Bayahíbe emerges as a sargassum-free haven for tourists

La Romana-Bayahíbe stands out as one of the few Dominican beach destinations unaffected by the growing sargassum problem impacting Caribbean tourism. Thanks to its location and the natural barrier provided by Saona Island, seaweed is diverted away from Bayahíbe’s shores, keeping its beaches clean and attractive to visitors.

Andrés Fernández, president of the La Romana-Bayahíbe Hotel Association (AHRB), highlighted that this advantage is drawing tourists away from sargassum-affected areas like Punta Cana and Bávaro. Hotel chains such as Iberostar, Catalonia, and Hyatt have reportedly requested guest transfers to Bayahíbe due to sargassum buildup on their beachfronts.

With 5,800 hotel rooms and an average occupancy rate of 86% in the first half of 2025, Bayahíbe continues to perform strongly. Hoteliers are now focused on preserving beach quality and preventing sand erosion, while remaining prepared to apply lessons from other destinations should sargassum ever pose a future threat.