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La Caleta Underwater National Park
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The La Caleta Underwater National Park is located approximately 20 kilometers east of Santo Domingo, directly opposite the Las Américas International Airport. Established on September 25, 1986, by Decree 249-86, it covers a marine area of about 10 square kilometers. The park is recognized as one of the most important diving sites in the Caribbean, where artificial reefs were created by the intentional sinking of decommissioned ships. The most famous wreck is the 'Hickory,' a 44-meter-long salvage vessel sunk in 1984, which now hosts a wide variety of coral and fish species. Water depths within the park range from 6 to 180 meters, making it suitable for both novice and advanced divers. Beyond the shipwrecks, the area features a complex system of underwater caves and tunnels formed within the coastal limestone foundation. Management and protection of the park are coordinated by local diving associations and the Dominican Ministry of Environment.
- Location: Dominican Republic
- Nearby: Santo Domingo Este (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 31 | 24 | 22 | 41 | 72 | 48 | 58 | 64 | 67 | 61 | 73 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Conveniently located very close to the main international airport of Santo Domingo. Access to the underwater sights is primarily by chartered boat from the small beach and established dive centers situated right on the bay.
Best season
Diving is happily possible year-round, but the dependably calmer months from spring to early autumn frequently offer the absolute best, clearest underwater visibility and most favorable overall diving conditions.
Terrain & paths
The protected park is entirely marine, featuring fascinating coral reef terraces, several historically intentionally sunken shipwrecks, and a relatively shallow sandy seabed convenient for prolonged underwater exploration.
What to bring
Full professional scuba diving or high-quality snorkeling gear is strictly required. Most international visitors simply rent their heavy tanks, weights, and fitted wetsuits from the convenient local dive shops operating on the shore.
Parking
There is dedicated, generally secure parking readily available near the bustling beach area and the adjacent dive shops in La Caleta. It is consistently safe and convenient for day visitors and scheduled divers.
Safety
Diving should absolutely only be thoughtfully undertaken with proper, recognized certification. Always responsibly dive with a trusted buddy, strictly listen to the local divemasters, and be acutely aware of your depth and air limits.
Time needed
A typical planned excursion involves a satisfying half-day trip to confidently complete one or two distinct dives, fully including the brief boat ride, mandatory surface intervals, and thorough equipment preparation.
Geography
Facts
- Established as a national park on September 25, 1986.
- Protects a total marine area of 10 square kilometers.
- Depth profiles range from 6 meters to over 180 meters.
- The 44-meter 'Hickory' wreck is the primary dive attraction.
- Features intricate underwater karst cave formations.
- Located just offshore from Las Américas International Airport.
- Recognized as a leading site for artificial reef development.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction here?
The Hickory wreck, a sunken ship that is now an artificial reef.
Is the park suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, there are various depths suitable for both beginners and pros.
Where is the park located?
Near Las Américas Airport, about 20 km from Santo Domingo.
Do you have to pay a fee?
Park entry is often included in the dive center's fee.
Can you snorkel there?
Yes, in the shallower areas, you can see colorful fish and corals.
La Caleta Underwater National Park: where is it located?
La Caleta Underwater National Park is located in Dominican Republic.
La Caleta Underwater National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
La Caleta Underwater National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The La Caleta Underwater National Park is located approximately 20 kilometers east of Santo Domingo, directly opposite the Las Américas International Airport.
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Nearby cities
Santo Domingo Oeste
A municipality west of the Santo Domingo city center.
Santo Domingo Este
One of the largest and most populous municipalities in the country.
Boca Chica
A popular beach town near Santo Domingo with a large coral reef.
Santo Domingo Norte
A municipality north of the Santo Domingo city center.
Los Alcarrizos
A densely populated municipality in the Santo Domingo province.
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Monte Plata
Capital of the province of the same name, founded by relocation.
Arenoso
A municipality in Duarte province, known for its extensive rice fields.
Bajos de Haina
An important port and industrial city west of Santo Domingo.
Villa Riva
A municipality in Duarte province, near the Yuna River.
El Valle
A small town in a valley, surrounded by mountains of the Cordillera Oriental.
Juan Dolio
A cosmopolitan beach town near Santo Domingo, offering a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent dining.
San Gregorio de Nigua
A town in San Cristóbal province with historic sugar mills.
Cevicos
A municipality in Sánchez Ramírez province, surrounded by hills.
El Factor
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History & landmarks
National Palace
The seat of the Dominican government, an imposing neoclassical building.
Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium
The primary baseball stadium in Santo Domingo, hosting two professional teams.
Acrópolis Center
A prominent commercial and corporate tower complex in the heart of Santo Domingo.
Flag Square
A major monument complex honoring the Dominican flag and national identity.
Nature
More places
Columbus Lighthouse
A massive, cross-shaped monument and mausoleum in honor of Christopher Columbus.
Las Américas Free Trade Zone
A leading industrial park for high-tech and medical products.
Port of Punta Caucedo
A modern container port located near the Las Américas International Airport.
National Aquarium Santo Domingo
The national aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the Caribbean, including an underwater tunnel.
Church of Santa Bárbara
A historic church in the Colonial Zone where Juan Pablo Duarte was baptized.
Plaza de la Cultura Juan Pablo Duarte
A complex in Santo Domingo that houses several important national museums and the National Theater.
National Botanical Garden Santo Domingo
A huge green oasis in the city with a Japanese garden, a flower clock, and a train that runs through the park.
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Southern Coastal Plain
A vast lowland plain along the southern coast.