Hoyo Azul, Natural sinkhole in Higüey, Dominican Republic
Hoyo Azul is a natural limestone sinkhole near Higüey featuring deep blue water pooled at the base of a sheer cliff face. The water surface lies roughly 75 feet below ground level, creating the impression of a hidden underground lake.
The sinkhole formed through the erosion of limestone bedrock over thousands of years, creating an underground pool connected to deeper water systems. This geological process shaped the land that communities eventually discovered and used.
The indigenous Taíno people held these natural water sources as sacred sites for ceremonies and community gatherings before European arrival. This connection to the past remains visible in how visitors approach and treat the place with reverence.
Wear sturdy shoes when visiting, as the paths down to the water can be slippery and steep. Bring swimwear and a towel, since many visitors use the spot for swimming and cooling off.
The water maintains a constant temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, allowing comfortable swimming in any season. This stable warmth occurs because the pool is fed by deep underground springs isolated from outside temperature changes.
Location: Higüey
GPS coordinates: 18.47870,-68.44101
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09
Isla de Mona
73 km
Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
32.9 km
Altos de Chavón
48 km
Crash Boat Beach
134.8 km
Park nacional cueva de las maravillas
76 km
BONUS Reactor Facility
124.5 km
Macao playa turística
34.4 km
Reserva científica natural lagunas Redonda y Limón
79.2 km
Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta
131.4 km
Cotubanamá National Park
37.8 kmMona and Monito Islands Nature Reserve
72.8 km
Jardín Botanico
126.1 kmParque Nacional Del Este
43.5 km
Domes Beach
124.3 km
Punta Borinquen Light
135.1 km
Punta Higuero Light
124.3 km
Aguada Stadium
131.9 km
Pico Piedra
130.2 km
Playa Catalina
62.7 km
Mona Island Light
76.5 km
Playa Guanábano
35.3 km
Playa Rincón
123.9 km
Playa Bavaro
26.5 km
Manchas Grandes
135.1 km
Cueva Arena
127.3 km
Bayahibe Beach
44 km
Playa Fronton
117.9 km
Arena Gorda Beach
26.1 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes