Diving in the D.R.

A trip to the Caribbean isn't complete without diving beneath the surface. Whether you're a certified scuba diver or a first-time snorkeler, the waters around the Dominican Republic coastline offer a breathtaking array of coral reefs and marine diversity.

The best dive and snorkel trips leave from the bay of Bayahibe, just past La Romana and a short drive from the sprawling Casa de Campo. These day-long excursions typically include a BBQ lunch on a beach and a cruise around the Parque Nacional del Este. And of course there are the dives --healthy corals, tropical reef fish, and critters visible at shallow depths.
And while they're pretty, be careful not to damage the corals (they only grow one inch per year!). Also, if you go fishing for sharks, I recommend not using your hands --rumor has it their teeth are sharp.