Your Tranquil Coastal Haven for Retirement
Bayahibe, a small coastal town in the Dominican Republic, has evolved from a fishing village to a cherished hub for divers and beach lovers, all while retaining its peaceful charm. Located on the southeastern coast, it is the gateway to Saona Island and Cotubanamá National Park, offering a relaxed lifestyle connected to nature.
Once a quiet fishing village, Bayahibe is now a small diving hub that still maintains its relaxed coastal charm. The pace of life is slow and easygoing, with warm greetings from locals and unhurried afternoons. The town is serene during the day as visitors head out on dive boats or catamarans to Saona and Catalina islands. At sunset, a few beachside bars and cafes come gently alive with music and laughter that is never too loud. It's a place of peaceful routines and natural beauty, more akin to a small seaside retirement community than a nightlife hotspot.
Housing in Bayahibe ranges from cozy condos to detached villas. In Bayahibe town (Los Melones), there are some small apartment complexes and simple Caribbean-style homes. 2 miles away in the Dominicus area, more options are found in resort-style condo complexes with pools and security. Many expat homes are in gated communities or condo residences, blending modern amenities with tropical design.
The two main popular residential areas for expats are Bayahibe Pueblo (Los Melones), offering a local feel and proximity to the harbor, and Dominicus Americanus, a planned tourist-residential area with condo complexes and security. Comfortable 2-bedroom rentals in Bayahibe or Dominicus typically cost between $500 and $800 per month.
Download our comprehensive guide to retiring in Bayahibe for even more insider details.
| Rent (2-BR) | $500 - $800 |
| Groceries | ~$300 |
| Utilities (w/ AC) | $60 - $100+ |
| High-Speed Internet | ~$50 |
| Private Health Plan | $50 - $100 (per person) |
| Estimated Total | $1,300 - $1,800+ |
Bayahibe has a small local clinic for basic needs. For anything beyond routine care, expats typically go to La Romana (20 min drive), which has two quality private hospitals: Centro Médico Dr. Canela and Centro Médico Central Romana. Quality private care in the DR is excellent and a fraction of US prices.