Picadilly - Bayahibe & La Romana

Sebayur Kecil, for us, is one of those genuinely easy Komodo dives that delivers more than you expect. It’s a sloping reef that maxes out around 20 metres, making it perfect for an easy afternoon drift or a refresher dive. The currents here are usually negligible, sometimes just a gentle push, which is a welcome break from some of Komodo's more athletic sites. We always drop in expecting to take it easy, then get completely lost in the macro. Look for the electric clams flashing their neon blue mantle – they’re always a favourite. Frogfish sit perfectly camouflaged on the corals, and we’ve spent entire safety stops just watching the antics of mantis shrimp near their burrows. While the deeper sections might surprise you with a reef shark cruising past, we find the real joy here is slowing down and really seeing the small stuff. It’s a site that proves you don’t need ripping currents to have a fantastic Komodo dive.

Location
Bayahibe & La Romana, Dominican Republic, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.438300, -69.603900
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: La Caleta

Best Time to Dive in Bayahibe & La Romana

The warmest water temperatures in Bayahibe & La Romana occur in January, averaging 26.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.9°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • February: 26.9°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • March: 26.9°C (air: 25.0°C)
  • April: 26.9°C (air: 25.6°C)
  • May: 26.9°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 26.9°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • July: 26.9°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • August: 26.9°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • September: 26.9°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • October: 26.9°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • November: 26.9°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • December: 26.9°C (air: 25.0°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Bayahibe & La Romana

Nearest Dive Centres to Picadilly

Marine Life in Bayahibe & La Romana

Home to 181 recorded species including 157 reef fish, 6 seagrass & algae, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 other, 3 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Picadilly

Based on average water temperature of 26.9°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Picadilly dive site?
The typical depth range for diving at the Picadilly dive site is approximately 13 meters down to a maximum depth of 20 meters. This makes it accessible for various certification levels and offers a comfortable profile for exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Picadilly?
Divers exploring the Picadilly reef can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life. You'll find many species of reef fish, including groupers, trigger fish, and moray eels, alongside lobsters and snails. The site is also notable for its impressive big sponges, which occasionally host king crabs, offering unique photo opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Is the Picadilly dive site suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered more advanced?
The Picadilly dive site is remarkably versatile, making it well-suited for both beginner and advanced divers. Its manageable depth and diverse marine life offer an enjoyable experience for a wide range of skill levels in the Bayahibe & La Romana area of the Dominican Republic.
When is the best time of year to dive at Picadilly for optimal conditions and visibility?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year to dive at Picadilly for optimal conditions and visibility is not available. However, divers can generally expect an average visibility of 14 meters at this site. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at Picadilly?
Given that the Picadilly dive site is described as best suited for both beginners and advanced divers, an Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient for entry-level access. For those looking to explore deeper or enhance their skills, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification would be beneficial, though not explicitly required by the data. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for the planned dive.
What are the usual current and water conditions divers might encounter at the Picadilly dive site?
The provided data does not specify the usual current or water temperature conditions divers might encounter at the Picadilly dive site. However, it does indicate an average visibility of 14 meters, which suggests generally clear waters. For up-to-date local conditions, it's always best to consult with a local dive operator in Bayahibe & La Romana.