With its strategic location on the Dominican Republic’s Caribbean coast and close proximity to Catalina Island (Isla Catalina), Saona Island, and the National Park of the East, La Romana offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures to add to your itinerary.
Sailing
Catamaran cruises offer a scenic way to take in the sights, and popular day-trip destinations include the offshore islands of Catalina and Saona, where highlights are Altos de Chavon—a recreation of a Mediterranean-style European village—and boat tours along the Chavon River. Alternatively, set sail around the canals and mangrove forests of Los Haitises National Park on the shore of Samana Bay.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
La Romana is home to some excellent snorkeling spots, including Bayahibe on the mainland and the nearby Saona and Catalina islands. Dive in to swim, snorkel, or scuba dive amid colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, or explore a sunken shipwreck at the Guadalupe Underwater Archaeological Preserve.
Ziplining
A canopy tour offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the island’s lush rain forest and some of the best ziplines in the Dominican Republic are in nearby Punta Cana. Climb into the treetops to tackle a 12-zipline course and get your adrenaline pumping as you zoom through the trees.
Overland Tours
The Caribbean paradise of La Romana is just as impressive by road, but that doesn’t mean you have to take a bus tour. Venture off-road on a 4WD safari, go horseback riding around the sugar cane plantations, zip along the beach on a dune buggy, or pedal your way around the countryside on a guided mountain bike tour of Bayahibe village and Cotubanama Park.