Do you dream of going to the Caribbean and visiting the Dominican Republic? This article is for you! The beauty of the region is undeniable. A country with a lot to offer!
The Dominican Republic, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, has many surprises in store for you. To visit this country is to discover another world. You’ll be enriched not only by breathtaking landscapes, but also by a way of life that’s uniquely Dominican.
The Dominican Republic is a country in the Greater Antilles. It occupies about two-thirds of the island ofHispaniola, and Haiti occupies the western third of the island. Spanish is the official language. There are over 10 million inhabitants! It was once one of the first Spanish colonies. After becoming an American colony, the Dominican Republic was the birthplace of the first hospital and cathedral in the Americas! Historical monuments are rare on the island, but the sumptuous landscapes will delight you.
Dreaming of a trip to the Dominican Republic? Here’s a list of the 16 most beautiful places to visit in the Dominican Republic!
1. Puerto Plata
Photo Credit: Flickr – hectorlo
Located in the north of the Dominican Republic, San Felipe de Puerto Plata is a town and port on the Amber Coast.
It’s a lively place and a strategic point for the country’s trade. Come and visit the Dominican Republic via this superb town, home to Victorian-style houses and an old fort. Take advantage of the Playa Dorada beach to relax and recharge your batteries. The town also offers a wide range of excursions throughout the Dominican Republic.
2. Rio San Juan
Photo Credit: Instagram – kawenah
A small, quiet town in the Dominican Republic, Rio San Juan is bordered by a thick mangrove swamp and the famous Playa Grande.
Are you a scuba diving enthusiast? The Dominican Republic has everything you could wish for! Explore submerged caves, coral reefs… come and visit the Dominican Republic and explore its seabed! A fishing town, it provides most of the region’s fish supplies. It is about 100 km from Puerto Plata.
3. Cabarete
Photo Credit: Instagram – thesandybutlers
Also in the Puerto Plata region, Cabarete is THE place to be for kitesurfing fans visiting the Dominican Republic!
Thrills guaranteed, as the town lies at the epicenter of the country in terms of wind. Here you’ll find two famous spots: Kitebeach and Bozo Beach. A huge beach lined with coconut palms awaits you.
And for those who prefer to watch? We’ve got restaurants for you! Eat and relax overlooking the turquoise waters. Not a bad program?
4. Santo Domingo
Photo Credit: Flickr – Chris 861
Santo Domingo is the country’s capital. You can’t visit the Dominican Republic without visiting Santo Domingo!
Reputed to be the oldest capital of the New World, you’ll love strolling through the old colonial town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. El Parque Coló is the most touristy part of the city, but still very pretty and pleasant.
A must-see is the Santa María la Menor cathedral, built in the 16th century. In the new part of town, you’ll find numerous museums and shops.
5. Punta Cana
Photo Credit: Unsplash-Joe deSousa
This emblematic name resonates in our minds like a heavenly place! And there’s a good reason for that! Punta Cana is a seaside resort in the east of the Dominican Republic. It boasts some of the world’s finest beaches, including Juanito, Bavaro,El Cortecito and Cabo Engaño.
There are plenty of activities on offer, including sailing, kayaking and catamaran trips. Not forgetting, of course, scuba diving! You can also discover the city by night, with all its trendy bars and nightclubs. Bachata and merengue are the order of the day!
6. The Coconut Coast
Photo Credit: Instagram – valeriyamamaeva
The Coconut Coast, or Costa de Cocos, is a stretch of some 50 kilometers of white sand beaches. They are bordered by magnificent coconut palms. The coast welcomes an average of over 70,000 tourists a week, almost year-round. If you’re looking for a place to put down your suitcases, you’ll be spoilt for choice with over sixty hotels to choose from!
In fact, take a look at our article on where to stay in the Dominican Republic. If you try to head a little further north, you’ll find places that are a little wilder (towards Miches, for example). A landscape to marvel at!
7. Higuey market
Photo Credit: Flickr – Miguel Discart
Visit the Dominican Republic and immerse yourself in the local Higuey market! A very typical market, with a thousand colors and a thousand flavors.
Stroll between the stalls and see Dominican life in all its splendor. One word only: relaxation! You’ll find that this typical market is more than just a tourist attraction, as the locals themselves come here to buy local meats, fish and other fruits and vegetables.
8. Higuey Basilica
Photo Credit: Instagram – policiard
Let’s stay in the town of Higuey to talk about its magnificent basilica. Called the Basilica Nuestra Señora De La Altagracia, it stands on the exact spot where America’s first sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built.
An essential place of pilgrimage, the Virgin of Alagracia is celebrated here every year on January 21. Thousands of Dominicans come here on this holy day! You’ll also be amazed by its original design, with arches supporting a dome and a bell tower featuring 45 bronze bells.
9. La Montana Redonda
Photo Credit: Instagram – _rme_
Montana Redonda is a huge hill offering a magnificent 360-degree panorama of other mountains, and is located close to the sea. If you’re visiting the Dominican Republic, you’re going to love the breathtaking views from this hill!
Please note: admission is not free( approx.$150 ). It gives you access to the mountain and transportation. But it’s still an activity not to be missed! When you reach the summit, a restaurant awaits you. But that’s not all!
Fans of unforgettable photos? A giant swing will give you the best shots!
10. Boca de Yuma
Photo Credit: Instagram – cabraltirso
Looking to get away from it all? Then come and visit the Dominican Republic from another angle, with the pretty fishing village of Boca de Yuma, also in the province of L’Altagracia. A must-see in the country, take advantage of this visit to relax away from the hustle and bustle of Santo Domingo.
It’s the ideal place to come and enjoy fresh fish caught daily, which the many waterside restaurants will grill for you on the spot. We recommend renting your own car to get there.
11. Los Haitises National Park
Photo Credit: Instagram – godomrepita
The Los Haitises National Park is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the Dominican Republic.
Covering an area of more than 208 square kilometers, this vast park is yours to explore. Discover its well-preserved flora and fauna. Mahogany, cedar and mangrove trees provide beautiful shaded areas. Contemplate the caves, pelicans and parrots.
This excursion leaves from Samana Bay or Sanchez Bay by boat.
12. Rio Dulce
Photo Credit: Instagram – eyeoz
Visit the Dominican Republic and immerse yourself in the local population at the Rio Dulce. This turquoise-blue river attracts locals every weekend for giant barbecues.
Not to mention the beauty of the place, we recommend that you go there to spend a nice, pleasant time in the festive atmosphere offered by the Dominicans. The Rio Dulce is about 1 kilometer from Playa Ricon.
13. Las Terrenas
Photo Credit: Instagram – christauziet
A full-scale seaside resort, Las Terrenas is a must if you want to enjoy activities such as scuba diving or excursions. You’ll also find a wide range of hotels and restaurants.
Las Terrenas is also known for its immense sandy beaches, which have remained relatively unspoilt. Its waters are renowned for their crystal-clear waters, attracting many tourists every year in search of paradise-like scenery. Originally a fishing town, Terrenas is now a very fashionable place to go out at night!
14. Laguna Gri-Gri
Photo Credit: Instagram – jeirynin51
Laguna Gri-Gri, as its name suggests, is a lagoon. If you’re a nature lover looking to visit the Dominican Republic, this magical place is a must.
A real excursion, board one of the boats and contemplate the flora and fauna on offer. Sumptuous beaches (such as Los Muertos and Los Minos) and an immense mangrove forest, home to the Santuario de las Aves (bird sanctuary), home to thousands of birds. Expect to pay around $30 for eight people.
15. Altos de Chavón
Photo Credit: Instagram – azuquita.prieta
Altos de Chavón is a small village of beautiful stone houses. You’ll fall under the spell of its cobbled streets.
A village renowned for its cultural life, many artists exhibit here. You’ll also find events such as festivals, concerts and other shows. The village boasts a Roman-inspired amphitheatre, which attracts large numbers of spectators every year!
16. Jarabacoa
Photo Credit: Flickr – PresidenciaRD
If you’re visiting the Dominican Republic, this is the place to be! Jarabacoa has a pleasant, spring-like atmosphere all year round. Located in the province of La Vega, in the center of the Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa is a place of tropical greenery and mountainous terrain. Waterfalls and streams run through the town, much to your delight. Close to Armando Burmundez National Park, you’ll find one of the island’s greatest biodiversities.
As you can see, visiting the Dominican Republic will fill you with wonder. For even more information, take a look at our article on all-inclusive tours and trips to the Dominican Republic!
Map of hotels and accommodations – Dominican Republic