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The Caribbean is full of irresistible attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. One of the most exciting ways to get to know this enchanting region is undoubtedly snorkelling. In the Dominican Republic, this outdoor activity reigns supreme, thanks to the myriad of varied sites along its coastline. With dives ranging from walls and wrecks to shallow reefs perfect for beginners, there’s something for everyone. The region’s warm, clear waters offer exceptional visibility, giving divers the feeling of floating in a vast natural aquarium. The richness of Dominican marine life guarantees encounters that are as exciting as they are varied, and with dive sites close to major resort hotels, adventure is never far away. Ready to explore more than one place? Get ready for extraordinary underwater adventures.
La Caleta Underwater National Park
Located near Santo Domingo airport and accessible from the Don Juan Beach Resort, this park is one of the most popular diving destinations. Rich coral reefs are the main attraction, but it’s the wrecks, El Limon and Hickory, that steal the show. El Limon is a haven for marine life, while the more imposing Hickory is adorned with magnificent sponges and offers fascinating interior exploration. Diving in this region is like leafing through an underwater history book as you swim among alluring fish and fascinating creatures.
Bayahibe: Diving for everyone
Easily accessible, Bayahibe is a coastal town with numerous dive sites. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, there are sites such as Dreams Shallow and Aquarium, where you can see moray eels and manta rays. Nearby, Shark Point reveals its caves and crevices inhabited by reef sharks and nurse sharks. Bayahibe is not just a diving destination, it’s a gateway to an underwater adventure where each dive reveals a new aspect of the treasures hidden beneath the surface. With colourful coral formations and an abundance of marine life, every dive in Bayahibe is an unforgettable exploration.
Luperon Wall: A treasure for adventurers
For advanced divers, Luperon Wall is a real treasure. Its face is covered with sponges and hard corals at depths ranging from 70 to 130 metres. The marine life is amazing and it’s not uncommon to see barracudas, groupers and even sea turtles. The descent along this majestic wall is a thrilling adventure, with each metre revealing new wonders and fascinating creatures. The sensation of floating alongside these majestic natural formations is a transformative experience, offering a unique perspective on the grandeur of the ocean.
The Monica Wreck, Punta Cana
Close to many hotels, the Monica wreck in Punta Cana is a dive into history. Sunk in the 1900s, the ship is now covered in coral and sea grass and is home to local fauna such as glassfish, barracuda and surgeonfish. Diving on the wreck of the Monica is like entering a world where nature has taken over, transforming an old ship into a vibrant and colourful habitat. Divers can weave their way through the remains of the structure, discovering every nook and cranny populated by fascinating marine life. It’s an adventure that’s as much historical as it is natural, offering a glimpse of the effects of time and the sea on steel.
Catalina Island: untamed beauty
Off the south-east coast, Catalina Island offers dream diving. Easily accessible from La Romana, the most famous dive site is The Wall. Expect to see lobsters, rays and moray eels. Catalina is a largely unspoilt island, giving it a mystical and unspoilt atmosphere. Diving here means discovering little visited seabeds where marine life thrives. The spectacular coral formations and clear waters create the perfect environment for unforgettable dives. Every dive at Catalina is an adventure into a vibrant underwater world where every moment is an opportunity to discover something new and amazing.
La Piramide: intermediate adventure
On the north coast, near Sosua, La Piramide is an ideal destination for intermediate and experienced divers. This site is rich in marine life and offers the unique experience of exploring interconnected underwater tunnels. La Piramide offers the perfect combination of exploration and discovery, with mysterious tunnels and fascinating rock formations. Swimming through these underwater passages is an exhilarating experience, with each turn revealing new marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes. It’s a place where adventure and curiosity meet, offering divers an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Saint George wreck, South Coast
Near Bayahibe is the wreck of the Saint George, transformed into an artificial reef in 1999. Experienced divers can explore its interior, while beginners can admire its exterior and the fish that live there. This wreck is a fascinating example of how nature and history merge underwater. Its decaying structures have become habitats for a variety of marine life, creating a dynamic and colourful ecosystem. Diving on the Saint George means exploring a sunken ship, discovering its secrets and observing the marine life that thrives around its metal structures. It’s a diving experience that combines adventure, history and the raw beauty of the ocean.
