good luck.. I went there (inland some) three years ago, hunting doves. really loved the area. Since we stayed in La vega most of the time, it was a long ride there, and didnt go back......bob
you have a few choices of small hotels. bahia blanca has great views of the bay and is $25-35/night. there's also a few "habitacion" places in town, just look for the signs. they are probably cheaper.
Do not go to the Hotel Costa Larimar!
Last August we arrived quite late in Barahona and this seemed a nice hotel along the malecon/beach. Not so.
It is way overpriced and service is terrible. It made me feel like I was in some communist country where they have never seen tourists before. Restaurant staff was very young (15-16 ??) and obviously did not know what to do. Buffet was very small and poor quality.
Bartolomeo