BAYAHIBE - LA ROMANA

Located on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic—just an easy 50-minute drive down the Autopista del Coral highway from Punta Cana—La Romana and the nearby village of Bayahibe offer a perfect mix of luxury, calm Caribbean beaches, and amazing eco-adventures. La Romana originally started as a busy sugar-producing town before transforming into a high-end travel hotspot in the 1970s with the opening of Casa de Campo, a massive resort famous for its world-class golf courses and Altos de Chavón, a stunning replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village carved entirely from local stone.

Just a short drive down the coast sits Bayahibe, a quiet former fishing village that has kept its charming local vibe while growing into the country's top spot for scuba diving and the main starting point for boat trips to the famous, picture-perfect shores of Saona Island. Right next door is Dominicus, a relaxed resort area featuring bright white sand and the very first beach in the country to earn a Blue Flag award for its safe, pristine waters. Because this region directly faces the Caribbean Sea, the ocean here is incredibly calm, warm, and a brilliant shade of turquoise.

With year-round temperatures averaging 77 to 86°F (25–30°C), the best time to visit is December through April, offering the perfect sunny weather to explore the area. Keep reading to discover the top things to do, the best South Coast resorts, and essential travel tips to plan your perfect getaway.

Things to Do in Bayahibe and La Romana

Cultural Highlights

• Altos de Chavón: A meticulously recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village featuring cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutiques, and an amphitheater. Book here.

• Cueva de las Maravillas National Park: Located between San Pedro de Macorís and La Romana, this park is renowned for its ancient Taino cave paintings and impressive rock formations. Book here

Nature & Adventure

• Cotubanamá National Park: Explore this protected area, home to diverse wildlife, caves adorned with Taino petroglyphs, and pristine beaches. Learn more.

• Saona Island Excursion: Embark on a boat tour to Saona Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and natural swimming pools. Book here

• Diving and Snorkeling: Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life, with opportunities to explore shipwrecks such as the Atlantic Princess and St. George. Book here

Beaches

• Bayahíbe Beach: A public beach known for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

• Dominicus Beach: Famous for being the first beach in the Caribbean to receive the Blue Flag certification, indicating high environmental and quality standards.

Golfing

• Teeth of the Dog Golf Course: Located within the Casa de Campo resort, this world-renowned golf course offers challenging play alongside stunning coastal views. Learn more about golf in the Dominican Republic

Nightlife

• Altos de Chavón Amphitheater: Experience live music and performances in this historic venue, which has hosted international artists.

• Local Bars and Cafés: Enjoy the vibrant local nightlife by visiting beachfront bars and cafés in Bayahíbe, where you can dance to traditional merengue and bachata rhythms under the stars.

Where to Stay in Bayahibe and La Romana

💲 - Budget-friendly
💲💲 - Mid-range
💲💲💲 - Upscale
🌟 - Basic value
🌟🌟 - Good value
🌟🌟🌟 - Great value

• Dreams Dominicus La Romana 💲💲 - 🌟🌟🌟
  This family-friendly resort is situated directly on the beach in Bayahibe. It has beautiful rooms, fun pools, a spa, and activities for all ages—including a kids’ club and themed nights. Whether you're traveling with family or as a couple, it's a great mix of relaxation and entertainment.

  Perfect for: Families and couples looking for a beachfront resort with great service and activities.
  Make your reservation

• Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus 💲💲 - 🌟🌟🌟
  Known for its elegant colonial style and iconic red lighthouse by the beach, this resort features beautifully landscaped gardens, excellent restaurants, and a family-friendly vibe.

  Perfect for: Couples and families who want upscale comfort and beachfront charm.
  Make your reservation

• Catalonia Bayahibe 💲 - 🌟🌟
  Located on a calm stretch of beach, this relaxed resort offers great value with comfy rooms, lush gardens, and multiple dining options. It has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere with lots of charm.

  Perfect for: Budget travelers and families who want a relaxed vacation by the sea.
  Make your reservation

• Catalonia Royal La Romana (Adults Only) 💲💲 - 🌟🌟🌟
  This adults-only resort offers a peaceful and romantic escape with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and private beach access. The service is top-notch, and the setting is perfect for unwinding.

  Perfect for: Couples and adults looking for peace, privacy, and style.
  Make your reservation

• Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach 💲 - 🌟🌟
  A fun, energetic resort with a wide beach, lots of daily activities, and colorful bungalows by the sea. It's ideal for guests who want a mix of fun, sun, and a true Caribbean vibe.

  Perfect for: Travelers looking for an active, affordable, and beachy getaway.
  Make your reservation

• Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace 💲💲 - 🌟🌟
  Located next to Dominicus Beach, this resort offers a more upscale experience than its sister property, with elegant touches, great restaurants, and a relaxing pool scene.

  Perfect for: Couples and travelers who want a touch more comfort and style.
  Make your reservation

• Casa de Campo Resort & Villas 💲💲💲 - 🌟🌟🌟
  A legendary luxury resort in La Romana, this sprawling property has it all—golf courses, a private beach, a marina, fine dining, and even a replica of a Mediterranean village. If you want a high-end experience with tons of options, this is the place.

  Perfect for: Travelers seeking luxury, privacy, and world-class amenities.
  Make your reservation

Visit Hotels.com, Vrbo.com, or booking.com to explore a wide variety of options in Bayahibe and La Romana. Compare prices, see real guest reviews, and find the perfect stay.

Food and Drinks in Bayahibe - La Romana

Bars and Restaurants

• Saona Café
  Nestled along the Bayahibe waterfront, Saona Café is celebrated for its fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The open-air setting provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

• Playa BarcoBar
  Located in Bayahibe, Playa BarcoBar offers a unique beachfront dining experience with a menu that highlights local seafood and international flavors. The picturesque setting and friendly service make it a must-visit spot.

• Onno's Altos De Chavón
  Situated in the artistic village of Altos de Chavón near La Romana, Onno's offers a diverse menu ranging from local favorites to international dishes. The vibrant atmosphere and live music events add to its charm.

• D' Manuel la Cueva
  Located in Bayahibe, this restaurant is known for its cave-like setting and a menu that features a fusion of Dominican and international cuisines. The unique atmosphere and delectable dishes make it a standout choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Do I need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic?

  Most visitors, including those from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the European Union, do not need a visa for stays under 30 days. A tourist card is required, often included in your airfare.

• What language is spoken in Bayahibe and La Romana?

  Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Is it safe to drink tap water?

  It's advisable to stick to bottled water to avoid potential stomach issues. Most resorts provide complimentary bottled water.

• What’s the currency?

  The Dominican peso (DOP) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are accepted at most tourist spots.

• Who do I call in case of an emergency?

  • Tourist Police (CESTUR): +1 (809) 200-3500

  • Emergency Services: Dial 911 for police, ambulance, or fire services.

  • U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo: +1 (809) 567-7775.

  • Local Healthcare: Hospital Buen Samaritano is a reliable option for urgent medical needs. Call +1 (809) 349 0022