Grande Anse des Salines beach
Grande Anse des Salines is near the quaint town of Sainte-Anne on the picturesque Le Salines Peninsula. With its beautiful climate and pristine, snow-white sands, it draws countless tourists to its shores. The vibrant underwater world adjacent to the beach is renowned for its abundant marine life, offering enthusiasts of active vacations a treasure trove of activities to indulge in.
Photos
Beach description
Grande Anse des Salines Beach, often hailed as the finest beach in the southeast of Martinique, boasts an expansive stretch of sand. Motorists have the convenience of driving up to one-third into the beach's depth. Many visitors choose to stay close to their vehicles, but if you venture a bit further, you'll find ample space to relax. In the more secluded areas, you might even come across groups of nudists.
The beach is informally segmented into three areas: the central part near the Big Salt Bay and two quieter sections to the east and west. A picturesque coastal strip adorned with luxurious palm trees transitions into a thicket of low undergrowth and bushes, where shaded picnic tables invite leisurely lunches. This verdant buffer zone also shields beachgoers from the nearby road, ensuring the tranquility of this natural retreat remains undisturbed by the absence of looming hotel structures.
The waters here are a stunning shade of turquoise and remain crystal clear, their purity unaffected by the occasional rainfall. While some areas may have visible algae, they are few and far between.
Visitors appreciate:
- The ample parking availability, although it tends to fill up on weekends.
- The pristine sand, free of stones both near the shore and at the water's edge, with a gentle slope that is ideal for children and the elderly.
- The calm waters near the shore.
- The reasonable prices for sun loungers and beer. Amenities such as toilets, showers, and waste containers are conveniently situated along the shore.
- Vendors selling swimsuits and pareos, and the charming presence of an ice cream seller, signaled by the ringing of a bell.
- The proximity to various cafes, offering about a dozen dining options, or the choice to grab a grilled chicken to go.
- A peaceful crowd of vacationers who respect each other's space, maintaining a clean and dignified atmosphere.
However, visitors should be cautious of falling coconuts, which can be dangerous. The island has recorded incidents, including fatalities, due to such unexpected hazards.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Martinique for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which spans from December to May. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying the island's stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
- December to February: These months are ideal for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is warm and sunny, with minimal rainfall, making it perfect for beach outings and water sports.
- March to May: This is the tail end of the dry season, with slightly warmer temperatures. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer a warmer beach experience and want to avoid the peak tourist season.
- June to November: Generally considered the wet season, with increased rainfall and potential for tropical storms. While you can still enjoy a beach vacation during this time, it's less predictable and visitors should be prepared for intermittent showers and possible weather disruptions.
Ultimately, the best time for a beach vacation in Martinique is during the dry season when the weather is most conducive to sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Video: Beach Grande Anse des Salines
Infrastructure
The flow of tourists in Martinique remains steady throughout both summer and winter. The island boasts a plethora of comfortable hotels, bars, and cafes. The tourist infrastructure near the salt lake of Le Salines fully satisfies the diverse needs of visitors. Accommodations range from luxurious 5-star apartments to quaint family hotels, chic boutique hotels, and budget-friendly hostels. Many offer all-inclusive options, and most feature amenities such as swimming pools and golf courses, as well as spa centers.
To access the beach, a car is necessary, as there are no accommodations directly adjacent to it. The nearest hotel offering a cozy place to stay is the Karibea Valmeniere Hotel, a 3-star establishment with all the amenities a tourist could desire. Facilities include provisions for disabled guests, laundry services, and a swimming pool. Guests enjoy complimentary parking, a fresh and tasty breakfast, and access to conference and banquet rooms. The staff is notably attentive and proficient in English.
Local cuisine is heavily influenced by French traditions, yet it incorporates local ingredients. The menu invariably features seafood, rice, and an abundance of exotic fruits. Tourists are particularly fond of dishes such as crab and clams, flying fish fillet served in a savory garlic sauce, the popular river crayfish, and succulent preparations of pork, goat, and lamb. For the adventurous palate, there are opportunities to taste snails or frog legs.
Weather in Grande Anse des Salines
Best hotels of Grande Anse des Salines
All hotels of Grande Anse des SalinesUseful information
- The average temperature in any season is not below 18°C. The most comfortable months are spring and after November, when the rainy season ends, although there will still be no drought.
- Public transport stops working on weekdays at 6 p.m. On Saturday, working hours are shortened to 13:00, on Sunday the most convenient way to get from the airport to the hotel is by taxi, which is not cheap here. Popular among tourists service - car rental.
- To settle on the island on a budget, you need to ask about the accommodation options 3-5 months before the trip.
- Crime is low, but any tourist must be careful and cautious.
What to do near Anse des Salines:
- Explore the salt lake surroundings, mangroves nearby.
- Catch fish that you have never seen before.
- Go on a hiking tour or in jeeps.
- Visit "little Paris" of La Savane, the ХVII century fort of Saint Louis, see the eucalyptus of the Park Florale, Aquarium, waterfalls of the Alma River.