Isla Catalina

World-class snorkeling on an uninhabited island

DifficultyEasy

Area10 km²

DurationFull day excursion

Type

Natural Monument

Entry fee

RD$250 per person marine park fee, usually bundled into the boat excursion price at the dock.

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

Full day excursion

Guide

Self-guided OK

Area

10 km²

Best time

Year-round; calmest seas and best visibility April through September

Hours

Day trips only; typically 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Elevation

0-15m

FacilitiesBeach Facilities On Excursion DaysSnorkeling EquipmentLunch ServicesRestrooms

Key speciesSpotted eagle rayParrotfishSea turtleQueen angelfishSouthern stingray

Key features"The Wall" snorkel/dive sitePristine white sand beachCrystal-clear watersCoral reef diversityFewer crowds than Saona

The park

Isla Catalina

A small uninhabited island renowned for world-class snorkeling on "The Wall," pristine beaches, and easy access from La Romana and Bayahibe.

Isla Catalina is a small, uninhabited island off the southeastern coast near La Romana, famous for some of the best snorkeling in the entire Caribbean. Covering approximately 10 square kilometers, the island is surrounded by shallow coral reefs on one side and a dramatic underwater feature known as "The Wall" on the other — a reef drop-off where the shallow shelf plunges into deep blue water teeming with marine life.

Most day-trip excursions from La Romana and Bayahibe include guided snorkeling at The Wall, where visibility often exceeds 30 meters and marine life is abundant — expect parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, sea fans, brain corals, and with luck, sea turtles and stingrays. The island's beach is a perfect crescent of white sand with calm, shallow water ideal for families. Unlike busier Isla Saona, Catalina typically has fewer visitors and a more relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite of divers and snorkelers.

Before you go