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Le Diamant

Martinique's longest beach (4 km of golden sand beaten by trade winds) facing the Diamond Rock — mythical 175-metre volcanic islet that inspired Napoleon.

★ 4.70Sud Martinique

Le Diamant is one of the most emblematic villages of southern Martinique — a seaside commune set on the Caribbean coast, facing the mythical volcanic islet that gives it its name: the Diamond Rock, vertical monolith 175 metres high emerging from the sea 3 km offshore. This uninhabited islet, classified as a Nature Reserve, was famously occupied in 1804 by the British who baptised it 'HMS Diamond Rock' and stationed a garrison there to harass French ships — unique episode in naval history where a cliff was officially classified as His Majesty's ship.

The commune unfolds around its 4 km beach — the longest in Martinique — stretching between Anse Caffard to the west and the village of Le Diamant to the east, facing the Rock in the background. It is a golden sand beach (and not white like Les Salines), beaten by constant trade winds that make it an ideal playground for beginner surfing and bodyboarding. Swimming is pleasant but the sea more agitated than at Les Salines: imperatively follow the signal flags (green, yellow, red) at the beach edge.

The Cap 110 Memorial (Anse Caffard, western end of the beach) is one of the most moving memorial sites of the island. Work of Martinican sculptor Laurent Valère inaugurated in 1998, the memorial consists of 15 monumental white statues (3 metres tall, facing the Gulf of Guinea) commemorating the wreck of a clandestine slave ship off Le Diamant in 1830. The statues form a triangle recalling the commercial triangle of the Atlantic trade. Free contemplation site, accessible 24/7, particularly striking at sunset.

The village of Le Diamant has retained an authentic Creole village atmosphere: church by the beach, small colourful houses, Saturday morning market, family Creole tables d'hôtes and beach bars where ti-punch is sipped at sunset facing the Rock. 5 km northeast, Anse Cafard and Pointe Burgos offer beautiful coastal hikes and exceptional panoramas.

What we love

  • ✅4 km beach longest in Martinique, facing the emblematic Rock
  • ✅Ideal conditions for beginner surfing and bodyboarding (regular and gentle waves)
  • ✅Cap 110 Memorial: moving and powerful memorial site, free
  • ✅Authentic village with relaxed Creole atmosphere and tables d'hôtes
  • ✅Diving and snorkeling at Diamond Rock (3 major sites accessible from the village)

What to know

  • ❌Significant swell possible in winter and hivernage: cautious swimming, follow flags
  • ❌Golden sand beach (not white): less photogenic for the classic Caribbean postcard
  • ❌Nightlife almost non-existent (quiet family atmosphere)
  • ❌No protected lagoon: prefer Sainte-Anne or Anses d'Arlet for young children
  • ❌Limited accommodation in the village itself: prefer surrounding villas
When to go
Climate and best seasons.
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Budget
Cost of living and tips.
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Things to do
Activities and must-sees.
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Situation

Où se situe Le Diamant ?

Ouvrir la carte en grand sur OpenStreetMap →

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Diamond Rock?+
The Rock is classified as a Nature Reserve since 1995: land access is strictly forbidden (preservation of endemic fauna, notably snakes and iguanas). However, you can approach it by boat (outing from Le Diamant village, €30-50/person, 1-2h) for spectacular photographs. Diving around the Rock is one of the most popular in Martinique: 3 major sites (South Point, North Point, Drop-off) with pelagic fauna (barracudas, rays, turtles, sometimes grey sharks). Village diving centres offer baptisms (€50-65) and explorations (€35-50).
Is Le Diamant suitable for surfing?+
Yes, it's one of the best Martinique spots for beginner and intermediate surfers. Waves are regular (constant trade winds), moderate height (1-1.5 m most of the time), and the sandy bottom reduces risks. Several surf schools are installed on Dizac beach (Diamond Surf School, Drop'in Surf): group lessons €35-50/1.5h session, private lessons €60-90/h, board rental €15-25/day. Best surf period: November to April (more marked northeast swell). In summer, waves are gentler.
What is the Cap 110 Memorial?+
The Cap 110 Memorial (Anse Caffard, western end of Le Diamant beach) is a memorial site inaugurated in 1998 by Martinican sculptor Laurent Valère. It consists of 15 monumental white statues 3 metres tall, facing the Gulf of Guinea (West Africa). The memorial commemorates the wreck of a clandestine slave ship off Le Diamant in April 1830 — 46 years after the abolition of the slave trade by France. The triangle formed by the statues recalls the commercial triangle of the Atlantic trade. Free site, accessible 24/7, particularly moving at sunset. Plan 30-45 min visit, in silence and respect.
Where to stay in Le Diamant?+
Four options. Village hotels: Diamant Les Bains (3*, €110-180/night, beachfront), Diamant Beach Hotel (3*, €100-150/night). Beachfront rentals: apartments and studios facing Dizac beach (€80-150/night depending on season). Heights villas with view over the Rock: most romantic option (€150-350/night for 4-6 people). Hotel-clubs: 5-10 min by car (Karibea Sainte-Luce, Diamant Beach Resort), all-inclusive formula possible. Book 3-6 months in advance in carême.
What to do in Le Diamant in case of agitated sea?+
Several alternatives. Cap 110 Memorial (moving visit 30-45 min). Pointe Burgos hike (3 km round trip coastal trail, panoramas over the Rock and the sea). Trois-Rivières distillery (Sainte-Luce, 15 min, free visit with tasting). La Mauny distillery (Rivière-Pilote, 20 min, free visit). Excursion to Sainte-Anne and Les Salines (30 min) for swimming in protected lagoon. Habitation Clément (Le François, 45 min, distillery + gardens + contemporary art, €14).
Is Le Diamant accessible from the airport?+
Yes, plan 30-35 minutes from Aimé Césaire airport (Lamentin) via the A1 then the N5. Car rental is the only practical option (taxi transfers: €50-70 depending on time and luggage). If you plan several days at Le Diamant, pick up your car at the airport upon arrival. Parking is generally free in the village and on Dizac parking, but the latter can fill up in high season on weekends.

Our verdict

Le Diamant is one of the most endearing villages of Martinique — the one combining the longest beach of the island, the mythical Rock, the moving Cap 110 Memorial and a preserved authentic Creole atmosphere. Plan 2 to 4 days on Le Diamant: beach and swimming day (follow the flags), half-day diving at the Rock, discovery day (memorial, Pointe Burgos hike, ti-punch facing sunset). Ideally stay in an independent rental in the village or in a heights villa with view over the Rock (€90-200/night off-season). Visit in March-April for the best compromise of weather, crowds and rates. The ritual: ti-punch on the Dizac beach facing the Rock, at the golden hour of sunset — one of the most beautiful moments of a Martinican stay.

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The Editors
The Editorsauteur principal✓ Verified

"Pic touristique haute saison sèche."

Expert on Le Diamant · 1 contributions

Reviewed by :Africa & Americas Desk — Mowando·Editor

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