Visit Anses d’Arlet (Martinique): 9 must-sees and 5 hidden gems

Les Anses d'Arlet in Martinique

Les Anses d’Arlet is probably one of the most famous sights in Martinique. The pier, the church facing the sea, the crystal-clear water… it’s hard to imagine a more “postcard-perfect” scene. Located on the southwest coast, this fishing village has managed to retain a simple, authentic atmosphere, where people come as much to swim as to slow down. And just a quick note: you’ll often see “Anse d’Arlet,” “Anses d’Arlets,” “Anse d’Arlets,” or other variations… but the correct spelling is Les Anses d’Arlet😊.

Everything feels more peaceful at the Anses d'Arlet, almost as if time has stood still, nestled between fishing villages and crystal-clear waters just a stone's throw from the shore. Wondering what to do at the Anses d'Arlet? Here, you can easily spend your time swimming with turtles, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea, without having to go out of your way. Do you prefer Grande Anse for its spaciousness or Petite Anse for its more intimate atmosphere? In any case, to truly explore Anses d’Arlet, the best approach is to take the time to move from one cove to the next. And if the weather turns cloudy, there’s always something to do at Anses d’Arlet when it rains, from local restaurants to short walks or quieter moments. Ultimately, activities at Anses d’Arlet are best enjoyed at the place’s own pace… slowly, but surely.

We love Les Anses-d'Arlet for:

• 💚 Its idyllic beaches, such as Grande Anse Beach, famous for its golden sand and turquoise waters.

• 💚 Its authentic, charming atmosphere, with colorful Creole houses, peaceful little streets, and an iconic church right on the water’s edge.

• 💚 Its rich marine life, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to its coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles.

The 9 Must-See Sites in Anses d’Arlet

1. Saint-Henri Church in Anses d’Arlet and its pier

Saint-Henri Church in Anses d’Arlet, located right on the waterfront, is one of Martinique’s most iconic sites, thanks to its perfect alignment with the pier. Inside the church, you can admire the simple, light-filled architecture, an altar facing the sea, and a soothing atmosphere that lets in the light. Surrounding the church in Anses d’Arlet, charming, colorfully painted traditional Creole houses invite you to take a stroll and snap some photos. At the beach, the clarity of the seawater is exceptional. It’s common to spot sea turtles just a few meters from the shore, as well as multicolored fish around the “Lakay” underwater reef.

2. Anse Dufour and Anse Noire beaches: sea turtles guaranteed

Must-see spots in the Anses d’Arlet, these two neighboring coves offer complementary experiences: Anse Dufour: white sand, a fishing village, and turtles you’re almost guaranteed to see. Anse Noire: the only black-sand beach in the south, with a wild, untamed atmosphere.

💚 Europcar Martinique Tip: Mask and snorkel are a must! Don’t forget to arrive early in the morning to find a spot, and bring sunscreen that’s safe for marine life. There’s a picnic area at the start of the descent toward Anse Noire- feel free to stop there and enjoy the beautiful view of the bay.

3. Bourg des Anses d’Arlet Beach and the Lakay Underwater Trail

Accessible directly from Anses-d’Arlet Beach, the Lakay underwater trail offers an educational immersion into the heart of the underwater world. Here, there’s no need to dive: equipped simply with a mask and snorkel, you follow a route marked at the surface by informational buoys. Spanning approximately 2,600 m², the site boasts remarkable biodiversity with over 150 recorded species: tropical fish, corals, sponges, mollusks, and sea turtles that regularly visit the bay. The calm, shallow waters of Anses d’Arlet make it an ideal spot for a first snorkeling experience in Martinique.

4. Grande Anse: the liveliest beach in Anses d’Arlet

In Anses d’Arlet, Grande Anse is the heart of local life: a long, beautiful white-sand beach, fishermen, beach restaurants and bars, and water sports (snorkeling, diving, boat trips). Grande Anse is an experience in itself: the perfect beach for swimming, watching turtles early in the morning, or lingering at sunset. 💚 Europcar Martinique Tip: It’s essential to arrive early to easily park your rental car.

5. Head to Morne Champagne: the postcard-perfect view!

Want to get a bird’s-eye view? Between the village of Anses-d’Arlet and Grande Anse Beach, Morne Champagne offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Martinique. This ancient volcano is easy to conquer on an accessible 45-minute hike: a little effort for a huge reward! Along the way, you’ll pass the ruins of a military battery before reaching the summit.

💚 Europcar Martinique Tip: Park your rental car in the village and return via the road (RD7) for an easy loop, or leave a vehicle at each end if you’re traveling with others.

6. Climbing Morne Larcher via Anses d’Arlet: challenging but so rewarding

Calling all adventurers! If you’re looking for a thrill, this is the place to be. Rising to 478 meters, this ancient extinct volcano resembles the silhouette of a reclining woman. Be warned: the climb from Petite Anse to Anses d’Arlet is short but intense. Get ready to work your calves with a nearly 400-meter elevation gain over a short distance. The trail winds through volcanic rocks and lush forest, sometimes requiring you to use your hands. Once at the summit (at an altitude of about 400m), the view is breathtaking: a bird’s-eye view of Rocher du Diamant, the bay, and even Saint Lucia on a clear day.

• Best time to visit: December through March, to avoid mud and enjoy the cool morning air.

• Duration: About 2 hours (one way).

• Difficulty: Challenging / Moderate (watch out for slippery rocks).

• Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots are mandatory, and bring plenty of water!

💚 Europcar Martinique Tip: The trail is now a “one-way” route to Anse Caffard in Le Diamant (don’t rely on old IGN maps). To avoid the extra 5 km walk along the road on the way back, the best option is to go with two cars: park one at Anse Caffard and the other at the starting point in Petite Anse.

7. The restaurants of Anses d’Arlet, a local institution

Want to sample Creole cuisine with a view of the sea? In Anses-d’Arlet, you’ll almost always find yourself dining right by the water. Freshly grilled fish of the day, hot accras… Here, the food is fresh and flavorful. Numerous restaurants and beach bars await you, don’t miss them during your getaway to Anses-d’Arlet.

8. Petite Anse, a charming fishing village in Les Anses d’Arlet

Less crowded, Petite Anse is a fishing village that has retained its traditional character in the Anses d’Arlet. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover the real Martinique—with its colorful boats and nets drying in the sun, you’ll love Petite Anse. Nestled between two rocky peaks, this fishing village has preserved a peaceful and intimate atmosphere.

9. The Cap Salomon Hike: Between Heritage and Forest

If you’re a nature lover visiting Anses d’Arlet, this hike is for you! The Cap Salomon Trail is a beautiful route that connects Grande Anse Beach to Anse Dufour. You’ll traverse varied landscapes, from dry forest to mangrove areas, while skirting Morne Réduit and climbing Morne Baguidi (146 m). Along the way, don’t miss the ruins of the 1762 military battery, a testament to the historic clashes between the French and the English.

• The view of the Caribbean Sea from the tip is simply breathtaking.

• Start: Grande Anse parking lot (walk past the Ti Sable restaurant to find the trail).

• End: Anse Dufour (or vice versa).

• Duration: Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the Cap loop, and up to 3 to 4 hours for the complete round trip to Anse Dufour.

• Difficulty: Moderate. The terrain is rocky and includes some steep slopes that require good physical fitness.

• Areas covered: Grande Anse and Cap Salomon sectors.

💚 Tip from Europcar Martinique: For maximum comfort, we recommend leaving one car at the start (Anse Dufour) and a second at the finish (Grande Anse). This will save you a 5-km walk back in the sun and let you fully enjoy a well-deserved swim with the turtles at the finish!

This 2-in-1 hike also features a marked underwater trail that’s one of a kind in Martinique. We won’t say any more for now… We’ll reveal all the details of this aquatic experience below, in our section dedicated to “Secret and Unusual Spots in the Anses d’Arlet.”

5 Secret and Unusual Places in Anses d’Arlet

1 : The Anse Bellay memorial and archaeological site: a hike dedicated to remembrance

Anse Bellay is one of those lesser-known places that leave a lasting impression. To reach it, you have to walk: the site is only accessible on foot via a coastal hike starting from Gallochat (on the Les Anses-d’Arlet side) or from Anse à l’Âne (on the Les Trois-Îlets side). Allow around 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 one way from Gallochat, and 1 hour 30 to 2 hours one way from Anse à l’Âne, for a total of 3 to 5 hours including the return. The trail follows the coastline and crosses dry, sun-exposed vegetation. Uncovered by the storm surges of Hurricane Dean in 2007, this site was protected by local residents and the Kolektif Anse Bellay so that these remains could regain their dignity on their ancestral land. It is thus a place of contemplation.

💚 Europcar Martinique Tip

If you visit Anse Bellay, we ask that you maintain a respectful and contemplative demeanor. Avoid noisy activities; here, silence reigns supreme.

• Best time to visit: May 22, the day commemorating the abolition of slavery, is a symbolic date to visit. Ceremonies are held there, and a contemplative hike with the locals allows you to share in this duty of remembrance in an authentic way.

• Access: Located not far from the Gallochat neighborhood, the site is best explored on foot.

2 : L’Habitation La Sucrerie: the “Château” of the Arlésiens

Perched atop a hill overlooking the village of Anses d’Arlet, Habitation La Sucrerie is an architectural and historical gem that few people have the chance to see from the inside.

Nicknamed the "Château" by locals, this former sugar mill (later a distillery) has been part of the Hayot family’s history since 1788. It is also a historic site: it was here, in April 1848, that a partnership agreement was signed with former slaves of the plantation with a view to their emancipation.

• Listed as a Historic Monument, it stands out for its striking architecture, featuring an upper floor narrower than the ground floor and its famous “cuisine en gaulettes.”

• This traditional construction method, typical of southern Martinique, uses interwoven ti baume wood or reed stalks to form the walls. A true example of ancestral craftsmanship to admire.

💚 Europcar Martinique Tip: This site is private property. It opens its doors to the public only on rare occasions, during European Heritage Days (the third weekend in September). If you’re lucky enough to be in Martinique during this time, don’t miss the free guided tours under any circumstances.

3 : The Cap Salomon Underwater Trail

Forget the usual snorkeling spots at Anses d’Arlet—we’re taking you on a real underwater educational trail. Opened in partnership with the Conservatoire du Littoral, this underwater trail is a real gem and one of the few in Martinique, along with the Lakay trail in the village of Anses d’Arlet. To get there, simply follow the Cap Salomon hiking trail (mentioned above). Why is it worth the detour?

Record-breaking biodiversity: Did you know that this area is home to three-quarters of the coral species recorded in Martinique? As soon as you dip your head underwater, you’ll enter a lush underwater garden.

A guided underwater tour: The trail stretches 200 meters and features 5 observation stations marked by educational buoys. Each one explains what you’re seeing: tropical fish, sponges, corals, and sea turtles. 💚 Europcar Martinique Tip Before diving in, stop by the carbet. Information panels there detail the area’s ecological richness and provide guidelines for preserving this fragile sanctuary.

4 : Dlo Ferré: a natural spa in Petite Anse

At the foot of Morne Jacqueline lies a well-kept secret among the locals: Dlo Ferré.nHere, a hot spring gushes from the cliff at a temperature of about 35°C.

The setting: A small stone basin, built into the rock face, collects this warm, soothing water just above the waves. It’s a tiny spot (it fits 2 or 3 people at most!), offering a breathtaking view of the bay. 💚 Europcar Martinique Tip Aim for the end of the day. It’s one of the best spots in the town to watch the sunset, nice and warm in your natural bath.

5 : La Charmeuse: a little-known viewpoint behind Morne Larche

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path viewpoint in the Anses d’Arlet, head to La Charmeuse. Perched above Petite Anse, this hidden gem marks the start of the hike up Morne Larcher, but it’s well worth a visit in its own right. Here, there are no tourist facilities, just nature. The scenery is breathtaking: you overlook a deep valley where tropical forest and dry savanna blend together. Below, a small pond adds a touch of freshness to the landscape, often surrounded by herds of cattle grazing peacefully.

Bonus: Discover Anses d’Arlet in this video

On July 1, 2020, the show “Le Village Préféré des Français” (France’s Favorite Village), hosted by Stéphane Bern, aired on France 3. The village of Anses d’Arlet took the podium by becoming the second favorite village among the French.  

Discover the wonders of the town in this video!

Events Calendar in Les Anses-d'Arlet

In Les Anses-d'Arlet, we know how to welcome guests! The town is bustling all year round. Here are the key dates to mark on your calendar to fully experience the Arlesian way of life.

February / March: Carnival

Les Anses-d'Arlet often hosts colorful parades where the "vidés" (street parades) wind through the Creole houses. Nighttime parades are also organized. A unique opportunity to see the town in a whole new light!

May 22: Commemorations of the Abolition of Slavery

Every year, several events are organized in Les Anses-d’Arlet, including a memorial march at the Anse Bellay site. This is an opportunity to hike with the locals in the footsteps of their ancestors and to participate in the solemn tribute paid at this sacred memorial site.

July: The Patron Saint’s Festival (Saint-Henri)

This is the highlight of the summer! Around July 15, Les Anses d’Arlet celebrates its patron saint, Saint-Henri. On the program: solemn masses, sports competitions, concerts on the beach, and activities for children. The town is in a festive mood until late into the night.

Late July / Early August: The Tour des Yoles Rondes

Martinique’s most popular sporting event! Les Anses-d’Arlet is often a strategic stop on the Tour des Yoles. Whether the yoles make a stop at Bourg Beach or Grande Anse Beach, or simply sail along the coast toward Le Diamant, the sight of these multicolored sails on the turquoise water is a pure marvel.

September: Heritage Days

Aux Anses d’Arlet, c’est le rendez-vous des curieux. C’est durant ce week-end (le 3ème de septembre) que vous pourrez exceptionnellement visiter l’Habitation La Sucrerie. Des visites guidées vous permettent de découvrir les secrets du "Château" et son architecture en gaulettes, fermée au public le reste de l'année.

Toute l'année : Le Marché local

Pour les gourmands, le marché des Anses d’Arlet se tient tous les matins (8h-13h) dans le bourg (Halle Man Jérôme). Mais pour une ambiance encore plus authentique, ne manquez pas le marché artisanal et local qui se tient souvent les mercredis au Domaine Diam-Arlet. C'est l'endroit idéal pour remplir le coffre de votre voiture Europcar de produits frais et de souvenirs locaux !

Getting around Anses d'Arlet

To explore the Anses-d’Arlet at your own pace, a rental car is your best bet. As soon as you arrive at the airport, picking up your car allows you to easily travel between the different coves, reach hiking trailheads like Morne Larcher, and discover the most hidden spots. 💚 Tip from Europcar Martinique: Parking can be a challenge! For popular spots in Anses d’Arlet like Anse Dufour and Anse Noire, parking is restricted and spaces are very limited. The same goes for Grande Anse. Our golden rule? Be an early bird! Arriving early not only guarantees you the best spots but also lets you enjoy the cool, calm atmosphere before the crowds arrive.