Plage de Grande Anse (Le coin Nord)

Plage du Coin, at Le Carbet in Martinique, is a little corner of paradise. Stretching for almost a kilometre along the north Caribbean coast, this grey sand beach offers an idyllic setting with coconut palms, skiffs and pelicans.

It's the perfect place to spend the day with your feet in the sand, while enjoying views of the famous Montagne Pelée volcano. Although the waters are calm, caution is advised, as the bottom becomes deep quite quickly.

During the week, the beach is a haven of peace, frequented by fishermen engaged in early-morning seine fishing, while at weekends it comes alive with families on picnics. This historic beach, known as the landing place for Christopher Columbus and the first French settlers, is now a place to relax with its bars, restaurants and deckchairs, perfect for sipping a drink with friends, chilling out and enjoying fresh fish and grilled balaous.