La Romana is a fantastic spot to enjoy authentic Dominican BBQ experiences, thanks to its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. What sets these tours apart is their focus on combining outdoor adventure with a mouthwatering barbecue meal—perfect for travelers looking to enjoy local flavors along with scenic views. We particularly like the Bávaro: Catalina Island Diving Tour with BBQ & Drinks for its underwater explorations and relaxed beachside lunch, which offers a true taste of the island’s marine beauty and culinary delights.
While some tours lean more toward active snorkeling or diving, others focus on a scenic boat ride with a relaxing BBQ on the beach. No matter which you pick, you’ll get an authentic Dominican BBQ lunch, often with grilled pork, chicken, and fresh salads, accompanied by unlimited drinks. These experiences showcase La Romana’s unique charm, combining adventure, relaxation, and delicious food in one memorable day.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated BBQ experiences, each offering a different way to enjoy Catalina Island and its stunning surroundings:
- The Bávaro: Catalina Island Diving Tour with BBQ & Drinks is ideal for divers who want an underwater adventure paired with a beachside BBQ.
- The Private: Catalina Island Snorkeling & BBQ Boat Tour offers a personalized boat trip with snorkeling and a VIP BBQ experience.
- The Private: Catamaran Adventure & Beach BBQ at Catalina Island combines scenic sailing, snorkeling, and a lively beach BBQ with music and dancing.
Each option provides a different flavor of what La Romana has to offer. Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Bávaro: Catalina Island Diving Tour with BBQ & Drinks
At number one on our list, this tour combines diving, relaxation, and a classic Dominican BBQ. Over 9 hours, you’ll explore Catalina Island’s famous dive sites, including “The Wall” and “The Aquarium,” with a professional guide leading the way. These sites are known for their stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life, making this tour a favorite for certified divers.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of diving and beach lounging. After your underwater adventure, you can unwind on the island’s white-sand beaches or take a swim in the clear waters. The highlight is the beach BBQ, where a delicious Dominican-style meal is served, featuring grilled meats, fresh salads, and plenty of drinks—unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic options at the beach bar. The tour’s reviews reflect its value; many mention the excellent organization and the quality of the food.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine adventure with good food. The full-day format makes it an excellent choice for those wanting an immersive experience away from crowded resorts. Keep in mind, it’s geared toward certified divers, so if snorkeling is your preference, consider the next options.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for diving enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day on Catalina Island with a satisfying BBQ.
2. Private: Catalina Island Snorkeling & BBQ Boat Tour
At number two, this private boat tour emphasizes personalized service, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, exclusive experience. The tour lasts 9 hours and features snorkeling at “The Wall”, a spot renowned for its vibrant marine life and clear waters. The boat is equipped for comfort, and the guide can tailor the snorkeling experience to your skill level.
A key feature of this tour is the authentic Dominican BBQ, which includes grilled pork, chicken, and fresh salads served on the beach. You’ll have time to unwind on a private, serene stretch of white sands and sip chilled white wine—an upscale touch that makes it stand out. The oceanfront bar offers a variety of drinks, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze.
The reviews highlight the VIP treatment and quality of the food. One traveler noted, “The BBQ was best I’ve had on the island, and the personalized service made it unforgettable.” This tour suits travelers who want a more intimate experience with high-quality food and flexible snorkeling options. The private setting ensures a quieter, more relaxed vibe compared to larger tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples wanting a personalized, comfortable day on Catalina with excellent BBQ and marine exploration.
3. Private: Catamaran Adventure & Beach BBQ at Catalina Island
Rounding out our list, this catamaran cruise offers a lively, scenic voyage from La Romana, culminating in a beach BBQ on Catalina Island. Over 9 hours, you’ll enjoy a sailing adventure with music, dancing, and panoramic views, all while en route to the island’s pristine beaches.
The highlight here is snorkeling at “The Wall”—a must-see for marine lovers. Once ashore, you can relax on the soft sands, soak up the sun, or take a leisurely swim. The BBQ lunch is a highlight, featuring grilled meats and fresh salads, served in a festive, beachside setting. The cruise back includes music and drinks, creating a party atmosphere that appeals to those looking for a fun, social experience.
This tour receives praise for its scenic cruise and lively environment. Many travelers mention the scenic sailing and good music as memorable parts of the day. It’s well suited for travelers who want a combination of adventure, relaxation, and entertainment in one package. Note that the tour is longer, so it’s best for those comfortable with full-day outings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a fun, energetic day with stunning views, snorkeling, and a lively BBQ on a scenic catamaran.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If diving is your passion, the first tour offers extensive underwater exploration with a delicious beach BBQ—check here for details. For a more personalized experience, the private snorkeling tour provides VIP treatment with flexible options—see here. If you prefer a more lively, social atmosphere with music and sailing, the catamaran adventure is your best bet—more info here.
Think about the kind of experience you want: underwater action, a peaceful private day, or a fun cruise with friends. Also, check the season; La Romana’s weather is best from December to April, perfect for outdoor activities and beach BBQs.
Final Thoughts
La Romana offers a range of BBQ experiences that combine adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavors. Whether you’re a diver eager for underwater sights, a couple seeking an intimate private outing, or a group craving a lively cruise, there’s an option for you. The diving tour is excellent for those who want a full immersion into marine life, while the private snorkeling and catamaran tours cater to travelers who prefer quieter or more festive settings, respectively.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. No matter which tour you choose, you’re in for a delicious BBQ and a memorable day on the water—an authentic taste of La Romana’s lively spirit and natural beauty.