Grande Anse des Salines is the beach most people picture when they think of Martinique. The tourism board calls it the island's best-known beach, with fine white sand, coconut palms and calm, bright blue water. It lies in the commune of Sainte-Anne, about five kilometres south of the town, at the southern tip of the island. The beach comes in three parts: Grande Anse des Salines, the largest and most famous, Petite Anse des Salines to the west, and Grande Terre des Salines to the east. Behind the sand is a wooded area that belongs to the coastal state forest managed by the national forestry office. Sources give the length as somewhere between one and two kilometres, so expect a long, gently curving strip with plenty of room to walk. Entry is free.
Why people love it
The combination of calm water, palm shade and a wide beach is hard to beat, and it works for swimming, a long walk or simply lying down for hours. The three sections let you choose between the busiest stretch and quieter corners, which is the best way to avoid crowds.
What to know before you go
The tourism page does not describe facilities, so treat the beach as simple and bring what you need, including water, sun protection and something to eat or a plan to buy food nearby. Shade under the palms is limited by how early you arrive. Swim where the water is calm and watch for flags or local advice, and keep valuables out of sight because beach theft is a risk anywhere that is popular. Weekends and holidays are busier with local families.
Making it work
Les Salines is at the far south of the island, a long drive from Fort-de-France and Trois-Îlets, so go with a car, a taxi or a southern tour. It pairs well with Diamond Rock and the Anses d'Arlet on another day, or with a stay at a south-coast hotel such as Karibea Sainte Luce. Go in the morning for the calmest water and the most space.
What to expect
The experience
A long public beach of fine white sand backed by coconut palms and a coastal forest, split into three sections.
Best time
Morning for calm water and space, or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
How long
Half a day suits most visitors, a full day if you want to settle in.
Tips
Bring water, sun protection and food, choose a quieter section by walking along the sand, and keep valuables with you.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone wanting Martinique's classic postcard beach day.
- Families
- The tourism board describes calm water, which suits families, but bring shade and supervise children closely.
- Couples
- Walk to the quieter ends of the beach for a more private spot and a long swim.
- Pair with
- A southern tour with Diamond Rock and the Anses d'Arlet.
- Time needed
- Half a day, more with the drive from Fort-de-France.
Good questions
Where is Les Salines?+
In Sainte-Anne, at the southern end of Martinique, about five kilometres south of the town. It is a long drive from Fort-de-France.
Is the beach free?+
Yes. It is a public beach with no entry charge.
How long is it?+
Sources differ, giving figures between one and two kilometres. The beach has three sections: Grande Anse, Petite Anse to the west and Grande Terre to the east.
Are there facilities?+
The tourism page does not describe them, so bring water, sun protection and food, and check locally for nearby vendors.
Is it good for swimming?+
The tourism board describes calm, bright blue water. As anywhere, watch for flags and ask locals if conditions look unusual.
