Things To Do
in Roseau
Roseau is the capital and largest city of Dominica, perched along a protected Caribbean shoreline with a growing mix of historic and modern architecture. The waterfront and Old Market bustle with color, trades, and fresh seafood, inviting visitors to taste the island’s flavors. The surrounding rainforest, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes are easily reachable from the city, making Roseau a great base for adventures.
Friendly locals, lush scenery, and a relaxed pace define a stay in Roseau and its surroundings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Roseau and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming capital. Stroll through the bustling market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce and crafts. Take time to enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Dominican fare.
After lunch, visit the Dominica Museum to gain insights into the island's rich history and culture. Then, explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens, home to indigenous and exotic plant species. Relax in the serene environment, taking photos of the lush landscapes and vibrant flowers.
As evening falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of the ocean. Sample fresh seafood while listening to live local music that enchants the night. Spend the rest of the evening wandering the streets of Roseau, enjoying the local nightlife.
Rise early for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided hike to the famous Boiling Lake. The trail offers stunning views of the lush rainforest and geothermal features, making for an invigorating start to the day. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you trek through the vibrant ecosystem.
After reaching Boiling Lake, take a moment to marvel at the natural wonder and the surrounding fumaroles. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking landscapes, feeling connected to nature. The descent back to the starting point provides an opportunity for more exploration of the trails and sights.
Return to Roseau feeling accomplished and satisfied after a day of adventure. Treat yourself to dinner at a local eatery, savoring traditional dishes infused with island spices. Unwind at your accommodation or take a leisurely walk through the town, observing the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Lunch or dinner at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a café | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning access to waterfalls, rivers, and rainforests from the city
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe island vibe
- Walkable city center with markets, historic sites, and harbor views
- Gateway to day trips across Dominica’s natural attractions
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Hurricane season brings risk of heavy rain and disruptions
- Some rural areas require careful planning for transport and safety
- "Bonjou" - Hello
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Mesi" - Thank you
- "Silvouplé" - Please
- "Koté marché-la?" - Where is the market?
- "Mwen pa konprann" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Roseau
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush tropical greenery, a small waterfall, and shaded avenues provide classic nature photography opportunities near Roseau.
Historic architecture and stained glass offer strong subject matter for architectural and street photography.
Colorful market stalls, local life, and the harbor provide vibrant, candid photography moments along the river walk.
Elevated overlook with sweeping views of Roseau Bay, especially striking at sunset.
Food in Roseau
Roseau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy green soup made from callaloo greens with okra, sometimes crab or other seafood, commonly found in markets and at local eateries.
Must-Try!
A cornmeal-based mush (fungi) served with a spicy pepper sauce; a traditional staple served with fish or vegetables.
Salted cod cooked with provisions such as yams, plantains, and dumplings; a popular Island breakfast or lunch option.
A flatbread wrap stuffed with curried vegetables or fish, widely available at seaside stalls and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant waterfront market where locals sell fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, spices, and prepared snacks; a great place to sample street foods and interact with residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Good morning/afternoon' and a handshake; politeness and warmth are appreciated in daily interactions.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and show respect for cultural and natural sites. Ask before taking photos of people or private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Roseau
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% for good service is common. For taxi rides, rounding up to the nearest EC$ or adding a small tip is appreciated.
Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC$) is the local currency; US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but carry cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny with cooler evenings and less rain; ideal for outdoor activities and long photography sessions without frequent showers.
Expect warm, humid days with regular tropical rain showers and occasional tropical storms; mornings are often clearer, with best waterfalls and rivers after rain—be mindful of flash flood risks and hurricane advisories.
Roseau at Night
Hiking in Roseau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, accessible hike to a dramatic gorge with a refreshing natural pool for a swim.
An easy to moderate nature walk leading to a pair of waterfalls and warm pools.
Portions of Dominica’s long-distance trail offer day hikes with rainforest scenery and viewpoints near the city.
Airports
How to reach Roseau by plane.
Small regional airport located near Roseau; convenient for domestic flights and short trips around Dominica.
Major international gateway located at Melville Hall; longer drive to Roseau but serves international flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents in Roseau and across Dominica; diverse cultural influences shape daily life.
Indigenous Carib communities exist on the island with a rich cultural heritage, contributing to festivals, crafts, and local storytelling.
A growing number of visitors and long-term residents contribute to the island’s service sector and cultural exchange.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime across the Caribbean, with local matches and informal play common in communities.
A widely followed sport with local clubs and recreational play; national events draw crowds.
The coast and harbors support sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling near Roseau and across the island.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roseau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, look for staple plant-based dishes like fungi, callaloo soups, plantains, yams, breadfruit, salads, and vegetable curries. Ask for sauces without meat stock and request freshwater fruit sides when possible.