Things to do — Bayahibe

Bayahibe revolves around three types of experiences:

Beaches and swimming: Dominicus Beach (the area's most beautiful beach, 2 km east of village, fine white sand, shallow water, ideal for families), central Bayahibe beach (800 m facing village, smaller but charming), Cala Damián (small cove near the village). Water activities included in resorts (kayak, paddle, catamaran, windsurf).

Island excursions (the absolute must): Saona Island (€50-70/person, day 8am-5pm, 20 min speedboat, Mano Juan beach, snorkelling, natural pool, lunch — one of the world's most beautiful beaches). Catalina Island (€50-80/person, snorkelling and diving day, preserved reef). Catalina Island diving (€80-120 with 2 dives, equipment and lunch — one of the Caribbean's best sites). St George Wreck (deliberately sunk wreck 2-30 m, accessible to beginners).

Parque Nacional del Este (€60-90 day): Taíno caves with petroglyphs (Cueva de las Maravillas, Cueva del Puente, Cueva José María), mangroves with bird watching, deserted beaches of the park's southern coast.

Land excursions: Altos de Chavón (reconstructed Mediterranean artists' village 25 km away, famous amphitheatre where Frank Sinatra performed, design school, half day €30-50). Casa de Campo (luxury resort 20 km away, signature golf, polo, marina, accessible to external visitors for restaurants and shopping). Santo Domingo excursion (2h drive, cultural day €60-90 — less formatted than from Punta Cana).

Diving and snorkelling: Atlantis Dive Center, Casa Daniel, Scubafun are the recommended centres (French-language courses available). Discovery dive for beginners €60-80, 2-dive outing €80-120, OWD course €350-450. Shore snorkelling at Bayahibe beach is average, but excellent on excursion.

Village life: lively central square in the evening, morning fish market, seafront restaurants serving grilled fish and lobster (€15-25/person), small local colonial museum. Sunset boat ride (€20-30).