Douglas Bay Battery: A Coastal Sentinel
Explore Dominica's Douglas Bay Battery: A historic coastal defense offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's rich military past within Cabrits National Park.
Located within Cabrits National Park near Portsmouth, Dominica, the Douglas Bay Battery is a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the island's strategic past and architectural heritage. Constructed in the 18th century, it served as a crucial coastal defense, protecting Dominica from potential invasions, and today provides stunning views of Douglas Bay and the Caribbean Sea.
A brief summary to Douglas Bay Battery
- HGQG+H8C, Portsmouth, DM
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, as the terrain around the battery can be rugged.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available within the immediate vicinity of the battery.
- Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Fort Shirley and other attractions within Cabrits National Park for a fuller experience.
- Check the opening hours of Cabrits National Park before your visit to ensure the battery is accessible.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are staying near Portsmouth, you can walk to Douglas Bay Battery. Head north along Bay Street, following the coastline. The walk to the Cabrits National Park entrance takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Douglas Bay Battery, which is another 10-minute walk. Note that the walk involves some inclines.
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Public Transport
From Portsmouth, walk to the nearest bus stop on Bay Street. Take a minibus heading towards Purple Turtle Beach or any route passing the Cabrits National Park junction. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Inform the driver you wish to disembark at the junction for Cabrits National Park. From the junction, it's approximately a 10-minute walk to the Douglas Bay Battery within the park. The minibus fare is typically EC$3-5. Keep local currency handy. Bus fares range from EC$1.50 to EC$10.25 depending on the route length.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Portsmouth, a taxi to Douglas Bay Battery takes about 10-15 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, but expect to pay around EC$25-EC$35. Taxis are readily available in Portsmouth, especially near the ferry terminal and main squares. A taxi from Portsmouth to Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM) is $11-$14.
Discover more about Douglas Bay Battery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
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Kenan Shawarma King
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cabrits National Park
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Fort Shirley
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Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
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Rainforest Riding
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Douglas Bay Beach Park
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Fau Valley Canyon
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Indian River Tours
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Coconut Beach (public beach)
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Ripaton Beach
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Cold Soufrière
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Paradise Valley Garden Nursery
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Bwa Nef Falls
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Essential places to dine
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Sea Bird Bar & Grill
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Madiba Restaurant
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Kish Beach BBQ
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Poonkies
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Monty's
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The Almond Deck
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
J C Ocean Adventures
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Island Dive Operations
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VinJ's Enterprise
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Crea's Closet
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Reef Bar
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