Located in the heart of the Caribbean, the magnificent island nation of the Dominican Republic is a veritable treasure trove of culture and gastronomy. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of 9 must-see places. We’ve already mentioned Las Terrenas and the island of Saona. Here, we present some other activities that will make your stay in the Dominican Republic truly unforgettable. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy all that this incredible nation has to offer!
1. Best things to see and do in Altos de Chavon, far from mass tourism
Altos de Chavon, located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic, near La Romana, offers an immersive cultural and artistic experience, as well as a picturesque setting, making this destination a must for travelers in search of Dominican charm and history. Altos de Chavon is a reconstruction of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. Its impressive architecture, with cobbled streets, stone buildings and a limestone church, creates a picturesque atmosphere that transports you back in time.
2. Explore Santo Domingo’s rich cultural heritage and places to visit: museums, markets and more.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo), where Christopher Columbus left his indelible mark, then take a detour to the splendid island of Saona on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Explore the city’s rich heritage through its museums, bustling markets and historic sites. Visit the fascinating Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can wander cobbled streets and admire superb Spanish architecture.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the delicious local cuisine at the local markets, where you can savor the flavors that make up the identity of Dominican cuisine with an impressive variety of tropical fruits and ultra-fresh seafood.
3. Luxury vacations in Punta Cana: beach clubs, golf courses and water sports
Experience the pinnacle of refinement in Punta Cana, relaxing in the sun on pristine white sand beaches, playing on meticulously designed golf courses, and embarking on exhilarating adventures such as snorkeling, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. Punta Cana is the perfect destination for the luxury traveler seeking elegance and effervescence, with towns like Las Terrenas home to some of the country’s finest beaches.
Enjoy the pleasures of the beach in the most popular beach clubs:
- Golden Beach (Playa Dorada): a highly reputed beach club with swimming pool in the Dominican Republic. Playa Dorada and the island of Saona, considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, are known for their golden sand, warm water and wide beaches with a little wind and waves. Perfect for a family outing. The perfect family spot.
- Santa Fe: located in Sosua, this picturesque coconut paradise is on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Las Terrenas beach is also a must-see. It offers an exclusive, picturesque setting with huge infinity pools and magnificent ocean views. A friendly atmosphere reigns here.
- Kukua Restaurant Beach Club: located in Punta Cana, near La Romana, this beach club is a great place to spend the day, with excellent local lobster and seafood cuisine, and stunning views of the turquoise ocean.
- Playa Grande Beach Club: located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, offering a pristine, untamed kilometer-long beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
- Eden Roc Beach Club: this beach club offers a welcoming atmosphere, with fantastic service and a very friendly beach bar team.
4. Things to do in the Dominican Republic: discover the treasures of Puerto Plata, with its luxury villas, ocean views and historic center.
Discover the hidden treasures of Puerto Plata, where luxury villas with breathtaking ocean views await you, blending history, heritage and modernity. Explore the city’s colonial charm, with its magnificent cobblestone streets and historic monuments. Indulge in the elegance of Puerto Plata’s luxury villas, offering privacy, tranquility and unforgettable ocean views.
Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history on a guided tour. Puerto Plata is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking the perfect balance of elegance and culture.
5. Visit the Dominican Republic and immerse yourself in nature: hiking, national parks, waterfalls and unique excursions to Jarabacoa in the Cordillera Central.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Jarabacoa and embark on an adventure unlike any other. This mountain paradise is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering thrilling hiking trails, magical waterfalls and exhilarating excursions.
- Get your adrenalin pumping as you zip-line through lush rainforests,
- Explore hidden caves,
- And take a white-water rafting trip down the superb Jarabacoa River.
6. Sailing along Samana Bay: yacht cruises, whales and paradise beaches
Immerse yourself in luxury as you sail along the magnificent Bay of Samana. Feel the gentle sea breeze on your face as you embark on an exclusive yacht cruise, discovering beautiful hidden coves.
Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic whales that roam the area. Samana Bay is renowned as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Tread the sands of pristine, secluded beaches accessible only by boat.
7. Relaxing in Cap Cana: spa retreats, private pools and horseback riding
Discover pure relaxation at Cap Cana. Let all your worries disappear as you are pampered with revitalizing spa treatments in total privacy. For those seeking adventure, take a scenic horseback ride along the pristine coastline and enjoy the breathtaking views. Cap Cana is the perfect oasis for travelers seeking tranquility and unforgettable experiences.
8. Punta Rucia
- Punta Rucia is known for its excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities.
- Diving enthusiasts can explore the area’s colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Head for Cayo Arena or Paradise Island, a small island of white sand surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Boat excursions are available to take you there. It’s the ideal spot for snorkeling and exploring the coral reefs and marine life.
9. Things to see and do in the Dominican Republic: escape on a unique getaway to Casa de Campo
Welcome to paradise at Casa de Campo. This exclusive destination offers the most exquisite luxury villas, where you can bask in ultimate comfort and total privacy. Stunning ocean views, private pool, amenities and quality service. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Casa de Campo.
BONUS: what if you could see snow in the Dominican Republic?
We wanted to add this surprise bonus to our article, because it caught our eye. Can you imagine bathing on a tropical beach in the morning and standing on top of the island’s highest point with your feet in the snow in the afternoon? It’s a possibility, indeed, snow does sometimes fall on Pico Duarte, which rises to an altitude of 3101 metres! This part of the Cordillera Central attracts hikers from all over the world.
Joking aside, the best time to reach the summit is during the dry season, from December to May. Frost and precipitation are present during the rainy season, from May to November. At this time of year, the trails can be slippery.
Due to the altitude and changing weather conditions, it is advisable to check with local guides or weather services before climbing Pico Duarte.
