Dominica Delights — Diving in the Eastern Caribbean
What makes Dominica special? Start with its stunning, lush and protected natural park system; hundreds of streams and countless waterfalls; and thriving coral reefs. Dominica has strived mightily to protect its resources, and as our photo gallery shows, the island's protected treasures will ignite all your senses, from the tallest mountain peak to the deepest underwater drop-off.
The island has dive sites off its entire Caribbean coast (Toucari Caves at the north end and Nose Reef off the central coast are two of the standout dives in those regions), but it's the southwest coast's sites — like Scotts Head Drop-off and Danglebens Pinnacles — clustered in and around Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve that captured our hearts. Spectacular is a word that's overused but it applies here. The ancient volcanic action that gave birth to this beautiful island also created its reefs. Pretty coral gardens lead to exciting walls and pinnacles are the visible spiky tops of an ancient volcano. Black corals, huge barrel sponges and schools of fish greet you on nearly every dive.
All we can say is that the trip is well worth it.
Where to Stay and Dive
Buddy Dive on Dominica is the ideal base from which to discover all that Dominica has to offer. At Fort Young Hotel, enjoy luxury amenities like Zemi spa, a pool with spectacular views of the Caribbean, the Jacuzzi deck, spacious rooms, exceptional service and superb dining.
David BenzCorals, including healthy stands of black coral, thrive on deeper sections of Dominica's reefs.
David BenzBoth shallow and deeper sections of the reef boast sponges that grow to huge proportions.
David BenzBring a dive light to bring out the colors on deeper walls like the one found at L'Abym.
David BenzDiving under an old pier yielded a number of treasures, including a plethora of trumpetfish.
David Benz
After diving deep on Dominica's walls, you'll often spend your safety stop on a shallow plateau where there's plenty to discover — it beats hanging out on the mooring line at 15 feet.
David Benz
Dominica's hiking ranges from super easy to extremely challenging. Either way, it's a good idea to wear sturdy hiking shoes and to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket (tropical showers can pop up in the rainforest). This photo was taken during our hike to Middleham Falls, an intermediate-level hike.
David BenzYou'll be treated to stunning topside scenery on your way to the dive site.
David BenzThe best rum punch on the island? You can decide for yourself by stopping in at the River Rock Cafe in Roseau after an afternoon of hiking.
David BenzBeautiful topside vistas surround you in Dominica.
David Benz
The trek to and back from Middleham Falls is mildly challenging (several short but steep ascents). Wear non-slip, sturdy shoes. The payoff is amazing and you can scramble over large boulders to get to the pool.
David BenzYes, sunset AND a rainbow. This was taken during our whale-watching cruise.
What makes Dominica special? Start with its stunning, lush and protected natural park system; hundreds of streams and countless waterfalls; and thriving coral reefs. Dominica has strived mightily to protect its resources, and as our photo gallery shows, the island's protected treasures will ignite all your senses, from the tallest mountain peak to the deepest underwater drop-off.
The island has dive sites off its entire Caribbean coast (Toucari Caves at the north end and Nose Reef off the central coast are two of the standout dives in those regions), but it's the southwest coast's sites — like Scotts Head Drop-off and Danglebens Pinnacles — clustered in and around Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve that captured our hearts. Spectacular is a word that's overused but it applies here. The ancient volcanic action that gave birth to this beautiful island also created its reefs. Pretty coral gardens lead to exciting walls and pinnacles are the visible spiky tops of an ancient volcano. Black corals, huge barrel sponges and schools of fish greet you on nearly every dive.
All we can say is that the trip is well worth it.
Where to Stay and Dive
Buddy Dive on Dominica is the ideal base from which to discover all that Dominica has to offer. At Fort Young Hotel, enjoy luxury amenities like Zemi spa, a pool with spectacular views of the Caribbean, the Jacuzzi deck, spacious rooms, exceptional service and superb dining.
