December, a good month to go to Martinique?
Martinique in December: a complete guide to a memorable stay
December in Martinique is one of the best times to discover the Island of Flowers. With its tropical climate and Creole Christmas traditions, this time of year invites you to enjoy lush scenery and idyllic beaches in a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to unwind in the tropics, explore nature or immerse yourself in local culture, December offers a wonderful setting for an unforgettable holiday.
🎄 End-of-year celebrations: events in Martinique
Chanté Nwèl: the spirit of Martinique’s festive season
From late November and throughout December, Martinique comes alive with Chanté Nwèl. These festive musical gatherings bring families, friends and visitors together to sing Christmas carols in Creole, accompanied by drums, ti-bwa wooden percussion and other percussion instruments. They are an opportunity to share music, local specialities and the warmth of Martinique’s festive traditions.
Discover where to join a Chanté Nwèl in our guide to Christmas in Martinique!
Les Boucans de la Baie: Wednesday 30 December in Fort-de-France
Traditionally held on 30 December, Les Boucans de la Baie bring the year to a spectacular close with a dazzling display combining fireworks, music and lights. Families and friends gather along the waterfront or aboard boats in Fort-de-France Bay to share this sparkling occasion. Live concerts and entertainment keep the festive atmosphere going at this unmissable family event.
Christmas markets in Martinique
In December, Christmas markets in Martinique invite you to browse the stalls and meet local craftspeople and producers. Jewellery, decorations and handmade creations sit alongside jams, spices and homemade rum punches, offering plenty of opportunities to find authentic gifts and discover the island’s craftsmanship. They are also a chance to enjoy festive flavours, from Creole blood sausage and savoury pastries to schrubb, a traditional citrus rum liqueur, in a friendly atmosphere.
📅 December 2026 highlights in Martinique
Shows, sporting challenges and food and craft events bring Martinique to life in December 2026. Whether travelling with family, your partner or friends, these outings offer opportunities to discover another side of the island and connect with local life.
Douvan Nwël: Friday 4 December in Case-Pilote
From 7 pm, Kay Dada restaurant welcomes Misié Roro from Mizik Nwel, Robert Mavounza and DJ Iony’t for an evening celebrating Caribbean music and traditions. Join local residents in Martinique’s festive atmosphere, with Creole food available on site.
TransMartinique: Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December
From northern rainforests to southern beaches, this trail-running event offers a different way to discover Martinique’s landscapes, with several race formats between Grand’Rivière and Sainte-Anne. Whether running or cheering on participants, make the most of the occasion to explore towns along the route and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at the finish.
Ti Kréol: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December in Fort-de-France
Created in 1999, Ti Kréol is an established family event each December. At Tropiques Atrium, this musical tale introduces children to Caribbean culture through songs, dance and the adventures of its characters. Three performances are scheduled: Saturday at 5 pm and Sunday at 2 pm and 5 pm. A lovely outing for families holidaying on the island.
Shopping Noël: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December in Sainte-Luce
From 9 am to 8 pm, Karibea Sainte-Luce Hôtel brings together craftspeople, designers and producers, with local treats, handmade creations and children’s entertainment. Admission is free, making this festive market an opportunity to meet local makers and find gifts or souvenirs from Martinique.
Check the organisers’ latest information before travelling, and book show tickets or register for races in advance.
What to Do in Martinique? Must-Do Activities
As a bonus, we're sharing our ideas for places to explore and road trips to take in Martinique.
Salines Beach
The most iconic of Martinique's beaches stretches for nearly a kilometer of pristine white sand lined with coconut trees. Its shallow turquoise waters and idyllic setting make it the perfect spot to enjoy the sun with family or friends.
Pagerie Museum
Former sugar plantation and birthplace of Joséphine de Beauharnais, future Empress of France, this museum traces the fascinating history of the woman who became Napoleon Bonaparte's wife.
📍Trois-îlets
Caravelle Peninsula
This 3-hour coastal hike takes you deep into the heart of an exceptional nature reserve, between lush tropical forest and preserved mangroves.
📍Sentier Trace des caps, La Trinité
🏖️ Beaches and Swimming: Tropical Paradise
December offers ideal conditions for enjoying Martinique's most beautiful beaches. Diving enthusiasts will head to Anse Dufour in Anses-d'Arlet, where encounters with sea turtles are frequent, while Diamant Beach impresses with its 3 kilometers of sand facing the iconic rock. The northern Caribbean reveals wilder beaches such as Anse Couleuvre, which offers an unspoiled volcanic setting with black sand. On the Atlantic coast, Anse Azérot in Tartane is a favorite spot for surfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts thanks to its regular waves.
🥾 Hiking: Nature at Its Best
December's weather conditions are perfect for hiking. Climbing Mount Pelée remains an unmissable experience, with a 3- to 4-hour round trip and exceptional panoramic views from the summit. The legendary Route de la Trace takes you through the tropical rainforest between Fort-de-France and Saint-Pierre.
🌊 Water Activities: Enjoy the Sea
December offers excellent underwater visibility of up to 30 meters. Rocher du Diamant is a major site where shipwrecks, corals, and tropical fish coexist, while Anse Dufour guarantees encounters with sea turtles. In Saint-Pierre, exploring the shipwrecks from the 1902 eruption immerses visitors in the city's dramatic history. The return of windy conditions on the Atlantic coast delights surfers. Anse Azérot in Tartane is a renowned spot for kitesurfing, while Baie du Galion is suitable for beginners with its shallow waters. Boat trips offer the chance to observe migrating dolphins and whales, or discover the white sandbanks of the François islets.
🏛️ Cultural and Heritage Tours
Take advantage of December to visit distilleries that are active during the sugar cane harvest. Habitation Clément in Le François combines a distillery, lush gardens, and art exhibitions, while the Saint-James Distillery in Sainte-Marie offers a comprehensive rum museum. The Jardin de Balata features over 3,000 species of tropical plants and its famous suspension bridges. The Vulcanological Museum in Saint-Pierre displays the remains of the 1902 eruption, while the Savane des Esclaves offers a poignant eco-museum on the history of slavery.
🍉 Seasonal fruits and vegetables in December
Local pineapple: harvested between November and March, it is particularly tasty in December. Citrus fruits: local oranges and mandarins are in season towards the end of the year. Pink guavas are still available and of good quality. Apple figs (small local bananas): Small and very sweet, apple figs are a staple of Creole markets. Star fruit: Available until February, star fruit is appealing for its star shape and sweet-tart taste. Liana apples: Very fragrant and slightly tart, liana apples add flavor to desserts, yogurts, and cocktails. Cowpeas: A typical Christmas product! Harvested in December, they are used in the preparation of traditional cowpea rice, a staple dish of Guadeloupean celebrations. Yams: In December, they are eaten boiled, mashed, or au gratin, accompanied by meat, fish, or vegetables in sauce.
What is the weather like in December in Martinique?
Temperature in December
Martinique in December enjoys exceptional weather, with temperatures ranging from 22°C in the morning to 30°C in the afternoon.
Water Temperature in December
The sea water has a constant temperature of 27-28°C, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and all water sports.
Rain in December
December marks the beginning of the dry season (Lent). Rainfall decreases significantly, with approximately 5.3 inches of rain spread over 12 to 14 days.
What to Pack in Your Luggage for a Martinique trip?
Don't forget to pack the following essentials in your luggage for your vacation in Martinique:
Sunglasses to protect you from intense UV rays.
Ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine ecosystem.
A hat to protect you from the sun.
Hiking shoes to explore the island's trails.
Insect repellent to protect you from bugs.
✈️ Prepare for Your Trip to Martinique
As many tourists flock to the archipelago in high season, it is mainly by air that people come to Martinique. It is also at this time that air tickets start to become expensive. To avoid ruining your money on the trip between airports and spend your budget on activities and pleasures of the island, it is strongly advised to book your flights in advance. Prices are lower and more accessible!
Once you arrive at Aimé Césaire airport and in order to move around freely afterwards, don't hesitate to rent a car in Martinique and make the most of the island during your stay in December.
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