Isla Catalina

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.