Crystal-clear waters against a palm-lined idyllic backdrop make this 50-square-mile island off the coast of La Romana the single most popular day excursion in the region for visitors and residents.

But to get here you’ll have to hitch a boat. Just about all the resorts offer all-inclusive packages including transportation and a pre-paid lunch; individual travelers can make arrangements with independent boat captains directly in Bayahibe, or with one of the dive outfitters in the area offering snorkel day trips to the island (see recommended outfitters in DIVE ).

Photo: Gilles Boudot