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Water SportsSoutheast

Snorkeling at Catalina Island

Snorkel a pristine uninhabited Caribbean island

DifficultyEasy
DurationApproximately 8 hours for the cited operator's full-day trip; varies by operator
PricePrices vary by operator; advertised adult excursions include $139 USD and $145 USD (special offer)
Type
Water Sports
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
Approximately 8 hours for the cited operator's full-day trip; varies by operator
Price
Prices vary by operator; advertised adult excursions include $139 USD and $145 USD (special offer)
Group size
Varies by operator and boat
Best season
Year-round, calmest seas December-April
Fitness
Low
Rating
4.6/5
Physical req.
Knowing how to swim is strongly recommended. Even with a life jacket, you should feel comfortable floating and being in open water. The Wall area on the eastern side has deeper water suited for confident snorkelers. The Aquarium on the western side is described as a calm snorkeling area for beginners; check water depth with your operator.
The experience

Snorkeling at Catalina Island

Snorkel crystal-clear Caribbean waters around a pristine uninhabited island with colorful coral reefs and abundant tropical fish.

Isla Catalina is a small, uninhabited island off the southeastern coast near La Romana, renowned for some of the best snorkeling in the entire Caribbean. The island is surrounded by shallow coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, making it accessible even for first-time snorkelers.

Most excursions include a boat ride from Bayahibe or La Romana, guided snorkeling at "The Wall" — a dramatic reef drop-off where the shallow shelf plunges into deep blue water — and beach time on Catalina's pristine white sand. You'll encounter parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, sea stars, and if you're lucky, sea turtles and stingrays.

At a glance

What to know before you go

Good for
✓Families
✓Couples
✓Groups
✓Beginners
Included
✓Snorkel mask, fins, and life vest
✓Boat transportation from Bayahibe
✓Bilingual guide
✓Buffet lunch on the island
✓Rum punch and soft drinks
What to bring
✓Reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen
✓Underwater camera
✓Towel and change of clothes
✓Cash for tips and onshore vendors
✓Anti-fog solution for mask
✓Waterproof phone pouch
Good to note
✓Do not touch, step on, or take pieces of coral — heavy fines apply
✓Jellyfish can be present, especially August through October
✓Strong sun reflection off the water increases sunburn risk
✓Keep a safe distance from sea urchins near rocky areas
Plan it

Plan this experience

The essentials for booking Snorkeling at Catalina Island and getting there.

Best season
Year-round, calmest seas December-April
Meeting point
Bayahibe public beach or La Romana port
Group size
Varies by operator and boat
Get directions →
This activity is in
La Romana →

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