The quest to find the ultimate beach paradise is a hot topic but no others are like the beaches in this region.

An island in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies is home to a very unusual-looking paradise that's swapped the golden sands synonymous with hotspots.

That's because this sunny spot has beaches filled with black volcanic sand which stands as a strong contrast compared to its bright blue, crystal-clear waters.

There are only about 20 black sand beaches in the world, making this spot a true unique gem.

Alongside its pitch black beach sands, it also boasts of lush rainforests, soaring peaks with glorious temperatures of 29C in February.

Martinique is an island and overseas territorial collectivity of , in the eastern Caribbean Sea and is nicknamed "the Island of Flowers".

The lesser-known Caribbean spot is one-of-a-kind thanks to its volcanic landscapes but with so much more to offer.

Here, you will find a rich French-Caribbean culture, lush rainforests, a laid-back atmosphere and mouth watering cuisine.

It earned its "Island of Flowers" nickname thanks to the region's vibrant and diverse plant life with a host of outdoor activities making it the ideal spot for your next sun-drenched getaway.

The island's unusual beach sand is due to a composition of eroded volcanic rock which gives it its dark black colour and is more prevalent in the northern section of the island due to its vicinity to Mount Pelée - an active volcano.

Another factor that puts Martinique on the map is Le Grand Marché Couvert, or Covered Market and is one of the most vibrant markets in the Caribbean.

This friendly market is brimming with fruit and vegetables from farms all over the island with essential ingredients sold here such as spices, vanilla and peppers.

Its on-site restaurants serve up the quintessential Caribbean cuisines including Creole dishes such as grilled fish, lambis (large sea snails), accras (fritters), crayfish, chicken Colombo and octopus.

The must-see attraction in Martinique, the island's active naval base and a listed historic site is an iconic landmark and a history buff's dream.

Known as Fort-St-Louis, it was built in 1640 and is an integral part of Martinique's narrative, making it a can't-miss attraction.

Other notable spots here include a rum distillery, heritage site, plantation and museum called Habitation Clément or a three-hectare outdoor museum known as La Savane Des Esclaves.

As for the best time to visit this blackened-beach paradise, Lonely Planet advises during its dry season which runs from December to mid-April.