It is politically part of the Dominican Republic, and is roughly triangle-shaped and fairly flat, with an approximate area of 41 km2 (16 sq mi).

Originally populated by Taíno natives, the island became a colonial asset of the Captaincy General of Santo Domingo and the greater Spanish Empire.

[2] The landscape is somewhat varied, with mangrove swamps on parts of the North shore, sandy coves and beaches on the west coast.

Geologically, the island is basically made out of limestone, the erosion of which causes very jagged surfaces on exposed rocks (called diente de perro or dogtooth), and several sinkholes and cenotes.

Beata Island is currently uninhabited, save for short stays by fishermen from the mainland and a permanent Dominican military base with rotating personnel.