19 Breathtaking Locations In The Dominican Republic

1. Punta Cana

This standard resort vacation spot was like a paradise! I assumed it was breathtaking, with its pristine, white-sand seashores, glowing turquoise waters, upscale beachfront resorts, and dreamy palm bushes. I cherished the way it was each full of life and laid-back, with the right mixture of leisure and vibrant nightlife. 

Situated on the japanese coast which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, it has a inhabitants of round 100,000, I noticed it was a serious vacationer hub and I came upon it attracts thousands and thousands yearly with its fashionable developments and luxurious choices.

I flew from London on to Punta Cana Worldwide Airport (PUJ) and stayed for a paradise-like 10 days. I relaxed on the gorgeous Bavaro Seaside, and explored the pure great thing about Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park.

I additionally took a ship journey to the pristine Saona Island, loved water snorkeling and parasailing, skilled the full of life nightlife at Coco Bongo, swam within the beautiful turquoise waters of the Hoyo Azul Cenote, and visited the Macao Seaside to look at the surfers and unbelievable sunsets!

• Location: East a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for nice climate and to keep away from the hurricane season).
• Actions on supply: Seaside actions, snorkeling, scuba diving, {golfing}, and catamaran excursions.
• Lodging: Exhausting Rock Lodge & On line casino, Excellence Punta Cana, and quite a few all-inclusive beachfront resorts.
• Map Location and Instructions

My favourite highlights… 

• Staying on the beautiful Caribe Deluxe Princess Resort – I actually cherished the stylish fashionable design, the gorgeous tropical gardens, the eight – massively assorted – onsite eating places, the large out of doors swimming pools, and the upscale spa and wellness amenities (particularly the Turkish bathtub!)
• Having a enjoyable evening out listening to reside Latin music and watching unbelievable salsa and merengue dancing on the well-known nightlife sizzling spot Coco Bongo.

2. Samana Province

I assumed this scenic coastal area was simply breathtaking! I found it was significantly gorgeous with unspoiled seashores crammed with golden sands and shimmering blue inexperienced waters, charming coastal villages, a lush tropical jungle, dramatic cliffs, iconic waterfalls, coconut groves and hidden, sandy alcoves. I cherished how peaceable and laid-back it felt – it was an superior mixture of tropical journey and rustic attraction! 

I discovered it positioned on the northeastern coast of the nation, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Cabo Samana peninsula. It has a inhabitants of round 150,000 and has traditionally been an vital space for tourism and agriculture, notably for the whale watching – it’s a breeding place for humpback whales, and hundreds of them congregate off the coast of Samana from January to March.

I drove three hours from Santo Domingo and spent a dreamy week right here. I relaxed on the pristine seashores of Cayo Levantado, hiked to the gorgeous El Limón Waterfall, went on an unbelievable whale-watching boat journey in Bahía de Samaná, explored the luxurious landscapes of Los Haitises Nationwide Park, visited the charming city of Santa Bárbara de Samana, and loved kayaking and zip-lining within the tropical rainforests! 

• Location: Northeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for whale-watching and cooler temperatures).
• Actions on supply: Whale-watching, seashore hopping, mountaineering, and snorkeling.
• Lodging: Bahia Principe Luxurious Samana, Lodge Bannister, and eco-lodges close to the seashores.
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights… 

• Testing the gorgeous Playa Rincón which had the popularity of being one of many world’s most stunning seashores! I cherished the way it was framed by lush tropical forests and the towering hills of the Sierra de Samana and the way small native distributors bought contemporary coconut water alongside the seashore entrance!
• Stumbling throughout the small, secluded gem La Playita Seaside – I discovered it dotted with seashells and I cherished how distant and uncrowded it was in addition to the small laid again La Playita Restaurant which served up contemporary native delicacies. My “Mangu” dish produced from mashed plantains and sautéed onions was divine!

3. Parque Nacional del Este

This is among the largest marine parks within the Caribbean! I additionally thought it was very stunning with dreamy tropical landscapes, colourful coral reefs, historic Taino cave work, rugged cliffs and paradise-like white sandy seashores. I cherished the way it felt each tranquil and adventurous on the identical time!

It was positioned within the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic near Bayahibe which is a small fishing village standard with vacationers. It spanned 420 sq. kilometers and featured a wealthy historical past marked by pre-Columbian Taino artifacts. I discovered it was dwelling to endangered sea turtles, manatees, varied hen species.

I drove an hour from Punta Cana to Bayahibe and caught a ship to the park. Whereas right here, I explored the fantastic underwater world whereas snorkeling at Saona Island, found the traditional Taino cave work in Cueva del Puente, relaxed on the pristine seashores of Isla Catalina, and had the magical expertise of recognizing wild dolphins and cute sea turtles! 

• Location: Southeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for snug climate and exploring the coral reefs).
• Actions on supply: Scuba diving, birdwatching, exploring caves, and seashore visits.
• Lodging: Casa de Campo Resort, close by accommodations in Bayahibe, and eco-lodges.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Snorkeling at Saona Island – it was an incredible expertise to see an enormous number of parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, and blue tangs, all bustling across the arduous and delicate corals formations and an enormous manta ray gliding alongside the ocean flooring! 

4. Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial

That is thought-about to be the oldest European settlement within the New World! I assumed it was very picturesque with a powerful mix of historic structure (together with the oldest cathedral within the Americas), pastel-colored buildings, colourful hanging baskets, superbly restored mansions, quaint cobblestone streets, and bustling public squares.

I cherished the enchanting, romantic vibe it had too, in addition to being full of life – it was crammed with the hum of avenue musicians, bustling cafes, and a palpable sense of historical past that basically drew me in! 

I discovered it positioned on the western financial institution of the Ozama River within the Dominican Republic’s capital metropolis. Established within the early Sixteenth century, and it’s now an UNESCO World Heritage web site and has a inhabitants of round 10,000 residents.

I took a taxi there and spent a beautiful day there. I explored Calle Las Damas, the oldest paved avenue within the New World, visited the intriguing first cathedral of the Americas, gazed contained in the Sixteenth-century Catedral Primada de América, found the Alcázar de Colón (the primary fortified European palace constructed within the Americas), and visited the historic dwelling of Diego Columbus.

I additionally strolled by means of the bustling Plaza de España, shopped for distinctive native crafts on Calle El Conde, delved into historical past on the Museo de las Casas Reales, and people-watched and admired the Nineteenth-century bronze statue of Christopher Columbus within the scenic Parque Colón.

• Location: South a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for strolling excursions and sightseeing in cooler temperatures).
• Actions on supply: Strolling excursions, exploring colonial structure, visiting museums, and buying.
• Lodging: Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando, Casas del XVI, and boutique accommodations within the colonial zone.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Meandering alongside Calle El Conde, sipping sturdy espresso within the roadside cafes (my favourite was Café Museo del Cacao) and testing the native crafts on the market within the many little outlets on avenue corners.

5. Saona Island

I assumed this tropical island was actually breathtaking! I discovered an idyllic island with sprawling white sandy seashores, shimmering turquoise waters, lush palm-fringed coastlines, intensive mangrove swamps and a small fishing village known as Mano Juan, which was the one inhabited space on the island.

It felt relaxed and paradisiacal, excellent for being actually in a position to unwind! I additionally cherished that it was famously used as a filming location for the Bounty chocolate bar business.

It was nestled off the southeastern coast of the nation and was a part of Cotubanamá Nationwide Park with a small inhabitants of round 300 folks. I researched that it was as soon as a former Taino settlement, however is now a well-liked eco-tourism vacation spot.

I took a two hour boat day journey from the small fishing village of Bayahibe which was positioned on the southeastern coast and relaxed on the pristine seashores of Playa de Palmilla. I additionally snorkeled within the clear waters across the Catuano Channel, explored the mangroves for birdwatching, loved a ship tour of the pure swimming pool “El Peñón,” and skilled the native tradition within the small village of Mano Juan!

• Location: Southeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for excellent seashore climate and catamaran excursions).
• Actions on supply: Swimming, snorkeling, catamaran excursions, and exploring mangroves.
• Lodging: Day journeys solely, with lodging accessible in Bayahibe or La Romana.
• Map Location and Instructions

My favorite highlights… 

• Going bird-watching within the mangroves and seeing brown pelicans, a white nice egret, willet and male frigatebird which had a extremely distinctive pink throat pouch.

6. Bahía de las Águilas

That is usually talked about as being one of the crucial stunning seashores on the planet! I found it was positively a really breathtaking spot with untouched white sand, clear turquoise waters, putting limestone cliffs, and a secluded, unspoiled setting that to me felt like a hidden paradise! I cherished how peaceable and distant it felt – there have been no resorts, no crowds, no resorts, simply pure pure magnificence! 

I discovered nestled on the southwestern coast, close to the city of Pedernales, inside Jaragua Nationwide Park. Jaragua Nationwide Park is a part of the Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve, which is acknowledged by UNESCO for its wealthy biodiversity and ecological significance and its vital for its indigenous Taino heritage. 

I took a six hour bus experience from Santo Domingo to Pedernales after which a quarter-hour boat from Cabo Rojo and stayed for an idyllic three days. I relaxed on the stark white sand seashore, went swimming and snorkeling, took a ship experience from Cabo Rojo and admired the dramatic limestone cliffs. 

I additionally noticed wildlife in Jaragua Nationwide Park (it was dwelling to rhinoceros iguanas, West Indian manatees, hawksbill and inexperienced sea turtles!) and visited Laguna de Oviedo the place I noticed flamingos and brown pelicans! 

• Location: Southwest a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for the very best seashore situations and decrease humidity).
• Actions on supply: Seaside leisure, swimming, and boat excursions.
• Lodging: Eco-lodges in close by La Cueva village or tenting on the seashore.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Staying on the distinctive and funky Glamping EcoLodge Cueva De Las Aguilas – I cherished the way it was very eco-friendly (even utilizing rainwater harvesting methods), how the my luxurious tent was crammed with fashionable comforts together with a big plush mattress and waking as much as simply the sound of the waves and birds singing each morning! 

7. Paradise Island and The Mangroves

I cherished this distinctive hidden gem! It was crammed with white sandy seashores, engaging coral reefs, glowing turquoise waters and luxurious mangrove tunnels. To me, it felt peaceable and otherworldly, like a secluded and rustic escape! 

It was nestled off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, close to the small fishing village of Punta Rucia. It was a distant sandbar and mangrove ecosystem, a part of Monte Cristi Nationwide Park, and is traditionally vital for its function in marine conservation, and is understood for its wealthy biodiversity and numerous hen species.

I took a 2.5 hour from Puerto Plata to Punta Rucia after which it was a 20 minute boat experience to Paradise Island. I snorkeled within the clear waters of Cayo Enviornment and noticed coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, relaxed on the tiny white sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters, took a ship tour by means of the luxurious mangrove forests of Monte Cristi Nationwide Park, and went hen recognizing – I managed to see herons! 

• Location: Northwest a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for calm seas and optimum snorkeling situations).
• Actions on supply: Snorkeling, boat excursions, mangrove exploration, and wildlife viewing.
• Lodging: Resorts in Puerto Plata or seashore resorts in close by Punta Rucia.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Occurring a guided snorkeling tour – we fed the tropical fish out of our fingers with fish pellets our information introduced which was a extremely unbelievable expertise! 

8. La Romana

This dreamy paradise fully wowed me! I used to be fully gained over by its putting white sandy seashores, clear and shallow turquoise waters, and the artistically crafted village of Altos de Chavón, which had gorgeous views of the Chavón River. It had an expensive vibe, with upscale facilities however with a number of tradition thrown in too! 

It was positioned on the southeastern coast of the nation, and is understood for its transformation from a sugar mill city in 1911 into to a thriving vacationer hub, with a inhabitants of round 130,000.

I few immediately into La Romana Worldwide Airport after which it was a brief drive to La Romana metropolis and spent a beautiful trip right here. I explored the artisan village of Altos de Chavón, attended a singular music live performance at its Roman-style amphitheater, and kicked again on the Casa de Campo resort.

My accomplice performed golf on the famend Enamel of the Canine course, I relaxed on the gorgeous seashore of Bayahibe, and I took a ship journey to the pristine Catalina and Saona Islands to go snorkeling and diving.

• Location: Southeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for nice climate and out of doors actions like golf and diving).
• Actions on supply: {Golfing}, visiting seashores, scuba diving, and touring a cigar manufacturing unit.
• Lodging: Casa de Campo Resort, Desires La Romana Resort & Spa, and luxurious villas.
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights… 

• Stopping by the well-known cigar manufacturing unit Tabacalera de García – I particularly cherished the large ageing rooms the place hundreds of cigars had been saved, which I used to be informed allowed them to develop the deeper flavors and aromas over time! 

9. Playa Rincon

That is usually considered being one of the crucial gorgeous seashores within the Caribbean! I found it was genuinely breathtakingly with lengthy stretches of powdery white sand, clear, shallow aquamarine waters and lovely palm bushes.

I cherished how tranquil, uncrowded and largely uncommercialized it was too – there weren’t any main resorts immediately on the seashore solely smaller, locally-run lodgings within the close by space of Las Galeras so it had managed to stay unspoiled! It’s nestled on Samaná Peninsula within the northeastern a part of the nation and it round 3 kilometers (about 2 miles) lengthy.

I flew immediately into Samaná El Catey Worldwide Airport and from then it was an hour’s drive to Las Galeras (which was 6 kilometers away from Playa Rincón). When right here I relaxed on and took in the fantastic thing about the gorgeous seashore, went swimming and snorkeling, kayaked alongside the tranquil coast, tried the native cuisines at native beachfront eating places, and hiked close by trails the place I used to be in a position to see unbelievable views of the beautiful seashore! 

• Location: Northeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for sunny seashore days and cooler temperatures).
• Actions on supply: Swimming, snorkeling, seashore actions, and boat rides.
• Lodging: Boutique accommodations in Las Galeras, similar to Chalet Tropical Village, and close by guesthouses.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Going snorkelling and seeing very colourful parrotfish, barracudas, faculties of shimmering fish and scattered coral formations with colourful sponges and sea followers gently swaying within the present! The visibility was superior!

10. Bayahibe

This small resort city is understood for having a number of the most interesting scuba diving spots within the nation! I additionally thought the small coastal city was idyllic, with its delicate white-sand seashores, glowing turquoise waters, swaying palm bushes, and charming pastel-colored buildings.

I used to be actually taken with its laid-back and tropical vibe – it had a peaceable fishing village ambiance however with full of life beachfront spots, eco-adventure actions, and a contact of upscale resort leisure thrown in for good measure! 

I discovered it positioned on the southeastern coast of the nation, close to La Romana and the doorway to Cotubanamá Nationwide Park. Initially based as a fishing village in 1874, I noticed that it had now grown into a well-liked eco-tourism and diving vacation spot with a small native inhabitants of round 3,000. It was additionally the gateway to Saona Island and there have been greater than 20 dive websites positioned there, together with fairly coral reefs, underwater caves, and fascinating shipwrecks just like the Atlantic Princess and St. George. 

I flew into into La Romana Worldwide Airport and from there it was a 20-minute drive. When right here, I kicked again on the pristine white sands, snorkeled and dived the unbelievable coral reefs on the Bayahibe Wreck, took an superior boat tour to the breathtaking Saona Island, explored the fascinating caves and trails of Cotubanamá Nationwide Park, and loved sampling the native delicacies on the waterfront eating places.

• Location: Southeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for nice diving and snorkeling situations).
• Actions on supply: Scuba diving, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and boat journeys.
• Lodging: Desires Dominicus La Romana, Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus, and beachfront resorts.
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights… 

• Eating on a Caprese Salad with significantly scrumptious ripe tomatoes, topped with basil leaves and drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar at Tracadero Restaurant which served up high quality Mediterranean delicacies, the ocean views had been additionally actually gorgeous!

11. Cabarete

This is among the world’s high locations for kiteboarding and windsurfing! I additionally found it was very easy-on-the-eye with dreamy golden-sand seashores lined with swaying palms, buzzy oceanfront eating places and bars, and a surprising shoreline the place turquoise waters met rolling waves! I actually preferred its youthful, energetic vibe with daytime water sports activities and full of life beachfront bars and music at evening! 

I discovered it was nestled on the northern coast of the nation, within the Puerto Plata province, alongside the Atlantic Ocean. It was based in 1835 by a Spanish service provider and has grown right into a world-famous water sports activities vacation spot with a inhabitants of round 15,000, identified for its constant commerce winds, worldwide browsing competitions, and enjoyable nightlight. It hosts worldwide kiteboarding occasions and is among the high browsing and kite-surfing spots within the Caribbean.

I flew into Gregorio Luperón Worldwide Airport (Puerto Plata) and stayed for every week. I watched the skilful kite-boarders and windsurfers on the world-famous Kite Seaside, watched the surfers at Encuentro Seaside, relaxed on the golden sands of Cabarete Seaside, explored the gorgeous caves and glowing blue waters of El Choco Nationwide Park, and loved the full of life beachfront nightlife – there was loads of oceanfront eating and music to select from! 

• Location: North a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Summer season (for prime windsurfing and kitesurfing situations).
• Actions on supply: Kite-surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and cave exploring.
• Lodging: Velero Seaside Resort, Millennium Resort & Spa, and beachfront accommodations.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Staying within the very Insta-worthy Inexperienced Land Bubble Glamping By Mint – it was nice to remain within the clear dome tent which to me regarded like a cute see-through bubble! I additionally actually appreciated all the trendy comforts similar to the luxurious bedding, ensuite toilet and even a sizzling tub on the surface decking! 

12. El Limon Waterfall

This is among the most well-known waterfalls within the nation! I found a dramatic 130-foot cascade which plunged into a transparent pure pool, surrounded by tropical rainforest, a number of lush greenery, and moss-covered cliffs. I cherished the way it felt serene but additionally refreshing – it was a rejuvenating escape into nature! 

I discovered it tucked away within the Samaná Peninsula, within the northeastern a part of the nation, close to the city of El Limón. It was fashioned by the Arroyo Chico River, and falls from a top of 130-foot (40-meters). 

I drove from the city of Samaná or Las Terrenas, took a guided hike from the village of El Limón to the waterfall which was a forty five minute stroll (a technique was 2 kilometers). When right here, I took a refreshing dip within the pure pool beneath the waterfall’s 130-foot cascade and we explored the encircling rainforest earlier than heading again, the entire tour took three hours in whole. 

• Location: Northeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for simpler hikes and refreshing swimming situations).
• Actions on supply: Mountain climbing and swimming.
• Lodging: Lodges and guesthouses in El Limón or Las Terrenas, similar to Clave Verde Ecolodge.
• Map Location and Instructions

My favourite highlights… 

• Seeing a small, colourful broad-billed Tody and even a super-cute Vervain Hummingbird (one of many smallest hummingbirds on the planet!) on the trek to the waterfall. 

13. Jarabacoa

This was a picturesque mountain city! I assumed it was a gem of a spot with gorgeous mountainous landscapes, lush inexperienced valleys, quaint little shops and boutiques, mountaineering and mountaineering trails, beautiful waterfalls and rustic picket shacks. I actually loved its relaxed vibe, in addition to the cooler mountain temperatures which made an exquisite respite from the summer season warmth! 

I discovered it tucked away within the central area, within the Sierra de Juárez mountains, and is understood for its cool local weather and pure magnificence it was based in 1845. At present it has a inhabitants of round 35,000 folks and it’s a well-liked hub for eco-tourism and out of doors adventures. 

I flew into Santiago Worldwide Airport, took a 1.5 hour drive to Jarabacoa and stayed for 3 days. I hiked to the gorgeous Salto de Jimenoa and Salto Baiguate waterfalls, explored the luxurious trails of the encircling mountains, loved enjoyable rafting and kayaking on the Yaque del Norte River, visited the peaceable Pine Forests, and explored the charming city heart which was crammed with quaint cafés and outlets.

• Location: Central a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Summer season (for rafting, mountaineering, and having fun with the cooler mountain local weather).
• Actions on supply: Rafting, mountaineering, mountaineering, and waterfall visits.
• Lodging: Rancho Baiguate, Jarabacoa Mountain Hostel, and eco-lodges within the space.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• I used to be superior to strive the scrumptious  guava jui1ce, coconut-based sweets, tropical fruit candies and the inexperienced tropical fruit soursop (Guanábana) on the native market! 

14. Las Terrenas

I assumed this coastal city was a gem! I assumed it was gorgeous with white-sand seashores framed by palm bushes, crystal-clear waters, and an enthralling mixture of rustic and fashionable structure, from conventional thatched-roof huts to stylish beachfront villas.

I used to be fully charmed by its boho vibe with its eclectic mixture of artsy cafes, boutique outlets, relaxed seashore bars, and I noticed the nights come alive with bustling eating places and bars alongside the beachfront. There was a assorted and fascinating group of artists, expats, and locals, all set towards a backdrop of tropical seashores and palm-fringed streets! 

Las Terrenas is positioned within the Samaná Peninsula on the northeastern coast. Initially a small fishing village, Las Terrenas has reworked right into a cosmopolitan seashore city with a various inhabitants of about 39,221. 

I flew into Santo Domingo Airport and drove 2 hours to succeed in Las Terrenas and kicked again right here for week. I lounged round on the pristine seashores of Playa Bonita and Playa Cosón, explored the colourful Pueblo de los Pescadores which was dwelling to an awesome collection of eating places and bars, tried kiteboarding, went snorkeling and scuba diving and hiked by means of the forest trails to find the waterfalls. 

• Location: Northeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for the very best seashore climate and whale-watching season).
• Actions on supply: Seaside actions, dolphin watching, snorkeling, and whale-watching.
• Lodging: Chic Samana Lodge & Residences, Balcones del Atlántico, and boutique seashore accommodations.
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights… 

• Staying on the very Insta-worthy Leeloo Boutique Lodge – I cherished staying within the exceptionally designed up to date bungalow, the dreamy cabanas and out of doors swimming pool and the beautiful design particulars similar to the large white bean luggage on the beech wooden decking.

15. Playa Dorada

I assumed this standard resort space was very fairly! It had dreamy expansive golden sands framed by the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, inexperienced golf programs and a group of chic resorts and fashionable facilities. I actually preferred that it felt each full of life and upscale with elegant well-manicured resort grounds, a bustling seashore scene and a cool trip vibe! 

It was positioned on the north coast, close to the town of Puerto Plata and was developed within the Eighties as one of many Dominican Republic’s first main tourism initiatives. I noticed that’s was centred across the complete golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.

I flew into Gregorio Luperón Worldwide Airport in Puerto Plata and from there it was solely a 15-minute drive from Playa Dorada. When right here I soaked up the wonder on the golden seashores, my accomplice performed golf on the well-known Playa Dorada Golf Course (which he cherished!), I attempted out the eating places, went snorkeling and windsurfing, visited the close by historic web site of San Felipe Fortress, and sampled the nightlife within the many bars and golf equipment! 

• Location: North a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for seashore actions and all-inclusive resort experiences).
• Actions on supply: Seaside leisure, water sports activities, and resort actions.
• Lodging: BlueBay Villas Doradas, Sunscape Puerto Plata, and all-inclusive resorts.
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights…

• Staying on the Casa Colonial Seaside & Spa – I actually preferred its old-world colonial attraction, the darkish wooden 4 poster mattress in my visitor room, the Insta-worthy rooftop infinity pool, the big communal sizzling tubs, the wine cellar and the dreamy Caribbean ocean views!

16. Puerto Plata

I assumed this historic metropolis was an underrated gem! One of many oldest cities within the Americas, I discovered it was actually picturesque with gorgeous ocean views, fascinating Victorian and Colonial structure, lush inexperienced landscapes, and the spectacular Mount Isabel de Torres. I cherished its full of life and upbeat vibe with its bustling markets and love of reside music! 

It was positioned on the northern coast of the nation, going through the Atlantic Ocean and I found it was based in 1502 by Christopher Columbus, has a historical past in amber manufacturing and a present inhabitants of round 286,000.

I drove three hours from Santo Domingo and spent a dreamy 4 days right here. I explored the spectacular historic San Felipe Fortress, rode the cable automobile as much as Mount Isabel de Torres and noticed panoramic views, relaxed in stunning botanical gardens, kicked again on the golden sands of Playa Dorada, sampled the buzzing nightlife alongside the Malecón, visited the Amber Museum and learnt in regards to the space’s wealthy gemstone historical past, tried a number of water sports activities and explored the close by Damajagua Waterfalls.

• Location: North a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for snug climate and sightseeing).
• Actions on supply: Sightseeing, seashore actions, visiting historic landmarks, and cable automobile rides.
• Lodging: Casa Colonial Seaside & Spa, Iberostar Costa Dorada, and metropolis accommodations.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• The Previous Quarter in Puerto Plata, also called the “Historic District” and studying from the locals that it was as soon as a affluent buying and selling port within the late Nineteenth and early twentieth centuries – I really like seeing the colourful, picket Victorian houses line the quaint streets. 

17. Lago Enriquillo

That is the biggest lake within the Caribbean! I assumed it had an otherworldly magnificence with its huge, mirror-like waters set towards a stark, arid panorama all framed by rugged mountains. I used to be additionally taken with its tranquil and untouched vibe.

I found it positioned within the southwestern a part of the nation, inside a rift valley that was nestled between the Sierra de Neiba and the Sierra de Baoruco mountain ranges. It’s a hypersaline physique of water which is 375 sq. kilometers (145 sq. miles) and lies round 44 meters beneath sea stage, making it the bottom level within the Caribbean. Its harsh atmosphere helps a singular ecosystem, together with American crocodiles and flamingos!

I drove three hours from Santo Domingo through the DR-2 and DR-44 highways and this lead me on to the lake. When right here, I took an unbelievable guided boat tour and noticed American crocodiles, flamingos, and iguanas of their pure habitat and visited the fascinating however stunning Isla Cabritos Nationwide Park (which was positioned throughout the lake).

• Location: Southwest a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for wildlife viewing and avoiding excessive warmth).
• Actions on supply: Boat excursions, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.
• Lodging: Eco-lodges or guesthouses in close by cities similar to Jimaní or Duvergé.
• Map Location and Instructions

18. Peninsula de Samaná

This picturesque area is understood for its whale-watching! I additionally thought it was gorgeous magnificence spot with numerous seashores starting from serene white sands to rugged, cliff-backed coves and Victorian-style pastel-colored buildings. To me, it felt laid-back and genuine with a beautiful mixture of pure magnificence and quaint attraction! 

It was positioned within the northeastern a part of the nation and boasts an fascinating historical past influenced by each European settlers and Taino natives, with a present inhabitants of round 100,000 folks. In addition to it’s magnificence, I noticed it was crammed with ample wildlife, together with humpback whales throughout migration season.

I drove from Santo Domingo utilizing the scenic DR-7 freeway, which took two hours and I stayed for 4 days. I wandered by means of the historic streets of Santa Bárbara de Samaná, explored the luxurious trails of Los Haitises Nationwide Park, went on an unbelievable whale-watching boat tour, relaxed on the pristine sands of Playa Rincón, went diving on the gorgeous Cayo Levantado, and skilled the enjoyable family-friendly Samaná Zipline Tour! 

• Location: Northeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for whale-watching and seashore climate).
• Actions on supply: Whale-watching, seashore actions, and mountaineering.
• Lodging: Luxurious villas, eco-lodges, and accommodations in Samaná or Las Terrenas.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Studying all in regards to the whale migration from our information – he informed us that from January to March, over 300 whales migrated from Greenland and Iceland to Samaná Bay for breeding. Their journey included stops in Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, and the Gulf of Mexico, the place their acrobatic shows had been a standard sight. He additionally informed us in regards to the protected whale nursery in Samaná Bay and the way it strictly protected with solely a handful of accredited boats being allowed to enter.

19. Hoyo Azul Lagoon

I actually cherished this gorgeous pure cenote! I assumed it was a gem – I cherished how the vivid turquoise waters of the pure sinkhole contrasted towards the brilliant greenery of the encircling cliffs. It felt very tranquil and virtually mystical too! 

I discovered it tucked away in Scape Park at Cap Cana on the japanese coast of the nation positioned in an more and more standard vacationer space. It’s round 14 meters (round 46 ft) deep and spans roughly 30 meters (about 98 ft) in diameter and is called being a singular geological spot.

It was a 30 minute (it was clearly signal posted to Scape Park) drive from downtown Punta Cana and I spent a extremely pretty afternoon right here. I took a really refreshing dip in clear blue waters and took a while to discover a number of the surrounding tropical forest (there have been well-maintained trails). I additionally noticed that there was zip-lining and cave expeditions accessible at Scape Park. 

• Location: Southeast a part of the nation.
• Finest time to go to: Winter (for clear skies and excellent lagoon situations).
• Actions on supply: Swimming, mountaineering, and nature exploration.
• Lodging: Resorts and resorts in Cap Cana, similar to Eden Roc Cap Cana and Sanctuary Cap Cana.
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights… 

• Discovering out that the cenote had distinctive water readability when swimming in it! The visibility was round 30 meters (about 100 ft) so I may see very clear views of the fascinating rock formations and even noticed small freshwater fish and crayfish whereas swimming round.

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