Dominica Uncovered: Two Luxe Stays in the Caribbean's Nature Island

Dominica offers an authentic Caribbean experience due to its lack of mass tourism. The island's rugged landscape, lack of infrastructure and dedication to preserving its natural environment have limited development, resulting in a pristine and largely unspoiled destination. I had the pleasure of visiting this Caribbean gem in December of 2024. There are two luxe hotels, Secret Bay and InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, both located near Portsmouth, the northwest part of the island. They are around one hour and twenty minutes from the airport. They are both beautiful in their own unique ways. I stayed with my family (teenaged kids) at Secret Bay for a week, and ate dinner and spent a full day at the InterContinental.

Secret Bay, a Relais & Châteaux property in Dominica, is thoughtfully integrated into the island's natural landscape. This small and intimate resort, made up of 22 private villas, blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering a secluded experience. While maintaining an exclusive feel, Secret Bay also caters to families. It provides a unique combination of privacy and welcoming hospitality. Being a small boutique property, the amenities were limited. There is one main restaurant, and one pool restaurant next to the resort’s gorgeous infinity pool. The main pool area is small but beautiful! Secret Bay has a large secluded beach with waterfront activities such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. You also have access to other small secluded beaches as well. The villas all have their own private pools, large outdoor spaces, full kitchens and a villa concierge.

The InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG property, has a larger, more resort-like feel compared to Secret Bay. It boasts the largest spa and the largest pools in Dominica, both of which are impressive. The resort also features a notable rum bar, and tennis courts, adding to its range of amenities. While the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa is situated on the waterfront, its beach is a rocky, black sand stretch with limited space. This type of beach isn't ideal for lounging in typical beach chairs, as the terrain is uneven and there isn't much of a sandy area. However, there are covered beach swings set up along the coast line. With 131 rooms, there are a plethora of room categories.

Secret Bay and the InterContinental Dominica offer vastly different luxury experiences. Secret Bay provides an intimate, nature-immersive escape, while the InterContinental boasts the amenities and scale of a larger resort. The ideal way to appreciate Dominica's diverse offerings would be to experience both properties, allowing you to discover their unique charms firsthand.

I recommend the island of Dominica for adventure seekers. The amount of outdoor activities on this nature island are endless. Dominica has 9 volcanoes, a boiling lake, hot springs, canyoning, snorkeling and scuba, and it has the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean. Even though there are two luxury resorts, the island has a very rustic feel. Bring your patience. The service at both the resorts is on the slower side. They are on island time! I believe Dominica will become more touristy in the next 10 years! Be in the know, and go now without the crowds!