While traveling through the Dominican Republic, our base of operations was in the capital, Santo Domingo. We were fortunate enough to stay at a relative's house, which saved us a lot on accommodation. On this trip, we stayed for a month in the capital of the island, specifically in the Bellavista neighborhood, very close to the Malecon (waterfront promenade). During this month, we had the opportunity to visit several beaches. Low-budget travel! Among them are the following:
Pic 1: Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado), this island gets its name because an important commercial for the renowned rum brand Bacardi was filmed there, hence its name. To get to this island, you have to travel from Santo Domingo to Samaná, and in Samaná you have to hire a local boat that takes you to the island. It's approximately a 10-minute boat ride from the nearest dock and costs approximately $50 for 3 people (Remember to haggle!).
This island has one of the most incredible shades of blue and blending of marine tones I have ever seen in my life.
Picture 2: Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado)
Picture 3: Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado)
Picture 4: Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado)
Picture 5: Catalina Island, to get to this island you have to travel from Santo Domingo to the tourist city of La Romana (by bus). This island is very close to this city; you have to book a catamaran tour, approximately $50 per person, which includes food, drinks, activities, dancing, lots of fun, and many new friendships. I would do this many more times! The turquoise color of the water is very evident and will be etched in anyone's memory!
Picture 6: Catalina Island
Picture 7: Catalina Island
Picture 8: Catalina Island
Picture 9: Saona Island. To get to this island, you have to travel from Santo Domingo to the town of Bayahibe (take a bus), and then book a tour on a catamaran. This costs approximately $50 per person, the same as going to Catalina Island (I found it on social media). It includes food, drinks, music, and you meet people from all nationalities and parts of the world. The atmosphere is amazing!!
Picture 10: Las Terrenas, the town's sign where several beautiful beaches are located. This gave us a warm welcome with its vibrant colors and shapes.
Picture 11: Playa Bonita (Las Terrenas). To get to Las Terrenas, you have to take a bus from Santo Domingo to Las Terrenas (approximately 3 hours). When you arrive in Las Terrenas, the fastest way to get to this beach is by motorcycle, arranged beforehand with a local moto-taxi driver (remember to haggle!!). It's 10 minutes from the town center. All these beaches face the North Atlantic Ocean.
Picture 12: Playa Bonita (Las Terrenas)
Picture 13: Punta Popy Beach (Las Terrenas). This beach, located very close to the vibrant Las Terrenas sign, has a mesmerizing turquoise color, palm trees that provide energy and peace at the same time, and generates incredible vibes!! When we went, there were very few people.
Picture 14: Punta Popy Beach (Las Terrenas)
Picture 15: Punta Popy Beach (Las Terrenas)