Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Get practical details on arranging boat transport, navigating the national park rules, and packing properly for an undeveloped beach.
Getting there
How to reach the beach from La Cueva or Cabo Rojo.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Motorboat from the fishing village of La Cueva or Cabo Rojo cruise port | 15-20 minutes | $35-$60 USD per boat round trip (holds 5-6 passengers) | Boats drop you off on the beach and return at an agreed-upon time. Ensure you negotiate the price and pickup time with the captain beforehand. |
| Tour: Organized shore excursions or day tours departing from Port of Cabo Rojo or Santo Domingo | 3-4 hours (from Cabo Rojo) | $79-$149+ per person | Excursions usually include transportation to the boats, the boat ride, a local guide, and occasionally a beach lunch. Prices vary depending on the operator. |
| Car: Driving via a rugged dirt track from La Cueva through the national park | 45-60 minutes off-roading | Free (apart from the park entrance fee and vehicle expenses) | Only recommended for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles due to the extremely rugged, rocky terrain. Most visitors avoid this and take the boat instead. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The beach is open year-round. The most comfortable time to visit is from November through April. This window avoids the extreme summer heat and heavy rains typical of peak hurricane season.
What to bring
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Remember to pack enough drinking water.
There are zero facilities on the sand.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your trip.
Drive to La Cueva, hire a local boat, and spend a few hours on the sand.
- Arrive at La Cueva
Pay your about 150 DOP park entry fee at the entry hut.
- Hire a local boat
Negotiate a $35-$60 round-trip fare with a captain.
- Arrive at the beach
The boat drops you off. Set up your shade and towels.
- Return trip
Meet your captain at the agreed time to head back to La Cueva.
- Lunch near the port
Eat seafood at a restaurant in La Cueva or nearby Pedernales.
Combine Laguna de Oviedo wildlife with a relaxing afternoon at the bay.
- Depart Barahona
Take an organized tour driving the coastal road south.
- Laguna de Oviedo
Take a boat tour on the saltwater lake to see American flamingos.
- Boat to Bahia de las Aguilas
Transfer to La Cueva and take the 15-minute motorboat to the beach.
- Beach and lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch on the sand and swim in the clear water.
- Head back
Return to the mainland and start the drive back to your hotel.
Navigating the National Park
Jaragua National Park has strict rules to protect the environment. You must pay the roughly 150 DOP entry fee in cash before boarding any boats. Entrance Fee Guide Lifejackets are mandatory during the boat ride. When snorkeling, do not touch or remove any marine life, including starfish and turtles.
Packing for the beach
You must bring everything you will need. Pack plenty of drinking water, snacks, and reef-safe sunscreen. Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. You must also bring garbage bags to pack out all your trash, as there are no bins on the beach. Packing Guide
Easiest way to do it
Nature Combo Oviedo Lagoon & Bahia de las Aguilas
10 h 30 min 4.7 (7)
- Soda/Pop
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
From$317per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you drive directly to the beach?
You can drive via a rugged dirt track from La Cueva, which takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, this is only recommended for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles. Most visitors take the boat instead.
Do you need cash?
Yes. All transactions for local boats and park entry fees must be paid in cash. Dominican Pesos (DOP) are preferred.
Are there bathrooms on the beach?
No. There are no restrooms, changing rooms, or restaurants at Bahia de las Aguilas. Use the facilities in La Cueva or Cabo Rojo before you depart.