You can absolutely drink the tap water in Martinique—it’s clean, treated, and safe.
Martinique benefits from a well-organized water management system. The tap water is treated and safe to drink, especially in areas frequented by tourists.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink Common Risks: Minimal — high quality standards Brush Teeth? ✅ Yes, no concerns Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ✅ Yes, safe to use tap water Use Ice in Drinks? ✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ❌ No, not necessary
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Martinique.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve taken a close look at the most trusted travel filter bottles so you can avoid waterborne illnesses, cut down on single-use plastic, and skip the bottled water habit. These aren’t products we sell, just ones we genuinely recommend based on research and traveler experiences—you’ll find them listed below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even when tap water meets international safety standards, it can still take some adjustment for travelers. Differences in water chemistry, treatment methods, or piping systems may not affect locals but could lead to minor digestive issues for visitors.
Potential (but low-level) concerns include:
- Changes in mineral content that your body isn’t used to
- Older buildings with worn-out plumbing systems
- Ice or raw produce that might have been rinsed with tap water in less consistent establishments
- Regional variation — even within safe countries, rural areas may differ from urban centers
- Travelers with sensitive stomachs may benefit from filtered water in the first days
These aren’t major health risks, but staying aware of how your body reacts can make your trip more comfortable.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Martinique, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Martinique
Martinique struggles with aging water infrastructure, which often leads to service interruptions and, in some areas, slightly lower water quality. One key concern is the presence of chlordecone—a banned pesticide that still lingers in the environment despite being prohibited in 1993.
Both locals and travelers commonly use reverse osmosis or ultrafiltration systems to purify their drinking water.
FAQs About Tap Water in Martinique
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Absolutely. The tap water in Martinique is safe enough for brushing, rinsing, and even drinking.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Whether you’re cleansing or rinsing after a shower, it’s safe to use the tap here.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Feel free to have drinks with ice here—it’s made with clean, safe water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Showering with local water is routine and perfectly safe for visitors.
Want to avoid unknown minerals or chlorine while you’re abroad? A travel-size shower filter might be worth it. It attaches in seconds—unless the showerhead’s built into the wall, which unfortunately means you’re out of luck. Many travelers swear by this one. Click here to view the latest deal.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
No risk here—washing with local tap water is common and safe.
Is bottled water expensive in Martinique?
If you prefer bottled, it’s affordable—but totally unnecessary here.
Martinique is part of the French Caribbean and commonly visited with nearby islands like Guadeloupe, Dominica, or Saint Lucia. Tap water infrastructure varies across the islands.