Sergio Carlo files complaint with Environment Ministry over Macao Beach access

Journalist Sergio Carlo has filed a formal complaint with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, alleging that the Dreams Macao Punta Cana hotel improperly restricted access to the public beach area at Macao Beach.

The complaint, which was also sent to the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), the Higüey City Council and the Specialized Tourist Security Corps (CESTUR), calls for an investigation into claims that hotel staff asked beachgoers to move their umbrellas and belongings to make way for weddings and photo shoots.

According to Carlo, the incident occurred while he was using a public section of the beach. He said hotel employees requested that he relocate his umbrella, claiming the area needed to remain clear for a private event and citing hotel instructions, despite what he argues was the absence of any legal basis for such restrictions.

In his filing, Carlo cites Article 15 of the Dominican Constitution, Law 305-68 governing the 60-meter maritime zone, the General Environmental Law 64-00, a Constitutional Court ruling, and Environment Ministry Resolution 026/2025, arguing that beaches and the 60-meter maritime strip are public property with guaranteed free access.

He is asking authorities to investigate the allegations, halt any practices that restrict public access to the beach, conduct periodic inspections of the area in front of the hotel, and impose sanctions if violations are confirmed.