The Best Dive Spots in Dominica
Full of healthy reefs and vibrant fish, Dominica’s warm, clean waters are a delight for divers and snorkelers. While most of the island’s top dive sites lie within the extinct volcanic crater of Soufrière-Scott’s Head Marine Reserve, there are also caves to found farther north. For the best underwater visibility, time your dive to the dry season—from mid-December to mid-April.
Dominica
Geothermal springs on the ocean floor release curtains of bubbles at one of the world’s most famous and unusual dive sites. Shallow enough for snorkelers and folks new to scuba, this spectacular reef has lavish sea life, from sponges to parrotfish to hawksbill turtles. Book a guided tour of this extinct volcanic crater or pay a small marine reserve entrance fee at the site’s excellent dive shop.
Soufriere Bay, Dominica
Two of Dominica’s top scuba sites snuggle together in southwestern Soufrière Bay: La Sorcière (Witches Point) and, just to its north, L’Abym (the Abyss). Both are dramatic wall dives, poised between steep topside cliffs and a submerged crater. While divers often see turtles here, you should also keep an eye out for frogfish, seahorses, and flying gurnards amid the orange elephant ear sponges, bright as prison jumpsuits.
Soufriere Bay, Dominica
This spectacular wall dive starts shallow with long-snout seahorses flitting among the seagrass, then launches into a submerged volcanic crater lined with azure vase sponges. A moderate-level descent, it also includes a swim-through full of lobsters and grunts.
Toucari Bay, Dominica
Explore underwater arches, tunnels, and grottos at this north island dive site—one of Dominica’s most popular descents. Here, blackbar soldierfish and glasseye sweepers patrol a sweep of exceptionally healthy hard and soft corals. Make sure to look down, where a fumarole releases bubbles on the ocean floor. Suitable for all levels, Toucari Caves has a max depth of 38 feet.
