Discovering Paradise
Playa La Ciénaga
An authentic fishing village on the dramatic southwest coast
💧Good Water🌊Moderate Current🏖️Dark Sand✨Bohemian
Quick Facts
🏝️
Sand Color
Dark gray
💧
Water Color
Deep blue
🌡️
Water Temp
26°C / 79°F
🌊
Current
Moderate
⏰
Best Time
Morning
📅
Best Months
December - April
💰
Entry Fee
Free
📏
Beach Length
250m
🛟
Lifeguards
No
🚶
Access
Easy
🅿️
Parking
Limited village parking
🌴
Shade
Moderate
🏘️
Nearest Town
La Ciénaga
✈️
Nearest Airport
BRX - María Montez International
⚠️ Warnings:Volcanic dark sandGateway town to Pico Duarte hikeStrong currents at times
🐠 Marine Life:Tropical fishPelicans
Playa La Cienaga is a small fishing village beach south of Barahona, known as the departure point for Larimar mine tours and for its authentic Dominican character. The beach is lined with colorful fishing boats and the village atmosphere is welcoming and unhurried.
Low
Moderate
High
Very High
| Month | Temp | Waves | Crowds | Sargassum | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent | ||
| FebNOW | 26° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent | ||
| Mar | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent | ||
| Apr | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good | ||
| May | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Jun | 29° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Jul | 29° | 0.3-0.5m | Good | ||
| Aug | 29° | 0.5-1m | Fair | ||
| Sep | 29° | 0.5-1m | Fair | ||
| Oct | 28° | 0.5-1m | Good | ||
| Nov | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Very Good | ||
| Dec | 27° | 0.3-0.5m | Excellent |
Water temperature in °C
Calm to moderate Caribbean conditions. The small cove provides some protection. Swimming is possible in the main beach area. The water is warm and clean. No lifeguards.
About 20 minutes south of Barahona on the coastal highway. The village is well-signed. Taxis from Barahona cost RD$500-800.
- Cash: For local food and possible Larimar mine tours
- Camera: The colorful fishing boats are photogenic
- Hiking shoes: If visiting the Larimar mines
Best December to April. Combine with a Larimar mine visit for a unique cultural and beach day.
- La Cienaga is near the only Larimar mines in the world -- tours available for RD$500-1,000 with a local guide
- Buy Larimar directly from the miners at a fraction of tourist shop prices
- The fishing village serves the freshest possible seafood (RD$200-400)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Playa La Ciénaga like?
Playa La Ciénaga is a dark sand beach in a small fishing village between Barahona and Pedernales. The beach has a rugged, authentic character with traditional fishing boats dotting the shoreline. The dark sand comes from volcanic minerals washed down from the mountains, giving the beach a distinctive appearance different from typical Caribbean beaches.
Can I swim at Playa La Ciénaga?
Swimming at Playa La Ciénaga is possible but conditions can be rough with waves and strong currents. The beach is not protected by a reef or bay, so the open Caribbean delivers moderate to strong surf. Local fishermen can advise on safe swimming areas. This beach is better appreciated for its scenery and local culture than for swimming.
Is there food available at Playa La Ciénaga?
The village of La Ciénaga has a few small restaurants and food stalls serving fresh fish and traditional Dominican meals. This is an authentic local experience, not a tourist-oriented dining scene. Portions are generous and prices are low. The fried or grilled fish caught that morning by local fishermen is the best choice on the menu.
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