TRAVEL GUIDE: DOMINICA

These Are Dominica’s Best Beaches

GUEST POST BY LOLA MENDEZ

The Nature Island of the Caribbean isn’t known for its beaches—but that doesn’t mean there are beautiful sandy enclaves among the coastline of the tropical country. Dominica, not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, draws adventurous tourists from around the globe who are eager to explore the island’s supreme nature experiences. There’s year-round whale watching opportunities, extreme trekking through scenic landscapes such as to the Boiling Lake (second-largest hot lake on Earth), canyoning in waterfalls, exploring the islands 365 rivers and volcanoes.

It’s no wonder why scenes for Pirates of the Caribbean was shot here. The best-kept secret of Dominica is that it does hold a rare Caribbean treasure—pristine beaches without any crowds. Hurricane Maria changed the perimeter of the island and left behind new beaches. Some are picturesque white sandy stretches along turquoise water while others are wild black sand beaches or red clay. What you won't find in Dominica are beaches equipped with bungalows, umbrellas, and lounge chairs. Even getting to the beach in Dominica can be a thrilling adventure as the best spots require a bit of hiking and insider know-how. These are Dominica’s Best Beaches.

BATIBOU BAY

If you like to relax in the shade on the beach make your way to Batibou Beach. There’s plenty of shelter from the sun along the bay due to the verdant canopy. This is of the few beaches on the island that has some facilities including wooden picnic tables, a bar, and some hammocks threaded between palm trees.

HAMPSTEAD BEACH

If you want to frolic in the seas where scenes were shot for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest then Hampstead Beach is the spot for you. The beach is even more stunning in person with aquamarine waters and a shady coconut tree grove along the shore. All that’s missing is Jack Sparrow

SECRET BEACH

One of the most stunning beaches in Dominica is the gorgeous Secret Beach at the Secret Bay eco-resort. The secluded cove can only be reached by boat or kayak and boasts calm crystalline waters that are perfect for taking a dip. There’s even a hidden sea cave to be explored.

woodfordhill beach

The largest white-sand beach in Dominica is Woodfordhill Beach. This public beach has free entry. The coastline road passes right by making it one of the easiest beaches to reach on the island.

pointe baptiste

This Pointe Baptiste peninsula is home to an eclectic array of beaches in a variety of colors. The Red Rocks formation appears to be oozing out into the sea. You can walk on the rocks and take in the natural phenomena but it’s not advisable to go swimming due to the currents. From the Red Rocks, there’s a short trail that leads to a gorgeous black sand beach. The other side of the bay has a white sand beach so plan to spend an entire day enjoying the area’s colorful beaches.

champagne beach

Dominica’s Champagne Reef is one of the few places on earth where the sea has volcanic activity. The effervescent waters go all the way to the shore. At the Bubble Beach Spa, sections have been marked off where the water is extremely warm and bubbling due to the geothermal activity. This natural hot tub is the perfect place to soothe aching muscles after thoroughly exploring all the phenomenal nature Dominica has to offer.