True to form on an island that couldn't feel further from the mainstream, megaresort destinations of the Caribbean, the family-owned Castle Comfort Dive Lodge exudes a simple, laidback atmosphere. The grounds comprise manicured gardens, a small swimming pool and hot tub, waterfront bar, restaurant, and the on-site dive center, Dive Dominica. It's all nestled onto a modest property located about a mile south of Dominica's capital, Roseau, and wedged between the rugged western coast and the

True to form on an island that couldn't feel further from the mainstream, megaresort destinations of the Caribbean, the family-owned Castle Comfort Dive Lodge exudes a simple, laidback atmosphere. The grounds comprise manicured gardens, a small swimming pool and hot tub, waterfront bar, restaurant, and the on-site dive center, Dive Dominica. It's all nestled onto a modest property located about a mile south of Dominica's capital, Roseau, and wedged between the rugged western coast and the foothills of a rumbling volcano. The lodge's 15 rooms are standard, no-frills setups with private baths, air-conditioning, and tile floors; package rates can be arranged to include breakfast only, all meals, plus a variety of activities including dive excursions.

Two-tank dive trips happen once daily, visiting the submerged volcanic crater that makes up Soufrière Bay at the southwest end of the island. The bulk of Dominica's most popular dive sites can be found here, including steep, current-swept seamounts like Dangleben's and Scotts Head pinnacles, lava-rock reefs known for their odd macro life, and a submarine geothermic vent called Champagne, where magma-heated water spews from the seafloor in a cloud of bubbles. Divers can also grab tanks any time and make unlimited dives on the lodge's house reef from the private dock. Nitrox is available on all dives for an extra fee. In addition, Dive Dominica is a full-service dive-training center, offering introductory lessons, open-water certifications, and continuing-education classes.

While Dominica has stellar, practically untouched diving, the island boasts a cornucopia of natural wonders that shouldn't be overlooked. For one, Dominica holds the title of "Whale Watching Capital of the Caribbean," mostly because rare sperm whales regularly cruise the offshore waters; join one of Castle Comfort's whale-watching trips, and you may also see spinner and spotted dolphins, pilot whales, and false orcas. On land, the rainforest-covered island harbors a literal hotbed of geologic activity. Local guides lead treks along endless hiking trails to picturesque waterfalls, soothing hot springs, and a boiling lake. Check out Castle Comfort's Reef and Rainforest packages to customize your own mix of diving and land-based activities.