Rollicking turquoise waves, swaying palms, and some of the finest rum on the planet – the Dominican Republic is renowned for its natural beauty as much as for the abundant all-inclusive resorts that dot the island.
While there’s no shortage of places with swim-up bars designed for serene weeks of lounging by the water, getting off hotel property is one of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in the Dominican experience.
Spending time in major cities like Santo Domingo and Santiago de los Caballeros is ideal for sampling island culture. Furthermore, getting off the beaten path and exploring less developed natural enclaves rewards you with waterfalls, whale watching, and flora-filled rainforest hikes.
Traveling from region to region is quite common; Dominicans frequently commute for business, visit family in the countryside, or navigate to school. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services operate in the three major cities: Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata. Public transportation via bus service is both an affordable and memorable way to experience island life.
If you are unsure where to start your exploration of the Dominican Republic, here’s a list of eight must-visit sites.
1. Punta Cana – The Casino and Resort Haven
When most people think of the Dominican Republic, it’s Punta Cana they envision. It’s the resort capital of the island, offering a plethora of all-inclusives catering to those who love luxury.
However, beyond the tourist-centered accommodations, Punta Cana features beaches that rival some of the Caribbean’s best. Punta Cana’s 97 km (60 miles) of coastline face both Atlantic and Caribbean waters, welcoming you to hop on a catamaran, engage in deep-sea fishing, or simply relax under the warm sun.
The area also boasts a vibrant party scene that plays out late into the night, thanks to various resorts’ casinos and clubs.
2. Santo Domingo – A Cultural Paradise
The lively hustle and bustle of city life harmonizes with vibrant Dominican culture in the island’s capital, Santo Domingo. As one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities, it’s a treasure trove for history enthusiasts eager to explore colonial-era architecture and delve into the country’s past.
You’ll find Zona Colonial in the city’s center, home to the island’s oldest church, European fortress, monastery, university, and hospital. Beyond the cobblestone streets, a metropolitan adventure awaits, complete with elegant restaurants, lively nightclubs, and numerous cultural institutions.
Reserve a table for dinner at the refined El Mesón de la Cava located in an ancient Taino cave. Afterward, hit the trendy club Jet Set; don’t miss Onno’s, a popular bar chain for a relaxed evening of beer and cocktails.
3. Samaná – The Whale Watching Haven
The Samaná Peninsula combines the unspoiled natural beauty of the Dominican Republic with the charm of friendly small-town life – a stark contrast to the luxurious resorts of Punta Cana and the bustling life of Santo Domingo.
The capital of this region, Samaná, situated in northern Samaná Bay, is popular for eco-tourism, particularly known for its whale watching. The best time to go is between January and March, when thousands of humpback whales flock to the bay to give birth to their young.
El Museo de las Ballenas (Whale Museum) in nearby Salinas is another attraction, offering guided tours of marine mammal exhibits, unique souvenirs, and even a complete 12m (40-ft) skeleton of a humpback whale discovered in 1993.
4. Sosúa – The Late-Night Party Hub
By day, Sosúa is a quaint beach town with stunning sandy shores lapped by the cerulean Atlantic waves. It is also known as the island’s dairy and cheese capital, thanks to a historical decree which allowed 100,000 Jewish refugees to settle in the area in 1938.
Though it may appear tranquil and relaxing during the day, Sosúa transforms at night. After dark, the main strip (Calle Pedro Clisante) becomes vibrant with life, as party-goers fill the streets from local bars, lounges, and nightclubs featuring live music, including the Blue Ice Piano Bar and the popular Jolly Roger.
However, it’s important to exercise caution; the area is also notorious for sex tourism, with local and Haitian sex workers often approaching tourists.
5. Cabarete – The Thrill-Seeker’s Paradise
While sipping cocktails at the beach is enjoyable, there’s only so much relaxation people can endure. When you’re prepared to elevate your vacation experience, head to Cabarete, a beach town on the Caribbean coast.
Founded in 1835 by a British merchant, Cabarete is now a wonderland for thrill-seekers, hosting numerous activities for kayakers, snorkelers, and kite surfers, as well as surfing competitions, thanks to its excellent winds and tides.
6. El Limón Waterfall – A Perfect Adventurous Hike
Prepare for some adventure — the 2.4 km (1.5-mile) trek to Cascada El Limón involves navigating wet and rocky terrain, typically traversed on horseback. However, those inclined can also walk the trail, crossing rivers and maneuvering around muddy rocks; thus, rubber footwear is highly recommended.
After a 30 to 60-minute trek or horseback ride from El Limón, you’ll reach your final destination — a stunning 46m (150-ft) waterfall cascading into a large swimming hole. This experience can be enhanced by joining a guided tour with one of the local companies in Las Terrenas, which typically includes a guide, horse, and lunch.
7. Bayahibe – The Scuba Diving Paradise
Located on the Caribbean side of the Dominican Republic, Bayahibe has transformed from a fishing village to a quiet resort town, offering access to some of the island’s most lively and beautiful beaches.
Just a short distance from town, you’ll discover Bayahibe Beach, Dominicus Beach, and launch points for trips to Isla Saona, a national park known for breathtaking scenery. Your best option is to stay in Bayahibe and explore the area’s 20 dive sites, making it a premier destination for scuba divers. If scuba diving doesn’t appeal to you, consider stand-up paddleboarding or snorkeling to explore the vibrant reefs.
8. Jarabacoa – The Mountainous Retreat for Adventure
Jarabacoa stands in stark contrast to the Dominican Republic’s coastal towns. When you’re ready to switch gears from beach lounging, head to Jarabacoa’s majestic peaks for invigorating hikes, whitewater rafting, and cozy mugs of exquisite Dominican coffee amidst cool, misty mountain mornings.
Known as the City of Everlasting Spring, Jarabacoa offers a variety of activities including waterfall hikes, rope-bridge crossings over the Jimenoa River, golfing, and visits to the Cistercian monastery of Santa Maria del Evangelio.
The area is also home to the Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve, which shelters over 600 species of flora and fauna in one of the island’s most humid regions (arranging a guided tour of the reserve prior to your visit is advisable). Notably, Jarabacoa is famous for its Carnaval festivities in February, recognized as one of the Dominican Republic’s most remarkable celebrations.
