Parque Nacional Del Este National Park

Website: https://www.parquenacionaldeleste.org/

Parque Nacional Del Este - also known by its official name Cotubanamá National Park - is a protected area on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic in La Altagracia Province. The park covers coastal, island and marine habitats and is a major destination for beach and reef tourism.

Long sandy beaches, offshore cays and clear snorkeling grounds. The large and well visited Saona Island is inside the park and draws most boat-based day trips; visitors also go to Isla Catalina and to reef sites for snorkeling and swimming.

The park was created to protect coastal and marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves and significant archaeological and cultural sites associated with the indigenous Taino. The area has been managed to balance tourism access with conservation of reefs and coastal habitats.

Geographically the park runs along the southeastern Dominican coast in La Altagracia Province and includes offshore islands in the Caribbean Sea. It is reached by boat from Bayahibe and other nearby tourist ports on the east coast.

• Saona day trips: Saona Island is the park’s most visited area and is served by daily boat trips from nearby tourist towns.
• Marine and coastal protection: Park protects both terrestrial and marine habitats including coral reefs and mangroves, so snorkeling and beach visits are common activities.

What to See#

• Saona Island: A large, visited island off the park’s coast that features long beaches, mangroves and tourism infrastructure used for day trips from La Romana and Bayahibe.
• Isla Catalina: A smaller island and reef area west of Saona noted for snorkeling and clear water; frequently included on boat excursions.
• Coastal mainland and reefs: Mainland coastal and marine areas that include coral reefs, mangrove stands and beaches extending along La Altagracia Province.

Parque Nacional del Este is in La Altagracia Province. Saona Island excursions depart from Bayahibe (about a 1.5-hour drive from Punta Cana); boat transfers to Saona and other cays run daily from Bayahibe. For mainland sites, drive from La Romana or Higüey; local tour operators provide transport and boat arrangements.

• Take a guided boat trip to explore coral reefs and the small islands-guides know the best snorkel spots and safe landing points.
• Pack insect repellent for mangrove and lowland trails, and bring sun protection for beach days.
• Combine a visit with Higüey or La Romana for wider regional exploration and better transport links.