Welcome to Sainte-Luce, a charming coastal town in Martinique that offers a unique blend of French and Caribbean culture. For expats and digital nomads who have made this tropical paradise their temporary home, exploring local markets is a must-do activity. Sainte-Luce’s markets are vibrant and diverse, offering everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Here’s a guide to the best markets in Sainte-Luce, where you can soak up the local atmosphere and find some treasures to take home.
Marche Couvert de Sainte-Luce
Location: Downtown Sainte-Luce
Type of Market: Covered Market
Open: Monday to Saturday, 6 am – 2 pm
The Marche Couvert de Sainte-Luce is a bustling covered market where locals and visitors alike come to shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and seafood. The vibrant colors and scents of the market make it a sensory delight. It’s a great place to interact with local vendors and practice your French or Creole.
We Recommend: Try the freshly caught fish or the local spices to add some authentic Creole flavor to your cooking.
Marche de Poterie
Location: Near the Trois-Rivieres rum distillery
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm
Marche de Poterie is not just a market; it’s a cultural experience. Located close to a historic pottery village, this market specializes in ceramic crafts and other artisanal goods. It’s the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts, such as hand-painted mugs, plates, and decorative items.
We Recommend: Look out for the traditional Martinique madras fabric, which is used to make colorful clothing and accessories.
Marche aux Epices
Location: Central Sainte-Luce
Type of Market: Spice Market
Open: Wednesday and Saturday, 7 am – 1 pm
For those who love cooking or want to bring the flavors of the Caribbean back home, the Marche aux Epices is a treasure trove. This market is dedicated to spices, herbs, and seasonings. You’ll find everything from cinnamon and nutmeg to the fiery Scotch bonnet peppers.
We Recommend: Purchase some homemade Creole spice blends to make your own authentic Caribbean dishes.
Marche Artisanal de Sainte-Luce
Location: Along the waterfront
Type of Market: Artisan Market
Open: Fridays, 4 pm – 9 pm
The Marche Artisanal de Sainte-Luce is an evening market that offers a relaxed atmosphere for shopping and socializing. Here, you’ll find local artisans selling handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and other crafts. It’s also a great spot to enjoy some street food while watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
We Recommend: Sample the accras de morue (salt cod fritters), a popular Martinique snack, from one of the food vendors.
Marche du Bourg
Location: Main town square of Sainte-Luce
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Thursday mornings
The Marche du Bourg is a traditional market that takes place in the heart of Sainte-Luce. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in local life and find a wide range of products, from fresh produce to clothing and household goods. The market is particularly lively in the morning, so get there early to enjoy the best selection.
We Recommend: Pick up some tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, or guavas for a refreshing snack or to add to your breakfast.
Marche de Nuit de Sainte-Luce
Location: Central Sainte-Luce, near the beach
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Occasional Saturdays, check local listings for dates, 7 pm – midnight
The Marche de Nuit de Sainte-Luce is an occasional night market that offers a festive atmosphere with live music and entertainment. It’s a great place to shop for unique items under the stars and enjoy the cool evening breeze. The market also features food stalls serving delicious local cuisine.
We Recommend: Try the bokit, a fried bread sandwich filled with meats, cheese, or vegetables, for a tasty late-night treat.
Please note that market days and hours can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information before planning your visit. Enjoy exploring the vibrant markets of Sainte-Luce!
