Dominica which is also called the nature island, is more known for its waterfalls and thick rainforest, and less for their beaches. Don’t be the next one to underestimate the many beaches Dominica has to offer. But with so many beaches to choose from, how do you decide which ones to visit? Whether you are seeking thrill, looking for a challenging hike, or someone who just wants to relax on a secluded beach, we’ve got you covered. We have put together Dominica’s top 5 beaches and you can also to learn more about Dominica, check out our Ultimate Guide.
1. Batibou Beach: A Hidden Gem in Dominica
How to Get There
Coordinates for Google Maps: 15.596857,-61.364175
- By Car: A 4×4 vehicle is a must due to the rugged roads.
- On Foot: If you’re without a 4×4, a 10-minute walk down a scenic trail will get you there.
Entry Fee and Amenities
- Cost: $5 USD per person (infants are free).
- Facilities: The fee covers supervised parking, washrooms, and toilets.
Meet the Owners
The beach is lovingly maintained by sisters Irma and Jacqueline, who also run an outdoor Tiki Restaurant right on the beach.
Foodie Alert: The restaurant isn’t always open, so you might want to pack your own snacks and drinks.
Safety First
- Swimming: Look for green flags that indicate safe swimming zones.
- Tides: If in doubt, consult Mr. Hubert or another employee about the water conditions.
Activities and Scenery
- Snorkeling: A small reef offers a colorful underwater world.
- Natural Beauty: Coconut trees, fine blonde sand, and fireflies at sunset make this beach a paradise.
Pro Tip: Need an Alternative?
If Batibou Beach is closed or you’re looking for a free option, consider “Number One Beach.” It’s less than a mile walk from Batibou and also has security. However, be sure to check reviews before going, as the last hurricane left it in less-than-ideal condition. In the past, it’s been just as beautiful as Batibou.
2. Mero Beach: The Heartbeat of Dominica’s Coastline
How to Get There
- Location: Just 20 minutes from the cruise port, on the outskirts of Roseau.
- Transport: If you’re coming from a cruise, a $10 taxi ride will get you there.
Amenities and Activities
- Facilities: Restaurants, bars, shops, and ice cream joints line the beach, making it a bustling hub of activity.
- Rentals: Chairs, sun beds, and umbrellas are available. A set of an umbrella and 2 sun beds will cost you $10.
- Showers: Rinse off the salt and sand before you head back.
Foodie Alert: InDee’s Beach Bar and Restaurant 🍔🍺
We had the pleasure of dining at InDee’s during our visit. I savored a burger and a local beer, while Danielle indulged in the Lobster dish. Both were delicious, fresh, and surprisingly affordable.
What Sets It Apart
- Sand: The beach features volcanic black sand that sparkles in the sun. (Hot tip: bring water shoes!)
- Views: Don’t miss the incredible sunset views.
- Entertainment: Depending on the day and season, you might catch some live entertainment.
- Planes: Look up! You might see planes preparing to land.
- Wifi: Restaurants offer Wifi, a boon for remote workers or those with low cell signal.
Things to Consider
- Crowds: The beach can get busy, especially when cruise ships are anchored.
- Parking: It’s a one-way through town and parking can fill up quickly.
Pro Tip: Looking for a Quieter Option?
If Mero Beach is too crowded for your taste, consider heading to Salisbury Beach. Just a 5-minute drive (or 30-minute walk) north, this less crowded alternative offers a single food option, “767 Hideaway.”
3. Douglas Bay Beach: A Serene Escape Near Portsmouth
How to Get There
- Location: Just a 10-minute drive north of Portsmouth, near the village of Tanetane.
- Nearby Resort: If you’re staying at Secret Bay Resort, this beach is a must-visit.
Amenities and Activities
- Facilities: Picnic tables and plenty of trees for shade make this a perfect spot for a relaxed day.
- Food & Drinks: Roots Rock Bar & Restaurant is a hit for fresh food and cocktails. Don’t miss their live Reggae Music on Wednesdays!
Water Activities 🐠
- Reefs, Shipwrecks & Diving: The area is surrounded by reefs and even a shipwreck, making it a diver’s paradise. If diving is your thing, contact Jorge at J C Ocean Adventures.
- Horseback Riding: Rainforest Riding, right across the street, offers guided rides through the beach, forest, and Cabrits National Park.
What Sets It Apart
- Crowds: This beach is usually not crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
- Waters: Calm, shallow waters with small waves make it ideal for relaxation.
- Nearby Attractions: Cabrits National Park is just a 4-minute drive away.
Foodie Alert: Roots Rock Bar & Restaurant 🍹🎶
Owned by Marley, this spot is known for its fresh food and tasty cocktails. They’ll even cook your fresh catch just the way you like it. And for music lovers, live Reggae performances set the mood every Wednesday.
Pro Tip: In a Beach-Hopping Mood?
If, for some reason Douglas Bay Beach is crowded or you’re staying in the area and want variety, consider Toucari Beach. Just a 5 minute drive North. It offers great restaurant options like Keepin’ It Real, known for its romantic ambiance and generous portions.
4. Coconut Beach: A Fun-Filled Oasis in Portsmouth
How to Get There
- Location: Situated in Portsmouth, this beach is a quick 3 minute drive from Secret Bay Resort.
Amenities and Activities
- Facilities: Black volcanic sand sets the backdrop for a day of fun and relaxation.
- Water Park: A floatable water park is available during the tourist season, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Water Activities 🌊
- Variety is the Spice: From jet ski rentals to volleyball, banana boats, and wave surfing, this beach has it all. Contact Wave Dance Water Sports for hours and rates. Bonus: Get a 10% discount if you’re renting a car from QB Vehicle Rentals.
What Sets It Apart
- Crowds: Rarely crowded, this beach offers a more private experience.
Pro Tip: In a Beach-Hopping Mood? 🏖️
If you have some extra time and want to explore, consider a quick trip to Ripaton Beach. Just a 2 minute drive south, it features two large shipwrecks onshore that are perfect for photography.
5. Wavine Cyrique Falls: “The Secret Beach” for the Adventurous Soul
How to Get There
- Location: Nestled in Rosalie, Dominica. Follow the signs from the main road in Rivere Cyrique to find your way.
Amenities and Activities
- Crowds: Almost guaranteed to be crowd-free, offering a secluded experience. Fun fact: Many locals haven’t even visited this hidden gem!
- Views: Whether you make it to the beach or not, the views from the top of the waterfall are breathtaking.
The Trail & The Climb 🥾
- Difficulty: Rated as intermediate, but many find it more challenging than the hike to Boiling Lake.
- Guides: Due to the trail’s complexity and past destruction from hurricanes, hiring a registered guide like Ti Nath Kanio or Extreme Dominica is highly recommended. Alternatively, Nicodemus, the landowner, can guide you for a $5 fee.
What Sets It Apart
- Accessibility: Not for the faint-hearted. Requires treacherous hiking and climbing down rope ladders and tree roots.
- Tides: At low tide, the waterfall graces the black sand beach; at high tide, it plunges into the Atlantic. Check tide reports online.
Pro Tip: For the True Adventurers 🌊
If you’re an adventure lover who also enjoys relaxing on secluded beaches, this is the beach for you. It will be a defining moment of your trip to Dominica. Just be sure to start early and check conditions with locals. And don’t forget to snap a rewarding picture on the rock under the waterfall at low tide!
And there you have it—our top 5 picks for the best beaches in Dominica! From the challenging yet rewarding Wavine Cyrique Falls to the family-friendly Mero Beach, Dominica offers a beach for every type of traveler. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore these incredible beaches that even some locals haven’t discovered yet. Trust us, these are the kind of places that postcards are made of, and they’re waiting for you to come and make memories that will last a lifetime. And be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Dominica.
