Top 10 Things To Do In Bayahibe, The Dominican Republic - Updated 2024

things to do in bayahibe
Melanie
Melanie 
Updated
| 4 min read

Many Caribbean destinations are known for being tropical paradises. However, these are also known for being overcrowded with tourists, which can make it difficult to enjoy the various attractions offered by these places, especially at the peak of tourist season. Bayahibe, a town in the Dominican Republic, is an exception, boasting various all-inclusive resorts. Originally starting as a fishing village, it has since grown into a tourist attraction, while maintaining its relaxing ambiance. Aside from the beauty of the tropics, it offers peace and tranquility to visitors with many Airbnb vacation rentals, as well as a wide variety of land and water adventures that would keep them occupied for days. Read on to learn more about the top things to do in Bayahibe, the Dominican Republic.

1. Visit Cueva del Chicho

Cueva I Bayahibe-IMG07
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jos1950 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Bayahibe boasts an awe-inspiring highlight known as the Cueva del Chicho, an extraordinary natural cave featuring a pristine underground lake of blue waters. It holds great significance for the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of the island, who have adorned its walls with petroglyphs and left behind remnants of their pottery.

With the guidance of an experienced guide, visitors can delve into the depths of the underground cave by passing through a meandering forest along the 2 km (1.24 mi) Padre Nuestro trail, immersing themselves in the invigorating waters while being surrounded by magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Situated within the boundaries of the Cotubanamá National Park, this enchanting site not only showcases an abundant array of wildlife but also encompasses a wealth of cultural heritage.

Cueva del Chicho

Address: 23000 Dominican Republic

Website: Cueva del Chicho

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2. Discover historic shipwrecks

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Experience the wonders of the historic shipwrecks in the Dominican Republic, a remarkable destination for those fascinated by them. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the remnants of the Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, which succumbed to a devastating hurricane in 1724.

Discover artifacts including cannons, an iron anchor, and a captivating array of salvaged items. This living museum goes beyond maritime heritage, showcasing the vibrant marine life that now thrives around the shipwrecks. Located near Viva Dominicus Beach and Viva Dominicus Palace in Bayahibe, the preserve invites visitors to delve into the captivating history and ecological significance of this extraordinary underwater treasure trove.

Guadalupe Underwater Archaeological Preserve

Address: Adjacent to Viva Dominicus Beach and Viva Dominicus Palace in Bayahibe

Website: GUAP

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3. Explore the marine life of Bayahibe by scuba diving

When you come scuba diving with Sharky's crew in Bayahibe, Dominican republic, the rule number one is the safety and the number two - is having fun !

Posted by Scuba Diving in Dominican Republic on Friday, 1 March 2013

If there is one thing that Bayahibe is known for, it is scuba diving. In fact, the town is considered as having the best scuba spots across the Dominican Republic. If you do not know how to scuba dive but want to learn, don’t worry, because there are a number of scuba schools that offer lessons to tourists. One of these is PADI Discover Scuba Diving, which provides training to guests and accompanies them as they explore the marine life of Bayahibe. All the necessary equipment will be provided to guests by the company so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear.

PADI Discover Scuba Diving

Website:

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4. Go on a buggy expedition

The powerful Buggy Cobra, new in Dominican Republic Il potente Buggy Cobra, nuovo in Repubblica Dominicana El potente Buggy Cobra, nuevo en Republica Dominicana

Posted by Bayahibe Caracol Tours on Tuesday, 14 April 2015

If you don’t mind getting down and dirty and having fun while doing this, you can join a buggy expedition, which traverses villages and sugar cane and fruit plantations and which will take you beside the River of Chavon. During the ride, you will also be able to see a variety of native wildlife. A tour guide will accompany you throughout the expedition to give you more information about the sights you will see. Owing to the physical nature of this activity, it might not be advisable for young children, the elderly, and those who suffer from physical disabilities to try this out.

Buggy and single quad bikes from La Romana

Website:

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5. Sunset cruise on a catamaran from Bayahibe

Watch the sunset from a catamaran
Source: Max Pixel

For those seeking romantic things to do in the Dominican Republic, a highly recommended option is going on a romantic sunset cruise aboard a sailing catamaran. This allows you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean sun as it sets on the horizon. The two-hour ride is inclusive of a two-hour guided snorkel trip to a coral reef. Guests can also avail of light snacks and drinks from the open bar while on board.

Sunset cruise with sail catamaran from Bayahibe

Website:

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6. Escape to Saona Island

Saona island
Source: Pixabay

If you are planning an excursion from Bayahibe, then you can go on a tour to Saona Island, which is a few hours away by Catamaran from Bayahibe. The island features clear water, perfect for those who love snorkeling. There is also a snorkeling spot by the island where guests can swim with stingrays. The island tour package is inclusive of a buffet lunch on the island, use of sunbeds, and access to an open bar, where they have their choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Catamaran excursion to Saona Island

Website:

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7. Escape to Catalina Island (from USD 79.0)

Catalina Island, La Romana, Dominican Republic. A line of bright painted bungalows nearby the cost line, shaded with palm trees (landscape)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mstyslav Chernov used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Another island you can explore from Bayahibe is Catalina Island, a must-visit site especially for those who love to snorkel, because inclusive of the package is a trip to one of the best snorkeling sites in the area, owing to the number of corals there. Also covered is a buffet lunch at the island. Guests who love dancing can also learn how to dance the bachata and the merengue while there.

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Catamaran and Snorkeling Day Trip to Catalina

Duration: 9 hours

8 reviews

8. Explore the jungle

Wanna join me for some sunbathing? #TanamaJungleRanch #AnimalSanctuary #EcoTour #Bayahibe #PuntaCana #DominicanRepublic

Posted by Tanama Jungle Ranch on Saturday, 14 November 2015

For those who are looking for fun activities in the Dominican Republic, Tanama Jungle Ranch might be a good destination to add to your itinerary. This destination takes visitors to the heart of the wilderness, where they can meet a variety of animals, ranging from butterflies and hummingbirds to boa constrictors. The tour also includes dancing lessons and trekking across a rainforest trail. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can even pet some of the animals in captivity.

Tanama Jungle Ranch

Website: Tanama Jungle Ranch

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9. Swim with sharks and stingrays (from USD 106.0)

Our last family, this time from France, had a great time scuba diving in Bayahibe area for few days, saw many corals and...

Posted by Scuba Diving in Dominican Republic on Friday, 17 August 2012

If you want an experience more exciting than scuba diving, why not swim with sharks and stingrays? The adventure starts off with a ride on an ocean cruise to Bavaro and the Marinarium, where guests are trained in snorkeling. Once they are ready, they can then swim with stingrays, nurse sharks, and a variety of tropical fish. Once you get tired of swimming with these magnificent creatures, you can go back to the ship, where you can receive training in cocktail mixing from the bartenders.

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Marinarium Shark and Ray Experience

Duration: 4 hours

10 reviews

10. Los Haitises National Park sightseeing cruise from La Romana (from USD 129.0)

Dominican republic Los Haitises mangroves
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Anton Bielousov used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Sightseers and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy going on a one-day cruise to the mangrove forests of Los Haitises National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, mangroves, and different kinds of trees, plants, and flowers. Aside from flora and fauna, tourists can also see petroglyphs left by early settlers on Cayo Leventado. Once they are done exploring the park’s many attractions, they can swim in the sea or spend a few hours lazing by the beach while there.

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Los Haitises National Park Sightseeing Cruise from La Romana

Duration: 14 hours

2 reviews

An exotic adventure awaits visitors of Bayahibe

If you are visiting this country in the Caribbean for the first time, be sure to include Bayahibe in the Dominican Republic in your itinerary. Bayahibe offers a wide range of adventures for visitors to enjoy. Not only are water sports and activities available but there are also activities available for those who prefer exploring new areas on foot or a vehicle. Whatever your interest, Bayahibe has something in store for you!

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Bayahibe


  • Where can travelers go scuba diving in Bayahibe?

    Travelers visiting Bayahibe in the Dominican Republic, have several fantastic scuba diving options to explore the stunning underwater world. One popular diving spot is the PADI Discover Scuba Diving. This vibrant reef offers a kaleidoscope of colorful corals, tropical fish, and other marine species.

  • Which activities in Bayahibe are suitable for couples on a romantic retreat?

    Couples seeking a romantic retreat in Bayahibe can indulge in a variety of activities designed to enhance their experience. One delightful option is to embark on a sunset cruise aboard a catamaran. Set sail from Bayahibe and bask in the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Melanie is a freelance travel writer. She considers freelancing for Trip 101 to be a combination of two of the things she loves: writing and traveling. She has gone sightseeing with family,...Read more

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