Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet - Collage réalisé par l’artiste La Dactylo.
Née en novembre 1991, La Dactylo, surnommée « Lady Doigts », De type caucasien, aux yeux couleur huître, La Dactylo est une artiste qui fuit l’ennui, pourchasse la rigolade et engendre la réflexion via ses jeux de mots, ses traits d’esprits, ou par le biais de la photographie qui est son métier premier. Sinon, pour faire simple, elle s’appelle Clémence.
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Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet

4.6
·491k reviews·Les Anses-d'Arlet, Martinique

Discover Anse Dufour's turtles and Les Anses-d'Arlet's iconic charm. Swim with sea turtles and capture postcard-perfect views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Calm waters & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet - Collage réalisé par l’artiste La Dactylo.
Née en novembre 1991, La Dactylo, surnommée « Lady Doigts », De type caucasien, aux yeux couleur huître, La Dactylo est une artiste qui fuit l’ennui, pourchasse la rigolade et engendre la réflexion via ses jeux de mots, ses traits d’esprits, ou par le biais de la photographie qui est son métier premier. Sinon, pour faire simple, elle s’appelle Clémence.

Anse Dufour Les Anses-d'Arlet

Best Time

Early mornings

Calm waters & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Swim with turtles and capture postcard-perfect views in this slice of paradise."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Swim with Sea Turtles

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.

Instagram+1
Iconic Church and Pontoon

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.

Instagram
Tranquil Beach Relaxation

Tranquil Beach Relaxation

Petite Anse

Unwind on the serene shores of Petite Anse, a perfect spot for relaxation and soaking in the Caribbean sun.

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Planning Your Visit

Turtle Spotting Etiquette

Respect marine life! When swimming with turtles at Anse Dufour, maintain a safe distance and avoid touching them. Many visitors emphasize the magic of seeing them in their natural habitat, so let's keep it that way. Instagram+1

Timing is Key for Turquoise Waters

For that postcard-perfect turquoise water and fewer crowds at Anse Dufour and Les Anses-d'Arlet, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This avoids the midday sun and peak tourist times, offering a more serene experience. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour & sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ces moments qu’on n’oubliera jamais 🤍🐢 Spots pour voir des tortues en Martinique : 🌴 Grande Anse-d’Arlet 🌴 Les Anses-d’Arlet 🌴 Anse-Dufour 🌴 Anse-noire - #mercilamartinique #martinique #tortues #ansedarlet #ansedufour #tortuesmartinique #turtles #magicmoments #souvenirs #igmartinique #igersmartinique #travelmartinique #travelcouple #antilles #merdescaraibes
thewanderlust.couple
0 likes • 1.9K views

🐢 Respect the Turtles

Observe turtles from a distance, never touch or feed them. Let's protect these beautiful creatures! Instagram+1

☀️ Beat the Midday Sun

Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people. Instagram+1

• Vous connaissez ? C’est un des lieux les plus connus de la Martinique : une église, un ponton et de l’eau turquoise. C’est magnifique ! 🐢 Et surtout, l’immanquable : à 10min en voiture, on peut accéder aux deux plages connues pour ses tortues : Anse Noire et Anse Dufour. • • • • • • #martinique #madininia #visitmartinique #martiniquetourisme #antilles #caraibes #caribbeans #aircaraibes #trav...
sophie.voyages
573 likes • 13.8K views
Découvrir la faune marine. Nager avec des tortues. Un rêve réalisé. 🐡🐢 Voici les plages que je te recommande pour nager avec des tortues : Anse Dufour, Anse Madame, Plage du bourg des Anses d'Arlet, Grande Anse. Et toi ? As tu déjà nagé avec des tortues ? . . . Discover marine life. Swim with turtles. A dream come true. 🐡🐢 Here are the beaches I recommend for swimming with turtles: Anse Dufo...
sar.ah.rt
17 likes • 304 views

🤿 Snorkel Gear Essential

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world. Instagram

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Parking near the popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reddit

😎 Envie de détente ? Ce reel est pour toi... 🎵 Met la musique, regarde en boucle... 🧘‍♂️ Ça marche non ? 📍 Anse Dufour - Les Anses d'Arlet - Martinique #martinique #martiniquetourisme #ansedufour #ansesdarlet #madinina #antillesfrancaises #travelbucketlist #steelband #caribbeanlife #caribbeanmusic #caribbeanbeauty #natureloversofinstagram #travelcaribbean #instagramableplace #dronevideography
fabrrx
272 likes • 1.7K views

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! Instagram+1

☀️ Beat the Midday Sun

Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people. Instagram+1

🤿 Snorkel Gear Essential

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world. Instagram

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Parking near the popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Swimming with sea turtles
Iconic church and pontoon
Beautiful turquoise waters

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Basic facilities

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Yes, Anse Dufour is excellent for snorkeling, especially for spotting sea turtles. The water is generally clear, and the marine life is abundant. Instagram

Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, and your snorkeling gear. A waterproof bag for your valuables is also a good idea. Instagram

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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! Instagram+1

Yes, but always from a respectful distance. Avoid using flash, as it can disturb the turtles. Focus on capturing their natural behavior without interfering. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anse Dufour and Les Anses-d'Arlet offer a wonderful family experience, especially for those looking to introduce children to marine life. The shallow, calm waters of Anse Dufour are perfect for young swimmers and snorkelers. Seeing sea turtles can be an incredibly educational and exciting moment for kids, fostering a love for nature. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

🐠 Snorkelers & Divers

For snorkelers and divers, Anse Dufour is a must-visit. The clear waters and abundant marine life, particularly the resident sea turtles, make it a prime spot. Bring your own gear to maximize your time in the water and explore the underwater world at your own pace. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Encountering Martinique's Marine Life

Anse Dufour is a prime location for encountering sea turtles in Martinique. Visitors often report seeing them grazing on seagrass just off the shore. It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals, and responsible interaction is key. Maintain a distance of at least 10 meters (about 30 feet) and never attempt to touch, feed, or chase them. The clear, calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling, allowing you to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat without causing them stress. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The Charm of Les Anses-d'Arlet

Les Anses-d'Arlet is more than just a beach; it's a quintessential Caribbean village that captures the heart of Martinique. Its fame stems from the iconic view of the small, white church standing proudly beside a wooden pontoon, all set against a backdrop of impossibly turquoise water. This scene is a photographer's delight and a symbol of the island's serene beauty. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram