Visit the town of Anses d'Arlet in Martinique

Les Anses-d'Arlet: Introduction

Les Anses-d'Arlet is a small, vibrant commune located on the southwestern coast of Martinique. This charming fishing village is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, which contrasts with the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The authenticity of local life, combined with the natural beauty of the area, makes it a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration. Are you planning to visit Les Anses-d'Arlet soon? Discover the events and activities you shouldn't miss during your visit.

Le Bourg beach in Anses d'Arlet © jlazouphoto via Canva.com

Why We Love Les Anses-d'Arlet:

💚 Its paradise beaches, like Grande Anse beach, famous for its golden sands and turquoise waters. 💚 Its authentic, charming atmosphere with colorful Creole houses, peaceful streets, and its iconic church by the water. 💚 The richness of its marine life, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to its coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles.

Les Anses-d'Arlet: Key Facts and Information

Population: Approximately 3,600 inhabitants Area: 25.92 km² Main Economic Activities: Fishing, tourism, crafts Major Attractions: Grande Anse Beach, Saint-Henri Church, Scuba Diving

Where Are Les Anses-d'Arlet Located in Martinique?

Location of Anses d'Arlet in Martinique. © Google Maps

What to Do in Les Anses-d'Arlet, Martinique?

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Les Anses-d'Arlet is a true paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The calm, crystal-clear waters along the beaches offer exceptional visibility, ideal for exploring coral reefs teeming with a wide variety of tropical fish. The most popular spots include:

• Grande Anse: This beach is a prime location for snorkeling. Just a few meters from the shore, you can already spot colorful fish and sometimes even graceful sea turtles swimming by.

• Anse Dufour and Anse Noire: These two neighboring coves are famous for their rich marine life. Anse Dufour, with its white sand, and Anse Noire, with its volcanic black sand, offer striking contrasts and unique diving experiences.

For those looking to venture further, local dive centers offer excursions to explore deeper sites, like the Rocher du Diamant, where you can observe wrecks and an even more diverse marine fauna.

2. Relaxing on the Beaches

Les Anses-d'Arlet is famous for its stunning beaches, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun. Among the most beautiful are:

• Grande Anse Beach: The largest and most popular, this golden sandy beach is lined with coconut trees and provides the perfect setting for a day of relaxation. The shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with children.

• Bourg Beach: Located in the heart of the village, this smaller but equally charming beach offers a friendly atmosphere with direct access to restaurants and shops, making it an ideal place to combine relaxation with local discovery.

• Anse Dufour and Anse Noire: In addition to being snorkeling spots, these beaches are perfect for resting under the shade of trees, away from the tourist crowds.

3. Hiking

Hiking enthusiasts will find several trails in Les Anses-d'Arlet offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains:

• Morne Larcher: This challenging but rewarding hike leads to the summit of Morne Larcher, a former volcano offering stunning views of the Rocher du Diamant and the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. The trail passes through wooded areas and offers spectacular viewpoints along the way.

• Coastal Trail from Grande Anse to Anse Dufour: For an easier walk, this trail follows the coast, connecting two of the region's most beautiful beaches. Along the way, you can admire tropical vegetation and may even spot iguanas or tropical birds.

4. Exploring the Village

The village of Les Anses-d'Arlet has preserved its authentic charm and offers an immersion into Martinican culture:

• Saint-Henri Church: This iconic church, located by the sea, is one of the most photographed buildings in Martinique. Dating back to the 19th century, it perfectly embodies Creole architecture with its simplicity and elegance.

• Strolling Through the Streets: Wander through the village's small streets to discover colorful Creole houses, flower-filled gardens, and friendly locals. The village's peaceful and friendly atmosphere will allow you to completely unwind.

5. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

For those looking to explore the surroundings actively, renting kayaks or paddleboards is an excellent option:

• Exploring Coves: By paddling along the coast, you can discover secluded coves and hidden beaches inaccessible by foot. It's a peaceful and environmentally friendly way to explore the area's natural beauty.

• Wildlife Watching: During your kayaking or paddleboarding excursions, you may have the chance to encounter sea turtles, rays, and even dolphins offshore.

6. Cultural Exploration

Les Anses-d'Arlet offers more than just nature; the local culture is also worth exploring:

• Craft Workshops: Participate in workshops where local artisans will show you how traditional items are made from wicker, wood, or ceramics. It's an excellent way to learn more about the island's history and traditions.

• Creole Cuisine: Savor the local cuisine at village restaurants, where Creole specialties like colombo, accras, and Creole blood sausage take center stage. The local markets are also perfect for buying fresh produce and tasting tropical fruits.

7. Sea Turtle Watching

Les Anses-d'Arlet is one of the best places in Martinique to observe sea turtles:

• Snorkeling Observation: Several beaches, notably Grande Anse and Anse Dufour, are where sea turtles come to feed. By swimming quietly with a mask and snorkel, you can watch them in their natural habitat.

• Nesting Season: If you visit during the right season (generally from March to October), you might witness sea turtles nesting on certain beaches. This magical experience is a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close and contribute to their protection.

Events and Highlights: Must-See Events in Les Anses-d'Arlet

📅 Saint-Henri Patronal Feast: Every year in July, the village celebrates its patron saint with masses, processions, and festivities that enliven the entire community. 📅 Carnival: Like the rest of Martinique, Carnival is a highlight of the year, with colorful parades, traditional music, and extravagant costumes. 📅 Local Markets: The artisanal markets, where you can buy local products, souvenirs, and culinary specialties, are also events not to be missed.

☀️ Weather in Les Anses-d'Arlet

Les Anses-d'Arlet enjoys a tropical climate, warm and sunny all year round. Temperatures generally range between 25°C and 30°C. The dry season lasts from December to April, while the rainy season, marked by tropical showers, occurs between June and November. However, the rain is often brief and followed by sunny periods.

Average Temperatures

Les Anses-d'Arlet enjoys a tropical climate, warm and pleasant throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, with slight variations between the dry and wet seasons. During the dry season, from December to April, temperatures are more moderate, around 27°C to 29°C during the day. In the wet season, from June to November, they may slightly increase, often reaching 30°C. Nights are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 22°C.

Best Season to Visit

The best time to visit Les Anses-d'Arlet is from December to April, during the dry season. During this period, the weather is sunny, rainfall is low, and humidity is lower, making conditions ideal for enjoying the beaches, hiking, and water activities. This is also when temperatures are most pleasant, and the sea breeze makes the days particularly comfortable. Although July and August are part of the wet season, they remain popular due to school holidays, but tropical showers may occur.

Water Temperature

The waters of Les Anses-d'Arlet are known for their pleasant warmth, with swimming temperatures typically ranging from 26°C to 29°C throughout the year. This warmth allows you to enjoy the sea in any season, whether for swimming, snorkeling, or diving.

How to Get There from Martinique Aimé Césaire Airport?

Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport is located about 30 km from Les Anses-d'Arlet. To reach the commune, take the N5 national road towards the southwest to Rivière-Salée, then follow the D7 towards Les Anses-d'Arlet. The journey takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

3 ideal cars to explore Les Anses d'Arlet

A rental car is essential for visiting Les Anses d'Arlet and Martinique. If your stay is focused on Les Anses d'Arlet, a city car like the Renault Clio will be perfect for navigating the narrowest streets with ease. The Dacia Duster remains an interesting option for adventure in the steeper surrounding areas.

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Need a car rental in Anses d'Arlet? Our nearest Europcar agency welcomes you every day. Book your car online now.