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Thanks to reef restoration efforts from the area’s organizations, coral cultivations at El Acuario dive site have turned it into one of the most interesting underwater spots in the region. Located off the coast of Punta Cana, this aquarium reaches between five and seven meters (16-23 feet) of depth, which is ideal for beginners. One of its iconic residents is François–a large barracuda often seen swimming alone or protecting a school of small fish from the barracuda family. Mottled eagle rays, porcupine fish, sandfish, grunts, and parrotfish can also be spotted.