Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet
Discover Anse Dufour's turtles and Les Anses-d'Arlet's iconic charm. Swim with sea turtles and capture postcard-perfect views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Anse Dufour's turtles and Les Anses-d'Arlet's iconic charm. Swim with sea turtles and capture postcard-perfect views.
"Swim with turtles and capture postcard-perfect views in this slice of paradise."
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Observe turtles from a distance, never touch or feed them. Let's protect these beautiful creatures!
☀️ Beat the Midday Sun
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Sea Turtles
Anse Dufour & Anse Noire
Experience the thrill of swimming alongside majestic sea turtles in their natural Caribbean environment. A truly unforgettable encounter.
Iconic Church and Pontoon
Les Anses-d'Arlet
Capture the quintessential Martinique postcard scene: a charming church, a picturesque pontoon, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Tranquil Beach Relaxation
Petite Anse
Unwind on the serene shores of Petite Anse, a perfect spot for relaxation and soaking in the Caribbean sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Spotting Etiquette
Timing is Key for Turquoise Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Observe turtles from a distance, never touch or feed them. Let's protect these beautiful creatures!
☀️ Beat the Midday Sun
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking near the popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Observe turtles from a distance, never touch or feed them. Let's protect these beautiful creatures!
☀️ Beat the Midday Sun
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking near the popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical experience of swimming with sea turtles at Anse Dufour and the iconic beauty of Les Anses-d'Arlet. The turquoise waters, picturesque church, and stunning sunsets are consistently praised. Some note that parking can be challenging and facilities are basic.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anse Dufour and Les Anses-d'Arlet are located on the southwestern coast of Martinique. The easiest way to reach them is by car. From Fort-de-France, take the N5 south towards Sainte-Luce, then follow signs for Les Anses-d'Arlet. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
While possible, it's less convenient. Local taxis are available, but can be more expensive. Public transport options might be limited and time-consuming for reaching these specific beaches. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the area.
Anse Dufour and Anse Noire are adjacent and can be easily reached by swimming across the small bay or by walking around the rocky outcrop. Many visitors enjoy snorkeling between the two.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Anse Dufour and Les Anses-d'Arlet beaches is generally free. There might be small fees for parking in designated areas, especially during busy periods.
These are natural beaches and are accessible at all times. However, for the best experience with daylight and fewer crowds, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
While not always advertised, local boat tour operators often offer snorkeling excursions that include opportunities to see turtles in their natural habitat. Inquire locally for current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most popular way is to snorkel or dive in the waters off Anse Dufour. Turtles are often seen grazing on seagrass. Remember to keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
Les Anses-d'Arlet is famous for its picturesque village, iconic church, and pontoon. It's a great spot for photography, enjoying the sunset, and relaxing by the water. You can also find local eateries and shops.
Yes, Anse Dufour is excellent for snorkeling, especially for spotting sea turtles. The water is generally clear, and the marine life is abundant.
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, and your snorkeling gear. A waterproof bag for your valuables is also a good idea.
Basic facilities may be available in the villages of Les Anses-d'Arlet and near Anse Dufour, but they can be rudimentary. It's advisable to be prepared.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The village of Les Anses-d'Arlet offers several charming restaurants and snack bars serving local Creole cuisine and fresh seafood. Anse Dufour also has a few options, often with beautiful sea views.
Absolutely! Les Anses-d'Arlet is renowned for its stunning sunsets. Many restaurants along the waterfront offer the perfect vantage point to enjoy a meal while watching the sky change colors.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic church with its pontoon is a must-capture. The waterfront promenade offers great views, and the colorful fishing boats add charm. Don't miss the sunset shots!
Yes, but always from a respectful distance. Avoid using flash, as it can disturb the turtles. Focus on capturing their natural behavior without interfering.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour before sunset is particularly magical.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Les Anses-d'Arlet, the picturesque village provides a safe and engaging environment for exploration. Kids will enjoy watching the fishing boats and the iconic church. Packing plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection is essential. Consider visiting during the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day and potential crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
While Anse Dufour is famous for turtles, don't overlook the snorkeling opportunities around the nearby Anse Noire. The contrast between the dark volcanic sand and the vibrant coral can be striking. For more advanced divers, exploring further offshore can reveal a different array of marine ecosystems. Always prioritize safety and be aware of currents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Encountering Martinique's Marine Life
Beyond turtles, the waters around Anse Dufour and the nearby Anse Noire teem with other marine life. You can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, and if you're lucky, perhaps even rays or small reef sharks. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is highly recommended, as rental options might be limited or costly. The experience of swimming alongside a sea turtle is often described as a dream come true by visitors, highlighting its magical and memorable nature.
When planning your turtle encounter, consider the time of day. Early mornings often provide calmer seas and fewer people, enhancing the experience. While Anse Dufour is known for its turtles, Anse Noire, its neighbor, is also a good spot and offers a different vibe with its dark volcanic sand. The proximity of these two beaches makes it easy to explore both in a single visit.
The Charm of Les Anses-d'Arlet
The village itself is a charming place to wander. Colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor, and local life unfolds at a relaxed pace. You'll find small shops, bakeries, and several restaurants lining the waterfront, offering delicious Creole cuisine and fresh seafood. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink while taking in the picturesque surroundings.
One of the biggest draws of Les Anses-d'Arlet is its spectacular sunsets. As the day winds down, the sky often erupts in a symphony of colors, casting a warm glow over the village and the sea. Many visitors choose to end their day here, dining at a waterfront restaurant and savoring the breathtaking views. It's a truly romantic and unforgettable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit