Isla Catalina, or Catalina Island, is a hidden gem in the Dominican Republic that often flies under the radar of popular Caribbean cruise itineraries. This tropical island paradise, with its swaying palm trees and pristine beaches, is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands in the country. Here’s your complete guide to visiting this stunning destination, including tour options, snorkeling spots, and what to expect.
In This Guide
- Location and Getting There
- Snorkeling Sites
- Tour Prices and Inclusions
- Best Time to Visit
- What to Pack
- Captain Kidd’s Shipwreck
- Reviews
- FAQs
With so many excursions and tours to consider during your stay in Punta Cana, here’s what you can expect if you choose an Isla Catalina tour. We will also share some things to do on your trip to this Caribbean dream destination.
Where is Isla Catalina Located, and How Do I Get There?
Isla Catalina is part of La Romana Province on Hispaniola (the island shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic). It’s one of two islands in the El Este (Eastern) region. With a marine protected area spanning over 7 miles long and 4 miles wide, Isla Catalina offers an idyllic Caribbean escape. The island is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the mainland and only 40 minutes from La Romana by fast boat.
Location: Isla Catalina is located on the southeast corner of the Dominican Republic near the provinces of La Altagracia and La Romana, not far from the town of Bayahibe. It’s a popular location for snorkelers; its shallow, turquoise waters and small size make it ideal for newbies who want some help getting comfortable in the Caribbean Sea.
Getting There
Making a trip to Isla Catalina is unlike visiting a run-of-the-mill resort destination. It’s more of a full-day excursion and perfect for a tropical vacation beach day. Many visitors arrive as part of a Caribbean cruise. Cruise ships from companies like Carnival Cruise Line and Costa Cruises often include Isla Catalina in their Caribbean routes.
There are no flights to Isla Catalina. You must take a boat from La Romana. Suppose you’re staying in Punta Cana, Cap Cana, or at a resort around Bávaro. In that case, you can also book the Isla Catalina tour from a qualified tour agency. They will take you to this tropical island paradise and back to your resort.
Isla Catalina Snorkeling Sites
Isla Catalina is renowned for its exceptional snorkeling. The island features several world-class dive and snorkel sites:
The Wall (La Pared)
The Wall, also known as “Catalina Wall,” is one of the Caribbean’s most famous dive sites. This underwater cliff drops dramatically from 15 to 150 feet, creating a stunning vertical reef teeming with marine life. Expect to see eagle rays, moray eels, barracuda, and colorful tropical fish. This site is best for intermediate to advanced snorkelers and scuba divers.
The Aquarium
The Aquarium is perfect for beginners and families. With depths of just 6-15 feet, this shallow reef is packed with colorful fish, sea urchins, starfish, and gentle stingrays. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for first-time snorkelers and children.
Catalina Island Full-Day Tour from Punta Cana
The water surrounding Isla Catalina is crystal clear, showcasing the true Caribbean blue. Most days, it’s so clear that it looks like you can see straight to the bottom. When you’re snorkeling or diving, you feel like a mermaid. The clear water is so pristine that some people claim you can see down as far as 20 feet below sea level.
The seabed is filled with colorful tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and fascinating marine life like sea urchins. If you want to try scuba diving for the first time (or your 100th), there are plenty of dive sites on Isla Catalina. Instructors will happily teach you how to use their equipment and explore the ocean depths.
Visiting Isla Catalina Does Not Need to Cost a Lot
You can visit Isla Catalina without burning a hole in your wallet. Tour prices typically range from $60 to $200 depending on the package and inclusions:
| Tour Type | Price Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Snorkel Tour | $60-99 | Transportation, snorkel gear, lunch, drinks |
| Premium Experience | $100-150 | Above + scuba introduction, premium lunch |
| VIP/Private Tour | $150-200+ | Private boat, gourmet lunch, premium open bar |
Our standard Isla Catalina tour costs $89-99 USD and includes:
- Snorkel gear
- Snorkel at “The Wall” (incredible underwater rock formations where eagle rays, morays, rays, and a variety of marine fish can be seen)
- Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Buffet lunch style
- Round-trip transportation from and to your hotel
Isla Catalina is an incredibly popular destination for day trips from Punta Cana. It’s close enough to spend a day on but far enough away to get a bit of peace and quiet on its soft white sand beaches and natural sandbars. If you want to visit this tropical paradise, book the tour with us!
Best Time to Visit Isla Catalina
The best time to visit Isla Catalina is during the dry season from December to April. During these months, you can expect:
- Calm seas: Better visibility for snorkeling
- Less rain: Sunny skies for beach time
- Comfortable temperatures: 80-85°F (27-29°C)
- Clear water: Up to 100 feet visibility
The tour operates year-round, but weather conditions during the rainy season (May-November) may affect water visibility and occasionally cause cancellations.
What to Pack?
Wear a light bathing suit with a cover-up so you can change into something dry if necessary.
Recommended packing list:
- Biodegradable sunscreen (reef-safe is required)
- Sunglasses with strap
- Quick-dry towels
- Cap or hat
- Bug spray
- Cash in small bills for tips ($10-20 per person recommended)
- Waterproof phone case or underwater camera
- Water shoes (optional but helpful for rocky areas)
Also, consider always bringing your official IDs and personal documents required during the trip within reach.
Captain Kidd’s Shipwreck: A Hidden Treasure
Fun Fact: Captain Kidd’s lost shipwreck, “The Quedagh Merchant,” was discovered near Isla Catalina! In 2007, while snorkeling off the coast, a snorkeler found cannons. They contacted the Dominican Republic’s National Office of Underwater Cultural Heritage (ONPCS), which in turn contacted Indiana University.
Indiana University concluded that the archaeological remains match very well with the historical record. Therefore, the wreck was the long-lost “Quedagh Merchant,” which belonged to the infamous William Kidd (Captain Kidd). This discovery adds to the rich historical tapestry of the island, which was first documented by Christopher Columbus during his voyages to the New World.
The shipwreck site is now a protected archaeological area. While the standard Isla Catalina tour does not include a visit to the shipwreck site, the discovery makes snorkeling here even more exciting—you’re swimming in waters once sailed by pirates!
What Other Tourists Say About the Trip to Catalina Island (Reviews)
Beautiful beach for a day trip! Visited Catalina Island beach for a day trip and had an enjoyable time with family and friends. The beach is pristine with crystal clear waters, great for snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving, lots of coral reefs in the area. They have picnic tables and bathrooms, which is good because no one lives on the island. Take bug spray with you to avoid insect bites, there are mosquitoes and horse flies in the area. If you like fishing this is also a great spot to fish from a boat or beach.
Most do (Jul. 2021)
Nice excursion for a private beach and snorkeling. Catamaran boat ride was fun. All day excursion from Punta Cana.
Excellent Find your way out here. There is a beach on the west side of the island that is absolutely gorgeous. I recommend this to anyone.
Read more reviews on TripAdvisor
Image Gallery
These are some images of Catalina Island, showcasing its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral stone formations.
Booking the Tour
At Punta Cana Adventures, we specialize in arranging all your Punta Cana tours and excursions before you arrive. You can book our Catalina Island full-day tour from Punta Cana here. It includes a comprehensive snorkeling tour of the island’s best spots.
Experience the beauty of this tropical island paradise in the Dominican Republic. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear Caribbean waters, and vibrant marine life, Isla Catalina offers the perfect beach day for your tropical vacation. Whether you’re arriving on a Caribbean cruise or staying at a nearby resort, this hidden gem is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean Sea. Book your tour today and discover the wonders of Isla Catalina for yourself!
Isla Catalina Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Isla Catalina tour?
The full-day tour typically lasts 8-10 hours including transportation. You’ll spend approximately 4-5 hours on the island itself, with time for snorkeling, beach relaxation, lunch, and swimming.
Is Isla Catalina good for beginners?
Yes, Isla Catalina is excellent for beginners. The Aquarium snorkel site has calm, shallow waters (6-15 feet) perfect for first-time snorkelers. Life jackets are provided, and guides help nervous swimmers feel comfortable.
Can I visit Isla Catalina on my own?
No, Isla Catalina is uninhabited and has no public ferry service. You must visit via organized tour or private boat charter. Tours from Punta Cana include all transportation, making it the easiest option.
Are there restrooms and facilities on Isla Catalina?
Yes, the main beach area has restrooms, picnic tables, and covered dining areas. Tour operators set up temporary facilities with chairs, umbrellas, and food service. However, there are no permanent buildings or residents on the island.
What marine life will I see snorkeling at Isla Catalina?
Common sightings include tropical fish, starfish, sea urchins, stingrays, and occasionally eagle rays. At The Wall, you may see moray eels, barracuda, and larger reef fish. Sea turtles are occasionally spotted in the area.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children of all ages can enjoy the tour. The shallow Aquarium site is perfect for kids, and life jackets are provided. Children typically love the beach time and boat ride. Most tours have no minimum age, but children must be supervised.
What if I can’t swim?
Non-swimmers can still enjoy the tour! Life jackets are provided for all water activities. You can wade in the shallow beach areas, relax on the sand, or simply enjoy the boat ride and scenery. Many guests spend their time sunbathing rather than snorkeling.
How far is Isla Catalina from Punta Cana?
Isla Catalina is approximately 1.5-2 hours from Punta Cana hotels by bus and boat combined. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, a scenic drive to La Romana, and a 40-minute boat ride to the island.
Is food included in the tour?
Yes, standard tours include a buffet-style lunch with Dominican cuisine (rice, beans, grilled chicken or fish, salads) and an open bar with rum drinks, beer, water, and soft drinks. Vegetarian options are typically available upon request.
What’s the difference between Isla Catalina and Saona Island?
Both are beautiful island excursions, but they differ in several ways. Isla Catalina is known for superior snorkeling (especially The Wall) and is typically less crowded. Saona Island is larger, has natural pools, and is more popular with cruise ships. Isla Catalina is closer to Punta Cana, making it a slightly shorter day trip.
