What is Sinobol? Discover Martinique's iconic shaved ice

What is a sinobol?

The word sinobol comes from the Creole phonetic adaptation of the English word snowball. In Martinique, it refers to a shaved ice dessert topped with flavoured syrup.

For visitors, a sinobol may resemble a snow cone or shaved ice. However, this Martinican specialty has its own identity. Prepared fresh to order and available in a wide variety of flavours, it has accompanied beach days, local festivals and moments of togetherness for generations.

A traditional sinobol made with shaved ice and flavored syrups, ready to enjoy in Martinique.

Where can you enjoy a sinobol in Martinique?

Sinobols are mainly sold by street vendors who move between popular beaches and public events. They are most commonly found at busy beaches during school holidays and the peak tourist season.

Les Salines Beach is one of the best places to find a sinobol, especially during periods of high visitor numbers. They are also frequently sold at major local events such as Carnival, town festivals and other outdoor celebrations. These occasions offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy this refreshing treat while experiencing Martinique's vibrant music, parades and local traditions.

Preparing a traditional Martinican sinobol by pouring flavored syrup over freshly shaved ice.

How is a sinobol prepared?

Watching a sinobol being prepared is part of the experience.

The vendor begins by shaving a block of ice into a light, fluffy texture before packing it into a cup. It is then generously covered with the syrup of your choice. Popular flavours include grenadine, mint, lemon, orgeat and blackcurrant, although some vendors also offer additional fruity varieties.

Prepared in just a few moments, a sinobol owes its light, refreshing texture to this simple yet traditional method, making it especially enjoyable in Martinique's tropical climate.

Although you can easily make a sinobol at home using shaved ice and flavoured syrup, enjoying one by the sea or during a local celebration is an experience that is hard to replicate.

The ice is finely shaved with a traditional ice shaver before being packed into a cup and topped with flavored syrup.