What to do in the Dominican Republic: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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La Punta Cana

Located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a dream destination for travelers in search of relaxation, white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. This world-renowned seaside resort is renowned for its tropical climate, luxury resorts and relaxed atmosphere.

Nestled along the coast of the Caribbean Sea, Punta Cana offers a myriad of water sports, from scuba diving to sailing and snorkeling. Golf enthusiasts will also be delighted by the world-class courses dotted around the region.

The capital Santo Domingo

The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, is a city where history and modernity meet in harmony. Founded in 1498 by Christopher Columbus’ brother, Bartolomé Colomb, this is one of the oldest cities in America, with a rich colonial heritage.

The colonial zone of Santo Domingo Este is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobbled streets, historic buildings and 15th-century cathedral. You can stroll these picturesque streets, visit fascinating museums and admire the Spanish colonial architecture.

Santo Domingo Este

Santo Domingo Este, also known as “la Ciudad Colonial” (the Colonial City), is a historic treasure in the heart of the Dominican Republic’s capital, Santo Domingo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back in time to the days of Spanish colonization.

As you stroll through the cobbled streets of the Ciudad Colonial, you’ll be surrounded by historic buildings with colorful facades, majestic churches and picturesque squares. The Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, considered the first cathedral in the Americas, is an architectural gem not to be missed.

The colonial city’s museums allow you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Dominican Republic. The Museum of America, the Kingdom of Music Museum and the Amethyst Museum offer fascinating insights into Dominican heritage.

Puerto Plata

Located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is an enchanting destination that combines adventure and seaside beauty. This historic port city is surrounded by verdant mountains and bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Playa Dorada beach, with its golden sands, is one of Puerto Plata’s star attractions. You can bask in the sun, go snorkeling, or even ride a horse along the coastline. Water sports are also popular here, with activities such as surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The Puerto Plata cable car takes you to the top of Isabel de Torres mountain, where you can visit the botanical garden, admire panoramic views over the city and explore a replica of Rio de Janeiro’s famous Christ the Redeemer.

La Romana

Located on the south-eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, La Romana is a destination that combines tropical elegance with natural beauty. Known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts and refined ambience, La Romana is a haven for travelers seeking relaxation and comfort.

Playa Bayahibe beach is one of the most beautiful in La Romana, with its white sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The coral reefs are home to spectacular marine life, offering divers an unforgettable experience.

La Samaná

Samaná, located on the peninsula of the same name in the north-east of the Dominican Republic, is a prime destination for nature lovers in search of unspoilt beauty. This region is home to a diversity of landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush mountains and picturesque waterfalls.

Playa Rincón beach, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a paradise for lovers of fine sand and turquoise water. Here you can relax, swim, snorkel or simply admire the breathtaking ocean views.

Samaná is also famous for its humpback whale sanctuary. Every year, from January to March, hundreds of humpback whales come to the warm waters of the region to breed, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic marine creatures.

The coastal town of Bayahibe

Located on the south-eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Bayahibe is a small coastal town that attracts travelers with its laid-back charm and dream beaches. This peaceful destination is the ideal starting point for exploring Eastern National Park and neighboring islands.

Bayahibe beach is the main attraction, with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. You can relax on the beach, take a boat to the island of Saona, or go on a diving excursion to discover the spectacular seabed in the area.

Nearby Parc National de l’Est is a preserved ecosystem home to a variety of flora and fauna. Here you can hike, explore caves or even watch exotic birds.

La Boca Chica

Located just a few kilometers from the capital, Santo Domingo, Boca Chica is a lively seaside destination, prized for its festive atmosphere and sunny ambience. This small coastal town is an ideal place for those looking for the beach, nightlife and Dominican conviviality.

Boca Chica beach is one of the most popular in the Dominican Republic, with its soft sand and calm waters. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, jet skiing and other water sports, or simply relax under the Caribbean sun.

The Boca Chica promenade is the heart of the entertainment scene, with its bars, restaurants and nightclubs. The nightlife here is lively, with live music, dancing and a festive atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike gather to dance to the rhythms of bachata and merengue.

Boca Chica is also renowned for its street food stalls, where you can sample authentic Dominican dishes such as “pescado frito” (fried fish) and “empanadas” (filled turnovers). It’s a gastronomic experience not to be missed.

Damajagua waterfalls

The Damajagua Waterfalls in the Dominican Republic are one of the country’s most captivating natural wonders. This collection of waterfalls and natural pools is nestled in the heart of the jungle near the town of Puerto Plata, offering a unique experience for adventure and nature lovers.

The main attraction of the Damajagua Cascades is the water ride they offer. Visitors are invited to walk and climb along a steep, rocky trail, passing a total of 27 waterfalls of various sizes. You can choose to cover all the cascades or opt for a shorter route, depending on your comfort level and stamina.

Parque Nacional Los Haitises

Parque Nacional Los Haitises, located in the north-east of the Dominican Republic, is a spectacular natural treasure that offers visitors an unforgettable discovery experience. This national park covers an area of around 1,600 square kilometers and features a fascinating combination of marine and terrestrial landscapes.

Caye Levantado

Caye Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, is a small island paradise off the north coast of the Dominican Republic, in Samaná Bay. This island is a true jewel of the Caribbean, offering visitors an unforgettable tropical experience.

The island of Caye Levantado is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. It’s surrounded by majestic palm trees that create the perfect shade for those looking to relax under the tropical sun. The island’s natural beauty makes it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach and photography.

Green mountains of Jarabacoa

Located in the heart of the Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa is a mountain destination offering the perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers. Nestled in the mountains of the Cordillera Central, this city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, tumultuous rivers and lush forests.

Jarabacoa’s main attraction is Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean. Hikers and mountaineers come from all over the world to climb this majestic peak and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The region is also known for its rivers, making it a prime location for white-water rafting and canyoning. You can ride the rapids of the Yaque del Norte river or explore the region’s spectacular waterfalls.

Juan Dolio

Juan Dolio beach is the ideal place to recharge your batteries. You can relax on the warm sand, swim in the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea, or simply soak up the sun. The beach is also ideal for kayaking, paddle-boarding and snorkelling.

The town itself is charming, with local restaurants serving authentic Dominican cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood and other local specialties in a relaxed setting.

Saona Island

Saona Island, a hidden treasure of the Dominican Republic, is an idyllic island destination located in the Caribbean Sea in the southeast of the country. Part of Eastern National Park, it offers visitors a dream tropical beach experience.

The island of Saona is famous for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters in shades of turquoise and blue. Palm trees sway gently in the breeze, creating a postcard-perfect landscape. It’s the ideal place to relax, sunbathe, swim and simply enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean.

Juanillo Beach

Juanillo Beach is one of the Dominican Republic’s hidden treasures, located in the Punta Cana region on the country’s east coast. This idyllic beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, snow-white sand and peaceful atmosphere, making it a dream destination for travelers in search of relaxation and natural beauty.

Altos de Chavón

Altos de Chavón, a picturesque Mediterranean village nestled in the hills of the Dominican Republic, is a unique cultural and artistic destination offering a captivating glimpse of architecture and creativity. Located just a few kilometers from La Romana, Altos de Chavón is a fascinating recreation of a medieval European village in the heart of the Caribbean.

Mount Isabel de Torres

Mont Isabel de Torres, located near the town of Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, is an iconic mountain that offers an unforgettable natural and cultural experience. This mountain, also known as “La Novia del Atlántico” (The Bride of the Atlantic), is an emblematic landmark of the region and a popular tourist site.

What makes Mount Isabel de Torres so remarkable is its imposing and distinctive silhouette, rising 793 meters above sea level. When you reach the top of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Puerto Plata, the north coast of the Dominican Republic, and the Atlantic Ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you can even see the coast of Haiti.

Cabo Frances Viejo

Cabo Frances Viejo, located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, is a true paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers and those seeking tranquillity. This unspoilt region offers a unique experience that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a peaceful ambience.

This remote corner of the Dominican Republic is characterized by its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy resorts. Cabo Frances Viejo is the ideal place for those looking for a peaceful seaside getaway.

La Terrenas

La Terrenas, located on the Samaná Peninsula in the Dominican Republic, is a charming seaside town that has gained popularity in recent years as a popular vacation destination. This small coastal town offers an irresistible mix of idyllic beaches, relaxed atmosphere and Caribbean charm.

Las Galeras

Las Galeras, a small fishing village on the northeastern tip of the Dominican Republic, is an idyllic destination for travelers seeking authenticity, unspoilt beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. This picturesque enclave is often considered one of the hidden gems of the Caribbean.