I am extremely satisfied with my stay at El Navegante Hotel in Bayahibe! Check in process was easy. 24 hours before my expected arrival I sent the host a message through the expedia app and she responded with my room number and lock code to enter the room. I found the code lock to be extremely handy so I didn't have to worry about losing a key or key card while at the beach.
This property is an apartment style building right in the neighborhood. I appreciate these types of accommodations because it allows me to get a sense of the culture in the place I am visiting. I dont get that sense when I am staying at a big box hotel.
My room was a studio apartment with a kitchenette. The AC kept the temperature in the room very comfortable! Speaking of comfort, the bed was fantastic! I dont sleep that comfortably at my own house! I was very pleased!
There is a restaurant on the property also. So its convenient to find something eat. There is a corner store only a few steps away from the entrance for all of the goodies when you get the munchies.
The beach was about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the hotel.
The host lives on the premises. She and her daughter were extremely helpful during my 5 day stay in bayahibe. When I was checking out she was able to secure a taxi for me for far less than another company was going to charge me to get to the airport.
I would recommend El Navegante 1000% to anyone looking for an authentic experience in Bayahibe!
This was my 1st time in the Dominican Republic and I was looking for an authentic experience amongst the locals. Frankly I am tired of curated experiences that you get doing resorts. This property offered me exactly what I was looking for. The room has a very comfortable bed, a kitchenette with a 2 burner cooktop, and a bathroom with standup shower! All I need! It is located in the middle of town a few minutes walk to local beaches and places to eat. There is a corner store 3 minutes walk from the propert entrance for snacks and convenience items. There is a restaurant on the property aswell. I would give this place 10 stars if I could. No frills but fantastic value! I dont need or want to spend over a hundred dollars a night for a room I wont be in except for sleeping! I came to Dominican Republic to be OUTSIDE!!!!! I would absolutely come back!
There is no front desk/reception. This wasn't a problem, but you'll need to call or WhatsApp in advance to get the key code for your room entry. No big deal. Good location, good sized room, strong air conditioning. Very little soundproofing between rooms, so you'll be reliant on the other guests being polite and respectful. Low water pressure. Overall not perfect but fine for the price!