Hoyo azul

Hoyo Azul is a natural swimming hole inside Scape Park in Cap Cana, near Punta Cana. Set beneath a tall, vegetation-covered cliff, its clear blue water is reached by a forest trail and makes a cool finish to a walk through the park. You can swim in the pool and, where permitted, jump in from a ledge. The route includes a bridge and stairs, so bring shoes for both walking and water. The spring-fed pool feels cold, which is especially refreshing on a hot day.

Reaching the pool

Hoyo Azul sits within Scape Park in Cap Cana. The walk to the water passes through forest and gardens, with native Caribbean plants along the route. One described trail includes cacti, orchids, ferns and bromeliads. The approach also crosses a bridge and descends by wooden stairs toward the pool.

The path is about half a mile, and parts of the route are steep. Comfortable walking shoes help on the trail and stairs; swim shoes are useful at the water. The visit is part of the wider Scape Park experience, which includes other nature and adventure activities.

Swimming beneath the cliff

The pool is a natural limestone sinkhole at the foot of a cliff. Its water appears bright blue and is clear enough to see into. Accounts put its depth at about 14 metres, though figures vary. The setting is shaded by the cliff and surrounded by vegetation.

The spring water is cold, so a swim can be bracing even in warm weather. Some accounts mention a ledge or platform for jumping into the pool. Treat jumping as an activity that calls for care, and follow the park’s safety instructions. Life jackets and lockers are among the amenities noted at the site.