Summary of Highlights
- Hit the Beaches
- Tour the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo
- Taste Dominican Cuisine
- Visit the Museums
- Dance to Merengue and Bachata
- Take the Cacao Trail
- Catch a Baseball Game
- Visit the Offshore Islands
- Ride the Cable Car in Puerto Plata
- Experience Dominican Carnival
- Conquer the 27 Damajagua Falls
- Hike Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s Highest Peak
- Go Humpback Whale Watching in the Bay of Samaná
- Hang Out at the Parks
- Spot Crocodiles at Lake Enriquillo
- Shop for Local Souvenirs
- Get Social at the Colmado
- Savor the Coffee Culture
- Sample Rum and Cigars
- Visit Bahia de Las Aguilas
One of the most geographically diverse countries in the Caribbean and the second largest in size, the Dominican Republic boasts an incredible range of scenery. Beyond its renowned beaches and over a thousand miles of coastline, you’ll find mountain ranges, offshore islands, lakes, and waterfalls, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. The cultural and historical richness is equally diverse, influenced by the Taino, Spanish colonial days, the arrival of enslaved Africans, and varied immigrant populations from Europe, Asia, the U.S., and the Middle East. This unique blend of cultures is reflected in the vibrant people, delicious cuisine, and music, making the Dominican Republic one of the most captivating destinations in the Caribbean.
Hit the Beaches
Address: 32000 Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
Millions of visitors flock to Punta Cana every year for some of the Dominican Republic’s longest white sand beaches, but there are other spectacular and less crowded coastlines to explore. Venture northeast to remote Las Terrenas and Las Galeras on the Samaná Peninsula for long palm-lined golden and white sands. If you’re into water sports, head to Puerto Plata’s surf-rich coastline and beach hop your way from Playa Dorada to Cabarete and Monte Cristi. Wherever you end up, you’re sure to find beachfront restaurants with fresh catch (in season), plenty of rum, and lively music.
Tour the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo
Address: Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial is recognized as the first European city built in the “New World.” Today, it’s a charming, culture-packed and lively neighborhood that’s a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Tour important museums and colonial buildings, including the first fortress of the Americas, the first cathedral, and more historical sites. Stroll the pedestrian Calle El Conde, lined with shops, outdoor art, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy the parks and plazas, and dine under the stars at Pat’e Palo or Pura Tasca on Plaza España.
Taste Dominican Cuisine
Address: Av. Independencia 312, Santo Domingo 10205, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-682-1433
Beyond the national dish – la bandera dominicana (a plate of rice and beans with stewed chicken and a side salad) – there are local specialties to sample. Try mangú, a seasoned mound of mashed green plantains topped with sautéed red onions, or sancocho, a hearty stew combining various meats and root vegetables served with white rice and avocado slices. Desserts and salty snacks, like yucca empanadas and coconut sweets, also abound.
Visit the Museums
Address: Plaza de España, C. La Atarazana 2, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-960-9371
The country’s museums shed important light on its fascinating history. Start in the Colonial City, touring the Alcazar de Colon, the former home of Diego Columbus, and the Museo de las Casas Reales. Continue to the Museo del Hombre Dominicano, which covers various eras from the origin of Dominicans to present-day culture. In Altos de Chavón, the Museo Arqueologico boasts an extensive collection of Taino artifacts and history.
Dance to Merengue and Bachata
Address: Plaza El Portal, Av. Independencia Km. 6, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-533-9707
Dance and music are intrinsic to Dominican culture. You can practice your merengue and bachata dance skills anywhere, whether on the beach, at your resort’s nightclub, local bars, or concerts. Live performances are also popular. In Santo Domingo, head to Jet Set Club for weekly concerts on Monday nights. In Puerto Plata, shows are regularly held at the Puerto Plata Amphitheatre.
Take the Cacao Trail
Address: Las Pajas, San Francisco de Macorís 31000, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-547-2166
The Dominican Republic ranks among the top three largest exporters of cacao in the world. For a complete experience of a cacao plantation and the bean-to-bar process, consider the Sendero del Cacao or the Cacao Trail Tour. Located in San Francisco de Macorís, this family-owned cacao farm lets you hike the plantation, taste raw cacao, and tour the chocolate-making facilities.
Catch a Baseball Game
The Dominican Republic has the highest contribution of baseball players to US Major League Baseball. The love for “play,” as it’s known locally, runs strong here as well. The Dominican Baseball League runs an annual tournament from mid-October through January, giving you opportunities to catch games at professional stadiums across the country. Enjoy on-site music and food for a peek into the local passion for baseball.
Visit the Offshore Islands
Address: Saona Island, 23000, Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is home to several stunning offshore islands with beautiful white sand beaches. The most popular is Saona Island, part of Cotubanamá National Park, known for breathtaking coastlines and turquoise waters. Off the coast of Samaná, Cayo Levantado offers a picturesque getaway, while Cayo Arena is a tiny caye teeming with vibrant marine life.
Ride the Cable Car in Puerto Plata
Address: C. del Teleférico, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-970-0501
One of the unique experiences in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Plata’s cable car ride, or Teleférico, which operates in the Caribbean. It takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Plata’s stunning Atlantic coast and lush green mountains, heading towards Mount Isabel. At the top, you’ll find a giant Christ of the Redeemer statue akin to the famous one in Rio de Janeiro. After capturing some memorable selfies, continue hiking to beautiful botanical gardens or relax at the café.
Experience Dominican Carnival
Carnival is a significant aspect of Dominican culture. Rooted in folklore characters and traditions, as well as syncretic religions, it’s an excellent opportunity to witness the country’s cultural diversity. Every Sunday in February, experience vibrant carnival parades in major towns and cities. The most popular celebrations occur in La Vega, Santiago, and Puerto Plata, culminating with a national parade on the first Sunday in March along Santo Domingo’s seafront boulevard.
Conquer the 27 Damajagua Falls
Venture inland for an adrenaline-pumping adventure at the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular waterfalls: the 27 Charcos de Damajagua, located in Puerto Plata. These cascading natural pools stretch down a series of canyons, where you’ll hike, slide, jump, and wade through azure and turquoise waters.
Hike Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s Highest Peak
Address: Pico Duarte, Dominican Republic
Tucked in the heart of the country, Pico Duarte, part of the Jose Armando Bermudez National Park, is the tallest peak in the Caribbean, standing at 10,105 feet. The two- to three-day expedition allows for camping under the stars as you journey to the summit at sunrise. Start your adventure in Jarabacoa, a cool mountain town perfect for relaxing before or after your hike.
Go Humpback Whale Watching in the Bay of Samaná
Address: Samana Bay, Dominican Republic
Each year from mid-January through March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Bay of Samaná to mate and give birth. Join a two-hour whale watching tour with marine biologist Kim Bedall’s Whale Samana. If you’re lucky, you might spot calves as well. Afterward, enjoy lunch on Cayo Levantado and an afternoon relaxing on the beach.
Hang Out at the Parks
Address: F4F8+C99, C. Isabel La Católica, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-935-2063
As the sun begins to set, parks fill with locals who come to relax and enjoy time with friends and family. Almost every town, whether by the beach or inland, has a central park. In Santo Domingo, visit Parque Colon in the Colonial Zone for a family-friendly atmosphere with nearby restaurants. Close by, Parque Duarte is a favorite among the LGBT community. In Puerto Plata, Parque Central stands out with its stunning Victorian architecture.
Spot Crocodiles at Lake Enriquillo
Address: Lake Enriquillo, Dominican Republic
Located in the remote southwest, Lake Enriquillo lies 60 feet below sea level and is the largest lake in the Caribbean. Its saline and fresh water features attract the only population of American crocodiles in the DR. Join a boat tour with a park ranger to spot crocodiles of all sizes lurking beneath the water, and enjoy the sight of iguanas roaming the shore.
Shop for Local Souvenirs
The Dominican Republic is filled with opportunities to shop for locally sourced and created items. If you love precious stones, consider purchasing larimar or amber jewelry. Coffee, chocolate, and rum enthusiasts will find local varieties to enjoy, while arts and crafts range from wood-carved decor to oil paintings and traditional Dominican “faceless” dolls.
Get Social at the Colmado
The Dominican “colmado” is a corner mom-and-pop grocery store that doubles as a neighborhood bar. These stores are affordable and ubiquitous – you can find them on almost every corner, from the city to the smallest village. Enjoy una fria or an ice-cold beer at the counter and grab a chair to relax outdoors while listening to music.
Savor the Coffee Culture
With numerous coffee plantations in the mountains, it’s clear why coffee is integral to Dominican culture. Enjoy a cafecito while relaxing outdoors and catching up with friends. If you prefer, try a hot chocolate or a batida – a refreshing fruit “milkshake” – while savoring the ambiance.
Sample Rum and Cigars
Address: Ave. Tamboril-Santiago, Parque Industrial Tamboril, Santiago de los Caballeros 51000, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 809-575-1903
The Dominican Republic is renowned for its rum and is one of the leading exporters of premium cigars to the United States. Take a tour of La Aurora Cigar Factory in Santiago to learn about the complete cigar-making process. Various cigar and rum bars can also be found throughout the country.
Visit Bahia de Las Aguilas
Address: Bahia de las Aguilas, Dominican Republic
Located on the southwestern edge of the country, near the border with Haiti, this undeveloped and protected beach features five long miles of pristine white sand and crystalline turquoise waters. Enjoy the best views from a boat cruise around the surrounding Bay of Eagles.
