In short
- Drive to La Cueva or Cabo Rojo, then take a 15-20 minute boat ride.
- Private boats cost $35 to $60 USD for up to six passengers.
- Driving directly to the beach requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle.
In this article
Bahia de las Aguilas sits on the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic inside Jaragua National Park. Because there are no roads directly to the sand, you will need to arrange a boat transfer, book a tour, or drive a rugged 4x4 trail.
How do you get to Bahia de las Aguilas from Cabo Rojo?
You can book a shore excursion or hire a local boat from the port.
Cruise passengers arriving at Cabo Rojo can book organized tours ranging from $79 to $149+ per person. These tours usually include transport to the boat, the 15 to 20-minute ride, and a guide. Alternatively, you can arrange independent transport to La Cueva to hire a boat directly.
How do you hire a boat at La Cueva?
You hire local fishing boats directly from captains at the village.
La Cueva is a rustic fishing village just before the park entrance. A round-trip private boat holds up to six passengers and costs between $35 and $60 USD. You must negotiate the exact price and your return time with the captain before leaving. Pay in cash using Dominican Pesos.
Can you drive a car to Bahia de las Aguilas beach?
Yes, but you need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle to navigate the terrain.
A rugged dirt track runs from La Cueva through the national park to the beach. The drive takes 45 to 60 minutes of off-roading over rocky ground. Most visitors avoid this route and take the boat instead. It is free to drive, but you still pay the roughly 150 DOP park entrance fee.
What is the entrance fee for Jaragua National Park?
Every visitor must pay about 150 DOP (about $3 USD).
You pay this one-time fee at the park hut near La Cueva before boarding any boats. They only accept cash, and Dominican Pesos are preferred. Entrance Fee Guide
How do you get to Bahia de las Aguilas from Santo Domingo?
You can book organized day tours departing directly from the capital.
Tour operators offer trips from Santo Domingo to Pedernales. These guided options bundle your road transport with the final boat ride to the beach. Prices vary widely based on the tour company and group size.
What do you need to bring for the trip?
Pack everything you need for the day, as the beach has zero facilities.
Bring plenty of drinking water, snacks, and reef-safe sunscreen. There are no restaurants or restrooms on the 8-kilometer stretch of sand. You must also bring garbage bags to pack out all your trash. Packing Guide
Questions travellers ask
How long is the boat ride from La Cueva to Bahia de las Aguilas?
The motorboat ride takes 15 to 20 minutes each way.
How much does a boat to Bahia de las Aguilas cost?
A round-trip private boat for up to six passengers costs between $35 and $60 USD.
Are there bathrooms or facilities on Bahia de las Aguilas?
No. The beach is completely undeveloped and has zero permanent facilities.
