Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta National Park

Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta is a marine protected area off the southern coast of the Santo Domingo region in the Dominican Republic, established to conserve coastal reef ecosystems and associated marine life.

The protected area includes shallow coral reefs and small dive sites used for snorkeling and scuba, where visitors can see reef fish, corals and other coastal marine species. Most recreational sites are within a few kilometers of the shore and are used for short guided dives and day trips.

The area was designated to protect coastal reef habitat and to regulate recreational use and fisheries. Management has focused on limiting damaging activities and supporting sustainable recreational access for visitors from nearby urban centers.

The park lies along the southern coast near the communities of La Caleta and Boca Chica, close to the Santo Domingo metropolitan area on the island of Hispaniola. It is commonly visited from the capital and nearby beach towns.

• Diving and snorkeling: Popular for snorkeling and introductory scuba because most protected reefs are in shallow water and relatively close to shore.
• Proximity to Santo Domingo: Located close to the Santo Domingo metropolitan area and the resort town of Boca Chica, making it one of the most accessible marine protected areas near the capital.

What to See#

• Reef and dive sites: A nearshore coral reef system and multiple shallow dive sites that protect reef habitat and support recreational snorkeling and scuba.

Located near Santo Domingo Province; access usually by road from Santo Domingo or local coastal towns. Dive shops and tour operators in nearby marinas organize boat transfers and guided snorkeling/diving trips.

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life when snorkeling or diving.
• Organize marine activities through certified dive operators for best safety and conservation practice.