La Romana, a charming city on the Dominican Republic’s southeast coast, remains a less visited destination for many American travelers. While it has gained popularity among European visitors, La Romana retains its allure as an authentic Caribbean seaside city with a mix of cultural amenities and guided activities, all against the backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.
Casa de Campo: A Megaresort Oasis
At the heart of La Romana is Casa de Campo, a sprawling 7,000-acre megaresort known for its luxurious accommodations. The resort also features an exclusive beachfront, yacht moorings, and world-class golf courses, including the Caribbean’s top-ranked course. Crowning it all is Altos de Chavon, a recreated 16th-century European village perched atop a plateau overlooking the Chavon River. Although photogenic, it’s important to note that Altos de Chavon is for recreation rather than a living Dominican town.
Exploring Pristine Beaches and Waters
La Romana boasts white sand beaches and warm Caribbean waters, making it an excellent base for scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts. The nearby town of Bayahibe is a launch point for most underwater adventures. La Romana is also your gateway to two incredible nature reserves—Catalina Island and Cotubanamá National Park.
Cotubanamá National Park: A Natural Paradise
Cotubanamá National Park is celebrated for its white-sand beaches and underground caves with hidden lagoons. The national park features Taino petroglyphs and the opportunity to swim with dolphins, making it a popular scuba-diving destination. A boat trip around the park’s coast to Isla Saona is regarded as the Dominican Republic’s most popular boat trip.
Catalina Island: A Coral Paradise
Catalina Island, located just south of La Romana, is a tiny tropical gem perched on a coral reef. Its diverse wildlife and vibrant coral reefs near shore attract sun-seekers and snorkelers. Dive sites like the Aquarium and the Wall showcase an array of tropical fish, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. Numerous tour companies offer day trips from La Romana to Catalina Island, starting at around $70.
Immerse Yourself in Dominican Baseball
Baseball enthusiasts will find a home in La Romana, the local baseball team, as it’s the home of Los Toros del Este. If you’re visiting during baseball season, from October to January, join the passionate local crowd cheering on their home team at Francisco Micheli Stadium.
Unwind on Exquisite Beaches
While Minitas Beach is reserved for resort guests, Bayahibe, one of the Caribbean’s top-ranked beaches, can get crowded during peak seasons. For a more tranquil beach experience, explore Playa Caleta in La Romana, a rocky beach with stellar views of Catalina Island. Alternatively, visit Playa Dominicus, located just south of Bayahibe, offering soft white sand, palm-fringed shores, and plenty of beachside bars to savor some Caribbean charm.
Dining at Cañaveral Food Park
Regarding dining, venture over to Cañaveral Food Park, a hub for food truck fare gaining popularity across the Dominican Republic. Vendors in the food park offer flavors that rival mainstream restaurants. Don’t miss the baked lamb empanadas at the Uzbesk Food Truck.
Getting There: Your Journey to La Romana
La Romana International Airport (LRM) offers the most direct route to the city, primarily connecting to European destinations. Most North American travelers reach La Romana via Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital city and central transportation hub. You can access Santo Domingo through Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), sea ferries from Puerto Rico, or buses from neighboring Haiti. Minibusses operate regularly between Santo Domingo and La Romana, although hiring a taxi is always an option. For those coming from Punta Cana, the new Autopista Del Coral road shortens the journey to La Romana to approximately 45 minutes.
Embrace La Romana’s hidden treasures, explore its stunning natural wonders, and bask in the rich tapestry of Dominican culture for a memorable Caribbean escape.