This summer, venture beyond crowded tourist hotspots to Dominica, the Caribbean’s hidden gem, where untouched nature, rich culture and adventure await
I had to see for myself what makes Dominica such a special gem in the Caribbean. After a red-eye flight from LAX to Miami and then a three-and-a-half hour flight from Miami, I descended into a lush paradise that quickly distinguished itself from its more well-known neighbors. As the island’s peaks pierced the clouds and the deep blue of the Atlantic merged with the vibrant greens of the island, I knew I was about to experience something unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.
Along the northwest coast of the island, the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa is an oasis where the island’s untamed beauty meets luxury. Dominica might not have the glitzy resorts or crowded beaches of other Caribbean destinations, but that’s exactly what makes it so alluring. It’s a place that hasn’t yet succumbed to overdevelopment and over-tourism, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the Caribbean as it was meant to be—unspoiled, raw and breathtakingly beautiful.
Perched on the Cabrits Peninsula, where its oceanfront location provides sweeping views of the turquoise waters and verdant hillsides, the resort perfectly embraces the essence of the island. It offers a seamless blend of nature and sophistication, with a design that pays homage to the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural surroundings. While staying true to the island’s authentic spirit, the beachfront resort is a wellness sanctuary designed for the eco-conscious luxury traveler.
“At InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, we’ve created a place where the raw beauty of Dominica and refined design work in perfect harmony. From our wellness-inspired spaces to our connection with the surrounding national park and coastal waters, every element of the resort was intentionally crafted to reflect the island’s soul,” said General Manager Ramy Haykal. “Our goal is to offer guests more than just a stay—we invite them to immerse themselves in a truly authentic Caribbean experience, one that celebrates nature, culture, and meaningful moments.”
The resort’s 131 rooms and suites are spacious and designed with every comfort in mind. And for those who want to take their stay to the next level, the resort offers private villas and residences, ideal for families or groups looking for extra space and exclusivity. I stayed in an ocean-facing room – waking up to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore while gazing out over the Caribbean Sea was a treat I won’t soon forget – but the property offers rooms that also offer views of the surrounding rainforest, or the nearby Cabrits National Park.
BEYOND THE PROPERTY, DOMINICA IS A PLACE FOR EXPLORATION AND THE RESORT’S PRIME LOCATION MAKES IT THE PERFECT BASE TO DISCOVER THE ISLAND’S WONDERS.
From the popular Titou Gorge to Trafalgar Falls or finding the hot springs of Ti Kwen Glo Cho, activities are endless and best booked with local guide DG Tours. Cabrits National Park, just a stone’s throw away from the resort, is a must-visit. The park is home to rare flora and fauna, and guests can hike to the top of a hill for panoramic views of the island’s lush landscape and coastline and see the historic Fort Shirley.
And let’s not forget about the famous Boiling Lake, a geothermal wonder that is one of the world’s largest boiling lakes. It’s a challenging hike, but well worth the effort for the views and the sheer awe of witnessing nature’s raw power up close. Whether you’re into hiking through the island’s dense rainforests, swimming in its many waterfalls, or exploring the underwater world, Dominica offers endless opportunities for adventure.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the island’s secluded beaches are perfect for snorkeling or simply lounging in the sun. A boat tour along the Indian River takes you to iconic film scenes from Johnny Depp’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” and ends at a bush bar where you can buy local rum punch and roam around the gardens behind the bar. At Pointe Baptiste Estate, learn about making chocolate from bean to bar, before tasting one of their fine chocolate bars which come in a variety of flavors.
Back at the resort, after a day of exploration, I couldn’t wait to unwind with a spa treatment at the Cabrits Spa & Oasis. The spa is a sanctuary, offering a range of treatments inspired by the island’s natural elements. From aromatic body scrubs using local cocoa to soothing massages that melt away stress, the experience was the perfect way to rejuvenate surrounded by the rainforest and green spaces of Dominica’s Douglas Bay. In one of their seven standalone Polynesian style raised wellness huts, choose their Tropical Escape Scrub & Massage to enjoy the benefits of restorative Dominican fruits before relaxing on one of their outdoor pavilions.
As night falls, the resort transforms into an intimate retreat, with soft lighting, ocean breezes and the sounds of nature filling the air. After sipping a Spicy Kalinago at the bar overlooking the sea, I enjoyed dinner at Cabrits, the properties main restaurant, where Chef Robert blends fresh local ingredients with international flavors. His signature dishes being the True Dominican Banan Peze Tartare and the Local Seafood Platter are stars of the show, with catch-of-the-day options like salmon and tuna are as fresh as they come.
To have the chance to indulge in luxury and experience authentic Caribbean culture in its truest form, the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa is the perfect place to begin your journey. An off-the-beaten path destination – be prepared for lots of winding curves on your one-hour drive from the airport – that offers a true sense of place and an unparalleled combination of relaxation, adventure and world-class hospitality.
