- Canyons
. This site ranges in depth from 35 to 80 feet with crevices
hosting moray eels, spiny lobster and a variety of invertebrates. Atlantic
Spadefish commonly cruise the water column above these coral canyons
Catalina Island is a longish boat ride from the
Bayahibe area, maybe 30 minutes but many people consider it one of the highlights of
their week. There is a true wall on the north side of the island, dropping
from 15 to 130 feet. The shallow reef flat is rich with pillar and boulder
corals, while the drop-off is filter feeder heaven, with black coral, vase
sponge and large elephant ears. On the south side is a shallow reef known as
the Aquarium. Here, pillar corals rule, and schooling grunts hide in coral
recesses.
Sea Pro Reef. A fascinating coral ridge at about 55 feet, absolutely
chock-full of sea fans, tube sponges and Gorgonians. The ridge drops off seaward
to nearly 130 feet, although the slope is gradual.
The Tower (Cabo Cabron). Depth: 130+ feet. The boat drops you into the
churning channel between rock and mainland. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins,
which frequent this spot. A giant pinnacle formation emerges from 165 feet,
encrusted with sponge and cascading coral where lobster and crab are often
found. The best way to see it all: drop down to 90 feet and slowly swim up and
around the peak.
On Land…
Hike Pico Duarte , the tallest peak in the Caribbean. Cross Lake
Enriquillo , the Caribbean's largest salt water lake; try rafting on the
clear waters of the Yaque del Norte river; or get close up to a school of
Humpback whales cavorting in Samaná Bay .
Beaches.
Discover the breaking fun waves of
Playa Grande , or
frolic in the pristine waters of
Sosúa Beach , the mild surf of
Playa
Dorada or the calm waters of
Boca Chica . Indulge in the caress of
Punta
Cana's coconut-dotted beaches on the East Coast.
Facts about Canyons