Cabrits National Park National Park

Address: Cabrits National Park, Fort Shirley, Portsmouth, Saint John Parish, Dominica

Website: https://discoverdominica.com/en/places/81/cabrits-national-park

Hours: Daily 8:00am-5:00pm (visitor facilities may vary)

Admission: Park entrance free; small fees for guided tours and entrance to Fort Shirley complex

Cabrits National Park occupies the Cabrits Peninsula on the northwestern coast of Dominica near the town of Portsmouth. The park protects coastal forest, rocky headlands and the ruins of a colonial military complex.

The most prominent historic feature is Fort Shirley, a complex of 18th and 19th century fortifications and barracks sited on the headland. The area around the fort and peninsula is used for hiking, heritage visits and marine recreation including snorkeling along nearby reef areas.

The peninsula was used for military purposes during the colonial era and later came under conservation management as part of Dominica’s national park system to preserve the historic ruins and surrounding natural habitats.

Geographically the park sits on a promontory northwest of Dominica’s central ridge, close to Portsmouth in Saint John Parish, and projects into the Caribbean sea where coastal trails link the fort to nearby beaches and coves.

• Highlights: The park contains well-preserved military ruins and offers short trails to coastal viewpoints and snorkeling sites off the surrounding reefs.

What to See#

• Fort Shirley: A restored and partly conserved British-era military complex with barracks, ramparts and lookout positions located on the headland within the park.

From the capital Roseau, drive roughly 45-60 minutes north along the main coastal road (dependent on traffic and road conditions) to Portsmouth; Cabrits peninsula is a short drive from Portsmouth town centre. Local taxis and tour operators serve the park.

• Combine a morning hike with a snorkel off the park's reefs for the best marine and terrestrial contrast.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen; the park's coral reefs are protected and fragile.
• Visit Fort Shirley early-its restored barracks and the views over Prince Rupert Bay reward the climb.