Dominicus Beach, also known as La Laguna Beach in Dominicus Americanus, has announced its Blue Flag certification for the 2024-2025 period by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in December 2024. This prestigious certification marks the twenty-first ratification for Dominicus Beach, which was the first beach to receive this distinction in the Dominican Republic and throughout the Americas.
Since October 2003, Dominicus Beach has been a beacon of excellence, being the pilot hotel zone in the Caribbean to implement this international certification. The Blue Flag symbolizes a clean, healthy, safe, and accessible beach, making it a sought-after destination for both locals and tourists.
Blue Flag Certified Beaches in Dominicus-Bayahibe-La Romana Area:
- Dominicus Beach (La Laguna Beach) operated by Viva Dominicus Beach & Palace by Wyndham, Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus, Catalonia Bayahibe & Royal La Romana, Dreams Dominicus La Romana, Sunscape Dominicus La Romana.
- Bayahibe Beach operated by Hilton La Romana.
- Minitas Beach operated by Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.
With 24 Blue Flag-certified beaches across 4 provinces, the Dominican Republic continues to shine as a top tourist destination. These awarded sites contribute significantly to the tourism sector, creating jobs and reducing poverty among locals. Beach tourism represents 8.4% of the country’s gross domestic product, emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism services.
One of the key goals of the Blue Flag program in the Dominican Republic is to educate people about the sustainable use of natural resources and larger ecosystem management. By promoting environmental education, the program helps reduce hunger risks by minimizing waste and ensuring that food is available to a broader population. Children, in particular, are involved in activities that highlight the importance of fisheries and marine biodiversity.
The Blue Flag program also promotes infrastructure development to meet the stringent criteria required for certification. In the Dominican Republic, the program has led to the construction of adequate infrastructures, including facilities for people with disabilities and lifesaving towers. The quality of infrastructure near Blue Flag sites is notably higher than in other coastal areas, contributing to sustainable development.
The iconic Blue Flag, awarded by the FEE, is one of the world’s most recognized voluntary eco-labels for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. To qualify, sites must meet and maintain rigorous environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria. Central to the Blue Flag program is the connection of the public with their surroundings, encouraging them to learn more about their environment through educational activities and information displays on biodiversity, ecosystems, and environmental phenomena.
Dominicus Beach’s commitment to these ideals has made it a shining example of sustainable tourism, proudly contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals. As we celebrate this achievement, we invite everyone to experience the beauty and excellence of Dominicus Beach and its Blue Flag-certified wonders. For more information, about blue flag certified beaches in Dominican Republic visit IDARD (Instituto de Derecho Ambiental de Republica Dominicana)
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