catalina island dominican republic excursions from punta cana

Catalina Island

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Authentic experiences & recommendations

Isla Catalina – less-frequented island excursion to paradise

Islands are always worth an excursion, especially if they are home to beaches, turquoise water and shallow reefs. That is also why Isla Catalina is a popular destination in the Dominican Republic, as it offers unspoiled nature, beautiful views and easy access from Punta Cana or Santo Domingo. Unless its bigger neighbor Isla Saona, Catalina Island is not as crowded and therefore offers a more peaceful atmosphere. In the following post, I am showing you everything you need to know before your tour to Isla Catalina and am giving you tips on how to find the best excursion. 

Private excursions to Catalina Island

Isla Catalina is part of the most exciting attractions in the area. To check out more amazing things to do in Punta Cana, continue reading here . If you are looking for some private tours to Catalina Island instead of group tours, you can check out this article . And if you prefer Isla Saona over Isla Catalina, you’ll find more information here . Are you interested in further Punta Cana tours? If so, check out our comprehensive Punta Cana Excursion Guide with the most exciting 40+ activities for your vacation.

Completely UPDATED: April 2023

Where is the Isla Catalina located?

 Isla Catalina, or in English Catalina Island, is located on the south coast of the Dominican Republic, just 1 mile off the coast in La Romana, one of the biggest cities in the country. Driving distances from Punta Cana and Santo Domingo are around 1.5 hours. Access and starting point usually is the harbor of La Romana, which makes it a great excursion option from the entire south coast between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana , as it is reachable from both points as well as from Boca Chica, Juan Dolio and Bayahibe .

What types of Isla Catalina excursions are existing?

The standard excursion to catalina island from punta cana.

 If you book one of the typical Catalina Island excursions from Punta Cana or from other areas in the Dominican Republic, either upfront online or in your hotel, you usually get picked up right in the lobby of your all-inclusive resort or guesthouse. The driving time from Punta Cana is around 1.5 hours, depending on where exactly you are located. If traveling from Santo Domingo to Isla Catalina, expect to drive around 1.5 hours as well. From Bayahibe it is just a short 30-minute hop to the harbor where your Isla Catalina tour is going to start.

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 When arriving in La Romana, you will board the catamaran which will bring you to Isla Catalina. Unlike the tour to Isla Saona , where you go one way with a speed boat and the other way with a catamaran, the tour to Catalina Island is a full catamaran excursion.

 The sailing to Isla Catalina takes around an hour. Usually, you stop on a reef along the way to do some snorkeling ( check out this article here for more information about snorkeling in and around Punta Cana ). Once at Isla Catalina, you have plenty of time to enjoy the picturesque beach, turquoise water and stunning scenery. 

 Usually, all snorkeling excursions to Isla Catalina include a lunch buffet and open bar (soft drinks, water and rum, sometimes also beer). You are free to walk around, even there are not many trails except the beach itself. The island is pretty small compared to Isla Saona , it just measures less than 4 square kilometers. However, you might be so amazed by the beach scene that you do not want to walk that far. 😉

The following tours are some of the options you have when visiting Catalina Island from Punta Cana.

Catalina Island tour from other places in the Dominican Republic

If you’re not staying in Punta Cana and want to visit Isla Catalina, don’t worry, you still can enjoy this beautiful island in the Dominican Republic. Isla Catalina tours are also offered from Santo Domingo , Boca Chica, Juan Dolio, La Romana and Bayahibe . The itinerary is similar to the one described above for Punta Cana to Isla Catalina, just the transfer to La Romana might be a bit longer or shorter. Check out the following table for the right Catalina Island excursion depending on where you stay.

Combo Tour: from Bayahibe or Punta Cana to Catalina Island + Altos de Chavon/Rio Chavon

If you want to experience a bit more than just snorkeling and visiting Catalina Island as a day trip, you can combine your paradisical island trip with Altos de Chavon, the famous Mediterranean-style village in Casa de Campo close to La Romana, or Rio Chavon, a river bordered by abundant and tropical vegetation. Both sites are some unique attractions in the Dominican Republic and add some more diversity to your Catalina Island excursion.

While Altos de Chavon is more a cultural-based add-on, where you walk through the unique setting of this (artificial) village and enjoy breathtaking views of Rio Chavon from above, an Isla Catalina excursion combined with a river boat tour on River Chavon shows you two different sceneries: first the turquoise ocean and paradisical views, before you head on the river and enjoy the lush vegetation.

The diving excursion to Catalina Island

 If you are into scuba diving instead of a snorkeling excursion, then Isla Catalina is one of your best bets along the South Coast of the Dominican Republic, including the whole Punta Cana and Bayahibe region . With two dive sites, “The Wall” and “The Aquarium”, the island features a tropical reef and a marine eco-system with several tropical fish, among them sergeant mayor, damselfish squirrelfish and stingrays. Catalina Island is one of the most popular dive sites around Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic.

 After diving, you head to Isla Catalina for lunch and drinks and to enjoy the Caribbean beaches of the island.

 Due to the technical equipment, safety measures and smaller groups, diving excursions to Isla Catalina are in general more expensive than the regular tours.

Premium excursions to Catalina Island

If you don’t want to head on a regular tour because you prefer a more intimate vibe with smaller groups, better food, quality drinks and personalized service, you should book a premium Catalina Island snorkeling excursion. Punta Cana or La Romana can be your starting points.

The procedure of these premium tours is the same as described above for the standard excursion from Punta Cana , just everything is a bit better.

 For those looking for a particularly private experience, VIP tours to Isla Catalina are offered as well. Those are either with a private catamaran or a private luxury yacht and guarantee a sublime experience in style and elegance. Especially due to the proximity to Casa de Campo, the home of the rich and famous, there are many outstanding boats available. 

If you are interested in further information about private tours to Isla Catalina, check out this article .

My experiences at Isla Catalina

 We have been to Isla Catalina a while ago and we had a great time. I particularly liked that you go both ways with the catamaran. This feeling of cruising slowly on a boat, hearing nice music, having a drink and enjoying the surrounding views is for me the epitome of a perfect Caribbean excursion. 

 The snorkeling stop on the way was ok, but not spectacular. At least it was better than Isla Saona so we could see a few colorful fishes and some tropical reefs. However, I would not recommend an excursion to Isla Catalina if you just go because of the snorkeling, you might be disappointed. You are looking for better snorkeling options in the Dominican Republic? Have a look at this article here .

The best snorkeling excursion in Punta Cana is usually this one here for adults * and this one for families *.

TRAVEL COACHING

Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? Is it difficult for you to decide what and where to book? Would you like to take advantage of someone with years of experience in the tourism industry (knowing all the travel hacks 😉 ) and living right in the place where you would like to spend your holiday? That’s what my personal travel coaching is for. I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. All the information I send you are crafted with love and passion – and are coming with a money-back guarantee. Let me know how I can help you ( check my packages here ) and send me a request here !

 On the other side, you definitely should go on this tour for the mentioned catamaran cruise as well as the beautiful island. Once you arrive at Catalina Island, you will be able to enjoy a stunning scenery in the middle of the ocean, consisting of turquoise waters and a stunning beach with countless palm trees. 

 I also recommend you to walk a little bit along the beach. While it is not possible to walk around the whole island, it is worth exploring the surrounding, especially if you head a bit south to the beach where the cruise ships are usually anchoring. Of course, if you are there during a cruise ship visit it might be crowded but otherwise, you have some fantastic photo opportunities thanks to the colorful houses.

 During your excursion to Isla Catalina, you also have drinks and lunch included. Both are nothing to write home about but are doing their job. Unless you book a premium or VIP excursion *, you’ll (usually) get cheap rum that even a Dominican doesn’t know and the lunch is a typical buffet with chicken, fish, salad, rice, fruits and so on. 

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 After all, the excursion was a gorgeous day out in nature with plenty of sunshine, a great catamaran cruise experience and a beautiful island. It was way less crowded than Isla Saona which I definitely enjoyed. Everything worked out perfectly so that we had a lot of fun and kept some nice memories. The scenery is beautiful as well, even though it can’t compete 100% with the paradise of Isla Saona. You can read my full review of Isla Saona here .

Frequently asked questions

How can i book a tour to catalina island.

 Excursions to Isla Catalina can be best booked by one of the various tour operators. I would recommend booking it online as you can check reviews before. It is probably even cheaper than booking it at your hotel. Another option would be to book a tour at the beach and the beach vendor might give you better prices as they don’t have to pay for marketing, offices, etc. (and they don’t have a license), but the quality is a hit and miss so I’d stick with the online offers.

 If you want you can check out the options I outlined above when describing the various tour options.

 Tours are usually offered with a start in La Romana, Bayahibe and Punta Cana so please take care choosing the right departure point when you book an excursion to Isla Catalina. Santo Domingo, Boca Chica and Juan Dolio departures are also possible.

Travel resources

Punta Cana Airport Transfers : Info | Book It * Santo Domingo Airport Transfers: Info | Book It * All-Inclusive Resorts: Info | Book It * Apartments & Villas: Info | Book It * Excursions: Info | Book It * Rental Car: Info | Book It * Road-Trips & Self-Drive Tours: Info | Plan It

How to get from Punta Cana to Catalina Island?

The easiest way of getting from Punta Cana to Catalina Island are the excursions described above. Especially as there are no Isla Catalina hotels, there are also no other means of transport than guided tours. Of course, you could ask a fisherman to bring you over, but it will be pretty bumpy and expensive as well.

What to do on Catalina Island?

Like many islands in the Caribbean, Isla Catalina is famous for its beach(es) and turquoise water. You will have a great time admiring the scenery, having a dip in the warm water and getting some tan. There is also some snorkeling along the beach and during the tour, plus the catamaran cruise to the island is an attraction itself. Besides this, you can get a massage from local people or explore the island on foot.

How is the beach on Catalina Island?

 Isla Catalina has a wonderful beach, even it might be a tiny bit less attractive than the one on Isla Saona . However, in the end, it probably equals out as there are fewer people at Catalina Island and you will have a great beach time on both islands.

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Are there any hotels on Catalina Island?

 There is no option to spend the night at Catalina Island as there are no Isla Catalina hotels.

How is the weather on Catalina Island?

 The sun is always shining in paradise, so it does at Isla Catalina. 🙂

 Even the Dominican Republic has a dry and a rainy season , traveling is possible year-round – without a problem, which means you can also go on a Catalina Island excursion year-round. The same I have explained here about the seasons in the Dominican Republic is also valid for Isla Catalina. So even if there might be some showers the one or other day, you hardly have any day without sunshine, even in the rainy season.

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How to get to Isla Catalina in the Dominican Republic?

Isla Catalina is located along the south coast of the Dominican Republic, hence it is easily reachable from Santo Domingo, Punta Cana and any point in between. For the best and easiest option in getting to Isla Catalina, check out the different recommendations given in the article.

Alternatives to Catalina Island

As already mentioned in the article, Isla Saona is the popular and more famous counterpart of Isla Catalina. The scenery there is even more paradisical. Picture-perfect beaches and photo opportunities are awaiting you there. However, you have to share it with more people than on Isla Catalina. You can find a full review of Isla Saona here .

Cayo Levantado is another island that is reachable from Punta Cana, but it is farther away and the crossing through the bay of Samaná might be a little bit rough, depending on the wind. Therefore I would not recommend going there just for the island, Isla Saona and Isla Catalina are more worth it. However, if you combine Cayo Levantado with a whale-watching excursion (from January to March) it is an amazing package and very recommendable.

How about you, have you been at Isla Catalina? Or do you have questions to your upcoming trip? Start the discussion and leave me a comment!

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Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana is my home-base here in the country and I’d love to tell you more about how to experience Punta Cana off-the-beaten-track and give you all the advice you want to know for your vacation in Punta Cana.

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Catalina Island Full Day of Snorkeling

$ 125.00 Original price was: $125.00. $ 109.00 Current price is: $109.00.

Come enjoy a fun ride to the beautiful Catalina Island. Dance to Latin beats, enjoy some great snorkeling, go on a Banana Boat ride, eat at our delicious buffet, or just relax on the beach in this tropical paradise.

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• Reviews (8)

Here’s What You Get

Enjoy a boat tour across crystal clear waters to the uninhabited, Catalina Island – one of the better-known areas for snorkeling in the Dominican Republic.

Your journey takes you to the town of La Romana where you’ll board the party boat known as “El Fieston”. You’ll then cruise past the multimillion dollar mansions and yachts of Casa de Campo before arriving at the quintessential Caribbean shorelines of Catalina Island.

Enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach, with drinks and snacks served throughout the day, as you take in the swaying palms trees, white sands and transparent waters. If you’re not content being lazy on the beach, put on some snorkeling gear and admire Catalina’s underwater world or take a fun ride on the banana boat.

On the return trip we visit the quaint Altos de Chavon Artisan village, where you’ll tour cobblestone walkways and shops filled with local arts and crafts.

What’s Included

• Round trip transport
• Professional guide
• Boat transport to Catalina Island
• Snorkeling gear
• BBQ, buffet lunch
• Snacks and drinks

What to Bring

• Beach clothing
• Bathing suit

8 reviews for Catalina Island Full Day of Snorkeling

Amanda (verified purchase) – December 18, 2023

It was the highlight of our trip!! We were tempted to book another one during the same visit! The crew was awesome and made sure we had a great time! Would definitely recommend!!

Alessandra (verified purchase) – August 10, 2023

Great experience. Booked 2 tours with them. They did great job with communication.

Steele (verified purchase) – April 7, 2023

Catalina Island was one of the most fun things we did. All you can Drink and Eat for the entire trip and dancing and a great entertainment staff. Plus the river was so pretty. We visited the church where Michael Jackson got married at.

Rodrigo (verified purchase) – January 24, 2023

Best Tour Ever. I book through Punta Cana Tours for a all day excursion to Catalina Island. My pickup at my hotel was on time and prompt. The bus was clean and the driver was professional as so was the guide for the day. The food we were served was awesome, the drinks flowed freely and there were plenty of activities to do.

Marcus (verified purchase) – June 23, 2022

We took an all day excursion to both locations. The bus ride was long and not in very good condition. Catalina Island was nice but the beach was no more spectacular than Bavaro Beach right in front of our hotel. Altos de Chavon is amazing. I wished we had more time to enjoy and appreciate this unique facility.

Dean (verified purchase) – January 24, 2022

A great excursion: organized, friendly, and very enjoyable! The crew – Rubio and company – were informative, helpful, attentive, and friendly! Nice snorkeling, lunch, and just plain fun!

April (verified purchase) – October 15, 2021

Booking with Punta Cana Tours was great. Everything they described was on point. Each excursion was great. The pick up taxi were on time, the rides were comfortable and the excursions were awesome. If you need to book an excursions you will not go wrong using Punta Cana Tours.

Inga (verified purchase) – August 19, 2021

Wonderful Time on Catalina Island Tour. Hi Garry I just wanted to send you a Thank-you note. I had a wonderful time on the Catalina Island tour. Ben was wonderful. He was very informative and attentive to all our needs. The excursion was all that I expected and more. I will definitely recommend your company to anyone visiting the Dominican Republic. Thanks Again, Inga Craig

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Catalina Island

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

CATALINA ISLAND: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Full-Day Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour from La Romana (From £57.62)
• Full-Day Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour from Punta Cana (From £57.62)
• Catalina Island tour (From £68.03)
• Full-Day Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour from Bavaro (From £57.62)
• Catalina Island + Altos De Chavon - Full Day Excursion (From £79.23)
• (6.55 mi) Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
• (2.56 mi) Guesthouse Villa la Isla
• (3.32 mi) Hilton Garden Inn La Romana
• (3.38 mi) Complejo Turistico Isla El Dorado - Hotel & Oasis
• (6.06 mi) Chambres d´hotes La Romana
• (9.43 mi) Onno's Altos De Chavon
• (6.51 mi) La Caña
• (5.34 mi) Shish Kabab
• (7.18 mi) Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant
• (8.30 mi) Causa - Peruvian Restaurant

• Did you know? You can book your Punta Cana activities early for a worry-free trip. Start planning today!

Isla Catalina – A must visit Island from Punta Cana

• Last updated on: 2022-08-07

Isla Catalina or Catalina Island is an island that flies under the radar in the Dominican Republic. It is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands in the country and also one of the least visited. We’ll tell you why it’s an ideal island getaway destination whether you want to relax on the beach or try your hand at scuba diving and snorkeling in the clear blue waters. 

With so many excursions and tours to consider during your stay in Punta Cana, here’s what you can expect if you choose to visit Catalina Island as well as some things to do on your trip.

Where is Isla Catalina located and how do I get there?

Isla Catalina is part of La Romana Province on Hispaniola (the island shared by Haiti and DR). It’s one of two islands in El Este (Eastern) region. With a protected area larger than 7 miles long and 4 miles wide, Isla Catalina offers an idyllic Caribbean escape only 40 minutes from La Romana by fast boat.

Isla Catalina is located on the southeast corner of the Dominican Republic near the provinces of  La Altagracia  and  La Romana . It’s a popular location for snorkelers, its shallow waters and small size make it ideal for newbies who want some help getting comfortable in deep water.

Getting there

Making a trip to Isla Catalina is not like visiting your run-of-the-mill resort destination. It’s more of a full-day excursion. 

There are no flights to Isla Catalina. You must take a boat from La Romana. If you’re staying in Punta Cana , Cap Cana, or at a resort around Bávaro, you can also you can book the tour from a qualified operator that will take you to Catalina Island and back to your resort. 

Catalina Island full-day tour from Punta Cana

The water on Isla Catalina is crystal clear

Most days it’s so blue that it looks like you can see straight to the bottom. When you’re snorkeling or diving, you feel like a mermaid. The water is so crystal clear that some people claim you can see down as far as 20 feet.  

The seabed is filled with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. If you want to try scuba diving for the first time (or your 100th), there are plenty of dive shops on Isla Catalina where instructors will happily teach you how to use their equipment and explore the ocean depths.

Visting Isla Catalina does not need to cost a lot

You can visit Isla Catalina without burning a hole in your wallet.

The common tour to Catalina Island costs anywhere from $89 to $99 USD and it includes the following: 

• Snorkeling equipment
• Snorkel at “the Wall” (incredible underwater rock formations where often Eagle Rays, morays, rays, and a lot of different kinds of fish can be seen)
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Buffet lunch style
• Roundtrip transportation from and to your hotel

Isla Catalina is an incredibly popular destination for day trips from Punta Cana. It’s close enough to spend a day on but far enough away to get a bit of peace and quiet. If you want to visit, book the tour with us!

What to pack?

Wear a light bathing suit with a cover-up so you can change into something dry if necessary. 

Recommended: 

• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Sunglasses 
• Towels 
• Cash in the form of small denomination bills for tips and Pina Coladas.

Also consider always bringing your official IDs and personal documents required during the trip within reach.

What other tourist say about the trip to Catalina Island (reviews)

Beautiful beach for a day trip! Visited Catalina Island beach for a day trip and had an enjoyable time with family and friends. The beach is pristine with crystal clear waters, great for snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving, lots of coral reefs in the area. They have picnic tables and bathrooms, which is good because no one lives on the island. Take bug spray with you to avoid insect bites, there are mosquitoes and horse flies in the area. If you like fishing this is also a great spot to fish from a boat or beach.

Most do (Jul. 2021) Nice excursion for a private beach and snorkeling. Catamaran boat ride was fun. All day excursion from Punta Cana .

Excellent Find your way out here. There is a beach on the west side of the island that is absolutely gorgeous. I recommend this to anyone.

Read more reviews

Image Gallery

These are some images of Catalina Island

Booking the tour

At Punta Cana Adventures we specialize in arranging all your Punta Cana tours and excursions before you arrive. You can book our Catalina Island full-day tour from Punta Cana here.

Fun Fact: Captain Kidd’s lost ship “The Quedagh Merchant” found

In 2007, while snorkeling off the coast of Catalina Island, a snorkeler found cannons and contacted the Dominican Republic’s National Office of Underwater Cultural Heritage (ONPCS), which in turn contacted Indiana University.

Indiana University concluded that the archaeological record matches very well with the historical record therefore the wreck was the long-lost “ Quedagh Merchan t” which belonged to William Kidd .

We invite you to read about it on Indiana University’s research website .

(The tour to Catalina Island does not include a visit to the wreck’s site)

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Experience Paradise with Our Catalina Island Excursion!

Embark on a breathtaking adventure with our Catalina Island Day Tour, departing from the stunning hotels of Punta Cana. Discover the beauty of Catalina Island, a tropical oasis nestled in the Caribbean Sea, just a short distance southeast of La Española Island in the Dominican Republic.

Tour Highlights:

• Transportation: Enjoy a comfortable journey from Punta Cana to Catalina Island, taking in the scenic beauty along the way.
• Catamaran Adventure: Set sail on a luxurious catamaran, creating unforgettable memories as you cruise the Caribbean waters.
• Snorkeling: Dive into the crystal-clear waters for an exhilarating snorkeling experience at vibrant coral reefs. Discover the underwater world filled with marine life during a 30-minute exploration.
• Lunch: Indulge in a delicious lunch on Catalina Island, offering a taste of local and international flavors. Savor the culinary delights in a tropical paradise setting.
• Refreshments: Stay hydrated with complimentary snacks, including water, soft drinks, rum, and the traditional Dominican drink, Mama Juana.
• Environment Bracelet: Receive an environment bracelet as a symbol of your commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Catalina Island.
• Pickup: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel or an agreed meeting point between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m.
• Travel to La Romana: Depart for La Romana around 8:30 a.m., arriving at approximately 9:40 a.m. Get ready to board the catamaran at 10:00 a.m.
• Snorkeling Stop: Experience the wonders of the underwater world with a 30-minute snorkeling stop at coral reefs.
• Catalina Island Arrival: Reach Catalina Island around 12:30 p.m. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the island’s beauty for approximately two to three hours.
• Return Journey: Board the catamaran at 2:45 p.m. to return to La Romana, where you’ll take the bus back to your hotel, concluding the tour.

Recommendations:

• Early Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast, as lunch is served around 1:00 p.m.
• Punctuality: Be prompt at the meeting point for a seamless start to your adventure.
• Essentials: Bring towels, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and any money you might want for souvenirs or additional purchases.

Embark on the Catalina Island Excursion and immerse yourself in the natural wonders and cultural delights of this Caribbean paradise. Book your adventure now for an unforgettable experience!

Good To Know

• Adult: 13+ years of age
• Child:  3-12 years of age
• Pregnant woman:  Not suitable
• Minimum age:  2 years / under parents supervision

From USD$50.00

• Duration:  9 Hours (approx.)
• Location : Punta Cana, Catalina Island
• Product code:  CATALINAISLAND

• Punta Cana Excursions
• Catalina Island from Punta Cana

Catalina Island (Isla Catalina in spanish) is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, a few kilometers off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic.

Small because the island has only 15 square kilometers of area, although it is the second largest island in the country, behind Saona Island .

How is Catalina Island

Catalina island beaches, catalina island excursion from punta cana.

Like Saona Island, Catalina Island is an amazing destination , many people consider that this island has the most beautiful beaches in the world , virgin paradisiacal beaches of white sand and calm crystalline waters ideal for water activities.

Catalina Island is part of the National Park of the Este , that is why the island is uninhabited , it only has infrastructure to receive tourists.

Lately the island is being visited by tourists, attracted by the unique natural beauty of the island in its natural state. Some cruise ships also visit the island.

The island has three main beaches , the Este (East), Oeste (West) and Norte (North).

Currently the West beach is the most used and developed, although the other two have an enormous potential to be developed for tourism.

As mentioned before, the island is ideal for all kinds of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving , as the island has an impressive marine fauna.

The coastline of the island is covered with coral reefs, exotic fish, starfish and other colorful species to delight your eyes, in an environment of calm crystalline warm water.

Definitely Catalina Island is one of the best places to dive when you visit Punta Cana .

For the excursion to Catalina Island , tourists from Punta Cana must first go to La Romana city, since boats leave from there to the island.

Some tour operators usually combine this excursion with the one to Altos de Chavón .

If you want to visit Catalina Island from Punta Cana, there are several options, combined with snorkeling or diving . Here are two excursions for you:

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Privacy Overview

Catalina Day Tour

Description

Practical information, good to know.

• ✓ Sun
• ✓ Thu
• Cruise to Catalina Island aboard a motomaran
• Snorkel with a guide; snorkeling equipment provided
• Hotel pick-up and drop off included not included to and from transportation
• Activity duration: 8 hours (not including transportation to and from activity)
• Round-trip A/C transportation Boat transportation.
• Lunch includes grilled chicken, pork chops, fresh salads, rice, potatoes, pasta, vegetables, and fruit.
• Drinks like beer, rum, sodas, and water.
• Wear comfortable clothes and bring a change of clothes
• Bring swimsuit & towel, biodegradable sunscreen, mosquito repellent
• Bring cash for souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)
• Tour Language: English / Spanish
• Tour Location(s): Punta Cana & La Romana
• Season: All Year
• Duration: 8 hours
• Minimum Age Requirement: 2 years old under parents supervision at all times.
• Hotel Pick-up Available: Yes
• Suitable For Children : Yes
• Pregnant Woman Allowed: No

[email protected] | (+1) 809-446-9602 | 9-18

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• CATALINA ISLAND

Catalina Island Snorkeling

Catalina island scuba diving.

SCUBA DIVING

Catalina island’s premier snorkeling & scuba diving excursions, all-inclusive tours in the dominican republic, pickup from punta cana, bavaro, bayahibe, boca chica and la romana.

Catalina Island Dominican Republic

Cultural Luxury Relax

Welcome aboard our catamaran and snorkel the most beautiful underwater ecosystem of the Dominican Republic. You'll experience clear turquoise waters with plenty of fish to keep you amazed for hours! Then relax on our beach and enjoy a selection of refreshments at the bar, while your lunch is freshly prepared by our highly skilled chef.

Luxury Relax Sport

Welcome aboard and scuba dive two amazing dive sites in the most beautiful underwater ecosystem of the Dominican Republic. Catalina Island scuba diving is a full day all-inclusive tour. Join our excursion and experience the clear turquoise waters, incredible coral formations, fish life and our beach on Catalina Island. This all-inclusive excursion includes a tasty lunch, which is prepared by our highly skilled chef.

SUMMER PROMOTION

Catalina island diving, offers coming soon....

We’d love you to come and experience our amazing snorkeling and scuba diving excursions at Catalina Island. Enjoy our great food, chill out in the sun and have a drink from our bar, all-inclusive! Catalina island has some of the best diving sites in the Dominican Republic and the waters are filled with sea life. This also make’s for a great snorkelling experience and is sure to be a day to remember. There’s always time during the day to sit back, put your legs up and relax with a beer or soft drink. Come and join us, enjoy the Caribbean sun, eat coconuts and have a drink. We’re family friendly, so bring the children along, we have all the beach toys they could wish for!

The food menu changes from day to day and our Premier VIP menu includes a freshly prepared lobster cooked on our BBQ. The standard menu includes BBQ’d chicken with an array of different dishes including vegetarian and gluten free options. The food, soft drinks and local beer is all-inclusive throughout the day. And there’s also a selection of imported American beers, along with coconuts which can be purchased at the beach bar.

We welcome those who have a disability and our staff are experienced and very helpful to make their day special. Also, be sure to let us know if you have any specific dietary requirements. And remember to bring your PADI certification with you if you plan to go diving. Thank you for checking us out and we’re looking forward to having you with us.

We'd love to welcome you aboard!

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PASSION PARADISE ADVENTURES

  Marina address:          Club de Caza y Pesca          Calle Los Pinos no 2          Buena Vista Norte          La Romana          Dominican Republic

   Phone: (+1) 809-446-9602

   Mail: [email protected]

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9 Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana

W ith over 1,000 miles of coastline and some of the prettiest beaches in North America, the Dominican Republic is a popular beach destination. With convenient flights from the U.S. and Canada, Punta Cana is one of the most popular areas in the Dominican Republic. Most travelers head to an all-inclusive resorts during their trip to DR, making for an easy beachy getaway. However, there are several things to keep in mind. Here are the top things to know before visiting Punta Cana.

• Punta Cana International Airport PUJ is one of the largest airports in the Caribbean with service in-between 26 international destinations.
• Cabs can be expensive so arrange for a transfer before arriving
• Spanish isn’t necessary, though it’s nice to use some common phases.
• Changing money isn’t necessary however cash for tips is necessary.
• There are several resort areas in Punta Cana, like Bavaro, Cap Cana and La Romana.
• DR boasts 200 Beaches
• Nude Sunbathing Isn’t a Thing in DR
• The Dominican Republic features a National Park, perfect for an all-day excursion.
• Bottled Water is a Must in DR

How to Get to the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest island in the Caribbean. It offers several international airports. After several trip to DR over the years, I am sharing the Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

The Punta Cana International Airport

With service from several international carriers, including direct flights from Britain, France and South America. U.S. travelers will find American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

WiFi is available, and restrooms are located near the immigration line.

A valid passport with more than six months before expiration is required for your trip is required. e aren’t required to enter the country. A 30-day tourist visa will be stamped into your passport upon entry. The Dominican Republic Entry fee is included in your flight.

The Dominican Republic requires U.S. Passengers to fill out an online Immigration form before they arrive. Before my last trip in December 2023, my airline sent me a link (Delta Airlines).

On departure, U.S. residents can opt for the automated immigration lines. You will just scan your passport and pass through a gate.

The Punta Cana Airport features enhanced security measures with pat-downs. A TSA pre-check line isn’t available.

The departure area is fully air-conditioned and features a duty-free shop and another shop specializing in Dominican Republic products, like rum and cigars.

Find American fast food in the departures area, like Wendy’s, Sbarro, Nathan’s, Cinnabon and Baskin-Robbins. Also find a bar for pre-departure cocktails.

Find a small play structure for younger kids. The Punta Cana International Airport also features a nursing room.

Other International Airports in The Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo International Airport (SDQ) –With service from the U.S. on American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Jet Blue Airlines and Spirit Airlines.

Santiago International Airport (STI) –With service from the U.S. on American Airlines, United Airlines, Jet Blue Airlines and Spirit Airlines.

Puerto Plata International Airport (POP) –With service from the U.S. on American Airlines, United Airlines and Jet Blue Airlines.

Resort Review: Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana

Airport transfers.

When leaving the arrivals hall at the Punta Cana International Airport, a line of cab drivers will greet you. I recommend arranging transportation with your resort or hotel before arriving. This is one of the Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

There are several transportation and tour counters in the area. I usually check in with my transportation company to find my driver. Often they are waiting a short distance from the airport and pull up after you arrive.

Most cars in the Dominican Republic are air-conditioned.

What Language is Used in the Dominican Republic

The Dominicans speak Spanish though most understand and speak some English. Knowing some basic Spanish is helpful, especially the basics.

Hola = Hello

Buenos Días = Good Morning

Buenos Noches = Good Night

Muchas Gracias = Thank you very much

What Money is  Used in the Dominican Republic

The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (RD$). Though the U.S. Dollar is widely accepted. This is one of the Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

Change will most likely be given in U.S. dollars. For those who want local currency, ATMs are located in hotel lobbies as well as the airport.

Credit Cards are widely accepted throughout the Dominican Republic. It’s advised to use a credit card for large purchases like lodging. Though use cash for souvenirs and small purchases. Tips are accepted and appreciated in DR from spa services to daily maid service.

Phone Service in the Dominican Republic

Since I travel internationally, I have a global plan through my U.S. carrier. When I land I just switch over to the local service provider. I just use my data to check email and messages. The provider I used throughout my trip to DR was Altice.

Most all-inclusive resorts offer extensive WiFi for their guests. Most of the time this service is included. This is one of the top things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

Where to Stay in Punta Cana

Most resorts in the Punta Cana area are all-inclusive resorts. Travelers will find everything from luxurious and laid-back adult all-inclusives to family resorts with waterparks.

Some resorts are divided into an adults-only side with an adjoining family side, each with separate restaurants, pools and gathering places. Other resorts offer buildings dedicated to adults or families.

With several different resort areas in Punta Cana, visitors will choose from laid-back La Romana to buzzy Bavaro. Cap Cana boasts Juanilla Beach, one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean.

Near Punta Cana, Cap Cana boasts wide white sand beaches with lots of palm trees. A resort community, Cap Cana features the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. Both of these properties opened in 2021 and offer a luxurious all-inclusive resort experience.

Nearby is Sanctuary Cap Cana, another luxury all-inclusive resort. Located on Juanillo Beach, it offers pristine white sand with mature palm trees.

Cap Cana is located just south of the Punta Cana International Airport. The Cap Cana Marina offers boat excursions. This area is ideal for watersports like kayaking, SUP boarding and sailing.

La Romana offers a quieter resort experience. It’s located west of the Punta Cana International Airport and along the Chavón River.

I stayed at the Hilton La Romana, an all-inclusive resort with tropical landscaping. It is close to Bayahibe, a resort town with shopping and dining. It is also the departure point for boat excursions to Isla Saona, part of the Parque National Cotubanama.

Bavaro features the largest concentration of all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic. It’s north of the Punta Cana International Airport and on the Atlantic Ocean.

Along this strip of beach, often called the Coconut Coast, resorts are shoulder-to-shoulder. The white sand beaches are the draw though some resorts offer bigger beaches than others so research is key.

Bavaro is quite busy. The resorts tend to be louder and the beaches busier.

Best Beaches in Punta Cana

With about 200 beaches in the Dominican Republic, it can be hard to choose. DR boasts 25 Blue Flag Beaches (more than the U.S.), known for their conservation and recycling efforts.

Macao Beach –Known for its surfing area.

Bavaro Beach –This beach extends for 30 miles and features many all-inclusive resorts. It is a favorite.

Juanillo Beach- -Exceptionally wide beach with mature palm trees. Since there are fewer resorts and many are gated, this beach is less crowded.

Bayahibe Beach –Located in the village and a frequent departure point for excursions to Soana Island.

Note : Nude sunbathing isn’t a common in the Dominican Republic. Even topless sunbathing isn’t a thing in DR. This is one of the Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

Saona Island

Part of the Cotubanama National Park, Saona Island is a pristine tropical escape. With a lack of development, including hotels, it is an ideal day trip.

Christopher Columbus discovered the island and named it after a friend. It was the location for the Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

The easiest way to reach the island is via a catamaran tour. Most trips stop at Palmilla Swimming Area, a shallow area that adults can touch the bottom in the turquoise water.

Most trips depart from Bayahibe and take 8 to 10 hours. Lunch and drinks are usually included in the tour.

Popular Punta Cana Excursions

Arrange for a tour during your visit to the Dominican Republic to learn more about its agriculture and animals.

Feed a Spider Monkey.

Learn about the chocolate production.

Watch a cigar rolling.

Walk through a sugar cane field.

Take a Zipline through the tree canopy.

Learn about coffee production.

Is the Water Safe in the Dominican Republic

While visiting the Dominican Republic, drink bottled water. The tap water is NOT safe to drink. So drink bottled water exclusively during your visit. I even brush my teeth with bottled water or mouthwash. This is one of the Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stay away from the following:

• Tap or well water
• Ice made with tap or well water
• Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
• Unpasteurized milk

Complimentary bottled water should be available in your room during your entire stay. Water fountains are not the norm in the Dominican Republic.

What to Wear in the Caribbean

Need some help with what to wear? Here are all the best tips and products for your trip.

Beach Packing List 

Liquor safety.

Practice some basic precautions during your stay. The drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18.

• Make sure all bottled beverages are sealed with their factory seals in your mini fridge.
• Don’t drink from open liquor bottles in your room.
• Watch bartenders make your beverages.
• Before drinking, smell your cocktail.
• Drink slowly.
• Eat before and while you are drinking.
• Drink bottled water while drinking alcohol.

Food Safety

According to the CDC, stay away from the following:

• Food served at room temperature
• Food from street vendors
• Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
• Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
• Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
• Unpasteurized dairy products
• ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)

Insect Safety in DR

According to the CDC, protect yourself by doing the following:

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on your skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

I recommend the following product to treat your clothes before departure, available from Amazon.

Make an Appointment at Travel Clinic

I headed to CDC.gov for Caribbean travel information, including required immunizations. My family practitioner advised me to make an appointment at a travel clinic.

At the travel clinic, my nurse practitioner advised a Typhoid vaccine, along with Hepatitis A and a booster vaccine for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis since it had been five years since my last shot. I was covered for the MMR vaccine, or measles, mumps and rubella.

The nurse practitioner also discussed mosquito safety since dengue fever is sometimes an issue for the Caribbean. I packed a 3 oz. container of insect repellant and used it when I walked through a shady area and in the evenings.

Along with vaccines, she discussed traveler’s diarrhea (TD). She advised I start taking probiotics before and during my trip. I also drank a dose of Emergen-C daily, especially after long international flights. I packed some over-the-counter medications for TD symptoms since it’s the most common illness during travel.

Fear of TD–Traveler’s Diarrhea

I have a fear of TD. Who has time for that? I didn’t want to find a Dominican pharmacy, so I packed all the supplies I might need. Here’s what the CDC recommends.

• Antiacid—like Tums
• Pepto-Bismol tablets
• Imodium tablets
• Oral Rehydration Salts—available at REI
• Prescription Antibiotics—prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner based on your itinerary.

If you get seasickness, here are the top tips and products to reduce the effects .

First Aid Supplies

Accidents happen so pack a basic first aid kit to be prepared, even for minor scrapes and blisters.

• Pain Reliever
• Motion Sickness pills, like non-drowsy Dramamine
• Cough Drops
• Cold Medication—I prefer a separate Day and Night version.
• Anti-Histamine—like Benadryl
• Triple antibiotic cream—like Neosporin
• Anti-Itch Cream
• Anti-septic wipes
• Inspect Repellent

Restroom Supplies

When traveling away from resorts, pack some restroom supplies. You will need them outside restaurants and hotels.

• Toilet paper, off the roll in a plastic bag
• Hand sanitizer
• Bleach wipes

Note: I left all medications in the original container to avoid issues with security or customs.

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