Grand Anse des Salines, Martinique

Closest Airport:
Lamentin Airport, Martinique
Distance: 50 min.

Nearest Village/City:
Sainte-Anne

Shade: Heavy
Food/Water Available on Beach: Yes
Watersport Rentals: Yes
Shopping Area on Beach: Yes
Vendors: Occasional
Other: Topless


HOTEL ON BEACH:
None. The closest hotels are found a five minute drive  away in the village of Sainte-Anne.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:
The ruins of St. Pierre. This gallic village at one time was known as the 'Paris of the West Indies' but was destroyed by the unexpected volcanic eruption  of Mont Pelee in 1902. St. Pierre had been the cultural and economic center of the French West Indies. There must be a lesson in the fact (verified!) that all 30,000 inhabitants were killed; the sole survivor being a convict who was rescued from an underground cell. He later went on to tour with the Barnum & Bailey's Circus.


ACCESS TO BEACH:
The beach, available to all, is located about three miles by road from Sainte-Anne; the popular spot  is serviced by a large parking lot. 


QUALITY OF BEACH:
An immense beach - in length and breadth - lined with lanky  coconut palms from end-to-end. Palm trees stretch out over the powder white sand. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
Anse des Salines is a busy beach, full of vendors selling everything from beachwear and lotions to pineapples and donuts. Sitting in the parking lot, there are specially outfitted vending trucks filled with sandwiches, ice cream and other gallic delectables. The ice cream trucks have circus-like chimes that play a tune over and over, drawing children like the Pied Piper. Yet, like all beach vending in the French West Indies, it seems to be done casually without being a nuisance. There are a few picnic tables under the palms and trees.
    To experience this beach without hordes of sun worshipers, it is advised to arrive early, just after sunrise. Or come real early to watch the sunrise.