Scuba diving in the
Dominican RepublicDiving Highlights
- The Caribbean’s most visited country, for good reason
- Home to a globally significant humpback whale migration
- Extensive coastline renowned for its beautiful beaches
- Accessible, stress-free scuba diving on reefs and wrecks
Situated between Jamaica and Puerto Rico in the Caribbean’s Greater Antilles, the Dominican Republic occupies roughly two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, with its neighbour, Haiti, claiming the western third. Beautiful, alluring, and well-connected, the Dominican Republic is one of the most popular and frequently-visited islands in the region, with millions of travellers flocking here every year in search of a reliable sun-soaked getaway.
The site of Christopher Columbus’ first colony, La Isabela, the Dominican Republic boasts some of the richest documented history of the entire Caribbean. The country’s capital, Santo Domingo was founded in 1496, making it the oldest city in the ‘New World’. Thousands of years later, the magnificent architecture, entrenched traditions, and proud culture are still plain to see.
Over the years, this quintessential Caribbean country has developed a reputation for its sublime shoreline, boasting more Blue Flag awarded beaches than any other island in the archipelago. But, unbeknownst to many, the Dominican Republic is actually one of the most geographically diverse islands in the region, offering an array of exquisite natural environments. From mangrove swamps and dusty savannahs to tropical cloud forests clinging to the Caribbean’s highest peak.
Top Dominican Republic experiences
Swim alongside humpback whales
Swim alongside humpback whales as they descend on the offshore plateau of the Silver Bank in their thousands to mate and give birth.
Dive the protected islands of Catalina and Saona
These protected islands feature interesting walls and reefs where slightly larger marine life can be found, including both reef and nurse sharks.
Explore the Atlantic Princess and St George wrecks
These two shipwrecks are located just a short distance from the Bayahibe coastline, offering dramatic scenes for all experience levels.
Relax on some of the Caribbean’s best beaches
Offering more than 30-kilometres of coastline, Punta Cana and Bavaro boast some of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches in the Caribbean.
Seasons and weather
As with other Caribbean destinations, the two main seasons in the Dominican Republic are dictated by the amount of rain. The dry season runs from December through April, bringing temperatures around the mid to high 20s and cooler evenings. In the wet season, which spans May through November, temperatures remain around the high 20s but the humidity is higher and rain is more likely – though downpours are typically short-lived and cause minimal disruption to diving. Keep in mind that hurricane season also runs between June and November, and strong winds can cause choppy conditions and reduced visibility.
Overall, the Dominican Republic offers quality scuba diving experiences no matter what time of year you visit. But, for optimal conditions and the least chance of tropical storms, the dry season is by far your best bet.
