Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta Guide
La Caleta Underwater National Park: A Diver's Paradise in the Caribbean Sea Guide
Discover the underwater wonders of Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta, a protected marine park located near Boca Chica. This park is a haven for divers and snorkelers, boasting vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the intriguing wreck of the Hickory, a sunken cargo ship. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, La Caleta offers an unforgettable experience exploring the beauty beneath the waves. La Caleta's history is intertwined with the story of the Hickory, a cargo ship that was intentionally sunk in 1984 to create an artificial reef and attract marine life. The park was officially established in 1986 to protect the area's fragile ecosystem and preserve the wreck as a diving attraction. Over the years, the Hickory has become encrusted with coral and is now home to a wide variety of fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms. The primary activities in La Caleta Underwater National Park are diving and snorkeling. Several dive shops in Boca Chica offer guided dives and snorkeling trips to the park. Divers can explore the Hickory wreck, swim through coral gardens, and encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and rays. Snorkelers can enjoy the shallower areas of the reef, observing the vibrant coral and fish from the surface. While Boca Chica is known for its seafood restaurants, there are no restaurants directly within the park. However, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Boca Chica after your dive or snorkel trip.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta is by taxi or 'motoconcho' (motorcycle taxi) from Boca Chica. Many dive shops also provide transportation to the park as part of their dive packages. From Santo Domingo, you can take a 'guagua' (local bus) to Boca Chica and then take a taxi to the park. The park is located just a short distance from the center of Boca Chica.