Hiking, diving and home-grown island music are some of the best reasons to visit the Caribbean island of Dominica. This summer, the Nature Island has another season filled with unique adventures, including Hike Fest, Dive Fest and Jazz ‘N Creole.

Hike Fest offers participants the opportunity to explore the Nature Island along the 115-mile long Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT). Dominica is the only Caribbean island with a hiking trail that extends the length of the island.

This year’s Hike Fest includes:
• May 5 – WNT Segment 5 (River Hike)
• May 19 – WNT Segment 10 and part of 11 (Cross Country Hike)
• May 26 – Beach Hike from Eden by the Sea to Londonderry

Groove to Jazz ‘N Creole

On May 27, music fans will gather at Fort Shirley in Dominica’s Cabrits National Park for Jazz ‘N Creole. The intimate music festival serves as an avenue for showcasing local jazz artists, as well as international acts. The unique venue pairs breathtaking views of Prince Rupert’s Bay with the opportunity to hear fabulous music with Caribbean roots.

Dive Into Dive Fest

Dominica’s Dive Fest is the longest running scuba diving festival in the Caribbean. This year’s 19th annual Dive Fest 2012 is planned for July 6-15. Experienced and beginner divers alike are invited to participate in one of the most fascinating diving experiences in the Caribbean. Dominica is rated as one of the top 10 dive locations in the world, with a variety of dive sites that feature dramatic walls and pinnacles, pristine reefs and Champagne snorkeling. In addition to dive events, Dive Fest offers plenty of excitement for non-divers, including whale watching, a children’s treasure hunt, beach parties and the hotly contested annual Kubuli Carib canoe race.

Discover Dominica Authority, 866-522-4057 (USA and canada), www.discoverdominica.com; Hike Fest 2012, www.dhta.org/news-a-events/hike-fest; Waitukubuli National Trail, www.waitukubulitrail.dm