La Romana Travel Guide: Discover the Heart of the Dominican Republic’s Caribbean Coast

🌴 Welcome to La Romana

As a local guide who has led countless travelers through the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, let me tell you: La Romana is more than just a beach town. It’s a fascinating blend of colonial history, natural beauty, and modern luxury — all wrapped in warm Caribbean charm.
 

From the world-famous Casa de Campo resort to the artistic wonderland of Altos de Chavón, and the turquoise shores of Saona and Catalina Islands, La Romana has something for every type of traveler.

📍 Where Is La Romana?

Location: Southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic

Distance from Santo Domingo: Approx. 125 km (about 1.5 hours by car)

Distance from Punta Cana: Approx. 80 km (about 1 hour)

Airport: La Romana International Airport (LRM) – just 10 minutes from town

🌟 Why Visit La Romana?

🏖️ 1. Beautiful Caribbean Beaches

La Romana’s coastline is lined with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Whether you want a lively beach scene or a secluded escape, you’ll find it here.

🏰 2. Altos de Chavón

A replica 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River. It’s home to art galleries, artisan workshops, a Roman-style amphitheater, and panoramic views.

⛳ 3. World-Class Golf

Golf lovers will find paradise in Casa de Campo, home to legendary courses like Teeth of the Dog, consistently ranked among the best in the Caribbean.

🏝️ 4. Access to Saona & Catalina Islands

La Romana is the perfect launching point for day trips to Saona Island (a tropical paradise) and Catalina Island (a snorkeling and diving hotspot).

🛥️ 5. Cultural Richness

From sugar cane heritage and local cigars to Dominican music and cuisine, La Romana offers a chance to experience real Dominican culture.

🧭 Top Things to Do in La Romana

🏛️ 1. Visit Altos de Chavón

Built in the 1970s by Dominican architect Jose Antonio Caro and Italian designer Roberto Coppa.

Walk cobblestone streets, explore art galleries, and enjoy views of the Chavón River.

Visit the Archaeological Museum, showcasing Taino artifacts.

Don’t miss a concert at the 5,000-seat amphitheater, where artists like Frank Sinatra and Elton John have performed.

🐠 2. Snorkeling and Diving at Catalina Island

Just a 25-minute boat ride from La Romana.

Popular dive site: The Wall, full of colorful corals and tropical fish.

Relax on uncrowded beaches, explore trails, or enjoy fresh seafood by the sea.

🏖️ 3. Spend the Day at Playa Caleta

One of the city’s most accessible beaches.

Calm waters, perfect for swimming.

Great for picnics and local vibes.

⛴️ 4. Take a Boat Trip to Saona Island

Part of Cotubanamá National Park.

Famous for sandbars, palm trees, and turquoise waters.

Watch for starfish in shallow pools and enjoy beachside Dominican BBQ.

🏌️ 5. Play Golf at Casa de Campo

Teeth of the Dog: Designed by Pete Dye, rated the #1 course in the Caribbean.

Other courses: The Links, Dye Fore (overlooking Chavón River).

Stunning oceanfront holes and lush scenery.

🚶 6. Explore La Romana City Center

Visit the Obelisk Monument – a tribute to Dominican identity.

Browse local shops and street vendors.

Sample Dominican street food like empanadas, fried plantains, and chicharrón.

🏭 7. Tour a Sugar Cane Plantation

Learn about La Romana’s past as a major sugar exporter.

Discover how sugar cane is processed.

Combine with a visit to a local cigar factory, where artisans roll premium Dominican cigars.

🏨 Where to Stay in La Romana

La Romana caters to all kinds of travelers — from all-inclusive luxury to boutique charm.

🍽️ Where to Eat in La Romana

Whether you crave local flavor or international cuisine, La Romana has it all.

🥘 Top Restaurants

SBG Casa de Campo – Upscale international menu with stunning views

Shish Kabab – Middle Eastern and Mediterranean options

Tracadero Restaurant – Romantic seafront dining

Onno’s Bar – Casual bar with great pizza and burgers in Altos de Chavón

🍛 Must-Try Dishes

Sancocho – Hearty Dominican stew with meat and root vegetables

La Bandera Dominicana – National dish of rice, beans, and meat

Ceviche – Fresh seafood with citrus and spice

Mangú – Mashed plantains served at breakfast

📅 Best Time to Visit La Romana

🚐 How to Get to La Romana

By Air:

La Romana International Airport (LRM) – serves international and charter flights

Nearby alternatives: Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) or Santo Domingo (SDQ)

By Road:

Easily reached via the Autovía del Coral from Punta Cana or Santo Domingo

Buses and private transfers available

By Sea:

Cruise ships dock at Casa de Campo-La Romana Cruise Port

🧳 What to Pack for La Romana

Light clothing, swimsuits, and sandals

Reef-safe sunscreen

Insect repellent for nature tours

Comfortable shoes for exploring Altos de Chavón

Snorkeling gear (optional)

Camera or GoPro

Light jacket for cooler evenings

🌿 Responsible Travel Tips

Choose eco-friendly tour operators

Avoid touching marine life or coral reefs

Support local artisans and family-run eateries

Use refillable water bottles

Respect local customs and traditions

📌 Nearby Day Trips from La Romana

🏝️ Isla Saona

White sands and palm-fringed beaches

Accessible by catamaran or speedboat

Great for snorkeling, swimming, and nature spotting

🐚 Isla Catalina

Ideal for diving and snorkeling

Calm, shallow waters and reefs

Less crowded than Saona

🎭 San Pedro de Macorís

City of poets and baseball legends

Colonial architecture and cultural museums

🌅 Final Thoughts

La Romana may not be as well-known as Punta Cana or Santo Domingo, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s peaceful yet vibrant, authentic yet luxurious, and filled with hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered.

Whether you're a golfer, a beach bum, a history buff, or just someone in need of a tropical escape, La Romana is a destination that delivers it all — with a side of Caribbean sunshine and Dominican warmth.

As your guide, I can say with certainty: La Romana is a jewel of the Dominican Republic. Come see it for yourself, and let it charm you from the first sunset to the last splash in the sea.