Netflix’s “Bandi” brings high-stakes family drama to the screen with a tropical twist. The French-language crime series follows 11 orphaned siblings, ages seven to 23, as they struggle to stay together after their mother’s death. Set against the magnificent beauty of the Caribbean, the story mixes suspense, heartbreak and fierce family loyalty in one unforgettable island setting that’s more than just a backdrop.
“Bandi” was filmed on location in Martinique, a French Caribbean gem in the Lesser Antilles. Fans wondering where shooting took place can visit the island’s vibrant beach bars, lush waterfalls and lively nightlife. All this while exploring the show’s scenery firsthand. This guide highlights the best hotels, restaurants and attractions so you can experience Martinique like a star of the series.
‘Bandi’ Is The First Netflix Series To Film In Martinique
Key Scenes: Many of “Bandi’s” most emotional scenes unfold across Martinique’s most picturesque corners. Selecta Bisso reports that production crews filmed scenes in Fort-de-France, the island’s colorful capital. Here, busy markets and bustling streets add energy to the family’s daily struggles.
Best Time to Visit: December through April brings warm temperatures, lower humidity and sunny skies that make beach hopping and sightseeing easy. This dry season also offers the best weather for exploring the island’s waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Travelers seeking smaller crowds and better prices should aim for May or June, when conditions remain pleasant but resorts feel less busy. July through November marks hurricane season, though visitors can still enjoy lush landscapes and discounted rates.
Transportation Options: Getting around Martinique takes some planning, but the island offers several convenient choices. Rental cars provide the most freedom, especially if you want to explore filming locations, waterfalls and quiet beaches at your own pace. Roads connect most major attractions, and driving gives visitors easy access to remote scenic spots. In Fort-de-France, walking works well for markets, restaurants and harbor views. Taxis are available but often expensive for longer trips, so budget accordingly. Public buses operate in busy areas, though schedules can feel inconsistent. Rideshare services such as Uber are not widely available on the island, so many travelers rely on taxis instead.
One reason “Bandi” feels so vivid is its authentic connection to Martinique. The Martinique Times reports that the series made history as the first Netflix Original filmed on the island, a milestone celebrated by local tourism officials and residents alike. Producers also cast local talent for 75 of the show’s 82 speaking roles, giving the series a strong Martinican voice and a grounded sense of place. According to the Mirror, the production used Martinique’s neighborhoods, beaches and urban spaces to build a world that feels both lush and raw.
Creator Eric Rochant shared in an interview that Martinique offered exactly the kind of “rarely explored” setting he wanted. He explained in France-Antilles Martinique that the team chose the island because “the stories, faces and realities we encountered matched the story we wanted to tell.”
Netflix’s Tudum also praised the location’s authenticity, noting that “Bandi” features “local Martinicans like trap artist Evil P (government name Patrick Trieste) in their debut acting roles,” which helped ground the drama in the island’s real culture and energy. Another familiar face in the series is Jonathan Zaccaï from “The Bureau.”
Things to Do: Martinique offers far more than TV-worthy scenery. Start with Les Salines Beach, one of the island’s most stunning stretches of white sand, perfect for swimming and sunset views. Then, head inland to Jardin de Balata, a lush botanical garden filled with tropical flowers and suspended canopy bridges. Nature lovers should also visit Cascade Didier, a scenic waterfall tucked into the rainforest. For nightlife, Fort-de-France offers lively beach bars and clubs where music spills into the streets. Animal lovers can explore the Caravelle Nature Reserve to spot native birds and coastal wildlife.
Where to Eat: Martinique’s food scene mixes French refinement with Caribbean flavor. In Fort-de-France, Le Baba serves inventive dishes with local ingredients in a stylish atmosphere. For fresh seafood and ocean views, Le Poisson Rouge in Le Diamant remains a favorite among visitors. Those seeking traditional Creole flavors should try Chez Carole, known for hearty island classics like accras and Colombo chicken. Beachfront bars near Les Trois-Îlets also offer rum cocktails and grilled seafood just steps from the sand.
Where to Stay: Luxury seekers should consider La Suite Villa in Les Trois-Îlets, where private terraces and sweeping Caribbean views create a romantic retreat. Hotel Bakoua provides beachfront convenience and quick access to restaurants and nightlife, making it ideal for first-time visitors. For boutique charm, Hôtel Plein Soleil offers secluded bungalows surrounded by tropical gardens. Budget-conscious travelers can find comfortable guesthouses near Fort-de-France that keep them close to major attractions without high resort prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I stream “Bandi”?
You can stream “Bandi” exclusively on Netflix. The series premiered on the platform on Apr. 9, 2026, as Netflix’s first Martinique-filmed original production.
Will there be a season two of “Bandi”?
Netflix has not officially announced a second season of “Bandi.” According to What’s on Netflix, the ending leaves room for more storylines, but renewal will depend on viewership and audience response in the months after release.
