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Champagne Reef: Dominica's Underwater Jacuzzi

Snorkel or dive in warm, bubbling waters at Dominica's Champagne Reef, a unique marine reserve with vibrant sea life and volcanic vents.

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Champagne Reef, off Dominica's southwest coast, is a unique snorkeling and diving site where geothermal vents release warm bubbles, creating a sensation of swimming in champagne. Part of the Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve, it boasts vibrant marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes.

A brief summary to Champagne Reef, Dominica

Local tips

  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral and marine life.
  • Bring water shoes as the beach is rocky.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn more about the reef's unique ecosystem.
  • Bring a waterproof camera to capture the unique underwater scenery.
  • Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Roseau, a taxi to Champagne Reef takes about 20-25 minutes. A taxi ride will cost approximately EC$40-50 (US$15-US$19), but confirm the fare before starting your journey. Ride-sharing services are not widely available in Dominica.

  • Public Transport

    From Roseau, take a public bus from the Old Market. Look for a bus with 'HA' license plates heading towards Soufriere. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around EC$3.50 (US$1.30). From the bus stop, it's a short walk to Champagne Beach.

  • Driving

    If you have a rental car, drive south from Roseau along the West Coast Road (Route 9). The drive to Pointe Michel is approximately 20 minutes. Look for signs for Pointe Michel, then follow signs to Champagne Beach. Parking is available near the beach.

Unlock the Best of Champagne Reef, Dominica

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Discover more about Champagne Reef, Dominica

Champagne Reef, located near Pointe Michel on Dominica's southwest coast, is a world-renowned snorkeling and diving destination. Its name comes from the geothermal vents on the ocean floor that release small, warm bubbles, creating a unique 'champagne-like' effect in the water. This natural phenomenon, combined with the vibrant marine ecosystem, makes it an unforgettable experience. The reef is part of the Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve (SSMR), a protected area dedicated to preserving Dominica's rich marine biodiversity. The SSMR encompasses diverse underwater landscapes, including dramatic drop-offs, colorful coral gardens, and intriguing volcanic formations. Champagne Reef is known for its accessibility and the ease with which visitors can experience its unique features. Whether snorkeling or diving, visitors can encounter a dazzling array of marine life. The reef is home to colorful sponges, parrotfish, trumpet fish, frogfish, sea turtles, seahorses, rays, and eels. Lucky visitors might even spot remnants of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck, including cannons and chain links. The dark volcanic sands of Champagne Beach contrast with the vibrant colors of the coral reef and marine life. The geothermal activity is a result of Dominica's volcanic origins. The island has nine active volcanoes, and the subterranean heat manifests in the bubbling vents at Champagne Reef. These vents release gases like carbon dioxide and sulfur, creating the effervescent effect and making the water noticeably warmer.

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