10 Things to do in Soufriere Dominica

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If you’re planning a trip to the gorgeous island of Dominica, the coastal town of Soufriere should be on your itinerary. This post is full of my favorite Soufriere, Dominica things to do that you can squeeze into a day trip, weekend getaway, or sprinkle throughout your vacation.

And if you enjoy this post, you’ll love my list of things to do in Dominica, too!

colorful buildings that make up the town of Soufriere, Dominica, nestled in the hilly Soufriere Volcano Valley.

Where is Soufriere located?

Soufriere is part of Saint Mark Parish, Dominica, and sits on the island’s southwest coast on Soufriere Bay. As you move away from the ocean, this village is hilly and surrounded by mountains–some volcanic!

Coming from Roseau (Dominica’s capital city and major cruise port), it takes about 30 minutes to get to Soufriere by rental car, taxi or bus.

Do you prefer to be in the driver’s seat? Check out rental car options in Dominica!

My 10 Things to Do

Jazzmine soaking in manmade warm pool at Bambooze soufriere sulphur springs dominica.

Soak in Sulphuric Hot Springs

The name Soufriere translates to sulphuric mine or area with sulphuric deposits in French. And the origin of the town’s name is tied to its connection to Dominica’s volcanic activity, specifically via the La Soufriere Volcano.

So the geothermal pools sourced from the Soufriere Volcano are not only warm but also full of minerals, which makes the local hot springs different from springs I’ve visited elsewhere in the world, like the Banff Alberta Hot Springs and Chena Springs in Alaska.

The Bambooze Sulphur Baths were constructed by a Soufriere local after the area’s natural hot springs infrastructure was damaged during Hurricane Maria. And, though it’s man-made, it still feels utterly part of nature. I really loved soaking with the views of trees and towering mountains and the sounds of running water and chirping birds.

Based on my visit, I’d describe Soufriere’s Sulfur Springs more as warm springs than hot springs and there is a cold plunge pool onsite, if you’re feeling more adventurous. I could only get in up to waist before I tapped out!

Another unique draw are the DIY sulfur masks you can do for free using clay straight from the source.

There are changing room, snacks and drinks for purchase, and free WiFi available. You’ll need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and cash for entry.

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Freedive up to 300 Feet

Dominica is known as one of the best places in the Caribbean to snorkel and scuba dive. And the impressive cliffs and mountains that span the island also continue beneath the water, which means that you can dive to extreme depths–up to 90 meteres–much closer to the shoreline.

The water is also remarkably clear. And this combination makes Dominica one of the best places for freediving in the world and Soufriere is a hot spot!

In Soufriere Bay, you can train to free dive year-round or time your visit to participate in an international freediving competition.

And here’s everything you need to know about going snorkeling in Dominica’s Champagne Reef!

small fishing boats on water in Soufriere Bay from Bubble Beach.

Go to Bubble Beach

Soufriere is a fishing town and the area supplies roughly 40% of the island’s seafood! So Bubble Beach is a great spot not only for kayaking or heading out to dive but also to watch the boats going out and coming in for the day from the Soufriere docks.

The beach itself is pebbly but so not ideal for laying around but there are nearby beach clubs and restaurants where you can sit and eat or drink right on the water.

Bubble Beach is also popular with local residents for simply hanging out and catching up at the end of the workday or workweek. More on that below.

colorful Soufriere Catholic Church of Saint Mark in Saint Mark's Parish Dominica.

Visit an 18th Century Church

The Soufriere Catholic Church of Saint Mark is an historic local landmark that sits just steps from the beach. As one of the island’s oldest churches, it’s an important part of local life and a draw for tourists.

One fun fact about the church’s history is that it was constructed from volcanic rock, which contributes to its unique look. I was struck by the bright colors of the church’s interior and exterior. It’s even more striking in person than I could capture in photos.

Also check out my Antigua & Barbuda itinerary, which includes a visiting their historic colorful limestone church!

foggy green mountain surrounded by lush edible plants and flowers in Soufriere Volcano Valley.
Jazzmine smelling pink bougainvillea flowers in a bright blue stone plaza in Soufriere Dominica.

Commune with Nature

Dominica is known as the Nature Island so there are endless opportunities to enjoy wildlife, plants, and landscapes above and below water.

Soufriere sits in a volcano valley and the mineral-rich soil yields beautiful plants from lush forested areas to storied local farms.

And the area is natural hilly so you can turn a stroll through town into a cardio-friendly nature hike easily. Keep the elevation in mind and bring a bottle of water!

kayak facing Scott's Head in Soufriere Bay.

Kayak to Scott’s Head

The neighbording village of Scott’s Head is connected to a peninsula that separates the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, culminating in a peak known as Fort Cachacrou. When the water conditions are right, you can go kayaking all the way from Bubble Beach to this area.

Scott’s Head plays a pivotal role in Dominica’s colonial history, which includes repeated power struggles between the British and the French. But there’s also fascinating natural history below the water line.

If you’re into snorkeling and diving, the Scott’s Head Pinnacles should be on your list!

Explore Lime Factory Ruins

The L. Rose Lime Factory was once a central part of Soufriere and Dominica’s economic activity.

Although production of lime juice, cordials, and jams is not longer the booming industry it once was, you can still learn about the process and impact while touring the historical site where the factory used to operate.

I recommend this activity for history buffs, especially foodies.

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Try Liming

brown hand holding dominoes at brown table on rocky Bubble Beach in Soufriere, Dominica.
colorful sign reading: Weefee's Kubuli Snack Shack.

Liming is a uniquely Caribbean activity that simple means to hang out and spend time with friends. The term liming is popular across multiple Caribbean islands but in Soufriere, it’s tied to how the lime factory workers would relax and socialize at the end of the workday or workweek.

In Soufriere, liming takes place at Bubble Beach, where people gather to play dominos, catch up, dance, and more.

Weefee’s Kubuli Snack Shack (pictured above) is a good spot for that right on the beach. You can get local beer here as well as about a dozen local rum options. My favorites were the sorrel and raisin rum.

Here, I finally learned to play dominos at my big age and even won a game! And watching the sunset over the ocean with the sounds of Dominican Creole music and waves crashing was just perfect.

brown hand holding bottle of Kubuli lager beer on Bubble Beach Spa in Soufriere village.

Drink Local Beer

Ok, I’m not a beer drinker by any means but feel compelled to try the local options when I travel and Dominica’s Kubuli is one of my favorites!

The name Kubuli is an homage to the original indigenous name of Dominica, Wai’tukubuli. Kubuli is brewed with Dominican spring water and has limited distribution outside the island so you won’t find it many other places. To me, that makes it a must try.

View of Fort Cacharou in Scott's Head, Dominica, from the infinity pool at Jungle Bay Resort in Soufriere.

Staycation at Jungle Bay

There are several accommodations options in and around Soufriere like guesthouses, airbnbs, and hotels. The most expansive and luxurious is Jungle Bay, in my opinon.

I stayed at this Dominican-owned hotel and for about a week and my experience showed me exactly why it’s such a popular place for visitors from abroad and local residents seeking a nearby staycation.

From an unbeatable view of Scott’s Head over the infinity pool to the lush grounds and open garden, it’s 10 out of 10.

Read my full review of staying at Jungle Bay Resort in Soufriere!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel to Soufriere?

Soufriere, and Dominica as a whole, are considered very safe with low crime rates and a level one travel advisory from the United States Department of State.

More Favorite Activities

I hope this roundup of what to do in Soufriere, Dominica, is helpful to you and that you enjoy the Nature Island soon and very soon. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

collage of images of Soufriere Catholic Church, Black woman smelling fresh flowers, Jungle Bay Resort infinity pool overlooking Scott's Head, and a brown hand holding bottle of Kubuli beer with text overlay: top 10 things to do in soufriere, dominica.
colorful houses down a hillside in Dominican village with text overlay: how to spend a day in soufriere what to know before you go.
view of Fort Cacharou from Soufriere with text overlay: fun things to do in Soufriere, Dominica.

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