte-Anne. The road is well-paved and leads directly to the parking areas behind the beach.

ParkingThere are large, unpaved parking areas under the trees right behind the beach, which are generally free but fill up very quickly on weekends.

EntranceAccess to the beach is completely free of charge.

LifeguardA lifeguard station is present and manned typically during the high tourist season and on weekends.

ShadeAbundant natural shade is provided by the beautiful coconut palms and sea grape trees lining the back of the beach.

Best timeEarly mornings on weekdays are best to enjoy the serenity, as it gets very busy on weekends with locals.

NearbyThe picturesque village of Sainte-Anne is just a short drive away. You can also hike the nearby 'Trace des Caps' coastal trail or explore the semi-desert landscape of Savane des Pétrifications.

Family-friendly & For kids

Highly family-friendly due to the calm, shallow waters and the abundance of natural shade from the trees. The availability of food and basic facilities makes it convenient for spending the entire day with children.

Kids will love the soft sand for building sandcastles and the safe, gently sloping entry into the warm water. Local vendors selling homemade coconut sorbet provide a delightful treat for children directly on the beach.

Food & drink

Poulet boucané — Smoked chicken served at the local 'lolos' (beach shacks) along the sand.
Accras de morue — Delicious deep-fried cod fritters, perfect as a snack with a local beer from the beach kiosks.
Sorbet Coco — Traditional homemade coconut ice cream, churned by hand and sold by local vendors walking the beach.

Facilities

restaurants
snack bars
toilets
showers
picnic tables
souvenir shops

Events nearby

Tour des Yoles Rondes de Martinique (start and finish in Sainte-Anne) 2026-07-26 to 2026-08-02 (annually late July/early August) · annual
Martinique's flagship traditional sailing regatta, racing colorful round-bottom 'yoles'. The 40th edition (2026) both departs from and finishes in Sainte-Anne, the town nearest Plage des Salines, over eight coastal stages. Source
Fete Patronale de Sainte-Anne (Saint Anne's Day Festival) annually around 26 July (Saint Anne's day) · annual
Sainte-Anne's patron saint festival held around 26 July in honor of Saint Anne, with a week or more of masses, religious processions, concerts and sports competitions in the town nearest Plage des Salines. Source
Carnaval de Sainte-Anne annually from Epiphany through Shrovetide (Jan-Feb/Mar) · annual
Sainte-Anne's Carnival runs from Epiphany to Shrovetide with street parades, costume contests and traditional music groups, part of Martinique's island-wide Carnival season. Source

Tips

Beware of Manchineel trees marked with red paint; their sap and fruit are highly toxic. Do not shelter under them during rain.
Arrive before 9 AM on weekends if you want to secure a good parking spot and a shaded area.
Bring some cash, as not all small beach vendors or 'lolos' accept credit cards.
Stay for the sunset; the view of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea with the iconic Diamond Rock in the distance is stunning.

FAQ

Are there showers and toilets available on the beach?

Yes, basic showers and public toilets are available near the parking areas, though they can be rustic.

Is Plage des Salines safe for swimming?

Yes, the water is generally calm and shallow, making it very safe for swimming and suitable for families.

Can I rent sunbeds and umbrellas?

The beach is mostly wild and relies on natural shade, but occasionally some local vendors might rent out chairs. It is not a commercialized resort beach.

What is the red paint on some trees?

The red paint marks the Manchineel tree (Mancenillier), which is extremely toxic. Do not touch the leaves, eat the fruit, or stand under them when it rains.

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