Discovering Paradise
Discovering Paradise
A surreal shallow pool in the open sea surrounded by nothing but turquoise water
Type
Natural Wonder
Location
Near El Morro
Entrance Fee
Boat trip: ~$30-60 USD per person
Hours
Daylight hours (weather dependent)
Duration
3-4 hours (including boat ride)
Best Time
December to April for calm seas
Difficulty
Easy
Guided Tours
Available
Parking
Available
Accessibility
Requires boat access; shallow enough to stand in most areas
Category
Natural Wonder / Snorkeling
The Natural Pool (often called Cayo Arena or Paradise Island) is one of the most surreal natural features in the Dominican Republic — a shallow sandbar that rises from the Caribbean Sea, creating a wading-depth pool of impossibly clear turquoise water surrounded by open ocean. Standing waist-deep in the middle of the sea, with nothing but water and sky stretching to every horizon, is a truly unforgettable experience.
Located off the coast near Punta Rucia in the northwest Dominican Republic, the Natural Pool is surrounded by vibrant coral reef, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in the country. The combination of the ethereal shallow pool and the rich underwater world just steps away makes this one of the most unique attractions in all the Caribbean.
The Natural Pool offers a unique blend of relaxation and snorkeling:
The Natural Pool is accessed by boat from Punta Rucia or surrounding areas:
No! The main sandbar area is shallow enough to stand in (knee to waist deep). Even non-swimmers can enjoy wading in the crystal-clear water. Life jackets are available for the boat ride and snorkeling areas.
Boat trips typically cost $30-60 USD per person, depending on whether it's a shared or private trip. Full-day tours from Puerto Plata or Cabarete that include transportation, lunch, and the boat ride usually cost $70-120 USD.
The terms are often used interchangeably, though technically Cayo Arena refers to the overall reef/sandbar area. The "Natural Pool" specifically refers to the shallow wading area on the sandbar. Tour operators may use either name.