Dominican Republic: Catalina Island

La Romana, Dominican Republic November 28, 2022

A Bittersweet Experience at Catalina Island, Dominican Republic

Catalina Island, off the coast of the Dominican Republic, is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning white sand beaches. I had been looking forward to exploring this tropical paradise, expecting an unforgettable day of snorkeling and soaking in the island’s beauty. And at first, it was everything I had imagined—breathtaking scenery, warm waters, and a peaceful escape.

However, as we swam and explored, disappointment set in. Floating among the waves, mixed in with the coral and fish, was something that shouldn’t be there—trash. Plastic bottles, wrappers, and other debris drifted through the water, disrupting the natural beauty of the island. It was disheartening to see such a gorgeous place affected by human negligence.

Rather than just feeling upset about it, my cousin and I decided to take action. We started picking up rubbish along the shore and in the water. To our surprise and appreciation, our lifeguard/tour guide noticed and joined in. Seeing him take part in the cleanup gave me hope that more locals and visitors will do the same to protect this paradise.

I truly hope he continues setting a positive example for others and encourages more people to take responsibility for preserving Catalina Island. This experience was a reminder that every little effort counts. If you ever visit, please be mindful of your impact—respect the beaches, pick up trash, and help keep our oceans clean. ❤️💪🏼

Come swim with me!