The Best Things to do in Dominica with Kids
/If you’re looking for the best things to do in Dominica, you’re in the right place. This guide to visiting Dominica covers all of the best things to do, where to stay, and a detailed map. While we live in Barbados, we recently had the privilege of exploring this beautiful island for three days, with two adults and three kids in tow (ages 8, 9, and 1). After a lot of research and fun, let me help you plan the best things to do in Dominica!
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Dominica is known as the “nature island” because of it’s pitons, dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls
Dominica is affectionately known as the "Nature Island" of the Caribbean. This 290 square mile island (750 km2) is a treasure trove of lush rainforests, bubbling hot springs, cascading waterfalls, and rich cultural history.
our suite at Rosalie Bay eco resort overlooked the gorgeous black sand beach of rosalie Bay.
Whether you're traveling as a family or seeking an adventurous escape, Dominica delivers on every level. Here's a detailed account of our favorite spots and experiences, complete with tips for making your trip smooth and unforgettable.
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of Dominica!
Here are the best things to do in Dominica
Table of Contents
Click any Activity Below to Jump to it’s description and see images!
Unfortunately, we did not get to explore Dominica’s North Coast. However, I highly recommend making it up North and visiting these spots!
Visit the Red Rocks in Calibishie
Sit on the Beach at Batibou Bay
Visit Fort Shirley
Take an Indian River Tour
Map of Things to do in Dominica
The Rooms at Rosalie Bay are huge and have claw foot tubs! We stayed in the Premier Oceanfront Suite
Where to Stay in Dominica
We stayed spent two nights at Fort Young Hotel on the West Coast and two nights at Rosalie Bay Eco Resort and Spa on the East Coast. If we had had an additional 2 nights, I would have also stayed at the Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resorts and Spa on the North West Coast for easier access to the North Coast.
Rosalie Bay Resort
rosalie bay resort is nestled between the ocean, a river, and the dominica mountains. it is absolutely stunning.
Nestled on the island’s southeast coast, this eco-luxury resort is an oasis of calm. The black sand beach, turtle conservation programs, and farm-to-table meals made it the most perfect spot for a family trip to Dominica. We stayed in an ocean front
The kids loved running along the beach, swimming in the gorgeous pool, spotting hermit crabs, and they absolutely loved the food. For me, my favorite parts of the hotel are the claw foot tub in the room, the delicious food (do not miss the Tuna steak), and the amazing Glo Spa. The Spa is set along the river and the natural noise of the river fills the room during treatments.
the pool at rosalie bay resort was a huge hit for everyone in our family. we even had breakfast poolside.
Fort Young Hotel
Located in Dominica’s capital, Roseau, Fort Young is rich in history and convenience. This waterfront hotel was an ideal base for exploring the island’s western attractions. We were easily able to pop down to Champagne Beach and Trafalgar Falls from here. We stayed in the waterfront room with 2 queen beds. The bathroom was huge and the room was normal sized.
Directly next to Fort Young hotel is Pebbles Park where they have a massive playground. You can easily walk to the Dominica Botanical Gardens and be sure to check out the Neg Mawon Emancipation Monument which is located just outside the front of the hotel.
We really enjoyed swimming in the infinity pool and soaking in the hot tub overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The food was good, but definitely resort food. The staff was very friendly. On site you will find a coffee shop, small museum, gift shop, foosball table, table tennis, a giant chess/checkers set, and a really nice courtyard.
the view from our oceanfront room at fort young hotel.
While we stayed at the amazing Rosalie Bay Resort & Spa and Fort Young, I would love to go back with more time and stay a few days in the North West part of the island at the Intercontinental.
If you’d like to check out other hotels in Dominica, use the map below to find an accommodation that fits your group size and budget.
How to Get Around Dominica
We rented a car with Yadah Car Rental, and I can’t recommend them enough. The process was seamless, and the vehicle was perfect for navigating the island’s winding roads.
“I want to shout out to Ms. Anthony who works at Yadah. A motorcycle crashed into me on the first night of our trip and she herself came to find me. She stayed with me until the police took the report and we were cleared. She was so amazing and her service was above and beyond.”
In my opinion, having your own car is essential for exploring Dominica, as public transport is limited and the best spots are spread across the island. Dominica does drive on the left side of the road (opposite of the USA), so keep that in mind when planning to self drive.
Another way to see the island is to hire a private driver. Many of the taxi drivers will also take you around for a day or you can book tours where drivers will pick you up.
What to do in Dominica
Dominica is unbelievably pretty. It is also a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. There are so many things to do in Dominica from a visit to Fort Shirley to hiking through the lush rainforest trails to snorkeling at Champagne Beach. One things we absolutely loved about Dominica was the natural hot springs where we soaked and relaxed between adventures.
Bubble beach spa is a really fun and unique thing to do in dominica
Bubbles Beach Spa and Champagne Beach
We made 20-30 minute drive from Roseau down to Bubbles Beach Spa one morning and it was so incredible. The drive isn’t long and you do pass by the popular Champagne Beach if you’d like to give that a go as well.
Both spots are located on the island's southwest coast near Soufriere. Entry to Champagne Beach costs around $5 USD per person, which includes access to the snorkel site. However, it is FREE to visit Bubble Beach Spa. They only ask for a donation of your choosing to help keep the area maintained.
the bubbles coming up from the ocean floor at bubbles beach spa!
These incredible snorkel spots are named for the constant stream of bubbles rising through the water. The “champagne bubble” phenomenon is caused by volcanic activity beneath the seafloor, where geothermal gases escape through small vents.
You’ll see so many colorful fish here at bubbles beach spa - we even saw squid!
Bubbles Beach Spa is a natural hot spring along the shoreline where locals have create a pool where warm volcanic waters create a soothing, therapeutic soak. We absolutely loved Bubbles Beach Spa and if I ever go back to Dominica, I plan to spend a lot more time down in Soufriere.
looking from the waters at bubbles beach spa back at the church in soufriere
Learn about the Coral Reef Rehabilitation
Timothy Hill overlook St Kitts
The Coral Rescue Center in Dominica is a really cool initiative focused on preserving and restoring the island's precious marine ecosystems. It’s run by 4 Americans who have been living in Dominica for over 10 years. They are divers who took on the Coral Rescue efforts to protect the Nature Islands native corals from the devastating Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD).
With the support of the Fisheries Division in Dominica, the local community, SSMR Wardens, local and international non-profit organizations, visiting divers, and volunteers, the Coral Rescue Center has been doing their best to protect the marine environment in the Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve and to keep the eco-system in balance. This arduous task is going to keep the Coral of Dominica alive and thriving through the years. The center emphasizes environmental education, making it an inspiring and educational stop for eco-conscious travelers.
By visiting, you not only immerse yourself in Dominica’s vibrant underwater world but also contribute to the preservation of its natural beauty for future generations.
Coral Rescue is located steps from Bubbles Beach Spa, so consider doing both together.
be sure to stop by nature dive to grab a coffee from their bottom time cafe - it’s directly across the street!
Trafalgar Falls
Mother is the smaller fall and father is the larger one
Trafalgar Falls is one of Dominica’s most iconic natural attractions. It’s a stunning pair of waterfalls nestled in the lush Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We drove to the easy 20 miniutes to Trafalagar falls from Roseau. However you can easily take a taxi here too!
Trafalgar Falls are easily accessible via a short, well-maintained trail from the visitor center. Entry costs approximately $5 USD per person, which also grants access to other park sites.
the trail to the falls is easy, but not accessible unfortunately. there are stairs.
The larger of the two falls is known as the "Father" and it plunges dramatically over a sheer cliff. The smaller falls (right side) is known as "Mother" falls and is surrounded by greenery and flows into a series of warm mineral pools, heated by volcanic activity.
The trail leads to a small viewing platform where you can get a great view of both falls. A drummer was sat on the platform when we were there so we got the whole Dominican experience of nature and music. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb closer to the base for an up-close experience. There is an opening to allow hikers through to the river.
father on the left, mother on the right
There is a small museum, restrooms, and a cafe near the parking area. We had the best ham & cheese sandwiches ever from that cafe. Ask them to make your sandwich on a bake and thank me later.
still thinking of this delish sandwich
Explore Titou Gorge
We did not get to experience the gorge as we were traveling with a 1 year old and weren’t sure it was a suitable activity for him. However, if you’re in Dominica - you MUST visit Titou Gorge!
Titou Gorge offers an unforgettable adventure through a natural volcanic canyon. It’s only about 20 minutes from Roseau and very close to Trafalgar Falls - so plan to do these together.
Dominica is home to so many amazing flowers!
You can swim through the narrow, towering rock walls of the gorge. At the end of the swim, you'll reach a refreshing waterfall cascading into the gorge—a reward after a semi-difficult swim!
The gorge’s name, meaning "Little Throat," reflects its unique shape, carved by centuries of volcanic activity. As a bonus, Titou Gorge served as a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. If you’re on the hunt for other Pirates of the Caribbean adventures, check out our IG highlights about St Vincent and Bequia.
COST: Entry into the gorge is fee, but there is a $5 fee for a life jacket (swimming aide)
TIPS: Wear water shoes and know you will be fully submerged, so keep your phones and cameras covered with waterproof cases.
Soak in Tia's Hot Springs
the lower pools sit along the river, so while you soak you get to hear the sounds of the river
Tia's Hot Springs was one of our favorite stops in Dominica. It’s a tranquil retreat where you soak in natural, mineral-rich pools surrounded by lush rainforest.
The hot springs are located in the village of Wotten Waven, only about a 20-minute drive from Roseau. It is only about 7 mintues from Trafalgar Falls, so try to do these in the same day.
every pool is different and the temperatures vary
Get ready to unwind and experience Dominica’s geothermal waters. The hot springs are fed by volcanic activity beneath the island which warm the waters to soothing temperatures perfect for relaxing.
Tia’s Hot Springs features multiple pools of varying sizes and temperatures, allowing you and your family to choose your ideal soak. There is a restaurant on site and toilets/showers/changing rooms.
pick the pool and temp you want. we had the upper pool all to ourselves
COSTS: It’s approximately $10 per person to soak and we did not have a time limit.
TIPS: Bring your own towels and be sure to have water to drink while you soak. We all also wore water shoes in the pools.
the lower pool was along the river and so magical
READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Grenada with Kids
Visit the Rosalie Bay Distillery
If you’re on the East Coast of Dominica, you must make a stop at Rosalie Bay Distillery. The tour is an experience that combines history, sustainability, and the art of rum-making.
the distillery
The distillery is directly next to Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa, so if you’re staying there you can walk over to try the rum! Otherwise, it’s about an hour’s drive from Roseau.
What makes Rosalie Bay Distillery unique is that it’s a small farm to flask operation that produces up to 7,000 bottles of rum annually. They are the only distillery in Dominica and proudly focused on local people, animals, and habitats.
Revenue generated by the non-profit Rosalie Bay distillery supports the conservation of sea turtles, restoration of coral reefs, protection of whales, and protected area management in Dominica.
COST: The tour is $10-15 per person
a quick guide to rosalie bay distillery’s sustainable practices
the view of nevis from the ferry over
Spend the Morning with the Kalinago People
We decided to spend a morning learning about Dominica’s indigenous peoples - the Kalinago. We drove about 45 minutes north of Rosalie Bay Resort to get to Kalinago Barana Autê.
We learned so much along the Binalecaall Mapou Wêvê
Kalinago Barana Autê is is situated in Salybia in the Carib Territory on the rugged Atlantic Coast. We parked and walked down where we were greeted by a member of the Kalinago. We paid our fee and opted for a guided tour of the Binalecaall Mapou Wêvê (Old Mapou Tree Trail).
We were welcomed immediately by the kalinago
The visitor center was closed, but usually vistors get to experience traditional dance, drama and songs of the Kalinagoperformed daily at the main Karbet. Along the trail we walked we were able to see examples of canoes crafted from the Gommier tree that were used for fishing and travel. We also saw the dramatic views from the Barana Neupatae (View Point).
the views along the trail are amazing
The Kalinago Barana Autê was a great way for us to learn about Dominica’s indigenous roots while supporting the Kalinago people. I highly recommend a stop here and if you can get on one of the 5-hour tours where you make bread and have a traditional lunch - DO IT! What an incredible experience.
Visit the Emerald Pool
Something I regret so much is not scheduling time to visit The Emerald Pool. We drove past it and I had instant regret we didn’t have a plan to go.
Not my photo - this is a stock image from canva just to show what we missed
The Emerald Pool is a magical natural attraction tucked within the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the natural attractions of Waitukubuli National Trail Segment 5—the Maroon Trail. It’s on Dominca’s East Coast about 10 minutes from Rosalie Bay Resort. If you come from Roseau it’s about 45-50 minutes driving.
don’t miss the emerald pool in dominica - we only got to see this sign!
When you visit you’ll walk about 10-15 minutes down a lush rainforest path to the incredible pool where a 40 ft waterfall flows into the Emerald green waters. You are allowed to swim in the pool or you can choose to just sit and enjoy the views.
This spot is perfect for families of any kind as it’s an easy stroll down with an epic reward at the end.
COST: About $5 USD per person
The hot springs are a relaxing and unique experience in the heart of the Caribbean. Located within walking distance of the ferry terminal, these mineral-rich hot springs have drawn visitors for centuries. The waters here reach up to 107°F (42°C) and many believe they have healing properties.
On the same property, the old Bath House, built in the 18th century, reflects the island’s colonial past and once served as a spa for British settlers.
COST: FREE. The Springs are free of charge and open to the public.
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of Dominica!
We spent some time on the famous Pinney’s Beach. It’s a long, golden strip of shoreline with clear turquoise waters, soft sand, stunning views of St. Kitts in the distance. (see the photo!) We also found several beach chairs and umbrellas to relax under.
Antoher great beach that offers an even quieter escape is Oualie Beach on the northwestern coast. It has calm, shallow waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
READ NEXT: What to in Barbados with Kids
Dominica is a paradise for anyone seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From the exotic black sand beaches to mountains to historic architecture and good vibes — Dominica has it all.
the view from our room at fort young was pretty incredible
You may ask - is Dominica good for families? Absolutely, yes! I traveled here with 3 kids and had the best time.
Many people also wonder - is Dominica Safe? Yes. We never felt unsafe!
Whether hiking the island peaks, exploring historical treasures like Fort Young or Fort Shirley, or snorkeling in Champagne Beach, you’re going to love Dominica.
dominica’s east coast
So, pack your sunscreen and adventurous spirit and get ready for one of the most incredible Caribbean vacations!
Check out my Instagram for more videos and photos of Dominica!
Have you ever been to Dominica? What is your favorite place to visit on either island? Leave me a comment and let me know!
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