Dominica, located north of Martinique and south of Guadeloupe in the Windward Islands chain, is known as the “Nature Island” — a paradise for nature lovers and adventure travelers. Its landscapes are spectacular and unique, featuring lush greenery, abundant waterfalls, black sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, hot springs, and other volcanic features like mud pools and fumaroles.
The island is one of the world’s top destinations for diving and snorkeling, with vibrant reefs home to colorful fish and species rarely found in Caribbean destinations like flying gurnards, frogfish, and seahorses. Among the vast stands of coral, you can watch for Caribbean reef squid, golden crinoids, sea turtles, rays, and a wealth of other marine life.
Whales are Stealing the Show
Dominica offers yet another significant reason to visit. National Geographic just named it among the world’s best islands to visit in 2026, highlighting its sperm whales. There are approximately 200 of them swimming year-round in the waters that surround Dominica. In fact, as the publication notes, it plans to establish the first sperm whale reserve soon, likely by early 2026.
The reserve will protect around 309 square miles of water off the west coast, where the whales are known to roam. Visitors will be able to watch them from a boat or even swim with them, but these activities will be strictly regulated to ensure the animals aren’t disturbed.
An Outdoor Adventurer’s Dream
Beyond snorkeling, diving, and whale watching, there’s plenty to do on land, with much of Dominica undeveloped. Zip lining, biking, ATV tours, and hiking are just a few of the possibilities. The 115-mile-long Waitukubuli National Trail is the region’s only long-distance hike, divided into 14 continuous segments. It can take even experienced hikers nearly two weeks to complete, but there are plenty of other options, like the trek to Middleham Falls, which only takes an hour.
The Boiling Lake hike, a challenging 8-mile round-trip journey winding through mud and rocky terrain with some steep ascents, isn’t doable for many. But soon, more visitors will be able to marvel at the incredible view that awaits, without all the hard work. Nat Geo also highlighted the new cable car that’s expected to open in December 2025 as one of the world’s longest. The 20-minute journey through the rainforest will bring passengers to the flooded fumarole and the iconic panoramic vista over the island’s stunning landscapes.
Where to Stay & When to Go
While Dominica isn’t known for its sprawling resorts, tourism development is increasing. You will find smaller, eco-focused properties like highly-rated Secret Bay, a luxury eco-resort overlooking the sea from its clifftop perch, providing a truly magical hideaway.
Dominica enjoys the best weather between December and April, which is the peak tourist season. August and September are at the highest risk for tropical storms and hurricanes. While there are far fewer tourists here as compared to more popular islands during any given month, you’ll find an even more tranquil ambiance, potentially lower prices, and good weather by visiting in November through early December or in May.
