From the mist that hangs over Boiling Lake to the earthy scent of wet volcanic soil after a rainforest rain, Dominica feels like a living, breathing garden. Bright soursop and citrus fruits line roadside stalls, the Sisserou parrot flashes emerald and purple in the canopy, and the island’s markets hum with the chatter of farmers and artisans who work with what the land gives them.

Whether you’re packing light or planning a trunkful of treasures, Dominica souvenirs capture the island’s wild, tactile spirit. Here’s what to buy in Dominica to bring a piece of its rainforest, reef, and coastline home with you.

1. Bay Oil (Bay Rum)

Why pick this up: Distilled from the leaves of the West Indian bay tree, bay oil is the island’s fragrant signature — spicy, herbaceous and evocative of Dominica’s shoreline trees. Locals use it in soaps, aftershaves and aromatherapy blends.
What to look for: Small-batch, locally distilled bay oil (sometimes sold as “bay rum”) with clear labeling and a short ingredient list; avoid overly perfumed commercial blends.
Price bracket (2025): EC$20–EC$60 for 30–100 ml bottles.
Where to find it: Roseau craft stalls, the Central Market, and roadside stands near Marigot and Portsmouth.

2. Single-origin Dominica Chocolate

Why pick this up: Dominica’s volcanic soil produces lively, fruity cacao. Small farms and bean-to-bar chocolatiers turn those beans into rich, nuanced bars that taste unlike anything from industrial factories.
What to look for: Bars labeled “single-origin” or with farm names, and notes like floral, citrus or red-fruit; dark 60–80% bars are common.
Price bracket (2025): EC$12–EC$40 per bar, depending on bean quality and packaging.
Where to find it: Roseau food shops, island farm stalls, and specialty shops in Portsmouth.

3. Locally Distilled Rum

Why pick this up: Rum is the island’s convivial spirit — aged rums show molasses and oak, while spiced varieties carry citrus and spice notes that recall Dominica’s kitchens.
What to look for: Small-distillery or estate bottles, clear aging statements (5–12 years), and limited-release editions for something special.
Price bracket (2025): EC$50–EC$150 for mid- to premium bottles.
Where to find it: Supermarkets in Roseau, duty-free shops at the port, and distillery outlets near Portsmouth.

4. Kalinago Handwoven Baskets & Shell Jewelry

Why pick this up: Made in the Kalinago Territory on the island’s east coast, these crafts carry traditional weaving techniques and coastal motifs — each piece is a direct link to Dominica’s indigenous culture.
What to look for: Natural fibers, tight weaving, and pieces sold directly by Kalinago artisans; ask about the story or meaning behind designs.
Price bracket (2025): EC$25–EC$200 depending on size and intricacy.
Where to find it: Kalinago Barana Aute cultural center, craft stalls near Salybia and along the east coast, and Roseau markets.

5. Handmade Botanical Soaps & Skincare

Why pick this up: Dominica’s abundant botanicals — bay leaf, coconut, citrus, and cocoa butter — make for fragrant, moisturizing soaps and lotions that smell like the island.
What to look for: Natural ingredient lists, small-batch labeling, and scent combinations that match local flora (e.g., bay + lime).
Price bracket (2025): EC$5–EC$25 per item.
Where to find it: Roseau craft market, gift shops at eco-lodges near Trafalgar Falls, and Marigot craft vendors.

6. Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce & Preserves

Why pick this up: The island’s heat-loving Scotch bonnet peppers turn into vibrant hot sauces and fruity chutneys that pair perfectly with grilled fish or plantain.
What to look for: Local brands or homemade jars with visible pepper seeds and real fruit chunks; labeled heat levels help pick the right bottle.
Price bracket (2025): EC$8–EC$30 per bottle or jar.
Where to find it: Roseau Central Market, roadside food stalls, and gift shops in eco-tourism lodges.

7. Sisserou Parrot Art & Prints

Why pick this up: The Sisserou is Dominica’s national bird and a symbol of resilience; artists capture its vivid colors in paintings, prints, and hand-printed cards that are perfect travel keepsakes.
What to look for: Original watercolors or limited-run prints, signed by the artist; bright, accurate coloration and quality paper.
Price bracket (2025): EC$30–EC$300 depending on size and medium.
Where to find it: Roseau galleries, art fairs, and studios around Laudat and Trafalgar.

8. Pareos, Sarongs & Hand-dyed Textiles

Why pick this up: Lightweight pareos printed with island motifs — Sisserou parrots, volcanic silhouettes or reef scenes — make practical, beautiful beachwear or throw scarves.
What to look for: Cotton or rayon fabrics, vibrant inks that don’t wash out, and local designs rather than imported mass-produced items.
Price bracket (2025): EC$40–EC$120.
Where to find it: Beachfront vendors in Portsmouth and Calibishie, Roseau craft shops, and pop-up markets.

9. Vanilla Beans & Local Spices

Why pick this up: Vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon grown in Dominica bring home the island’s scent — perfect for baking or gifting to cooks who love aromatic Caribbean flavors.
What to look for: Whole vanilla pods (plump and glossy), sealed spice pouches, and notes on harvest year.
Price bracket (2025): EC$20–EC$80 for premium vanilla; spices EC$8–EC$30.
Where to find it: Roseau market stalls, farm stands, and spice vendors in Marigot.

10. Volcanic Stone Jewelry & Beach Glass

Why pick this up: Dark volcanic stones and smoothed beach glass collected from Dominica’s black sand beaches are turned into minimalist jewelry — every piece feels rooted to the island’s geology.
What to look for: Natural stones set in simple sterling or recycled-metal settings, and pieces with labels stating they’re ethically collected.
Price bracket (2025): EC$15–EC$60.
Where to find it: Artisan tables at the Roseau market, craft fairs at Waitukubuli trailheads, and seaside stalls in Scotts Head.

Pick up a mix of edible treats, wearable goods and handcrafted art to carry the island’s rainforest and seascape with you. These Dominica souvenirs hold stories — ask the seller where an item came from and you’ll bring home more than an object, you’ll bring back a memory. 🌴

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top ‘what to buy’ ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!