Have you ever had the chance to visit a sandbank in the middle of the sea?
On the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, between the provinces of Puerto Plata and Montecristi, and bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, lies the hidden gem of Cayo Arena.
I decided to visit this place through a tour so I wouldn't have to worry about the logistics. The journey to Cayo Arena was unforgettable.
The Journey
We started the day early, leaving the city and heading to Punta Rucia. The journey was long and peaceful, taking approximately 4 hours on the Juan Pablo Duarte Highway. We made a stop to recharge before continuing to our meeting point with the guide.
Photo by Daniel Rodríguez.
We gathered at one of the local restaurants, where many offer transportation services to the cayo. After about 15 minutes of preparing, taking photos, and enjoying the calm of the area, we headed towards the sea.
The Boat Adventure
The trip to Cayo Arena takes about 20 minutes on speedboats. The excitement and adrenaline are palpable, especially when the boats hit the waves and soar into the air. Although I felt a bit scared being in the middle of the ocean, the guides were always responsible and well-prepared. Additionally, we all wore life jackets, which provided a sense of security.
Photo by Daniel Rodríguez.
As we approached the cayo, all my worries faded away, and the real fun began.
Discovering Cayo Arena
Cayo Arena is a white sandbank, about 5 or 6 meters above sea level, surrounded by turquoise waters. There are wooden and thatched huts on the cayo that provide shade from the sun. Once we arrived, we set down our belongings and began to enjoy the unique feeling of being on a beach with 360-degree views.
One of the best parts of the visit is the abundance of fish swimming around us. Here, you can swim, dive, snorkel, enjoy a toast of fruits and tropical drinks, and take in the scenery with your friends.
Additional Exploration and Lunch
After spending a few hours on the cayo, we set off to explore the mangroves of Montecristi. It was a quick but very interesting tour, followed by a delicious Dominican-style lunch.
Tips and Recommendations
- Visiting Time: This is a unique experience that can be done in just one day. However, if you have more time, I recommend exploring more of Montecristi province, which has a lot to offer.
- Safety: It’s important to note that this activity can be somewhat risky for children, pregnant women, and people with physical disabilities.
- Precautions: Don’t forget to use sunscreen, stay well-hydrated, and collect your solid waste to help preserve the area.
Get inspired and come to Punta Rucia to discover Cayo Arena! You won't regret it.
