In short
- Pack plenty of drinking water, snacks, and a full lunch.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and your own snorkel gear.
- Carry cash in Dominican Pesos (DOP) for park fees and boats.
In this article
Visiting this 8-kilometer stretch of white sand requires preparation. Because the beach is located inside the protected Jaragua National Park, permanent facilities are strictly prohibited. You are responsible for your own food, hydration, and sun protection during your visit.
How much food and water should you pack?
Bring enough drinking water and food to last your entire 3 to 5-hour beach stay.
There are no restaurants or vendors on the sand. Pack a cooler with plenty of water, a packed lunch, and snacks. Guided tours often provide bottled water and lunch. Independent travelers must bring their own supplies.
What kind of sun protection do you need?
You need reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and personal shade.
The sun on the southwestern coast is intense. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine life in the clear turquoise waters. Since the beach is completely undeveloped, bring an umbrella or a pop-up tent for reliable shade.
Do you need cash at Bahia de las Aguilas?
Yes, you need cash to pay the roughly 150 DOP park entry fee and hire local boats.
Dominican Pesos (DOP) are preferred. You will pay the entrance fee at the park hut near La Cueva before boarding. Private boats from La Cueva cost between $35 and $60 USD for a round trip. You must pay this in cash.
What beach gear should you bring to Bahia de las Aguilas?
Pack a beach towel, snorkel gear, and insect repellent.
There are no rental shops on the sand. Bring your own mask and snorkel to explore the inshore reefs and look for starfish. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be aggressive in the national park, so pack insect repellent.
Are there garbage bins at the beach?
No, there are no garbage bins at Bahia de las Aguilas.
Jaragua National Park enforces a strict leave-no-trace policy. You must bring empty garbage bags with you. Collect all your trash and belongings, and take them back on the boat. Dispose of your waste properly in La Cueva or Pedernales.
Questions travellers ask
Can I buy food at Bahia de las Aguilas?
No. There are no restaurants or vendors on the 8-kilometer beach. You must bring your own food or book a tour that includes lunch.
What kind of sunscreen is allowed?
You should pack reef-safe sunscreen. The bay is a protected marine area home to sea turtles, starfish, and manatees. Avoid chemicals that harm the local coral formations.
Is snorkel gear available for rent on the beach?
No. There are absolutely no facilities or rental shops on the sand. You must bring your own snorkel gear to explore the clear turquoise waters.
