There’s nothing like sitting toes in the sand, sipping a cold brew while staring happily at the stunning seas beyond. Caribbean beach bars are definitely a bucket list experience. Even more so is a visit to one particular establishment that takes the region’s waterfront watering holes to a whole new level. Meet the Hi-Rise Beach Bar.
Where is the Hi-Rise in Dominica?
Located on the main road that separates the ocean from the buildings in Roseau, the capital city of the Windward Caribbean island of Dominica, it’s right across from the cruise ship and ferry dock. What makes the Hi-Rise one-of-a-kind and a favorite of Dominicans and visitors alike, is two-fold. One, it’s situated on the second floor rather than at sea-level. Two, it’s sand floor truly makes it an authentic beach bar. Ironically, there aren’t that many beach bars in the Caribbean with a sand-covered floor, but the Hi-Rise is one.
A concrete stairway adorned on one side by a colorful light green sign that reads: ‘Welcome to the Hi-Rise Beach Bar – Dominica’, as well as a larger mural painted right on the wall of a blazing sunset, lets you know you’re in the right spot. Here, on the second level, the unmistakable sand extends across the floor. Several picnic-style tables await if you’d like to order food. There’s American-style burgers and fries on the menu, as are Caribbean-typical fresh fish and salads. Behind the semi-circular wooden bar is the makings for the bar’s popular rum punch made with fresh juices.
Dominica’s local beer, a wonderfully pale lager called Kubuli, is sold by the bottle.
Perhaps the best aspect of this sand-floor, second-floor beach bar is the view.
The open-air setting offers a birds-eye view of all the happenings in Dominica’s capital city harbor. Come at Noon, when the bar opens, and watch the mix of cruise ship passengers and locals going about their business in town. Although closing time is 2 a.m., don’t wait until after dark. The Hi-Rise is the perfect place to relax, feet in the impromptu beach with a drink in hand, to watch a dazzling Caribbean sunset.
