Just off the eastern shore of the Parque Nacional del Este [1], Isla Catalinita is a tiny little uninhabited island very popular for diving and snorkeling excursions. Located where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea, this is a spot to see bigger sharks, eagle rays, sea turtles, and more marine life. The coral reefs offer waters perfect for snorkeler’s delights.
Camping is possible on the island, but you’ll need a permit. Scubafun (Calle Principal 28, Bayahibe, tel. 809/833-0003, fax 809/833-0005, www.scubafun.info [2], 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. daily) will take you out to Isla Catalinita and Isla Saona [3] in an all-day trip that includes a trip through mangroves, diving at Shark Point, snorkeling, lunch at Isla Saona [3], and splashing around at the Piscina Natural [4] (US$70).
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/dominican-republic/the-southeast/bayahibe/sights/parque-nacional-del-este
[2] http://www.scubafun.info
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/dominican-republic/the-southeast/bayahibe/sights/isla-saona
[4] http://www.moon.com/destinations/dominican-republic/the-southeast/bayahibe/sights/la-piscina-natural