If you’re looking for a paradisiacal and less crowded corner of the Dominican Republic, Catalina Island is one of the most recommended excursions from Punta Cana. Covering just 9.6 km², this small haven of crystal-clear waters and white sand is a peaceful retreat within the Cotubanamá National Park (formerly known as Parque Nacional del Este).
The island, called Ikiita or Toeya by the indigenous peoples and renamed Catalina by Christopher Columbus in 1494, forms part of a trio of islands in the Dominican southeast, along with Saona and Catalinita. Unlike its neighbour Saona, Catalina is uninhabited and fully protected, preserving its near-pristine condition and exceptional biodiversity.
How to get to Catalina Island from Punta Cana
Catalina Island lies just 2.4 km off the coast of La Romana and about 80 km from Punta Cana. To reach it, you’ll need to take a boat or catamaran from Bayahibe or La Romana, a journey of around 30 minutes from the latter.
Most excursions include transport from your hotel in Punta Cana to La Romana, followed by the boat transfer to the island. There are also combined tours that visit both Saona and Catalina in a single day.
If you have time before boarding, it’s worth stopping by Altos de Chavón — a charming Mediterranean-style village in La Romana, not far from the marina.
Beaches of Catalina Island
Although small, Catalina Island offers two true Caribbean treasures that captivate every visitor:
- Catalina Beach: The most famous and frequented area, known for its fine white sand, turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere — perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun in total serenity.
- Playa del Este: More secluded and less visited, ideal for those seeking complete disconnection in an unspoilt corner of the Caribbean.
Both share the same charm — a sense of calm within a protected natural environment, far less crowded than nearby Saona, ensuring an intimate and authentic experience.
Snorkelling, diving and marine life around Catalina Island
What truly makes Catalina Island world famous is its coral reefs and marine biodiversity. The calm, transparent waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving year-round, particularly at midday when visibility is best.
The two most popular diving spots are:
- The Aquarium: A shallow coral reef teeming with tropical fish, starfish, seahorses and sponges — perfect for beginner snorkellers.
- The Wall: An impressive coral wall with vibrant marine life, ideal for more experienced divers.
The island also hides a fascinating historical secret beneath its waters: the wreck of the Quedagh Merchant, a 17th-century pirate ship commanded by Captain William Kidd. Discovered in 2007 at a depth of 21 metres, it is now preserved as a Living Museum of the Sea and attracts divers from around the world.
Nature and ecological reserve
Catalina Island is part of one of the Caribbean’s most important natural reserves. The Cotubanamá National Park protects over 500 endemic plant species and an impressive variety of wildlife:
- Marine species: lionfish, sea turtles, starfish and sea sponges.
- Tropical birds: more than a hundred species fly over the island and its mangroves.
- Mangroves and coastal ecosystems: crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
As a protected area, you won’t find large tourist infrastructures here. Everything you need for your excursion — meals, drinks, snorkelling equipment — is provided by tour operators or should be brought with you.
Things to do on Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a versatile destination suitable for all kinds of travellers — families, couples looking for romance, or groups of friends in search of adventure. Its natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters offer activities for every taste:
- Snorkelling and diving at The Aquarium and The Wall — two of the Caribbean’s best-known dive sites, full of life and colour beneath the surface.
- Exploring historic shipwrecks such as the legendary Quedagh Merchant, a 17th-century pirate vessel now turned into an underwater museum.
- Relaxing on idyllic beaches with calm waters ideal for swimming or simply sunbathing in a serene, unspoilt setting.
- Spotting marine life and tropical birds — from exotic fish and starfish to birds gliding over the mangroves, a true spectacle for nature lovers.
- Catamaran excursions combining music, cocktails and the sea breeze for the ultimate Caribbean experience.
Every activity on Catalina Island connects you with its essence: a natural refuge where time seems to stand still and the beauty of the Caribbean unfolds in its purest form.
Tips for visiting Catalina Island
To make your excursion flawless, consider these recommendations:
- Book an organised tour that includes transport, guide, meals and snorkelling or diving gear.
- Pack essentials such as:
- Swimwear, towel and water-resistant sandals.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Insect repellent.
- Respect marine life: never remove starfish from the water, as they cannot survive outside their habitat.
- For a quieter experience, choose early-morning excursions.
Where to stay to visit Catalina Island
The best base for organizing an excursion to Catalina Island is Punta Cana, where you’ll find top-level hotels and resorts offering organized trips to this and other nearby Caribbean islands.
Staying at the Lopesan resorts in Playa Bávaro allows you to combine beachfront relaxation, international cuisine, and a wide range of activities with the convenience of booking excursions directly from your accommodation. From hotels such as Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino, Lopesan Caoba Lagoon, Lopesan Splash Cove, and Lopesan Serenity Bay, it’s easy to book trips to Catalina Island, coordinate schedules, and receive practical information to make the most of the experience.
In this way, a visit to Catalina Island becomes a natural part of a complete vacation in Punta Cana, combining adventure, nature, and the comfort of a resort designed so you can simply enjoy every moment.
Catalina Island, lying off the coast of La Romana and about 80 km from Punta Cana, brings together tranquil beaches, unique coral reefs, extraordinary marine life and a pristine natural environment. Perfect for snorkelling, diving or simply unwinding, this island has become one of the Dominican Republic’s most exclusive and fascinating excursions.
