Sandy Caribbean Beach with Coconut Palm Trees and Blue Sea. Saona Island
DAYS IN THE DR

Cruise to La Romana, Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of the Dominican Republic, this port is the perfect spot to get your fix. There are countless things to do in La Romana, Dominican Republic, whether you’re more of an outdoor adventurer, beachcomber, or culinary connoisseur. Nature buffs will love exploring Cueva de las Maravillas, a massive cave system that’s home to ancient Taino pictographs. There’s also the secluded, palm-fringed shores of Playa Bayahibe, where you can unwind away from crowds but within walking distance of great local restaurants. And if you fancy a day on the green, you’re in luck — La Romana has plenty of beautiful golf courses to choose from.
National Language Spanish
Currency Accepted Dominican Peso (DOP)

Things To Do in La Romana

Coconut palms on popular Canto de la Playa in Saona Island

NATURE CALLS

Coconut palms on popular Canto de la Playa in Saona Island

Coconut palms on popular Canto de la Playa in Saona Island

NATURE CALLS

There is so much to do in Cotubanamá National Park, you’ll be hard-pressed to fit it all into one day. There are caves to explore, hiking trails dotted with freshwater springs, swaths of beautiful white beach, and great snorkeling along the coast. Keep an eye on the sky — the whole park is home to more than 300 types of birds.

Amphitheatre in Altos de Chavon, Casa de Campo

OLD WORLD WONDERS

Amphitheatre in Altos de Chavon, Casa de Campo

Amphitheatre in Altos de Chavon, Casa de Campo

OLD WORLD WONDERS

Tucked away in the green hills of the Dominican countryside, is Altos de Chavon. This must-visit marvel was built to resemble a sixteenth-century Mediterranean village. Wander along its idyllic cobblestone streets, peek at its beautiful terraced villas, and pose for a picture at its sprawling, 5,000-seat Grecian-style amphitheater, which has hosted performances by Andrea Bocelli, Juan Luis Guerra, Marc Anthony and more.

Catalina island - Playa de la isla Catalina
Catalina island - Playa de la isla Catalina

UNDERSEA DISCOVERIES

Surrounded by crystal clear waters just a mile-and-a-half off the mainland, Catalina Island is a favorite destination among snorkelers and divers. Most come here by catamaran to float above the colorful reefs, sandbars, and a seventeenth-century shipwreck teeming with sea life. Onshore you can explore mangroves and lots of beautiful beaches.

Pork Tripe Stew
Pork Tripe Stew

LOCAL CUISINE

Dominican cuisine blends influences from Spain, Africa and the Middle East, just to name a few. If you’re visiting on a cruise to La Romana, don’t miss out on local specialties like sancocho, a fish stew said to have originated in the Spanish Canary Islands, and habichuelas con dulce, a creamy dessert made of sweet beans.

Sale of hats in a gift shop at the Bayahibe beach
Sale of hats in a gift shop at the Bayahibe beach

SHOPPING

La Romana is home to all kinds of artists and artisans. Drop into any gallery and you’ll find beautiful works by local masters specializing in sculpting, painting, metalworking and more. And in Altos de Chavón, you can shop clothing by famed local designers and stunning jewelry made with amber and larimar, a rare blue stone found only in the Dominican Republic.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic, but don’t worry if you’re not fluent — English is widely spoken in many tourist areas.
2 Make sure to pack mosquito repellant and sunscreen — most of the best activities here are outdoors.
3 It’s good to have Dominican pesos on hand to tip your waiters, bartenders, and guides. ATMs are widely available, safe to use, and usually provide the best exchange rate.

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