One of the most underrated islands in the Caribbean, Dominica is largely undeveloped, ideal for nature lovers and anyone else who’s looking for an idyllic tropical escape without the crowds. Much of it is covered by rainforest, with geothermal hot springs, waterfalls that spill into serene swimming holes and the world’s second-largest actively boiling lake. You’ll find a handful of lengthy sandy beaches too, along with outstanding opportunities for snorkeling or even diving among humpback whales. To make the most of it all, book one of these Airbnbs.
Hideaways-Madé Cottage Treehouse
This two-level treehouse-style accommodates up to six guests, surrounded by nature with breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean and Morne Diablo. You can look forward to frequent morning rainbows and ending the day watching incredible sunsets and the parrots that fly across the valley along with other tropical birds. It includes many of the comforts of home, including a full kitchen, homemade breakfasts and bush tea. Your friendly, welcoming host will provide lots of insider tips too.
Casa Philipe
Casa Philipe is a two-bedroom home accommodating up to four guests, offering a convenient location with a beautiful ocean view just a five-minute drive from Douglas Charles Airport. Your hosts can arrange for a vehicle rental, taxi, hiking excursions and other tours, and also supply complimentary bottled water, coconuts and other fruit. It includes a balcony for enjoying colorful sunrises over the Atlantic, and two of the most picturesque beaches are just a short drive away. A full kitchen, washing machine and air conditioning are all included.
Banana Lama Eco Cottage
The Banana Lama Eco Cottage is an off-the-grid fully sustainable accommodation nestled in the rainforest along a pristine river, accessed by foot and zip-line across the water. It’s powered by solar and fresh spring water, offering a unique experience totally immersed in nature. You’ll be able to hike up the river to waterfalls, practice outdoor yoga, swim in crystal-clear pools, and enjoy homemade meals from the organic garden grown. The main room has no walls, so everywhere you turn you’ll see the rainforest and enjoy the sounds of the river. A kitchen is included and the hosts will stock the fridge for your arrival for an extra charge.
Mountain Caapi Cottage
The Mountain Caapi Cottage lies near Morne Trois Pitons National Park, home to hot springs, bubbling mud ponds and the aptly named Boiling Lake. It’s tucked into lush greenery above a waterfall that provides the property’s renewable energy and offers a beautiful view of the Caribbean with a large botanical garden in the back. You’ll have no neighbors for more than a half-mile, just nature, including a fish pond, duck pond, streams, trees and the waterfall. The cottage has a local hardwood ceiling, one bedroom and a sleeping loft, accommodating up to four adults comfortably. It also includes a kitchen, large stone verandah and a BBQ for grilling while enjoying the songs of the birds – keep an eye out for red-necked parrots, several species of hummingbirds, thrashers and tremblers. As it stays shaded, thanks to mature caapi vine and an avocado tree, it stays refreshingly cool day and night.
Castle of Comfort
If you’re looking for an authentic stay with the opportunity to get to know the locals and better insight into the island culture, the Castle of Comfort may be ideal. This Airbnb is a highly-rated private room in a home where you’ll be treated like family. The hosts, who will go out of their way to ensure your comfort and provide plenty of insider tips for exploring the island, may even become your new friends. You’ll have a balcony for gazing out at the sea, mountains and surrounding greenery in a tranquil space just 10 minutes from the city in an upscale community. Guests also have access to a laundry room, kitchen and living room.
Stylish Cottage by the Beach
This Caribbean style timber house will put you within 100 yards of the sea while being surrounded by nature. From the deck, you’ll be able to watch the birds and see the pelicans dive for fish in the bay, and from the four-poster bed, you can look forward to watching the sailboats as they make their way to Guadeloupe every morning. At the end of the day look forward to spectacular sunsets followed by incredible stargazing. Newly built, it offers open-plan living with one bedroom sleeping up to two guests, along with a fully-equipped kitchen.
Spacious 2 Bedroom Apartment with Sea Views
This recently constructed two-bedroom apartment sleeps up to four guests, offering lots of space with a large open plan living/dining/kitchen area that includes a fully equipped kitchen, along with a balcony and beautiful Caribbean views. The hillside location provides a cooling breeze and the property includes a pool deck shared with all residents. You’ll also be perfectly situated for enjoying nearby Mero Beach, considered to be the best on the island, with black sands, warm water for swimming and a variety of facilities.