This beach was named "Champagne Beach" because of small gas bubbles continuously rising from the volcanic sea floor creating a fantastic underwater scenery, which is with a combination of crystal clear water and extensive marine life. Amazingly beautiful and perfect for snorkeling and diving. The beach itself is very rocky with black volcanic sand in spots.
Very interesting snorkeling option in Dominica, the Soufriere area which is situated south of Roseau. Swimming in these bubbles is like swimming in a glass of champagne!
Champagne is a marine reserve, there is a small fee ($2 US) per person to enter. This is paid at the bar/receptionist booth leading to Champagne from land or to the boat operators. But the small fee is well worth the price, not only for the wonderful experience but also for knowing that the money goes for nature preservation.
Champagne is marked right on the main road by a small sign. There is a newly constructed tourist accommodation just after the stairs down to the beach, just as the road turns left and starts uphill. Champagne beach itself is a rocky beach, and the prime snorkeling spot is at the far end of the beach, about a 2-minute walk. Look up into the trees on the left as you proceed and you may see colourful male iguanas sunning themselves and displaying for the benefit of lady iguanas. Lizards will also scuttle from the rocks into the bush as you pass.
Keep going until you reach a cliff. That’s where you want to enter the water. Look carefully, because you should see bubbles rising only a foot or two from shore. The cliff has a small cave too, at least big enough to shelter two people from any rain. Afternoon showers there on mixed sunny days often produce beautiful rainbows – sometimes even double rainbows – over the Caribbean sea or even framing Roseau.
You’ll love watching the beautiful and colourful fishes while being gently tickled by the bubbles. Don`t forget. You cannot laugh under water if you feel the tickle. It’s intoxicating without even drinking.