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Martinique is a small island in the middle of the Caribbean ocean is a French territory and therefore a part of the European Union. Martinique belongs to one of the 10 islands of the Small Antilles, which are located in the eastern part of the Caribbean.

The countries popularity as a tourist destination has been rising over the last few years and especially with European tourists. A major reason for this development is the fact that Martinique is a French territory and travellers can use the Euro. The country posses beautiful scenery and gives home to numerous exotic animal and plant species.

The original inhabitants called the island “Madinina” which means “Flower Island”. Endless sandy beaches frame the diversified nature with its lush green vegetation. These facts and the friendly easy going locals, make the island a true holiday paradise. Martinique offers, not just a relaxing holiday, but also a variety of water sports activities, such as sailing and diving.

Martinique has a tropical climate with temperatures of 21 – 27 degrees in the winter months and 24 – 30 degrees during the summer. The rainy season lasts from June till October whereas September is, with an average of 26 days of rain, the most humid month.

The month of April instead is, with an average of 13 days of rain a month, the driest. The humidity is very high on Martinique all year long. The average humidity is about 80% but can rise up to 87% during the rainy season. The climate in the northern more mountainous areas is however a bit chillier usually and also more humid compared with the coast.

Thanks to the high amount of rain and the warm air the vegetation on Martinique is really green and opulent. The best time for travelling is from February till May as it is drier and with 26 degrees a bit cooler than the rest of the year.

From June till October you have the chance of the effects of passing Hurricanes, which thankfully, only extremely rarely, hit the island directly.

Martinique is rather unknown as a surfing destination, which is mirrored by the often empty spots. The best conditions on the island are found on the north and northwest coast. The waves are, in general, rather small and therefore ideally suited for beginners especially in the months from March till August.

You can however find enough reefs and point breaks round the islands which guarantee enough variety and suit different levels. Due to the permanently warm temperatures you can leave your wetsuit at home.

Best season for beginner: March – August
Best season for advanced surfer: September – February

Crowd factor: A bit higher in the summer

Martinique is connected too by several European and American airlines. Especially Air France flies regularly to its overseas territory. But also within the Caribbean, Martinique is very well integrated in the air network and is serviced by many small airlines. The only international airport is called “Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport“ and is located 11 kilometres away from the capital.

The country is not just easily accessible by air; Martinique is also one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships. Amongst the three biggest cruise ship operators are: Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America. Almost of more importance than the cruise ships are the two ferry operators “L´Express des Iles“and “Brudey Frères“. Both companies operate Catamaran ferries that operate between Martinique and Dominica as well as between St. Lucia and Guadeloupe.