The southeast corner of the Dominican Republic, around the fishing town of Bayahibe and the city of La Romana, is quieter than the big Punta Cana strip. Resorts here sit on a calmer stretch of coast, many beside Dominicus Beach, and the area is the main departure point for boat trips to the offshore islands. If you are staying here and wondering whether to leave the resort at all, the answer is yes for a day or two, because the best sights are on the water and in a handful of nearby towns.
Boat trips to Saona and Catalina
Saona Island is the headline excursion. It lies within the protected area now known as Cotubanama National Park, and day trips usually combine a boat or catamaran crossing, a stop on a long white beach, and often a swim at a shallow sandbar area where visitors stand waist deep in clear water. Most operators run full day tours with lunch included, and the crossing can be rough on windy days, so anyone prone to motion sickness should read our guide to planning and comfort advice and take precautions before boarding.
Catalina Island is smaller and closer, and it is better known for snorkelling than for beach lounging. Trips typically include time over shallow reef, and some boats stop at a natural pool area. Because reef health depends on visitor behaviour, choose an operator that briefs guests on not touching coral, not standing on it, and using sun protection that suits the setting.
Whichever island you choose, check what the price actually includes before you pay. Items that vary between operators include transfers from your hotel, lunch, drinks, snorkel gear and park entry fees. Ask whether the trip is a small group or a large catamaran with music and a party atmosphere, because the experience differs sharply. Booking through your resort desk is convenient, while independent operators sometimes offer smaller groups. We explain the trade-off in detail in our guide to booking excursions through the resort desk or an independent operator.
Altos de Chavon
Close to La Romana, Altos de Chavon is a hilltop village built in the late twentieth century to resemble a sixteenth century Mediterranean town, with cobbled lanes, a church, galleries, craft workshops and a large stone amphitheatre overlooking the Chavon River. It is a replica rather than an original colonial town, and it is best understood as an arts-focused development rather than a historic site. Even so, it is an enjoyable half day, especially in the late afternoon when the heat eases and the views along the river are at their best. It also has restaurants and shops, so it works well as a lunch or early evening stop.
Bayahibe town
Bayahibe itself is a small fishing community with simple seafront restaurants, local boats and an unhurried feel. Spending an evening here gives a very different impression of the coast from a resort buffet. Order fresh fish where locals are eating, carry small bills in pesos for tips and purchases, and keep valuables out of sight as you would in any busy waterfront. Our notes on dining options and sharing facilities at larger complexes are helpful context if your resort restricts access to some restaurants.
Beaches, caves and golf
Dominicus Beach is the resort strip and has calm water on many days, which suits families with small children, although conditions vary with weather and season. For something less developed, ask local guides about the national park coastline, where cave systems such as Padre Nuestro attract visitors who want a short walk and a cool break from the sun.
Casa de Campo, a large resort community near La Romana, is known for its golf courses, including the seaside Teeth of the Dog layout, and for a marina. Non-guests may be able to access some facilities by arrangement, so contact the venue before planning around it.
Practical planning
- La Romana’s international airport is the closest for this area. Many travellers also arrive via Punta Cana, which is a longer road transfer, so check driving time before you book flights.
- Tours often start early, so confirm hotel pickup times the evening before.
- Bring a hat, water, reef-friendly sun protection and a light cover-up for the boat.
- Carry copies of your passport rather than the original for day excursions where the operator allows it, and keep the original in your room safe.
- Check current entry rules for the Dominican Republic before you travel, including the electronic entry form, which our news coverage has explained in detail.
If you are comparing this coast with the busier resort areas further north, our guides on Bavaro and Arena Gorda show how the character of the east coast changes from one stretch to the next. For a quieter stay with one standout boat day, a three or four night plan at Bayahibe, with one island trip and one afternoon at Altos de Chavon, covers the best of the area without feeling rushed.