The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
About 26 million years ago, an island rose from the Atlantic Ocean in the wake of a volcanic eruption. And just like that, Dominica was born.
Unlike many of the coral-based Caribbean islands, Dominica is entirely volcanic, which is why it has dramatic mountains, natural hot springs, and black sand beaches you won’t find on too many other Caribbean islands.
It’s one of the least popular Caribbean islands. And while this might sound like a red flag, it’s one of the reasons this island is so beautiful. It’s barely touched by tourism.
That said, figuring out where to stay in Dominica can be tricky.
It’s not the kind of place with cookie-cutter beach resorts and high-rise hotels on every beach. Instead, it’s got little coastal villages with remote cottages and treehouses. Although the island is small, each parish is unique. So, staying in the right place can really make or break the experience.
So lets get to it!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Dominica?
Dominica is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit if you enjoy things a little rustic, off-the-beaten-track and low-key. I can’t recommend it enough. In this article, I’m going to dive into the best areas to stay on the island, my favourite places to stay, AND the top things to do.
However, if you’re in a rush and want the gist and none of the blabber, here it is. These three properties, located in different parts of the island, are my top recommendations for places to stay:
Secret Bay, Portsmouth/Savanna Paille | Best Hotel in Dominica
Secret Bay is Dominica’s answer to five-star luxury. This beautiful resort is the only one of its kind on the island. It’s tucked into the cliff face in an exclusive part of the island, with easy access to the beach.
The amenities are top-shelf here, from the incredible suites to the spa and wellness centre to the restaurant and bar. Everything feels brand new yet perfectly in sync with nature.
2-Bed Apartment with Shady Verandah, Soufriere/Scotts Head | Best Apartment in Dominica
If you like having a bit more space and privacy or are staying on the island for an extended time, consider renting this two-bedroom apartment. It’s a well-equipped home with space for four guests, including access to a full kitchen and a private workspace.
The verandah is a huge highlight – it’s the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee in the fresh Caribbean breeze.
Banana Lama Eco Cottage, The East Coast | Best Eco-Cottage in Dominica
For a unique place to stay in Dominica’s jungle, Banana Lama Eco Cottage offers an off-grid, sustainable retreat experience for eco-conscious travellers. It’s a newly built wooden cottage surrounded by tropical foliage, offering the perfect mix of nature and modern comforts.
The cottage embraces the indoor/outdoor living theory, with open walls and plenty of windows making you feel one with nature every moment of the day.
Dominica Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Dominica
Roseau/Canefield
If it’s your first time in Dominica, Roseau is the perfect place to base yourself. As the island’s capital, it’s lively and full of character, and it has friendly locals who love to chat.
Portsmouth/Savanne Paille
In the north of the island, the Dominican town of Portsmouth is the laid-back, budget-friendly answer to Roseau. It’s the second-largest town on the island but feels much more relaxed and down-to-earth.
Soufriere/Scotts Head
If you’re in the Caribbean for underwater activities, you’re not alone. While much of Dominica is focused on waterfall hikes and volcanoes, Soufriere and Scotts Head are the heart of the island’s snorkelling and diving industry.
Marigot
If this low-key island in the Caribbean isn’t isolated enough, you can always head to the Dominican neighbourhood of Marigot, a small coastal village surrounded by mangrove forests, black sand beaches, and a river estuary.
The East Coast
The East Coast of Dominica is a large stretch of area, but it’s undoubtedly the wildest and most untouched part of the island.
Dominica is often called the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean.’ And no, it’s not just a marketing ploy to get people to visit but a real reflection of the island’s wild and rugged landscapes. In fact, it still has nine active volcanoes on it today – quite the concentration for an island of just 290 square miles in area. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical island vacation spots if you’re looking for pure paradise.
The island was named by Christopher Columbus himself, after the day of the week – Domingo. And while it has an impressive geological and geothermal landscape, its human history is just as fascinating.
Dominica isn’t your typical Caribbean island. It’s wilder, greener, and refreshingly untouched. Roseau and Canefield, bordering the Saint Paul and Saint George Parishes, are the heart of local life and perfect for first-time visitors. Roseau is the island’s capital, packed with colourful markets, a lively waterfront, and easy access to landmarks. Canefield is the quieter option but is still close to the action.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Up north, Portsmouth is a laid-back, budget-friendly town with small guesthouses and beachside cottages. It’s home to the Cabrits National Park. Just inland, Savanne Paile is a quiet and affordable base with a more rural vibe. If you enjoy travelling off the beaten path, you’ll like this spot.
For the best diving and snorkelling, Soufriere and Scotts Head are unbeatable. This is where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, culminating in incredible geological underwater features. If you prefer to be on dry land, Marigot is the best place to stay in Dominica for an isolated beach trip. It’s a quiet coastal village with black sand beaches, mangrove forests, and low-key accommodation.
Between Rosalie and La Pleine, the East Coast is the best area to visit for an eco-friendly jungle experience. This wild coast is where rainforests, waterfalls, and rivers meet black sand beaches. It’s off-grid, wild, and exciting.
Wherever you stay, Dominica promises one thing – nature in its purest form in every direction you look.
Dominica’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Dominica is divided into ten parishes. Instead of classifying accommodation by parish, I’ve put together a list of five specific towns, villages, and areas inside each parish that offer an incredible and unique experience for travellers:
1. Roseau/Canefield – Where to Stay in Dominica for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in Dominica, Roseau is the perfect place to base yourself. As the island’s capital, it’s lively and full of character, and it has friendly locals who love to chat. The colourful streets are lined with historic buildings, with the bustling waterfront area being a clear highlight.
You’ll find everything here, from hotels to boutique guesthouses and apartments to rent. Plus, the abundance of tour operators makes exploring the rest of the island easy. Whether hiking to waterfalls, soaking in a hot spring, or exploring the base of one of the island’s nine volcanoes, Roseau is right in the middle of it all.
Fort Young Hotel | Best Hotel in Roseau/Canefield
Fort Young Hotel is one of those places to stay in Dominica that is so close to the sea, you couldn’t dream of a better view. With the salty breeze setting the tone for an unforgettable stay, this hotel is also wonderfully located right in the heart of Roseau.
The staff are helpful and attentive, and the hotel facilities, including the pool, seaside bar and restaurant, and spa and wellness centre,e are second to none.
Mango Dream Guesthouse | Best Guesthouse in Roseau/Canefield
Tucked away in the lush foliage around the sleepy town of Loubiere, close to Roseau, Mango Dream Guesthouse is a charming three-bedroom house with self-catering facilities.
The interiors are locally inspired, which makes it feel like you’re staying in a family home. Depending on the season, you’ll have the privilege of snacking on the sweet fruit that grows on the property.
1-Bed Apartment with Sea Views | Best Apartment in Roseau/Canefield
If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate a high-value, clean, spacious, and well-equipped self-catering rental. Well, look no further because this one-bedroom condo has everything you could need for your tropical vacation.
Besides the essentials, this spot has a large open-air terrace with an outdoor living and dining area. The views are too beautiful to put into words. You simply have to visit to find out.
Things to See and Do in Roseau/Canefield
- Hike to the Trafalgar Falls, twin waterfalls with a cold water pool and a hot water spring
- Soak your worries away in the warm water at the Ti Kwen Glo Cho Hot Springs
- Learn to cook local Dominican food at a cooking class
- Pick up some fresh produce at the fresh daily markets along the waterfront
- Wander through the Dominica Botanic Gardens, home to some of the island’s oldest and rarest plant species
- Visit a traditional Carib local village
- Join a snorkelling boat trip around the Waitukubuli Volcano
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey2. Portsmouth/Savanne Paille – Best Place to Stay in Dominica on a Budget
In the north of the island, the Dominican town of Portsmouth is the laid-back, budget-friendly answer to Roseau. It’s the second-largest town on the island but it feels much more relaxed and down-to-earth. The locals are a mix of fishermen, students, and eco-tourists drawn to the untouched beauty of the town’s surroundings. This spot is ideal for anyone travelling on a budget.
The nearby Cabrits National Park is a major draw, with fort ruins that tell a bit more about the island’s colonial history. Savanne Paille is a quieter, inland town that is perfect for those who want to be in the peace and quiet of nature but are still pretty close to the action in Portsmouth.
Mabrika Resort Dominica | Best Resort in Portsmouth/Savanna Paille
Not so far from Purple Turtle Beach in Portsmouth, Mabrika Resort Dominica is a tranquil resort that feels much more like a boutique guesthouse than a stuffy hotel. It’s surrounded by fresh fruit trees and tropical flowers and designed with open terraces that direct the eye to the gorgeous ocean below.
The apartments incorporate locally made rattan furniture and carved wooden details that make them feel homey and welcoming. Plus, the property has a private pool—an absolute essential for a humid day.
Secret Bay | Luxury Resort in Portsmouth/Savanna Paille
Secret Bay might be the most luxurious accommodation on the entire island. It’s set in a secluded part of Dominica, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The resort’s architecture harmoniously blends the beauty of the natural surroundings with modern comforts.
The pool deck, which leads directly to the sea, is a clear favourite. But honestly, the suites are so stunning that you’ll struggle to leave them at all.
Tiny Dome Stay in the Jungle | Unique Place to Stay in Portsmouth/Savanna Paille
This tiny dome is one of the most quirky places to stay in Dominica. Handcrafted with care on a beautiful piece of land with mountain views, it’s simple and rustic yet absolutely memorable.
You’ll be sleeping in an enclosed dome. However, the bathroom and kitchen are located in separate structures. The bathroom is surrounded by tall leaves for privacy, and the kitchen is covered with a roof, yet totally open for a completely immersive nature experience.
Things to See and Do in Portsmouth/Savanna Paille
- Visit Bubble Beach, a beach with bubbling geothermal sand, on this snorkelling tour
- Explore the ruins around Fort Shirley on a day trip in the Cabrits National Park
- Take a boat tour along the Indian River, a lush mangrove estuary
- Hike the Morne Diablotin Volcano, the tallest mountain in the Eastern Caribbean
- Spend the day soaking up some Vitamin D on Purple Turtle Beach
- Head north to Douglas Bay for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling
- Walk the length of Tokari Bay, a slice of lush foliage and unspoiled beaches
- Browse the fresh produce and flowers at the Hampshire Farmers’ Market
3. Soufriere/Scotts Head – Best Area in Dominica For Diving and Snorkeling
If you’re in the Caribbean for underwater activities, you’re not alone. While much of Dominica is focused on waterfall hikes and volcanoes, Soufriere and Scotts Head are the heart of the island’s snorkelling and diving industry.
Photo: @taya.travels
Located at the southern tip of Dominica, this is where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, creating incredible underwater reefs and deep drop-offs. The village itself feels a bit like a sleepy fishing town, with small eco-lodges and beachfront guesthouses mostly filled with those hoping to uncover the marine life under the surface.
Soufriere Guesthouse | Best Guesthouse in Soufriere/Scotts Head
From the location to the spaciousness to the vibe to the terraces, everything at this place to stay in Dominica exceeds expectations. It’s set against a dramatic mountain backdrop in the heart of Soufriere.
From the moment you arrive, the expansive terraces will invite you to soak in the stunning surroundings. The interiors are surprisingly spacious and fitted with simple local decorations. It’s not luxurious, but it sure is as homey and comfortable as you could wish for.
Oleander Cottage at Rodney’s Wellness Retreat | Best Farm Stay in Soufriere/Scotts Head
For a tranquil reset, this farmhouse with a swimming pool provides a true escape from Dominica’s big towns. The main draw is that it is basically a Dominican farm stay. Guests can access the kitchen, but there is also an onsite restaurant that serves three healthy meals a day using ingredients from nearby farms.
2-Bed Apartment with Shady Verandah | Best Apartment in Soufriere/Scotts Head
If you prefer to rent a self-catering property, you might enjoy this two-bedroom unit in the heart of Soufriere. It’s located on the bottom floor of an apartment block that overlooks the mountain. The highlights include its beautiful verandah and the digital nomad-friendly workspace.
The home is simply decorated with locally inspired touches but has an overall modern feel. This is a great place for remote workers.
Things to See and Do in Soufriere/Scotts Head
- Dive at the Scotts Head Drop-Off, one of the islands’ most famous dive sites
- Snorkel in the Soufriere Bay Marine Reserve
- Hike to the edge of the Scotts Head Peninsula / Cachacrou Peninsula for stunning ocean views
- Snorkel along Champagne Reef, a reef where geothermal gas bubbles rise to the surface
- Go paddleboarding or kayaking along the calm waters of Soufriere Bay
- Start the Waitukubuli National Trail hike from the southern starting point
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Marigot – Best Area in Dominica for an Isolated Beach Trip
If this low-key island in the Caribbean isn’t isolated enough, you can always head to the Dominican neighbourhood of Marigot, a small coastal village surrounded by mangrove forests, black sand beaches, and a river estuary.
Technically, it’s pretty close to the airport, but besides the odd plane flying overhead, it feels worlds away from modern civilization. It’s a town of farmers and fishermen, and life moves at a slower pace around here. There aren’t many big hotels, but rather beachside lodges and boutique B&Bs. It’s one of my favourite places to travel off the beaten path.
Serenity Lodges | Best Lodge in Marigot
Run by a local family in the village of Concord near Marigot, Serenity Lodges Dominica is a peaceful place to stay if you enjoy being looked after – in the least pretentious way.
When you aren’t being serenaded to sleep by the sound of rustling trees and tropical birds, the owners will whip up your meals and help you plan your schedule. You’ll feel right at home and are guaranteed an authentic Dominican experience you won’t forget!
Bruno’s Atlantic Breeze Cabin | Best Homestay in Marigot
Bruno’s Atlantic Breeze Cabin is another homey retreat surrounded by fruit trees. The newly built cabin has two comfortable queen-sized beds, a well-equipped kitchen, and a verandah overlooking the ocean.
There is not much around the cabin other than gorgeous gardens and the sea. To be quite honest, what more could you ask for when figuring out where to stay in Dominica?
Villa Ayahora and Aywasi | Top Villa in Marigot
As far as luxury villas go, Villa Ayahora and Aywasi must be at the top. Built using natural wood and thatch and inspired by local building techniques, these cabins are effortlessly beautiful. They’re also attractively decorated, with simple yet effective island-inspired details, and are spotlessly clean.
The views from the decks are outstanding. Whether relaxing in the outdoor lounge or having a nap on the day bed, you’ll have world-class sea views from every point of the balcony.
Things to See and Do in Marigot
- Take a boat tour and spend the day at Batibou Bay
- Hike through the Kalinago territory and visit a local village of some of the last remaining tribe members
- Visit an arts and crafts market and experience a traditional tea ceremony
- Check out the wild ocean views from Red Rocks
- Take a trip on a local fishing boat
- Paddle a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard through the Pagua River Estuary
- Take a trip into the dense Northern Forest Reserve
5. The East Coast (Rosalie to La Pleine) – Best Neighborhood in Dominica for Families to Stay In
The East Coast of Dominica is a large stretch of area, but it’s undoubtedly the wildest and most untouched part of the island. While most of the coastline is totally rugged, with little to no accommodation to speak of, as you travel south from Rosalie to La Plaine, there are a bunch of eco-friendly cabins and cottages and even the odd plantation farm stay.
The landscape here is much more jagged and rough, often considered more striking than other parts of the island. Think dramatic cliff faces falling into the ocean, rough waves, and a dense tropical jungle that feels impossible to penetrate.
Citrus Creek Plantation | Best Guesthouse Along the East Coast
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Dominica for a more immersive experience, a plantation is a great option. Citrus Creek Plantation is one of those places that feels therapeutically relaxing. The property is run by dedicated individuals who cook delicious home-cooked meals using homegrown ingredients.
Many of the rooms are hand-built with local stones, decorated with detailed mosaics, or have been recently refurbished with whitewashed wood.
Banana Lama Eco Cottage | Best Eco Cottage Along the East Coast
Banana Lama is the quintessential eco-cottage. Tucked away in the lush forests, this simple cabin is surrounded by beautiful nature. Rushing rivers, cool dipping pools, and towering fruit trees set the scene.
My favourite part of this property has to be the kitchen. It’s rustic and raw, it has no walls separating it from the forest. Talk about being immersed in nature.
A-Frame Cabin in the Jungle | Best Cabin Along the East Coast
For a truly unique jungle stay, this A-frame cabin is the perfect place to stay in Dominica for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The kitchen is set up on the ground floor, with a living area and bathroom on the first and a mezzanine bedroom above the treetops.
The outdoor shower is a highlight, especially considering the tropical foliage that surrounds it.
Things to See and Do Along the East Coast
- Join a day-long hike to reach the Boiling Lake in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park
- Visit the Emerald Pool in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park
- Catch a glimpse of the nesting and hatching leatherback turtles at Rosalie Bay between April and June
- Hike through the jungle to the Sari Sari Waterfall and swim in its crystal-clear pools
- Watch the Wavine Cyrique Falls tumble directly from the island into the ocean
- Explore the hidden caves and covered pools inland at Titou Gorge on this rainforest tour
- Swim in the mineral-rich waters of the White River
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Dominica
Sometimes, all you need is a little concluding summary and a few FAQs to answer all your questions:
What To Pack For Dominica
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me: packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Dominica
Unfortunately, even with super safe and fun places to visit, things can and do happen. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Dominica.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Dominica
Dominica is one of those places that seems to have stood the test of time. While other Caribbean islands have welcomed cruise ship after cruise ship, this underrated gem has remained relatively under the radar.
Choosing where to stay in Dominica all depends on the type of adventure you’re after. For first-time visitors, Roseau or nearby Canefield offer easy access to all the main sites and tours. Budget travellers might prefer Portsmouth, a more laid-back village with even more affordable stays. Take this 2-bed Condo, for example.
Soufriere and Scott’s head are unbeatable for unique underwater adventures, and Marigot is home to some of the best hidden beaches and off-grid eco-lodges. The East Coast is as wild as it gets, with just a few eco-lodges like the Banana Lama Eco Cottage scattered between Rosalie and La Pleine.
Whichever Dominican neighbourhood you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling more connected to nature than ever before.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Caribbean Islands to plan your trip.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
