Discovering Paradise
Playa Saladilla
Golden sand where the Sierra de Bahoruco tumbles into the Caribbean
💧Good Water🌊Moderate Current🏖️Golden Sand✨Wild
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
1200m
🛟
Lifeguards
No
🚶
Access
Easy
🅿️
Parking
Roadside parking (free)
🌴
Shade
Limited
🏘️
Nearest Town
Barahona
✈️
Nearest Airport
BRX - María Montez International
⚠️ Warnings:Volcanic sand gets very hot in sunWaves can be strongPopular local beach
🐠 Marine Life:Tropical fishPelicans
Playa Saladilla is a quiet beach near Barahona, popular with locals for its calm waters and proximity to the city. The beach has a laid-back Dominican atmosphere with a few small restaurants and minimal tourist infrastructure. It offers an authentic beach experience without any commercial development.
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 conditions. The water is warm and generally safe for swimming. A mix of sandy and rocky bottom -- water shoes are helpful. No lifeguards but the beach is usually populated with local families.
About 15 minutes south of Barahona by car. Motoconchos from Barahona charge RD$200-300. The beach is accessible from the main coastal road.
- Water shoes: Mix of sand and rocks
- Cash: For local food vendors
- Beach umbrella: Limited shade
Year-round. December to April driest. Weekends see local families; weekdays are quiet.
- Authentic local beach experience -- very few tourists ever visit
- Fresh seafood at the small beachside shacks at genuine local prices (RD$200-400)
- Good starting point for the scenic drive south along the Barahona coast
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Playa Saladilla special?
Playa Saladilla stands out for its golden sand beach set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The Sierra de Bahoruco mountains rise directly behind the beach, creating a stunning contrast of green peaks and blue ocean. This combination of mountain and sea scenery is characteristic of the Barahona coast and unlike anything found in the eastern resort areas.
Is Playa Saladilla good for swimming?
Playa Saladilla offers decent swimming conditions with a sandy bottom and moderate waves. The water is clear and warm. As with most beaches along this coast, conditions can vary with the weather, so check before entering. The beach is not crowded, which means plenty of space to enjoy the water and scenery in peace.
Are there facilities at Playa Saladilla?
Facilities at Playa Saladilla are minimal, with perhaps a small vendor or two during peak times. There are no formal restaurants or amenities directly on the beach. Bring your own supplies including water, food, and sun protection. The nearby road provides access to the string of small communities along the Barahona coast where basic services are available.
Nearby Beaches
More beaches to explore near Playa Saladilla
Plan Your Beach Day
Get directions, check conditions, and explore more beaches in the area.
Explore Barahona →