During a holiday in the Dominican Republic, I took a trip to Cayo Arena. This unique island is located just a few miles off the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Nearly every hotel offers organized tours to the island. I’ll tell you why it’s a good idea to try it on your own.
Most tourists stay in hotels around Puerto Plata, from here it is about two hours by rental car to Punta Rucia. Beware: The roads are not in the best condition.
Why do I recommend a trip on your own? The organized tours start arriving in Punta Rucia at about 10 o’clock - and after a short crossing to the island there are more than 150 people at the same time – although the island measures only 0.5 acre.
What I do recommend: Rent a car, drive off early and charter a small ship in Punta Rucia. We arrived already at 9 am on the island and could enjoy the paradise almost alone, at least for an hour. The reefs around the island are fantastic. If you like to snorkel you can see Queen Angelfish, Graysby, Blue Tang, Banded Butterflyfish and many other fishes.
And on your way back from the island to Punca Rucia you might ask your charter captain to take you through the mangroves. Enjoy!
12 Likes
It looks so great that I can hardly imagine any poor condition of the road, @Volker_Matthies . Can you share if it’s been poor or is there’s no asphalt at certain point?
Hi @Volker_Matthies ,
Welcome to Connect!
Wow, this is awesome! Thanks for sharing these amazing photos and tips! This is the perfect reason to go to the Dominican Republic! What else would you recommend we do while visiting?
P.S. Feel free to Introduce Yourself in our monthly topic.
Hey @Volker_Matthies excellent post. Loved the photos you have shared. Can you please share the cost of the trip and the living there? Looks like an amazing place for a long holiday.
There are shorter passages without asphalt but that’s not a problem for a regular car, no 4x4 needed. All over the streets you will find holes in the asphalt, so be careful. I wouldn’t recommend to drive at night time.
1 Like
The 27 waterfalls of Damajagua certainly is a treat! Check out my pictures and 360-panos on maps.
1 Like
Renting a car: bargain for a good deal with local rental companies but don’t be surprised about the condition of the car. There are major car rental companies available - more expensive but expect a better quality of the car.
If you book on organized tour to the Paradise Island, it’s about 80$/person.
Excellent, thank you @Volker_Matthies !
Just as a reminder, don’t forget to tag me or fellow Local Guides in your posts by writing @ before the name. This way we receive a notification.
It must have been quite a bumpy ride in that case. It’s awesome you had the brilliant views to compensate those moments 
