Bayahibe is the (very) small counterpart of Punta Cana: a few all-inclusive resorts, turquoise waters and a small fishing village. When visiting Bayahibe, one could imagine how Punta Cana was 30 years ago – peace, relaxation and tranquility. But why should you consider Bayahibe vs. Punta Cana?
There are a couple of interesting things to do in Bayahibe, all-inclusive resorts are usually a bit cheaper and two of the most beautiful islands in the Dominican Republic are right next to the little town close to La Romana – doesn’t this sound interesting? This Bayahibe Vacation and Travel Guide explains to you all the differences to Punta Cana and shows you what to do and where to stay in Bayahibe, among much other helpful information.
- Bayahibe vs. Punta Cana: the numbers
- Where is Bayahibe?
- Why should you visit Bayahibe?
- Airport transfers to Bayahibe (from Punta Cana and Santo Domingo)
- All-Inclusive Resorts in Bayahibe
- Accommodation in Bayahibe
- Airbnbs in Bayahibe
- Beaches in Bayahibe
- The 10 best excursions in Bayahibe
- Things to do in Bayahibe
- Restaurants in Bayahibe
- The weather in Bayahibe
- Seaweed in Punta Cana – is Bayahibe the better option?
- Conclusion: should you visit Punta Cana or Bayahibe?
- Further information and next destinations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For further information about Bayahibe, check out the following posts:
– airport transfers from Punta Cana to Bayahibe
– all-inclusive resorts in Bayahibe
The following resort reviews about Bayahibe are online on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– Dreams Dominicus La Romana
– Catalonia Bayahibe La Romana
– whala Bayahibe
Completely UPDATED: June 2023
Bayahibe vs. Punta Cana: the numbers
Bayahibe is a small sleepy fishing village with just 2000 inhabitants. There are only a few hotels, all-inclusive resorts and guesthouses, a lot of excursion tour operators for trips to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina, and a couple of restaurants and local bars. Everything in Bayahibe is much more low-key and down-to-earth than in Punta Cana.
Just look at the numbers and you’ll see the difference:
| Bayahibe | Punta Cana | |
|---|---|---|
| Inhabitants | 2000 | 100000 |
| All-Inclusive Resorts | 10 | more than 70 |
| Airbnbs | approx. 800 | more than 5000 |
| Miles of Beach | approx. 3 | approx. 25 |
| Restaurants/Bars/Food Stalls | more than 50 | more than 300 |
Just from the numbers, you can already see a big difference when comparing Punta Cana vs. Bayahibe.
But this doesn’t mean Bayahibe is not worth a vacation. Contrary, especially if Punta Cana is too busy for you and you like a low-key vibe, it might be the perfect spot particularly if you have already been to Punta Cana. Furthermore, as there is currently (summer 2023) some seaweed in Punta Cana (only occurring during the summer months), you have much better chances in Bayahibe for a picture-perfect beach as the water is always super turquoise and the seaweed is close to non-existent, due to the different currents in the ocean. At the end of this article, I am writing a little bit more about the seaweed situation in Punta Cana and Bayahibe and if you should plan your beach vacation in Bayahibe or Punta Cana.
Where is Bayahibe?
Bayahibe is located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic. It is approx. a 1-hour drive from Punta Cana away, Bayahibe and Santo Domingo are approx. 1.5-2 hours away from each other (1.5 hours from Santo Domingo Airport to Bayahibe, 2 hours from the city).
Bayahibes beaches are located on the Caribbean Sea, which is why they are extremely calm and bordered by turquoise and crystal-clear water. When talking about the question “Where is Bayahibe” it is also very important to mention that the ocean here is protected by a peninsula (home of Parque Nacional Cotubanamá) from any currents or rough waters coming from the Atlantic Ocean – another reason why a Bayahibe vacation guarantees the calmest ocean in the Dominican Republic.
Why should you visit Bayahibe?
Let’s have a look at some of the reasons why you should visit Bayahibe compared to Punta Cana.
- you have a more authentic vibe in the fishing village of Bayahibe
- all-inclusive resorts in Bayahibe are usually 5-10% cheaper
- you are very close to Isla Saona and can start excursions right from there
- nearly zero chances of seaweed in Bayahibe
- beautiful beaches and turquoise waters
- better snorkeling opportunities than in Punta Cana
- much closer to Santo Domingo International Airport
- as close to Punta Cana International Airport as the northernmost resorts in Punta Cana
You’ll find additional information on each point further below in this Bayahibe Travel Guide.
Bayahibe is certainly not for everyone, but it is a more unknown alternative to Punta Cana. You could (theoretically) even count it as part of Punta Cana as the airport transfers to Bayahibe are not much longer than to the Punta Cana resorts located in Uvero Alto.
Obviously, there are some disadvantages as well. Punta Cana is not for any reason the No. 1 holiday destination in the Dominican Republic. Bayahibe has fewer choices when it comes to accommodation and hotels, most of the all-inclusive resorts in Bayahibe cater to a general crowd. There is just one specific family resort in Bayahibe (Hilton La Romana Family*), only 2 adults-only hotels (Hilton La Romana Adults-Only* and Catalonia Royal*) and no high-end resort.
Furthermore, fewer Bayahibe excursions are offered (but there are still many things to do in Bayahibe, as you can see below) and renting a car or moving by public transport is more complicated compared to Punta Cana as well. But this shouldn’t prevent you from considering a Bayahibe vacation in the Dominican Republic.
Airport transfers to Bayahibe (from Punta Cana and Santo Domingo)
To reach Bayahibe, you have a couple of options which I am explaining briefly here. For further options and information, you can visit my detailed posts about the
– airport transfers from Santo Domingo
and the
– airport transfers from Punta Cana.
There is also a new separate post about all the
– options for getting from Punta Cana to La Romana and Bayahibe here.
From Punta Cana International Airport to Bayahibe
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by private transfer:
The easiest way to get to Bayahibe from the airport is by booking a private transfer from Punta Cana to Bayahibe. It takes less than an hour, brings you right to your Bayahibe resort and costs less than 100 USD per vehicle. You can check out a recommendable operator here*.
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by a shared shuttle:
If you are traveling to Bayahibe on a budget, you can also consider taking a shared shuttle from Punta Cana Airport to Bayahibe*. They are much more economic but are only worth the money if you are traveling alone or as a couple. If you travel with more than 2 people from Punta Cana Airport to La Romana/Bayahibe, it always pays off to book a private transfer than a shared shuttle.
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by rental car:
Driving to Bayahibe on your own is also very easy as you just have to follow the highway until the Bayahibe turnoff and continue the road for another 15 minutes. That’s an easy-going start to your Bayahibe vacation. You can check out here if it is recommendable to rent a car in the Dominican Republic.
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by public transport:
Getting from Punta Cana Airport to Bayahibe by public transport is theoretically possible, but not recommended, as it is pretty complicated (and only possible without big luggage). You have to change busses at least twice (usually even three times) and it takes you an eternity to reach Bayahibe. You can get a first impression here of how the public transport system in Punta Cana works.
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by Uber:
Usually, Uber in Punta Cana is not allowed to pick you up right at Punta Cana International Airport which means you would have to walk outside to the public road with your luggage. Furthermore, Uber drivers are not always accepting rides to Bayahibe as they most likely have to return empty as Uber in Bayahibe is not available. Therefore, for your way back from Bayahibe to Punta Cana, Uber is not an option anyway.
Getting from Punta Cana to Bayahibe by taxi:
A taxi from Punta Cana to La Romana and Bayahibe is a viable option, but the service is not the best. Expect to pay at least 100 USD per way + be prepared to haggle if you end up getting a driver not sticking to the official rates. It is more recommendable to prebook your transfer to Bayahibe*.
From Santo Domingo International Airport to Bayahibe
Bayahibe is located nearly halfway between the two major airports in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. From Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo, it is a less than 90-minute drive to Bayahibe.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by private transfer:
When arriving at Las Américas International Airport, your easiest option is to take a private transfer from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe (resort or any other Bayahibe hotel & accommodation), which are usually not that much more expensive than from Punta Cana International Airport. They shall be around 100-140 USD per vehicle per way and you can pre-book them here*.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by shared shuttle:
Even when you are arriving at Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo, you have the option of choosing a shared shuttle. This option will put you together with other travelers arriving at the same time, allowing a more economic method of airport transportation to Bayahibe.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by rental car:
If you want to see more from the Dominican Republic than just your resort, it is also an option to rent a car in Santo Domingo. The journey from Santo Domingo to La Romana and Bayahibe has just a few twists and is mainly a very easy drive hence a rental car is an option.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by public transport:
Taking public transport from Santo Domingo Airport to Bayahibe is a bit easier than from Punta Cana Airport, but you still need some flexibility, time and only a backpack to make it happen. You can find more information on public transport options from Las Américas here in this article. To get to Bayahibe, you have to get into Santo Domingo. From here, take either one of the few direct busses to Bayahibe or board a La Romana-bound bus and change there to a small Bayahibe van.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by Uber:
Ubers are present at Santo Domingo Airport, but usually, drivers won’t take you for the price quoted in the app, especially for long-distance trips as the prices are ridiculously low, particularly taking into consideration the hefty 35% Uber fee. Therefore, be prepared for some negotiations if you really want to use Uber from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe.
Getting from Santo Domingo to Bayahibe by taxi:
Taxis at Santo Domingo Airport are better organized than their Punta Cana counterparts. Rates are starting at around 100 USD to get to your resort for your Bayahibe vacation.
All-Inclusive Resorts in Bayahibe
Once you are in Bayahibe, you need a place to stay. As mentioned, Bayahibe can’t compete with the sheer endless amount of resorts and Airbnbs Punta Cana has to offer, but you still can find a good selection of all-inclusive hotels, guesthouses and vacation rentals in Bayahibe.
In Bayahibe it is not too complicated to publish a list of ALL all-inclusive resorts in town. There are not more than a dozen, most of them either in the low-budget or medium-class segment. There are no proper high-end hotels yet in Bayahibe, so if you are looking for the best of the best, you better check out those luxury all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana.
So far, we have visited a couple of Bayahibe resorts. Our favorite is Dreams Dominicus, which offers – in our opinion – a perfect combination of comfort, beach, service and gastronomical options without breaking the bank. Catalonia Bayahibe is recommendable if you’re looking for a cheaper option. The Privileged Club restaurant at Catalonia is top-notch and features an unparalleled location.
At the moment, you can find the following Bayahibe resort reviews here on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– Dreams Dominicus La Romana
– Catalonia Bayahibe La Romana
– whala Bayahibe
List of all-inclusive resorts in Bayahibe
Bayahibe Resorts sorted alphabetically:
- Be Live Collection Canoa*
- Catalonia Bayahibe* (check comprehensive review on Punta Cana Travel Blog)
- Catalonia Royal La Romana*
- Dreams Dominicus La Romana* (check comprehensive review on Punta Cana Travel Blog)
- Hilton La Romana Adults-Only*
- Hilton La Romana Family*
- Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus*
- Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach*
- Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace*
- whala! Bayahibe* (check comprehensive review on Punta Cana Travel Blog)
The best all-inclusive resorts in Bayahibe
Dreams Dominicus La Romana
As mentioned, Bayahibe doesn’t have a proper high-end all-inclusive resort. Dreams Dominicus isn’t one either, but regarding the suites, the entire property and their amenities it is one of the most luxurious ones as it was newly built and opened in 2016.
Hilton La Romana adults-only
If you are looking for the best adults-only all-inclusive resort in Bayahibe, Hilton La Romana Adults-Only is your best bet. Located at a secluded beach, this adults-only hotel also has access to the neighboring family section with a huge and fun water park.
Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus
If you are looking for a multi-generational Bayahibe all-inclusive resort offering above-average quality, Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus is your top choice. For years this resort is getting some of the best reviews in the La Romana area.
Hilton La Romana Family
The only resort with a water park in the La Romana area, and the best Bayahibe all-inclusive resort for families as well. Hilton La Romana Resort & Water Park is the best choice for families who want to get away from Punta Cana but still enjoy the amenities of a resort and the infrastructure of the Dominican Republic’s east.
whala! Bayahibe
If you are just looking for a cheap place to stay with drinks and meals included, but not that many amenities as you are exploring the area during the day anyway, you should check out whala! Bayahibe Resort. This Spanish-Dominican hotel chain is known to have some of the lowest prices for an easy and good no-frills all-inclusive vacation in Bayahibe.
Not the right resorts in Bayahibe for you? In this case, the Punta Cana all-inclusive resorts offer much more selection.
Accommodation in Bayahibe
If you are not into all-inclusive resorts, why not looking for some other Bayahibe hotels, such as guesthouses, apartments, vacation rentals or simply a beach hotel without all-inclusive? All of those options are existing in Bayahibe. Thanks to its small town center, you also have a couple of attractive options when it comes to restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the happy hour at the beach bar with a sunset view!
The following Bayahibe hotels are Punta Cana Travel Blogs’ recommendations when staying in the La Romana area outside of all-inclusive resorts.
Tracadero Beach Resort
An oceanfront hotel with a beautiful property, several pools and an elegant beach club can be your home for your Bayahibe vacation. It is on the more expensive side, but in return, you get a well-maintained hotel with gorgeous views.
Bayahibe Guesthouse
For budget travelers, Bayahibe Guesthouse is the best bet in Bayahibe & beyond. This little oasis run by a German-Venezuelan couple is the perfect basis to explore Bayahibe, Isla Saona and the surrounding without breaking the bank, but still having everything necessary within walking distance.
Cadaques Apartments
Being a Bayahibe Beach Resort for a long time, Cadaques now houses plenty of modern and well-furnitured apartments and vacation rentals in Bayahibe, which are getting close to the popular Airbnb style. It is a little bit further from the town center of Bayahibe, but you are right next to the entrance of the Parque Nacional Cotubanamá.
If those are not suitable for your Bayahibe vacation, you can also check this link for further accommodation recommendations*.
Airbnbs in Bayahibe
As nearly everywhere in the world, especially at expat destinations, Airbnb got pretty famous in the country as well. If you are looking for some of the most spectacular Airbnbs in the Dominican Republic, check out this post, but if you are looking to stay at an Airbnb in Bayahibe (or an Airbnb-like Bayahibe vacation rental), the following options are some of your best picks.
Gorgeous Duplex Loft with Rooftop
This luxury 2-bedroom rooftop apartment is one of the best Bayahibe Airbnb-like apartments in the area. It has a gorgeous decoration, modern design, a fully equipped kitchen and plenty of space to relax and unwind. The highlight of this duplex loft is the rooftop with its comfy seating area and plenty of furniture where you can enjoy a tropical Caribbean breeze. Furthermore, this Airbnb in Bayahibe features two wonderful bedrooms with Asian-inspired elements and beautiful wooden décor. The duplex loft is located in the small Dominicus center and an 8-minute walk away from the beach.
Why it is a unique Airbnb in Bayahibe: one of the most luxurious apartments with a beautiful rooftop is waiting for you
Perfect for: couples and families looking for a gorgeous one-of-a-kind apartment in Bayahibe
Price Range: $$$$
Review Score (as of June 2023): 5.0/5.0
Further information: check prices and availability here*
Wonderful apartment with a 270-degree view
If you are looking for a romantic 700 ft² apartment in Bayahibe, you shall give this fully-equipped Airbnb-like unit a shot. Located in the tiny and quiet town center of Dominicus with a couple of restaurants, bars and little stores around and Playa Dominicus not too far away, the highlight of this 1-bedroom apartment is its gorgeous balcony open to three sides, allowing wonderful views of the garden, the pool and the surrounding. The coconut palm trees on the property and the beautiful decoration in the apartment and on the balcony are intensifying the perfect Caribbean vibe of this Airbnb.
Why it is a unique Airbnb in Bayahibe: enjoy your breakfast on a top-floor balcony open to three sides
Perfect for: couples looking for a non-all-inclusive romantic getaway in Bayahibe
Price Range: $$$
Review Score (as of June 2023): 9.7/10
Further information: check prices and availability here*
Oceanfront apartment in Bayahibe
If you already want to wake up enjoying the smell of the ocean, this oceanfront apartment in Bayahibe is the perfect choice for you. Featuring two bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen and a veranda with unobstructed ocean views, you can’t be much closer to the sea when looking for a vacation rental in Bayahibe outside of the big all-inclusive resorts. With several pools and a beach club belonging to the property of this Bayahibe Airbnb, you can also relax without going to the beach, which is just a quick walk away.
Why it is a unique Airbnb in Bayahibe: similar to Punta Cana, there aren’t many (affordable) oceanfront apartments in Bayahibe, but this one is a great pick!
Perfect for: travelers wanting to stay right at the ocean, but not in an all-inclusive resort
Price Range: $$$$
Review Score (as of June 2023): 5.0/5.0
Further information: check prices and availability here*
Beaches in Bayahibe
Bayahibe has two public beaches, Bayahibe Beach and Dominicus Beach. Both offer very clear water with a turquoise color and a couple of things to do. You even have some off-the-beach snorkeling opportunities, even it isn’t anything spectacular.
What makes Bayahibes’ beaches unique is that they are a great alternative in the current Punta Cana seaweed situation (which is a problem of the entire Caribbean incl. Mexico and Central America). While the beaches at Punta Canas’ all-inclusive resorts are usually getting cleaned as good as they can, the public beaches in Punta Cana are sometimes swamped with sargassum (usually during the summer months only and only during certain years). That’s not the case at Bayahibe Beach nor at Dominicus Beach as the currents protect them from being exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.
Bayahibe Beach
Bayahibe Beach (Playa Bayahibe) is the one located closest to the town center of Bayahibe and is most popular among locals. It has just one all-inclusive resort on the western end, the other parts of the beach are scattered with coconut palm trees, local seafood restaurants and some souvenir shops. The water is pretty shallow and clear and there is a reef close to the beach where you can explore snorkeling.
Where to stay at Bayahibe Beach: Hilton La Romana is the only accommodation at Bayahibe Beach. Depending on your travel group, you can either book the family section* or the adults-only hotel*. It is one of the best and most popular Bayahibe all-inclusive resorts.
Where to eat at Bayahibe Beach: There are several informal beach shacks where you can get a typical Dominican beach lunch: fried fish, salad, fried plantains (called Tostones), rice, beans and some other side dishes.
What to do at Bayahibe Beach: The watersports center of Hilton La Romana is also available for outside guests, so you can book your diving excursion* here or have a ride on the banana boat. All the excursions to famous Isla Saona are also starting at the southern end of Playa Bayahibe.
How to get to Bayahibe Beach: From the town center of Bayahibe, there is a road leading right to the beach. You can park your car at the end of the road. If you are staying in a hotel in Bayahibe close to the village, you can also walk to Bayahibe Beach.
Dominicus Beach
Dominicus Beach (Playa Dominicus) is the second public beach in Bayahibe and is home to the famous Bayahibe lighthouse, which can be easily visited walking – a beautiful attraction in case you’re wondering what to do in Bayahibe. Furthermore, Playa Dominicus offers a beautiful setting, turquoise water and some decent snorkeling opportunities. While most of the beach is lined by Bayahibes’ all-inclusive resorts, there is a public section with restaurants and shops. As all beaches in the Dominican Republic are public, you can also walk along the resorts’ beaches of Playa Dominicus, but there aren’t any amenities.
Where to stay at Dominicus Beach: The majority of Bayahibe’s resorts is located at Dominicus Beach, but unfortunately not a single individual accommodation. For the best all-inclusive hotels along Playa Dominicus, you can check out Iberostar Hacienda Selection Dominicus* or Dreams Dominicus.
Where to eat at Dominicus Beach: Restaurant Los Lagos is a local restaurant with a proper seating area at Playa Dominicus. There are some further local shacks and snack shops selling local food and fried fish.
What to do at Dominicus Beach: A must-do is to visit Faro Bayahibe, the lighthouse of the town. It is a beautiful photo opportunity (see the photo in the upper part of this Bayahibe Vacation Guide) and can be reached walking along Dominicus Beach.
How to get to Dominicus Beach: Head to the center of Dominicus and look for Avenida Eladia, which brings you right to the beach. If coming by car, you can park your car at the parking lot at the end of the road, if you are staying in one of the several Airbnbs in Dominicus, you can easily walk to the beach in 5-10 minutes.
The 10 best excursions in Bayahibe
Even Bayahibe can’t compete with the diversity and variety of the things to do in Punta Cana, there are plenty of tours and excursions in Bayahibe you can do. For a better overview, we have put together a list of the best Bayahibe excursions you can do during your holiday.
(mobile users: please turn your device to landscape mode to enjoy the best view of this table)
| Bayahibe Excursion | Description | Further information |
|---|---|---|
| Isla Saona Excursion | Isla Saona is the No. 1 excursion in Bayahibe and the Dominican Republic. And that’s not without a reason as Saona is the most beautiful island in the Dominican Republic with its endless and fantastic beaches. Furthermore, you can enjoy a catamaran cruise, the natural swimming pool and many beautiful views – a perfect day in the Caribbean. You can read more about Isla Saona here. |  |
| Isla Catalina Excursion | Isla Catalina excursions are usually starting in La Romana, but this shouldn’t stop you from checking out the little sister of Isla Saona as some providers offer transfers from Bayahibe included for this excursion. Catalina Island is less visited, offers better snorkeling and a full-day catamaran experience. Check out more information about Isla Catalina here. Isla Catalina is also the better excursion compared to Isla Saona when it comes to snorkeling. | |
| Diving Trip | If you’d prefer to enjoy the ocean under the water instead of over the water, diving in Bayahibe is your activity to choose, especially as this area is known to offer some of the best diving in the Dominican Republic, thanks to high visibility and plenty of wrecks and reefs – much better than in Punta Cana. | |
| Ziplining Excursion | If you rather prefer to pour out some adrenaline on land, ziplining might be your best choice when it comes to the question of what to do in Bayahibe. Fly like a bird and enjoy the tropical scenery in the Anamuya mountains, including a beautiful river and lush vegetation. There are couples’ ziplines as well, so you can have a little competitive race who is flying faster. | |
| Buggy / ATV-Tour Excursion | Not less action-packed is this Bayahibe Excursion with ATVs respectively buggies. On this trip, you can discover the backcountry of Bayahibe and the La Romana area with its remote villages, endless sugar cane plantations and plenty of dirt tracks. Be prepared to see the real Dominican Republic on this Bayahibe excursion as a unique vacation adventure. | |
| E-Bike Tour | For a more relaxed experience, an e-bike tour is another option for an exciting excursion from Bayahibe. You see similar areas like during the ATV tour, but everything is a bit smoother. On this tour, you’ll get to know Bayahibe’s appearance behind the walls of its all-inclusive resorts. In the end, you can enjoy a refreshing dip into one of Bayahibes’ secret underground lagoons. | |
| Excursion to Santo Domingo | If you are interested in the cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo is a must-see for you during your vacation in Bayahibe. It is available as an excursion from Bayahibe, and compared to the Santo Domingo tours from Punta Cana, the transfer time is much shorter, which gives you more time to enjoy the stunning Colonial Zone with its colorful buildings and colonial architecture. | |
| Rio Chavon River Tour | Rio Chavon is a legendary river close to La Romana where you can enjoy an upriver cruise through the tropical vegetation with a wooden riverboat. Most of these River Chavon Excursions from Bayahibe are combined with other activities, such as an Isla Saona tour or a trip to Altos de Chavon. | |
| Altos de Chavon Excursion | Altos de Chavon is a famous village resembling a Meditteranean town high above the River Chavon. It can be accessed through Casa de Campo and is an exclusive area with picturesque and photogenic spots, even though it doesn’t fit into the Dominican Republic. It is a little bit artificial, but it is not far away from Bayahibe. | |
| Countryside Excursion from Bayahibe | If you want to learn more about the culture, traditions and people in the Dominican Republic, this countryside safari is a recommendable excursion from Bayahibe. You’ll learn everything about the different products originating from here (sugar cane/rum, cacao/chocolate, tobacco/cigars, fruits, etc.) and visit different areas, such as the provincial capital of Higuey. | |
Things to do in Bayahibe
Besides organized excursions from Bayahibe, you can also venture out on your own and explore different areas. Even the town is not full of adventures, but there are some interesting things to do in Bayahibe you shouldn’t miss and where a guided tour is not necessarily required.
- Lighthouse “Faro Bayahibe”
- Sendero Padre Nuestro
- Cotubanama National Park
- Ocean Walk along the national park
- La Romana
This is probably the most scenic attraction in Bayahibe and one of the top things to do when visiting the little fishing village in the La Romana area. It is located at Dominicus Beach (Playa Dominicus) and features beautiful photo opportunities.
Sendero Padre Nuestro is a little do-it-yourself excursion not far away from Bayahibe. It is a hiking trail, less than a mile long, and leads to a cave with an underground lagoon where you can take a refreshing swim. The water is crystal-clear and is similar to the famous Mexican cenotes. Find out more about this hiking trail in my separate hiking guide about Punta Cana and the surrounding area.
Officially, Isla Saona is part of the Cotubanama National Park, but if you want to explore the much bigger part of the park, which is attached to the mainland, it is only possible by foot. There are not that many specific things to do in this Bayahibe national park, but you can walk to Cueva del Puente, a remote cave inside the park. The trail starts at Cadaques Resort in the south of Bayahibe. Take your GPS or a guide to not get lost.
An alternative way to explore Cotubanama National Park is along the coast, as this is much easier due to more open terrain. Once you have passed Cadaques Resort south of Bayahibe, there is not much of a beach like at Playa Dominicus, but the coastline makes for an interesting walk. You would have to walk far to reach the next proper beach, which is located right opposite the famous national swimming pool, one of the top things to do in Bayahibe and a stop for nearly every Saona Island Excursion.
If you want to explore some Bayahibe attractions outside of the town, you can also make a half-day trip to La Romana*. The city is not that impressive, but there are a few interesting things to see in the area: two cigar factories (Tabacalera Garcia and Vegafina), Altos de Chavon or the Chavon River are just a few spots you can visit, even it might be easier with a guided tour.
Restaurants in Bayahibe
If you are staying outside of the usual all-inclusive resorts and are looking for some restaurants, Bayahibe gets you covered. Even you might not find the top-notch beach clubs and fine dining experiences Punta Cana is famous for but you won’t have a problem finding some good Dominican and International fare. Besides local eateries, there are particular many Italian restaurants, as Bayahibe is highly frequented by Italian expats and tourists.
Some of the best Bayahibe restaurants include:
- Las Palmas, as close as it can get for a fine-dining restaurant in Bayahibe
- Chez Lolo, a French-Spanish fusion restaurant in Bayahibe
- Mama Mia, very affordable Italian fare in Bayahibe
- La Bahía, a Bayahibe restaurant with typical Dominican seafood and fresh fish
- Tracadero, an upscale restaurant with a beach club vibe
The weather in Bayahibe
The weather in Bayahibe is similar to other parts of the Dominican Republic, although in general a little bit drier, especially when comparing to the mountain areas of the country or the beautiful and tropical Samaná peninsula. I won’t give you any scientific explanations as I am not a meteorologist, but the vegetation of Bayahibe, mostly arid not as tropical as other areas in the Dominican Republic, can act as proof.
Therefore, if one doesn’t look at every single detail, you can easily assume that the weather in Bayahibe is similar to the weather in Punta Cana, which you can read here in detail.
In few words, it can be characterized by a tropical climate, always warm, sometimes hot, with occasional showers throughout the year. Officially, the dry season runs from December to April, with daily temperatures ranging between 79 and 85°F, dropping to around 68°F at night. Showers in Bayahibe are rare, there might be some liquid sunshine the one or other day for a few minutes.
Bayahibe temperatures during summer – from May to September – are slightly higher and can be up to 94°F. The rainy season officially lasts from May to November but is not comparable with the typical monsoon season in Asia. The rainy season in the Dominican Republic is characterized by a few showers a couple of days per week, usually quite heavy in the morning and the evening or at night, with a lot of sunshine in between – perfect for your Bayahibe vacation. Completely overcast days are quite rare, maybe 3-4 per month.
The major months for the hurricane season in Bayahibe are from August to October.
Seaweed in Punta Cana – is Bayahibe the better option?
One of the main reasons to come to Bayahibe is the ocean – it is so clear, turquoise and like a Caribbean dream. Even Punta Cana has the better beaches, the tranquility and color of the sea in Bayahibe can compete and probably even beat Punta Cana. But in the end, you are fine with either option.
However, there is one reason why you might consider Bayahibe over Punta Cana, especially now in the summer months of 2023: the Punta Cana seaweed. After some easy-going years with just some light occurrence of seaweed, the last years including 2023 has hit Punta Cana and the entire Caribbean including Central America pretty hard. Tons of seaweed are on the way from the Atlantic to get stranded everywhere in the Caribbean Sea, especially at east-facing beaches. So Punta Cana is not alone with its sargassum, it is an entire Caribbean problem.
However, the good news is that Bayahibe usually doesn’t have any seaweed as the bay is protected by the peninsula home to the Cotubanama national park. Bayahibe opens up to the west, so it is cut off from the typical Atlantic currents, which is the reason why the ocean is so super calm in Bayahibe – and why there is no seaweed, as opposed to Punta Cana.
Conclusion: should you visit Punta Cana or Bayahibe?
Throughout this Bayahibe Vacation Guide, you have seen many advantages (and a few disadvantages) of Bayahibe, hence it is time for a conclusion: should you visit Bayahibe or Punta Cana?
To be honest, both destinations are great options for a beach vacation in the Dominican Republic. When comparing Bayahibe vs. Punta Cana for the best choice, it mainly depends on what is important for you.
As explained above, seaweed in Bayahibe is never an issue. Furthermore, the ocean is clearer and there are no waves. Bayahibe is also less touristy than Punta Cana, hence you can get a slightly more authentic experience from the Dominican Republic in Bayahibe vs. Punta Cana. Therefore, if you love picture-perfect beaches and want to avoid seaweed at all costs (especially during summer, when seaweed in Punta Cana might be more intense), Bayahibe is a perfect option for you.
However, when it comes to the question if Bayahibe or Punta Cana is the best vacation option for you, one also has to consider that there are much fewer resorts to choose from in Bayahibe and you also don’t have that many excursion options. Nightlife is very limited during a Bayahibe vacation compared to Punta Cana’s nightlife in case this is important for you. Playa Bayahibe and Playa Domincus are also much shorter, hence if you like extensive beach walks, Punta Canas’ beaches are much more suitable for you.
Further information and next destinations
Alright, do you feel well informed about Bayahibe after reading this Bayahibe Travel Guide? It features all the important information to plan your vacation in this little fishing village.
If you are looking to save some money while planning your all-inclusive vacation in Bayahibe, you can continue reading here where I am explaining how to save money during your holiday in the Dominican Republic. And if you are wondering about pricing, you can check this post about the prices in Punta Cana, which mostly applies to Bayahibe as well.
You can also find articles here on Punta Cana Travel Blog about additional destinations in the Dominican Republic. Thus if you like to continue your trip to the capital city, check out the best things to do in Santo Domingo and 10 reasons why to visit the Colonial Zone. If you are planning to book a car hire in the Dominican Republic, you shouldn’t miss reading my road trip ideas for the Dominican Republic, among them a 1-week itinerary to the Central Mountain Range and a multi-day road-trip itinerary to Samaná.
For whatever option you decide, make sure to stop by Bayahibe and enjoy your holiday in the Dominican Republic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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CHRIS
Author, Travel Coach & Industry Professional (Bachelor’s degree in tourism)Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean soul, who has been living in the Dominican Republic for 6 years. I’d love to be your Punta Cana expert, as I have stayed at more than 45 all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana and the country, visited more than 70 beaches, explored more than 40 waterfalls and have seen basically all the attractions Punta Cana has to offer. I have also studied tourism for 3 years and worked in the tourism industry my entire life, which is why I am not only giving you recommendations and tips as a traveler but also the best secrets and travel hacks as an industry professional.
Do you need more information? Read more at my About Me Page, send me a travel coaching request or Contact Me here.
ALSO WORTH READING:
E-Ticket Dominican Republic (2024 Update) – news, helpful tips & step-by-step guide for the Punta Cana immigration form
Serenade Punta Cana – a comprehensive review of this newly built all-inclusive resort
The 10 best Bayahibe resorts – the low-key all-inclusive alternative to Punta Cana
Is Punta Cana safe – an honest evaluation about crime and safety of someone who lives in the Dominican Republic
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Thanks for the info about this travel.
You are welcome Ali.
Great that this Bayahibe Travel Guide was helpful for you!
Hi, Chris! Just reading the great info on your site. Bayahibe looks beautiful. My partner and I are currently first-time visitors to Punta Cana and wishing it had the vibe of an old fishing village. We’ve danced bachata, merengue and salsa in the DR for a number of years but find it harder and harder to find small, casual places to dance Latin. We love places like Babylon in Las Terrenas, or dancing at open-air restaurants in Las Galeras. We used to find little places in Cabarete, but it’s mostly reggaeton now. We like to dance bachata in particular almost EVERY night while on vacation (doesn’t have to be live music — a DJ or canned music is fine). Is this something we can find in Bayahibe? We truly appreciate your thoughts.
Hey Mia,
yes, I can completely understand what you mean. Punta Cana is a big billion-dollar tourism industry.
Compared to Punta Cana, Bayahibe is a small fishing village and it indeed has the vibe of a local village. There are for sure some places where you can dance authentic Bachata and Salsa. However, it still can’t compete with Las Terrenas, Las Galeras or Cabarete.
Chris
Tell me pros and cons of Bahayibe and Samana. We stay in airbn and want be on beach with pool. Need know where grocery shop etc.
Hi Cherie,
thanks for your comment.
Well, this is not easy to explain in a few words, but I’ll try:
Bayahibe: close to Punta Cana Airport, easy access, very relaxed, ideal for Saona excursions, hardly any beachfront apartments, no big grocery stores
Samaná (Las Terrenas): further away from international airport, many affordable apartments, amazing and pristine beaches, busy and bustline town, large supermarket in town
I hope this helps as a beginning. If you interested in a personal and extensive evaluation, it would be a perfect topic for my travel coaching: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/travel-coaching/
Best regards
Chris