Welcome to Schoelcher, a picturesque town 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. These markets are not just places to shop; they are vibrant hubs of community life where you can find fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and a taste of the local flavor. Here are some of the best markets in Schoelcher that you should definitely check out.
Marche de Schoelcher
Location: Central Schoelcher, near the waterfront
Type of Market: Local Produce and Craft Market
Open: Monday to Saturday, 6 am – 2 pm
The Marche de Schoelcher is the heart of the town’s local commerce. Here, you can find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, and handcrafted items. The market is a colorful and lively place where local farmers and artisans come to sell their goods. It’s a great spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some fresh ingredients for your next meal.
We Recommend: Try the locally grown pineapples and mangos, which are said to be some of the sweetest you’ll ever taste. Also, look out for the hand-woven baskets, perfect for a picnic or as a souvenir.
Plage de Madiana Market
Location: Plage de Madiana, Schoelcher
Type of Market: Beachfront Artisan Market
Open: Weekends, 10 am – 6 pm
Located right on the beach, the Plage de Madiana Market offers a unique shopping experience with a view. This market is smaller but specializes in local crafts and jewelry. It’s an excellent place for finding unique gifts and souvenirs handcrafted by local artisans. The relaxed beach atmosphere makes for a pleasant shopping experience.
We Recommend: Look for the handmade Larimar stone jewelry, a rare blue stone found only in the Caribbean, which makes for a unique and beautiful keepsake.
Terres Sainville Market
Location: Terres Sainville area, Schoelcher
Type of Market: Farmers and General Goods Market
Open: Daily, 7 am – 3 pm
Though not in Schoelcher proper, the Terres Sainville Market is just a short drive away and offers a wide range of products from fresh produce to clothing and household items. It’s a bustling market where locals shop for their daily needs, and it’s a great place to find everything you might need in one place.
We Recommend: Sample some of the local cheeses and charcuterie for a taste of the French influence on the island’s cuisine.
Case a Léo
Location: Near the University of the Antilles, Schoelcher
Type of Market: Artisanal Food Market
Open: Fridays, 4 pm – 9 pm
Case a Léo is a weekly market that focuses on artisanal food products. It’s a great place to discover local delicacies and gourmet items made by small-scale producers. The market has a friendly atmosphere, and vendors are often happy to chat about their products.
We Recommend: Don’t miss out on the homemade preserves and sauces, which can add a Caribbean twist to any dish.
Fort-de-France Spice Market
Location: A short drive to Fort-de-France, the capital city
Type of Market: Spice and Food Market
Open: Daily, 6 am – 3 pm
While not in Schoelcher itself, the Fort-de-France Spice Market is an institution and well worth the trip. This market is a feast for the senses, with vendors offering a rainbow of spices, herbs, and seasonings. It’s the perfect place to find ingredients that will add authentic Creole flavor to your cooking.
We Recommend: Pick up some Colombo powder, a local spice blend that is essential for many Martinican recipes.
Please note that the opening hours and days of operation for these markets may change, so it’s always a good idea to check locally for the most current information before planning your visit.
