Dominica has once again earned one of the travel industry’s highest honors, reclaiming the title of No. 1 Island in the Caribbean in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026 while also returning to the publication’s prestigious list of the Top 10 Islands in the World, ranking ninth overall. The recognition reinforces the island’s growing reputation as one of the Caribbean’s premier destinations for travelers seeking authentic adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and sustainable tourism.
Unlike many Caribbean destinations known primarily for beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Dominica has carved out its own identity as the Caribbean’s “Nature Island.” Visitors come here for towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, natural hot springs, black-sand beaches, and outdoor adventures that showcase the island’s remarkable biodiversity.
Travel + Leisure readers awarded Dominica an impressive score of 91.87, recognizing not only its stunning natural beauty but also its commitment to preserving the landscapes and ecosystems that make the island so unique. The 2026 recognition marks the fifth consecutive year Dominica has been honored among the Caribbean’s best islands, highlighting its continued appeal to travelers looking for meaningful, immersive experiences.
A Destination Focused on Authentic Experiences
For many visitors, Dominica offers a very different Caribbean vacation.
Rather than sprawling resort developments, travelers discover hiking trails leading to hidden waterfalls, world-class diving sites, canyoning adventures, geothermal hot springs, and one of the world’s few year-round resident populations of sperm whales. The island is also home to the Caribbean’s longest hiking trail, making it a dream destination for active travelers and nature enthusiasts.
That emphasis on nature, wellness, and sustainability continues to resonate with travelers seeking experiences beyond the traditional beach holiday.
Tourism Growth Continues
The latest award comes during a period of significant growth for Dominica’s tourism industry.
Visitor arrivals increased by 15 percent during 2025, with stayover visitors growing by 19 percent. That momentum has continued into 2026, while cruise tourism has also reached record levels during the most recent cruise season.
Several major infrastructure projects are expected to make the island even more accessible over the next few years.
Construction of Dominica’s new international airport is progressing toward completion ahead of the winter 2027 travel season. Additional air service, upgrades to Douglas-Charles Airport, the planned Dominica Cable Car, the world’s first Sperm Whale Reserve, and an ambitious geothermal energy project all reflect the country’s long-term vision for sustainable tourism development. New accommodations, including the recently opened Ocean Oasis Hotel, are also helping expand the island’s hospitality offerings.
Luxury Recognition
Dominica’s luxury accommodations also received international recognition.
Secret Bay, the island’s acclaimed Relais & Châteaux resort, was named the No. 6 Best Resort in the Caribbean in the same Travel + Leisure awards. The intimate all-villa property is celebrated for its private plunge pools, personalized service, island-to-table dining, wellness programming, and environmentally conscious approach to luxury hospitality.
Why Dominica Stands Apart
As many Caribbean destinations continue to expand large-scale tourism, Dominica has remained committed to protecting its natural environment and cultural heritage.
Visitors can spend their days hiking through rainforests, snorkeling volcanic reefs, watching whales, soaking in natural hot springs, or exploring small villages where local culture remains at the heart of the visitor experience.
It’s this authentic connection to nature and community that continues to distinguish Dominica from many of its neighbors—and why travelers continue to rank it among the world’s finest island destinations.
Where to Stay in Dominica
Whether you’re planning an adventure-filled escape or a luxurious wellness retreat, these accommodations offer excellent bases for exploring the Nature Island:
Secret Bay
One of the Caribbean’s premier luxury resorts, Secret Bay features secluded villas tucked into the rainforest overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Guests enjoy private plunge pools, exceptional dining, wellness experiences, and impeccable personalized service.
Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort
Located on the waterfront in Roseau, this historic hotel is ideal for travelers who want easy access to diving, whale watching, and Dominica’s capital while enjoying modern amenities and ocean views.
InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa
Situated beside Cabrits National Park, this upscale resort combines contemporary luxury with easy access to hiking, diving, and northern Dominica’s natural attractions.
From award-winning eco-luxury resorts to unforgettable hiking trails and some of the Caribbean’s most pristine natural landscapes, Dominica continues to prove that extraordinary travel experiences don’t require crowds or overdevelopment. Its latest recognition from Travel + Leisure simply confirms what many visitors already know—the Nature Island remains one of the Caribbean’s most remarkable destinations.
