Portsmouth

Dominica, The Caribbean

Portsmouth, Dominica's second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of culture and natural beauty. Renowned for the historic Fort Shirley, it offers intriguing insights into colonial history, alongside stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The nearby Indian River provides a tranquil canoeing experience through lush mangroves, while the vibrant local market showcases fresh produce and crafts. Portsmouth is the perfect base for adventures like snorkeling in the azure waters and hiking to the breathtaking Cabrits National Park.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Melville Hall

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Portsmouth

1

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike to Boiling Lake

Trek to the world's second-largest boiling lake.

Booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Morne Trois Pitons National Park

Discover stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Champagne Reef

Experience underwater geothermal springs and vibrant marine life.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Portsmouth's Fort Shirley

Explore this historic fort with panoramic views.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided tour of the Indian River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through lush mangroves.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Purple Turtle Beach

Unwind on one of Dominica's best beaches.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local culture at the Portsmouth Market

Taste local foods and shop for handmade crafts.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

East Caribbean Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

The Mountain Chicken

Fried frog legs, a local delicacy. (National dish)

Callaloo Soup

VE

Creamy soup made from leafy greens.

Codfish Sancoche

Fish stew with vegetables and spices.

Bakes and Saltfish

Fried dough with salted fish filling.

Crab Backs

Crab meat stuffed in a shell, baked.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)