Dominica is known as an island for nature lovers with breathtaking natural beauty, a well-preserved local culture, and lots of opportunities for adventure. This is an underrated Caribbean island to visit for waterfall and volcano hiking, scuba diving, and fun cultural music festivals. Hot sulfur springs can soothe your sore muscles, and you won’t have to fight the crowds as you do in other Caribbean destinations.
One of the best times to visit Dominica is between October and December because the climate is pleasant and the hotel rates are affordable. Oftentimes, since there aren’t any international direct flights that arrive in Dominica, you can expect to find the blissful solitude you seek and reconnect with nature here. These are some of the best hotels and resorts in Dominica to consider for your trip.
Pagua Bay House Oceanfront Cabanas
Pagua Bay House Oceanfront Cabanas combines rustic style with luxurious amenities to suit any traveler’s needs and wishes. This is a top pick for travelers who want to spend a lot of time swimming and partaking in water sports. The cottages have private baths, cable/satellite TV, king beds, refrigerators, and other amenities. Popular water sports to try while staying here include tubing and kayaking. The staff can also set you up with zip lining, diving, whale watching, and extreme canyoning tours. The on-site restaurant serves Caribbean/American fusion cuisine and offers some tasty rum punch cocktails. Nearby, guests can visit Spany’s Twin Falls, the Waitukubuli Trail, and Antrizle Beach.
Rosalie Bay Eco Resort
Rosalie Bay is an eco-friendly resort that’s as luxurious as it is sustainable. You can take organic cooking classes and yoga classes here, as well as jungle hikes and sea turtle educational sessions. You can also book a hot river stone massage and enjoy all the comforts of home, like flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi internet, after long days of strenuous activity. The resort is 45 minutes from Roseau, the capital city, and has cozy rooms and suites. Zamaan, the on site restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and daily rates include a healthy continental breakfast.
The Champs
Guests who stay at this hotel will enjoy a location in the village of Picard and views of Prince Rupert Bay. You can also take a much-needed dip in the hot tub after hiking around the island. The on-site restaurant and bar offers a full-service dinner menu daily and weekend brunches. Yoga classes and massages are offered here, and the Melville Hall Airport is about 45 minutes away by car. The hotel rates include a welcome cocktail when you arrive, breakfast, and free Wi-Fi Internet access.
Jungle Bay Resort & Spa
For a rustic cottage experience with luxury-style in Dominica, consider the Jungle Bay Resort & Spa. It’s easy to get active and involved here with power walks, jungle hikes, and Pilates classes. The on-site restaurant places a priority on serving locally-grown, sustainable foods, and guests can relax and unwind in the pool and at the Spa du Soleil.
Fort Young Hotel
History buffs will enjoy a stay at the Fort Young Hotel, which dates back to the 1700s when it was a fort site built by the French and captured by the British. There are spacious rooms and suites at this hotel, which boasts a unique combination of old-world charm and beachside amenities. It’s an ideal spot for business travelers, adventurous couples, and family vacations. The hotel has a dive shop, and there are lots of nearby excursions for hikers and bird watchers too. The Palisades Restaurant serves local favorites and international classics while Warner’s Bar is a great on-site spot to grab a cocktail.
Atlantique View Resort & Spa
The Atlantique View Resort and Spa combines the best of both European and Caribbean luxury in a tranquil setting on the northeastern end of Dominica. Guests who stay here are just five minutes from the beach and enjoy lovely views of the ocean. There are chic rooms and suites, all of which have Jacuzzi tubs, cable TV, and other expected amenities. Onsite, you’ll also find a pool, gym, restaurant, bar, beauty/barber shop, basketball court, tennis court, and spa. The resort is 35 minutes from the Douglas Charles Airport and 15 minutes from the town of Portsmouth. Movie nights are held once a week in the conference center, and other popular activities are fishing, bird watching, swimming, kayaking, diving, and hiking.
Secret Bay
Another great resort in Dominica is Secret Bay, which is well-known for its beach access and top-notch customer service. This is a great pick for couples looking for a romantic and secluded getaway. It’s located on the island’s northwestern coast, and the villas and bungalows have full kitchens and outdoor showers. It has won numerous awards for being one of the best boutique resorts in the Caribbean. Savor fresh, locally-grown food while staying at Secret Bay, as personalized cooking service (up to two meals per day) is provided for guests. Secret Bay is just a 10-minute drive from Portsmouth.
Tamarind Tree Hotel & Restaurant
Located on Dominica’s west coast, the Tamarind Tree Hotel & Resort offers two-story bungalows with kitchen, dining, and living areas, as well as decks to soak up views of the Caribbean. This is a great place to stay if you’re looking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, as this is a TV-free zone. Hiking and diving tour packages are available, and the restaurant serves local Creole and international dishes. Delicious drink specialties are the locally-brewed Kubuli beer and the local Macoucherie rum.
