20 Things to do in Dominica in 2025
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Let me help you plan the most memorable Dominica vacation! This article outlines 20 unique and unforgettable things to do in Dominica based on my own travel to the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
And if you enjoy this post, you’ll love my 7-day Dominica itinerary, too!
20 of the Best Things to Do in Dominica
Relax at the Beach
A common question I’ve seen is does Dominica have nice beaches? While Dominica has fewer beaches than some other Caribbean islands, the ones you will find here are uniquely beautiful. The volcanic soil creates black sand beaches, and there’s so much to see beneath the water, too!
Popular beaches include Batibou Beach, Coconut Beach, and Mero Beach near Roseau.
Pro Travel Tip
By law, Dominica’s beaches are free and public, but be sure to bring local currency (KYD) for amenities and food.
Make sure you pack water shoes to protect your feet from the rocks, pebbles, and seashells at the shoreline–I’m so glad I brought mine.
Check out my packing list for Dominica to make sure you have everything you’ll need!
Go Diving or Snorkeling
Dominica is known around the world for free-diving, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Even near the surface of the sea, you can see stunning coral reefs and marine life. Snorkeling in Champagne Reef was one of my favorite experiences in Dominica, and I highly recommend it.
Try this highly-rated multi-stop water tour that includes Champagne Bay, hot springs, and waterfalls!
Spend a Day in Soufriere
Portsmouth and Roseau are popular destinations in Dominica–with good reason–but I was privileged to spend time in Soufriere, Dominica, which is on the island’s southwest coast, and encourage you to add a stop to your itinerary.
Soufriere is a freedive hot spot and close to the Scott’s Head landmark among several other historic, cultural, and natural attractions like a sulfuric hot springs park!
Check out my full list of things to do in Soufriere!
See Historical Sites
Dominica has a rich history that intersects with nearby islands and nations around the world, so there was far more than I could even take in during my week-long stay. There are two national parks with multiple historic sites within: Cabrits National Park and Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I also enjoyed visiting Trafalgar Falls, which consists of two waterfalls that are close to each other but sourced from different bodies of water! Aside from this fun fact, it’s named after the Battle of Trafalgar, from Dominica’s periods of British colonial rule.
And if you’re into colonial history, specifically, go to the Morne Bruce Viewpoint in Roseau. We toured the remains of colonial military barracks and religious sculptures and took in panoramic views of the capital city and Caribbean Sea.
If you’re short on time, this Roseau tour hits many highlights, including Morne Bruce and Trafalgar Falls!
Eat Delicious Local Food
If you think you’ve tried all the best Caribbean food, no, you haven’t! In my opinion, the mineral-rich ground and ancient growing practices in Dominica produce some of the tastiest food I’ve had of any destination. It’s one of the best Caribbean islands to visit for foodies.
Tropical fruits, extra-strong Dominican coffee, cassava cakes, and fresh-caught seafood are some of my faves, but you almost can’t go wrong no matter what you try.
Here are all my recommendations for foods you must eat in Dominica for travelers!
Hike through the Rainforest
Dominica is a dreamy year-round destination for hikers with an extensive network of trails at different elevations through beautiful terrain. The most well-known trail is the Waitukubuli National Trail, which spans over 100 miles, making it the longest in the Caribbean region.
I’ve gone on guided hikes to Middleham Falls and along the Perdu Temps Trail, which are considered moderately challenging trails. (I found them plenty challenging.) Popular advanced options include the Boiling Lake hike, which I’ll touch on below.
Also, there are no poisonous or predatory animals on the island, which adds a certain level of ease to these adventures and makes them more suitable with kids, depending on age!
Check out my experience hiking Perdu Temps in Dominica!
Tour the Indian River
Dominica has a river for every day of the year (that’s 365), and the Indian River is one of the most iconic because it was heavily featured in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.
Aside from the film fame, the river is picturesque and teeming with wildlife. The name “Indian River” comes from the fact that Dominica’s indigenous Kalinago people once lived along its banks. The river was historically and commercially significant.
Book a tour of the Indian River and enjoy rum punch and local cuisine at the famous Bush Bar!
Swim Under a Waterfall
The big payoff of hiking Middleham Falls was scrambling down into the crystal clear pool at the bottom and rinsing all my sweat away!
Floating in the cool water and looking up at the 300-foot high waterfall surrounded by forest plants and flying birds is almost magical. This is a Dominica bucket list item I think you’ll be happy to check off.
Shop at Roseau Market
The Old Market of Roseau is believed to be the last remaining old market among the Caribbean islands and not only a hub of history but also a great place to shop for both things to enjoy on the island or take home as souvenirs and gifts.
It’s easily accessible for cruise and ferry passengers, too, so if you’re coming from the cruise port for a day or half-day, there’s lots to do in Roseau.
Read up on my tips for visiting the Roseau Old Market of Dominica!
Try Liming
Liming is not unique to Dominica, so you’ve probably heard of it in other places within the Caribbean region like Trinidad and Tobago or Jamaica. The term actually has a local relevance that I won’t spoil for you here, but no matter the locale, liming is just hanging out, talking, listening to music, and enjoying time in community.
You might even [finally] learn to play Dominoes, like I did!
Soak in Sulphuric Hot Springs
The volcanic nature of Dominica has creatued several thermal springs flowing with mineral-infused water. Whether you want to relax sore muscles after adventuring, coat your skin in a natural mineral mud mask for beauty benefits, or enjoy an outdoor spa, this is the thing to try.
I spent a lazy afternoon soaking at Bambooze Sulphur Baths in Soufriere, which I recommend if you’re in the southwest area of the island. Other popular soaking spots are Tia’s Hot Springs, Screw’s Sulphur Spa, and Bongo Baths!
Swim in Titou Gorge
The Titou Gorge is a series of natural pools flanked by cliffs of rock, for a partially underground feeling as you swim through. The cliff walls are actually formed from cooled molten lava from one of Dominica’s volcanoes. At the end of the swim, you can dip in yet another hot spring.
Enjoy a Nature-Infused Spa Day
On such an active vacation, self-care and recovery are super important, which is why I think you’ll want to have at least one spa day on your trip.
I booked an all-inclusive package at Jungle Bay Eco-Resort, which came with daily 30-minute treatments using natural products infused with oils and ingredients from the island. Each massage, scrub, and pedicure was a sensory healing experience and very much needed between all the hiking, swimming, and walking.
Read my honest review of staying at Jungle Bay Dominica!
Make Your Own Herbal Tea
You’ll probably enjoy lots of tea while traveling to Dominica. It’s a tradition with deep cultural roots, and there’s a tea for just about any kind of ailment or craving.
Take that a step further with an herbal tea-making class using fresh local ingredients to craft your own custom blend. I kicked off my Dominica journey with an herbal learning class and created a tea of bougainvillea, cinnamon leaf, lemon sage, and shell ginger!
Tour Kalinago Territory
Another thing that makes Dominica unique and unusual is that it is home to the largest remaining Indigenous community in the Caribbean: the Kalinago people, who descend from the island’s original, pre-colonial inhabitants.
The Kalinago territory makes up 3,700 acres of the island, with eight villages, as well as trails, pools, and waterfalls. Tourism is welcomed with options ranging from a few hours to staying for a day or longer.
Experience an Unofficial Blue Zone
If you’ve watched the Netflix Blue Zones docuseries, you’ll recognize that a lot of similar traits exist in Dominica. I was shocked to learn that the high concentration of centenarians, active, natural lifestyle, and nutrient-dense diets didn’t qualify it to be featured, but it is what it is.
After just a couple of days on Dominica, I was ready to plan my next trip or even apply for citizenship. It just felt like such a healthy place to be, and the proof is in the longevity of its people.
Listen to Dominican Kweyol Music
The vibes on Dominica are distinct from most any other Caribbean island, and the music plays a big part in that! You’ll hear genres like Afrobeats and Reggae and Reggaeton while liming and enjoying the nightlife. But Kweyol, aka Creole, music is unmistakable, and everybody goes up for it, so you’ll know when it’s on!
Pro Travel Tip
Take a walk along the seawall at the Roseau Cruise Terminal to view murals of iconic Dominican Creole musicians.
Learn About Sustainable Farming
One of many highlights of my time visiting Dominica was spending an afternoon at Mr. Pump’s off-grid homestead, which came as close as I could describe to paradise. Dominicans use rich ancestral knowledge to cultivate delicious and nutritious fruits, vegetables, herbs, and more, all in harmony with nature.
This visit with Mr. Pump is only available through Jungle Bay Dominica, by the way.
Hike to Boiling Lake
Boiling Lake is a volcanic lake located inside Morne Trois Pitons National Park, and it’s the second-largest hot lake in the world. The grayish-blue water reaches almost 200 degrees Fahrenheit and gives off vapor that creates “the boiling” appearance.
I’m not going to lie; I could not do the eight-hour Boiling Lake hike after back-to-back hikes on my trip, so I can’t give you a firsthand review of the experience. It is one of the most popular things to do on Dominica, though, and, while difficult, my fellow travelers (who have stronger knees than me) said they enjoyed it.
The views are the best part of this hike, so be flexible about the day you go during your trip and aim for clear skies with little to no rain. And don’t attempt this one without a local guide!
Visit Roseau Botanic Garden
I’m a botanic garden girl no matter the destination and the Dominica Botanical Gardens in Roseau did not disappoint. Try to visit when the parrot sanctuary is open!
From blooming buttercups to maze-like banyan trees, it’s a great thing to do for families with kids, gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and more. Strolling through the garden’s grounds was a great recovery activity between my more athletic excursions.
Book a city tour that includes major attractions and the most popular things to do in Roseau, including the gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coming from the United States, economy plan tickets generally start around $700 roundtrip during the low season and shoulder seasons and can go upwards of $2,000 during the high season for tourism.
Dominica is known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean for its rich natural landscapes, wildlife, and plant life. A popular slogan is “Keep Dominica clean and green.”
Dominica uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). The exchange rate from USD is currently roughly one to three.
More Favorite Dominica Activities
Now that you know what to see and do in Dominica, I hope you have the best trip. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
