Are you planning to explore some historical sites of colonial architecture and museums in a year-round warm climate? Do you also love to hike through national parks or snorkeling on the sandy shores? Then Dominican Republic is waiting for you with its white sand beaches, tropical climate and rich cultural activities. 

Luxury resorts in Dominican Republic 

Dominican Republic houses several luxurious resorts with access to stunning beaches, world class amenities suitable for all ages and friendly services. So, let’s explore the top 5 luxury resorts in Dominican Republic. 

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

It is a 4-star hotel at Carretera La Romana of Dominican Republic. Guests can get private beach access, enjoy water sports and play golf at the famous Teeth of the Dog. Guests can get fine dining experiences, equestrian facilities, shooting ranges and a marina for boating here. 

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana

Located at Playa Juanillo near Punta Cana Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana is 5-star adults-only all-inclusive resort. It has spacious suites with ocean views and private balconies. Guests can get access to a private beach with cabanas and water sports while themed nights can be arranged for them as well. 

Amanera

It is a 5-star resort located at Carretera of Rio San Juan backed by jungle on north coast beaches. It has elegant casitas and villas that provide stunning ocean views and private pools to enjoy fine dining on local and international cuisines. Guests can also enjoy golf matches or water sports at their own pace. 

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa

Located at Playa Juanillo Blvd of Punta Cana area in the Dominican Republic Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa is 5-star adults-only all-inclusive resort. It provides luxurious beachfront suites, private terraces and swimming access at infinity pools. Guests can enjoy world-class services, special dining options, spa facilities and nightlife entertainment. 

Eden Roc Cap Cana

It is a 5-star hotel at the Provincia La Altagracia of Dominican Republic with spacious suites, private pools and garden views. There is an effect of Mediterranean and Caribbean architecture in the design of stylish rooms along with the famous golf course of Punta Espada Golf Club.  

Top beaches in Dominican Republic 

Dominican Republic is famous for its stunning clean beaches providing a peaceful atmosphere for beach outing and clear waters ideal for water activities. Here are the most beautiful beaches that you must visit during your vacation in Dominican Republic:  

• Punta Cana: Relax on the beaches of Punta Cana with scuba diving, paddleboarding, or diving opportunities in clear waters. Go for a day trip to the beautiful Saona island, spend time with golf matches, ATV rides or cenote swimming at nearby parks.   

• Playa Rincon: Relax on the beaches of Playa Rincon sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling in clear waters or other fun-filled water sports along the coastline. Watch the natural attractions from scenic viewpoints and taste fresh seafood on boat tours to nearby islands and hidden coves. 

• La Romana: Spend a day at La Romana by enjoying sunbathing on Bayahibe beach, Saona island excursion and Mediterranean village views from Chavón River. Play a round of golf match at a scenic spot and enjoy outdoor activities of Casa de Campo.  

• Playa Grande: Relax on the sandy shores of Playa Grande with sea turtle views and enjoy surfing on the calm waves of the ocean. Tourists can swim with coral reefs and watch sunset views from the sandy shores.  

• Macao Beach: Visit this beautiful beach to take a refreshing dip in the calm waters, enjoy horseback riding and beach volleyball on the beaches. Try some water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing on the beaches and taste some fresh seafood at beachside restaurants.  

Delicious Food and Cuisine of Dominican Republic 

The Dominican Republic offers multiple culinary dishes made with fresh seafood and authentic ingredients in traditional process. So don’t forget to taste these must have dishes of Dominican Republic during your vacation: 

• Bandera Dominicana: Experience the culinary heritage of Dominican Republic with the taste of this national dish. It is made with rice, red beans, and meat, often chicken, pork or beef served with salad, fried plantains. This is an everyday meal enjoyed by families at households or during celebrations. 

• Mofongo: Mofongo is a popular dish of Puerto Rica for its rich flavors and unique texture. It is made from fried and mashed green plantains often seasoned with garlic and pork cracklings.   

• Mangu: Mangu is a traditional dish of Dominican made from mashed green plantains which then mashed and mixed with butter or olive oil. It is often served as breakfast and sautéed onions, cheese, fried eggs or avocado are added as toppings.  

• Tostones: Tostones are a popular Latin American and Caribbean snack in Dominican cuisine. It is made from sliced green plantains, twice fried, and flattened resulting in a crispy texture.  

• Sancocho: Sancocho is a hearty stew dish of Dominican Republic made with chicken, beef, and pork. Sometimes it is mixed with root vegetables like yucca, plantains, and potatoes for a rich flavor.  

Top Tourist Sites in Dominican Republic 

Dominican Republic has many iconic tourist spots including beaches, colonial centers, historic places, cultural sites and adventure parks for all kind of tours. Check out this top tourist sites of Dominican Republic during your guided tours for an unforgettable journey:  

• Bavaro Beach: Enjoy water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, diving and stand-up paddle surfing on this beautiful beach. Go on a scenic catamaran boat ride along the coast, explore nearby attractions of Punta Cana and have fun with beach volleyball or jet skiing on the waters.  

• Saona Island: Explore the mangroves and colorful coral reefs of Saona island or spend some time on the palm-fringed beaches like Palmilla beach. You can spot starfish in the shallow waters of this island or visit the laid-back fishing village of Mano Juan near Flamingo lagoon.  

• Playa Rincon: Enjoy sunbathing on soft white sand beaches and swimming in clear calm waters or rent a kayak and explore the coastline and nearby coves. Discover vibrant marine life including parrotfish, angelfish, and snappers, mollusks along the shores. Take a refreshing dip in El Limón waterfall, enjoy horseback riding and beachfront dining. 

• The Three Eyes: Explore impressive rock formations of limestone caves, nature walks around park and capture memories in a lens. Spot bird species in the parks and get insights of Taíno indigenous history. Click photos of breathtaking scenery in contrast of light and water. 

• Ciudad Colonial: Visit Alcazar de Colon, the former palace of Diego Columbus with featured art and artifacts. Walk down the historic street of Calle Las Damas or admire the stunning architecture of the oldest cathedral in the Americas.  

• Da majagua Waterfalls: Slide down to the beautiful Da majagua waterfalls to have a refreshing dip in the cold water and hike through the jungles. You can get a guided tour to this beautiful natural landscape with family-friendly activities.  

• Santo Domingo: Explore the historic places of Santo Domingo like Fortress of Columbus, Museum of the Royal Houses and the natural attractions of Parque Zoologico Nacional. Enjoy scuba diving, visit chocolate factory for delicious tasting and encounter exotic birds at the nearby zoo. 

• The 3 Eyes National Park: Take a boat ride to the hidden lagoon of Forth lake, explore tropical surroundings and learn about ancient Taino history on a guided tour of Los Tres Ojos national park.  

• Hoyo Azul: Swim in the blue cenote of Hoyo Azul at Punta Cana and get views of coastal area from this natural limestone sinkhole. Trek through tropical forests and stunning cliffs watching native wildlife. Learn about regional biodiversity and conservation efforts on eco tours. 

• Ocean World Adventure Park: Visit this adventure park at Puerto Plata to encounter dolphins and sea lions through entertaining performances. See colorful parrots, toucans, and other exotic birds at this park, majestic Bengal tigers or tropical fishes at reef aquarium. Have fun with water adventures on water slides. 

Best Time to Visit Dominican Republic 

• You can consider the months from December to April as the best time to visit Dominican Republic for pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.  

• Tourists can enjoy outdoor activities, beach time and vibrant local events if they visit during these months. 

Exciting Things to Do in Dominican Republic 

Dominican Republic is a place of beautiful beaches, rich culture, colonial sites and parks packed with exciting activities and adventures. Here are top exciting things to do in Dominican Republic: 

• Hike in Los Haitises National Park: Tourists can explore the mangrove ecosystem and stunning waterways or ancient Taino petroglyphs on a guided hike of Los Haitises National Park. Spot native bird species like herons and pelicans and other wildlife including iguanas and manatees on your way.  

• Beach day at Punta Cana: Tourists can enjoy a beach day at popular spots of Bavaro Beach or Macao Beach with amenities while enjoying paddleboarding and parasailing. Enjoy beachside dining in cold sea breeze and collect shells from the shore on self-guided walking tour. 

• Afro-Heritage Walking tour: Explore the significant historical landmarks including churches and community centers on this walking tour. Visit museums and celebrate Dominican art, music, and dance with African influence. Attend live performances of merengue and bachata genres with tasty regional dishes. 

• Larimar Mines hike in Barahona: Get a unique experience of Larimar mines with its natural beauty and cultural significance. Discover unique blue larimar which is a rare semi-precious stone found in this region and learn about mining operations.  

• Adventure sports: There are numerous adventure activities to enjoy at Dominican Republic among which kitesurfing in Cabarete, canyoning at Jarabacoa, scuba diving at Bayahibe and Sosúa and humpback whale views at the natural place of Samana Peninsula. 

• Adventure tour to Scape Park: Explore the impressive Iguabonita Cave rich in geological formations with horseback riding and ATV rides. Swim in the natural sinkhole of Hoyo Azul lagoon surrounded by green places and learn about Dominican culture on this tour. 

• Family time at Katmandu Park: Start exploring Katmandu Park in Punta Cana with “Kattwooky” adventure and immersive “Dinosaur” experience. Engage yourself in interactive games and challenges for all ages at escape rooms and catch live performances with the entire family. 

Romantic Getaways in Dominican Republic 

Dominican Republic is a fantastic tourist destination for a romantic getaway and escape to its clean beaches and vibrant cultural sites. So, let’s check out top romantic getaways for tourists: 

• Cayo Levantado Resort: It is a 5-star hotel at Isla Cayo Levantado on the northeastern coast of Dominican Republic with luxurious accommodation and romantic ambiance with endless activities. There are diverse dining options, wellness activities and private transfers for guests. 

• Margaritaville Island Reserve: It is a 5-star adult only all-inclusive resort at Punta Cana with engaging culinary and live entertainment experiences. Get access to pools and beaches or engage in snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding as activities. 

• Occidental Punta Cana: Located in Punta Cana on the eastern coast of Dominican Republic it is a 5-star at beachfront surrounded by some stunning views. Guests can get beautiful beachfront access and enjoy family-friendly activities for both couples and families. 

• Barcelo Bavaro Palace: Located along Bavaro beach of Punta Cana in Dominican Republic this palace is a 5-star all-inclusive resort. It is designed as an ideal getaway for families and couples providing a vibrant atmosphere and world-class services. 

• Majestic Mirage Punta Cana: It is a 5-star hotel on the beautiful Bavaro beach in the Dominican Republic that provides a romantic ambiance for couples. Guests can also enjoy water activities at pools and entertainment programs for luxurious experience. 

Dominican Republic Adventure Activities   

Dominican Republic is an exciting place with multiple adventure activities for the enjoyment of tourists. It includes caving, adventurous mountain climbs, safari tours and beach sports. Let’s have a look at top adventure activities of Dominican Republic: 

• Caving: There are several great spots for caving tours in Dominican Republic including Cueva de las Maravillas, Cueva del Diablo, Los Tres Ojos and Parque Nacional Jaragua.  

• Jungle safari: Tourists can opt for jungle safari tours across the mangrove ecosystem and limestone formations of Los Haitises National Park. You can spot manatees, Ciguapa, Hispaniolan Boa, Solenodon, various birds and coral reefs across diverse lands of Dominican Republic. 

• Paragliding: Take a paragliding tour over the mountainous towns of Constanza and Jarabacoa that offer some magical views of this Caribbean landscape. You can also enjoy this tour at the windsurfing and kitesurfing hotspot Cabarete for coastal views and vibrant beach atmosphere. 

• Pico Duarte climb: Get some stunning views during the unique experience of climbing Pico Duarte in the Dominican Republic. Explore the diversity of forests, alpine meadows and surrounding valleys. Enjoy camping under the night sky at La Ciénaga and discover some endemic plant species along the trail. 

• Dune buggy adventure: It is an exciting off-road experience to explore Dominican Republic by visiting Playa Macao, an organic farm for coffee, chocolate and mamajuana tasting with stunning cenote views.  

Festivals and Events in Dominican Republic 

The Dominican Republic celebrates multiple festivals and events throughout the year including a vibrant atmosphere in the air. Tourists can participate in these festivals with memorable events to learn about local culture and traditions. Here are top 5 most vibrant festivals in Dominican Republic. 

• Merengue festival: It is celebrated in Santo Domingo every July. Tourists can celebrate this festival by taking part in the national dance with live music, and cultural displays. 

• Guloya festival: It is a vibrant cultural event celebrated in the town of San Pedro de Macorís focusing on Dominican folklore and traditions. Traditional parades with costumes, masks, and vibrant outfits along with storytelling sessions, exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and crafts take place during this festival. 

• Espiritu Santo: It is celebrated at Hato Mayor town of Dominican Republic with vibrant religious and cultural events. Families with kids can engage themselves in games and cultural workshops or buy handmade goods from local shops. 

• Cabarete Alegra: Celebrate the exciting events of Cabarete Alegra from kiteboarding competitions and surf challenges to cultural festivals and yoga retreats. Tourists can join in music, dance, and food festivals to get a taste of Dominican traditions.  

• Dominican Carnival: The Dominican carnival is celebrated across many tourist sites with colorful parades and cultural traditions. It is celebrated with a carnival parade in Santo Domingo featuring elaborate floats, costumes, and lively music. 

Conclusion     

Enjoy a Dominican Republic holiday with beach fun, night parties and exciting adventures across popular tourist sites filled with history and natural beauty. Contact Trekhops to check out some affordable Dominican Republic vacation packages for customized experiences of guided tours and special activities to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.