SOUTH EAST COAST: LE MARIN BAY, SAINTE-ANNE & THE ATLANTIC COAST
Le Marin Bay, also known as the Cul-de-Sac, is one of the calmest anchorages in Martinique and offers that rare and much‑appreciated moment of complete stillness after time at sea.
Yachts may anchor either off the village of Sainte-Anne or inside Le Marin Bay itself, where Dockwise regularly offloads yachts using designated anchoring zones.
BEACHES & RELAXATION
A relatively secluded anchorage lies near the inner beach of the Club Med. This beach is lightly used by the resort, and purchasing day passes has often allowed guests a near‑exclusive experience (subject to availability). Guests frequently enjoy access to the Club Med spa and facilities through these day passes.
Another quiet option is Pointe Dunkerque beach, which sees little traffic due to access being limited to a footpath. In our presentations, you may see photos of MY Gene Machine anchored very close to the beach — note that anchoring is no longer permitted here for yachts over 50 metres.
RUM, CULTURE & EASY EXCURSIONS
From Le Marin, visiting Habitation Clément is simple and highly recommended. Its rum tasting experience is widely regarded as a ‘must‑see and must‑do’ in Martinique. The coastal taxi drive also provides excellent views of the reef systems protecting the east coast.
SOUTH & EAST COAST BEACHES
Martinique’s finest beaches are found along the south and east coasts. These areas are ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing, as the reefs provide protection and prevailing winds blow safely toward shore. Most of these beaches are not directly accessible by yacht.
Les Salines beach, one of the island’s most popular, can be reached by tender or by a short taxi ride of approximately ten minutes. Several local beach restaurants make it an enjoyable stop ashore.
COASTAL WALKS & NATURE TRAILS
A beautiful coastal walk begins at Dunkerque beach, following marked trails along beaches and cliffs, passing from cove to cove. Sections of the trail cross mangroves via well‑maintained wooden walkways managed by the National Park reserve.
Walks range from 1.5 hours to a full‑day hike extending toward Vauclin. Road access at several points allows flexibility in choosing the length of the walk.
One popular route follows the coast past Les Salines, continues over the cliffs and through the Petrified Savanna, and ends at Anse Trabaud — a long, beautiful beach with limited vehicle access.
The round‑trip walk to Anse Trabaud typically takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on pace. A taxi can be arranged for the return journey if preferred.
SWIMMING & SAFETY
Anse Trabaud offers good body surfing conditions, particularly at the northern end where long, shallow runs are common.
Please note: this is the Atlantic coast. Strong currents may be present, especially in higher surf conditions. Swimming should only be done where you can comfortably stand.