Santo Domingo isn’t just about its historic Zona Colonial or vibrant street life. For those eager to explore beneath the waves, the city offers some excellent snorkeling opportunities. While the waters surrounding the Dominican Republic are famously clear and teeming with marine life, not all tours are equal. We particularly like the full-day trip to Catalina Island for its combination of snorkeling and luxury, and the Salinas Desert Sandboarding & Snorkeling Tour for its adventurous mix of land and sea. Both provide unique ways to experience the Caribbean’s underwater beauty, each appealing to different types of travelers.
If you’re after a laid-back, well-organized day with coral walls and private beaches, the Catalina Island trip is a top choice. For those craving adrenaline and variety—think sandboarding dunes and salt lakes—then the Salinas Desert tour offers a memorable day combining desert landscapes with snorkeling.
1. Full-day at Catalina Island from Santo Domingo with optional snorkeling included
At number 1 on our list, this full-day Catalina Island trip combines snorkeling at two points, a private beach, and a luxurious lunch. The tour departs from Santo Domingo and makes two memorable snorkeling stops: one on the way to Catalina, featuring a coral wall, and another near the beach, perfect for relaxing after your underwater adventure. The boat is described as large and clean, and the tour guide Robert is praised for his excellent English and dedication to making the day special.
What sets this tour apart is the private beach at Casa de Campo, a landmark luxury resort that offers a peaceful setting away from the crowds. The included Dominican buffet provides a taste of local flavors after your water activities. The reviews highlight the fun boat ride back—a Caribbean dance party that’s hard to forget—and the snorkeling itself as “amazing.”
Value-wise, for $179.95, you get a full day—roughly 8 hours—of varied experiences, making it a good option for travelers seeking comfort, beautiful reefs, and a taste of luxury. It’s especially suitable for those who want a structured day with guided snorkeling and a scenic boat ride. Potential downsides include the rocky beach requiring water shoes and the fact that it’s a longer trip, which might be tiring for some.
Bottom line: This tour offers a solid, all-around Caribbean snorkeling experience with added amenities like a private beach and buffet, ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and scenic underwater sites.
$179.95 per person
2. Santo Domingo: Salinas Desert Sandboarding & Snorkeling Tour
At number 2, this adventure-packed day combines desert sandboarding with snorkeling in the Caribbean. Starting in the Salinas desert, famous for its pink salt lakes, the tour takes you onto the sand dunes for a quick thrill—sliding down on a sandboard, which appeals to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
After the dunes, the tour shifts to underwater exploration. You’ll snorkel in the Caribbean Sea, discovering colorful reefs and marine life, with the added bonus of learning about local salt mining and seeing workers extracting salt from the lakes. The tour includes a traditional Dominican lunch, making it a full immersion day of land, salt, and sea.
What makes this tour special is the diverse experience: sandboarding in a desert environment and snorkeling in clear waters, all in one day. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something different than typical island excursions. The reviews are less detailed but indicate a well-organized trip with a mix of adrenaline and relaxation.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking an active, fun-packed day that combines desert thrills with underwater exploration, this tour offers excellent value and a unique look at the Dominican landscape and marine world.
How to Choose Between the Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you prefer a relaxed, luxurious day with guaranteed snorkeling at coral reefs and a private beach, the Full-day at Catalina Island is your best bet. This tour is ideal for those who want comfort and underwater beauty with minimal fuss.
Alternatively, if you’re after a more active day that mixes adventure and sightseeing—with sandboarding dunes and salt lakes—then the Salinas Desert Tour will fill that craving. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers who want variety and a taste of local landscapes, along with snorkeling.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially during peak holiday seasons, as these tours are popular. Also, check the weather to ensure good sea conditions, particularly for the snorkeling parts.
Final thoughts
Both tours highlight the diversity of Santo Domingo’s surroundings—from coral reefs and private beaches to salt lakes and sand dunes. The full-day Catalina Island trip offers a more relaxed, comfort-oriented experience, perfect for those who want to unwind and enjoy scenic snorkeling. The Salinas Desert Tour caters to adventurous travelers eager to combine different landscapes and thrill-seeking activities.
For families, the Catalina trip provides a well-structured day with amenities and smooth logistics. Solo travelers or groups seeking adventure might prefer the desert tour’s energetic mix of sandboarding and snorkeling. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures a spot on these popular excursions, making your Caribbean trip both memorable and hassle-free.