Dominican Republic Travelers Recommend

Punta Cana beaches in the Dominican Republic are ideal picture of a waterfront paradise with their pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and countless palm trees. Here are our picks for the best Punta Cana beaches and what you can do while you’re there.

Bavaro Beach (Playa Bavaro)

As one of the largest and most popular beaches in the area, the town of Bavaro is lined with small shops and dotted with luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Most boat trips and snorkeling excursions to places like Saona Island (Isla Saona) leave from Bavaro Beach.

Macao Beach (Playa Macao)

The public beach of Macao feels relatively untouched. It's a great spot to enjoy water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, and parasailing. Don’t miss the chance to get muddy on a Macao buggy adventure.

Uvero Alto

Located far from the tourist activity of the main beaches, Uvero Alto is quieter than most and often reached by boat trip or off-roading adventure.

Playa Blanca

Its name translates to “white beach,” so it's no surprise that Playa Blanca has some of the most beautiful white sands in the country. The waters are calm here, and this stretch of sand can be accessed by dune buggy.

Cabeza de Toro Beach

Surrounded by tropical forest with palm trees and wildlife close at hand, Cabeza de Toro Beach is a great spot for snorkeling and getting in touch with nature.

Cap Cana

Located at the eastern tip of the coast, Cap Cana is famous for golfing and for its popular beaches where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

With its swaying palm trees, powder-white sands, and starfish-filled natural pools, Saona Island (Isla Saona) is every bit the postcard image of a Caribbean paradise. Reachable only by boat, the island makes a popular choice for a day trip from Punta Cana. Here are your options.

Group Tours

Group tours offer the best value for your money and typically include plenty of stops for swimming and snorkeling at the island’s beaches and natural swimming pools, along with a buffet lunch, an open bar, and onboard entertainment. Some tours also include a stop at Los Altos de Chavon, a visit to the island villages of Mano Juan and Catuano, or snorkeling and wildlife watching in the Del Este National Park.

Private Tours

Private tours ensure a personalized experience and can be tailored to your preferences, so you can fill your day with water sports and outdoor activities, or seek out a deserted beach to relax and sunbathe. A private tour can also be a big time saver. You’ll avoid long transfers with multiple pickups and drop-offs, and head straight to the island instead.

Things to Know

• Saona Island is located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic and is reachable by boat from Bayahibe. A speedboat transfer to the island takes about 40 minutes, while catamaran cruises take two hours.

• Full-day tours from Punta Cana typically last between eight and 10 hours.

• Be sure to bring everything you need with you, as there are no shops on the island.

• Most full-day Saona Island tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transfers from Punta Cana, and lunch.

Punta Cana, situated on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a tropical playground of white-sand beaches, gently swaying coconut palm trees, luxe all-inclusive resorts, coastal golf courses, and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. With 20 miles (30 kilometers) of sandy shoreline, overcrowding is rarely an issue. The biggest challenge facing any visitor to this little slice of paradise is deciding how to make the most of their time enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Whether you plan to hit the beach and never leave or extend your explorations farther inland, see below for our top picks of experiences you simply can’t miss in Punta Cana.

Punta Cana’s sunny beaches, jungle canopies, and rugged countryside aren’t just for adults. This slice of Caribbean paradise offers loads of family-friendly adventures for the young and the young at heart. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Punta Cana with kids.

• Explore Punta Cana’s underwater wonders during a sailing and snorkeling excursion through the warm Caribbean waters.
• Learn about the island’s squirrel monkeys with a visit to the Monkeyland animal sanctuary.
• Go off-road into the Dominican countryside via a buggy adventure.
• Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, ziplining, and caving at Cap Cana Resort Scape Park.
• Soar through the canopy by zipline as you soak up the aerial views of the surrounding rain forest.
• Learn to surf on Macao Beach.

There’s good reason why Punta Cana attracts couples from around the globe to its sun-kissed shores. This Caribbean destination is a hotbed for romance. Whether you’re getting married, honeymooning, or simply enjoying an intimate escape, here are some ideas for how to feel the love in Punta Cana.

Go Horseback Riding on the Beach

There’s something dreamy about the idea of riding a horse along a sandy beach, and that dream can be a reality in Punta Cana. Saddle up for a romantic ride along Uvero Alto Beach, far from the crowds. 

Cruise the Caribbean

You can’t visit Punta Cana without spending some time out on the water, and options abound for setting sail together. Spend the day sailing and snorkeling aboard a catamaran, cruise to quiet Saona Island, dance the day away aboard a party boat, or sit back and relax during an adults-only sunset cruise along the Punta Cana coast. 

Soar at Sunrise

The beauty of the Dominican Republic is on full display as you soar above the island by helicopter or hot-air balloon. Take off at sunrise to up the romance factor, and wrap up your morning date with a champagne toast upon landing.

Dance the Night Away

Once the sun goes down, the music is turned up in Punta Cana’s nightclubs, setting the scene for a sultry night out. Head to popular Coco Bongo for an evening of live entertainment, or put on your dancing shoes at the cave turned club known as Imagine Punta Cana Disco. Many tours include drinks.

With its vibrant cultural heritage and UNESCO-listed Zona Colonial (Colonial Zone), Santo Domingo is not only the largest city of the Dominican Republic, but it’s also the oldest city of the Americas. Here’s how to visit this historic hotbed on a day trip from Punta Cana.

Group Tours

Most small-group tours of Santo Domingo cover the city’s top attractions, including the National Presidential Palace, Alcazar de Colon, and Calle Las Damas (the first paved street in the New World), without forcing you to sacrifice a big chunk of your travel budget. Some tours include other stops on the way to Santo Domingo, like the limestone caves of Los Tres Ojos or the Columbus Lighthouse. 

Private Tours

There’s a lot to see and explore in the Dominican capital, and a private tour allows you to customize your itinerary to match your interests. Spend your day diving deep into local history in the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Colonial Zone or focus on the city’s modern culture with a local guide.

Things to Know

• Day trips can last anywhere from seven to 11 hours, depending on the option chosen.

• Santo Domingo is situated 119 miles (192 kilometers) from Punta Cana; the drive takes between two and three hours.

• Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off at your Punta Cana resort.

Punta Cana, the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, is a paradise for beachgoers, sun seekers, and outdoors enthusiasts. Even if your time in this tropical resort is limited, you’ll be able to enjoy the beach and some adventure on land. Here’s how to make the most of your 24 hours in Punta Cana.

Morning: Outdoor Adventure

Name an outdoor activity, and you can probably do it in Punta Cana. Plan to spend your morning taking in the island’s natural beauty: Zipline through the rain forest canopy, zip through the lush landscape on a 4WD or dune buggy, horseback ride along Uvero Alto Beach, or hike through the mountains of Anamuya in search of squirrel monkeys. If you’re having trouble narrowing things down to just one activity, consider a combo tour that combines multiple adventures into one convenient package.

Afternoon: Sun, Sand, Sea

No trip to Punta Cana would be complete without spending some time on the stunning white-sand beaches. While there’s nothing wrong with grabbing a lounger and relaxing in the sun, the area is also known for its plethora of water sports for those who prefer a more active beach experience. Hop aboard a catamaran for an afternoon of sailing and snorkeling in the warm Caribbean waters, or, for an adrenaline rush, soar above the beaches while parasailing. Scuba diving, whale watching, Scubadoo, glass-bottom boat tours, and booze cruises round out the menu of aquatic activities.

Night: Dance the Night Away

The action in Punta Cana doesn’t stop once the sun goes down. In fact, the nightlife here is legendary. Bid farewell to the island in epic fashion with a night out on the town. Start with some live entertainment at Coco Bongo, one of Punta Cana’s most famous stage shows, before heading to one of the area’s top nightclubs or discos for dancing, socializing, and drinking cocktails mixed by flair bartenders. Book a nightlife tour for a hassle-free experience; many include access to an all-you-can-drink open bar as well as safe, round-trip transportation from your Punta Cana hotel. For something a little more low-key, opt for an evening cooking class instead, and bring home the flavors of the Dominican Republic.

With two days to spend in Punta Cana, situated at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, you’ll have enough time to soak up the sun at the beach, get out on the water, explore the island’s interior, and experience some authentic Dominican culture. Here are some ideas for how to spend your 48 hours.

Day 1: Adventure in Paradise

Morning: Take advantage of the cooler morning hours with an outdoor adventure on land; you’ll have plenty to choose from. Go horseback riding along the Punta Cana River, zipline through the lush rain forest canopy, get behind the wheel of a dune buggy to explore the countryside, or look for squirrel monkeys in the mountains of Anamuya.

Afternoon: As the day begins to warm up, beat the heat by heading to one of Punta Cana’s many stellar beaches for some fun in the sun. Spend time relaxing on the white sand, or opt for a guided activity, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, or cruising through the warm Caribbean waters.

Night: Now that you’ve experienced Punta Cana’s outdoor appeal, find out what makes its nightlife legendary with an evening of dancing and drinking at one of the area’s best nightclubs. Leave the driving to someone else, and enjoy an all-you-can-drink open bar as you dance the night away to live music or a spinning DJ.

Day 2: Dominican Culture

Morning: It would be a shame to visit Punta Cana without experiencing the Dominican Republic outside the resort. Use your second day on the island to get a taste of local culture with a tour through the countryside. Meet locals as you visit coffee and chocolate plantations, schools, churches, and a beach popular with island residents.

Afternoon: If there’s one thing Dominicans love to do above all else, it’s surf. This afternoon, make the beach your classroom during a private or small-group surfing lesson, whether you’re catching your first wave or polishing your skills. Alternatively, opt for an afternoon spa treatment at one of the area’s resorts.

Night: Finish off your exploration of Dominican culture with an evening cooking class. Get hands-on as you learn to make traditional dishes such as sancocho, a traditional soup, from a local chef. You’ll walk away with some new recipes and a greater appreciation for the culinary culture of Punta Cana.

The Dominican Republic is known for its spectacular beaches, and the island paradise of Punta Cana is no exception. With three days, you can spend some time on the sand, enjoy Punta Cana’s legendary nightlife, and still have time to explore outside the resort. Here are some tips for how to plan the ultimate three days in Punta Cana.

Day 1: Beach Hopping

No trip to Punta Cana would be complete without a day at the beach, but you shouldn’t limit yourself to just one—Bavaro, El Cortecito, and Arena Gorda are all excellent options. While there’s nothing wrong with settling in on a beach lounger for the day, Punta Cana’s beaches offer loads of water sports and aquatic adventures for those looking for a more active vacation. Board a catamaran for a day of snorkeling and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters, soar over the beaches of Punta Cana on a parasailing adventure, or take a surfing lesson to polish your skills or catch your first wave. Break for lunch at one of the area’s many seaside restaurants, and in the evening, switch from beachwear to club wear to dance the night away at one of Punta Cana’s best nightclubs.

Day 2: Into the Wild

It can be hard to pull yourself away from the beaches of the Dominican Republic, but by doing so, you’ll be rewarded with a wide array of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Start your day with a sunrise hot-air-balloon flight high above the island, or if you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, opt for some horseback riding along a beach or the Punta Cana River. After lunch, hop behind the wheel of a 4WD vehicle or dune buggy to tour the Dominican countryside, or for a thrill, spend a few hours ziplining through the rain forest canopy. In the evening, watch the sunset over the Caribbean while sipping a tropical cocktail on a party boat ride. Stop for some dancing and drinks at a beach bar before heading back to your hotel.

Day 3: Island Exploration

For your last day, step out of the immediate confines of Punta Cana and embark on a tour of Santo Domingo, one of the oldest cities in the Americas. Steeped in history, Santo Domingo is a delectable blend of traditional and modern. Most itineraries include visits to Las Damas Street, the National Presidential Palace, and Diego Columbus Alcazar, the first cathedral built in the New World. Make the most of your day by booking a private tour with your own guide and driver; you’ll be able to see the sights you want and skip those you don’t. If you can’t get enough of the beach, hop aboard a boat for a day trip to a nearby island, such as Saona Island with its white-sand beaches or Catalina for diving and snorkeling. Back in Punta Cana, finish off your trip with some live entertainment at Coco Bongo, one of the area’s most popular stage shows.

The scenic peninsula of Samaná is the Dominican Republic at its most spectacular. Day trips from Punta Cana to Samaná visit protected national parks, picturesque waterfalls, tropical forests, Caribbean-style beaches, and even out into the clear waters in search of whales. Here are your options for Samaná day trips from Punta Cana.

Tours by Road

Many tours by road begin with a bus transfer from Punta Cana to Miches. From there, participants board a speedboat, catamaran, or another vessel for transfers to other locations around Samaná Bay. Some tours head to town or to the island of Cayo Levantado (also known as Bacardi Island).

Day tours by road typically include visits to a Dominican ranch, safari rides through the Sierra de Samaná mountain range, horseback riding, or trips to the 165-foot (52-meter) El Limón waterfall. Several tours also go to the National Park of Los Haitises, where you can see rare wildlife species, such as solenodon (a raccoon-sized nocturnal mammal with a venomous bite), and caves featuring pictograms created by the Taino people. Some experiences also include whale-watching excursions in Samaná Bay, a popular sighting spot for humpback whales.

Tours by Air

If you want to squeeze more adventure into your Samaná day trip and enjoy aerial views while you’re at it, a tour by air will help you maximize your time. Flights usually depart early morning from Punta Cana. From there, it’s just a 45-minute journey to Arroyo Barril Airport in Samaná. Some tours by air incorporate horseback rides, cruises to Cayo Levantado, swimming at El Limón waterfall, ranch visits, and honey, coffee, and cacao tastings, as well as whale-watching tours of the bay.

Things to Know

• Most tours to Samaná from Punta Cana—whether by land or air—are full-day excursions, typically lasting eight to 12 hours.

• Driving from Punta Cana to Miches takes about two hours.

• Day tours usually include a Dominican lunch and, in some instances, snacks.

• Bring sunscreen and beach essentials as most day tours involve free time at the beach.

Punta Cana is famous for its glorious Caribbean beaches, luxury beach resorts, and world-class golf courses. But the Dominican Republic paradise isn’t just a place to unwind—its sun-soaked sands, lush plantations, and soaring dunes also offer a spectacular backdrop for outdoor activities. Here are some top adventures in Punta Cana.

Water Sports

Whether you want to zip along the coast on a speed boat, enjoy a mellow catamaran cruise, dive into the natural pool of Saona Island, or just head to the nearest city beach, there are endless options for watery fun in Punta Cana. Get wet on a SNUBA or snorkeling tour, fly high on a kitesurfing lesson, complete a PADI diving certification course, or enjoy a banana boat ride.

Horseback Riding

A unique and fun way to explore Punta Cana’s natural landscapes is on horseback, and a half-day tour is an ideal introduction for first-time riders. Enjoy trotting or galloping along the beach, follow the Anamaya River, and stop to explore coffee, cigar, vanilla, and cocoa plantations along the way.

Ziplining

The dramatic El Farallon Cliff is the lofty location for an unforgettable zipline adventure, and the exhilarating 8-line course offers panoramic views over Cap Cana’s forests. Combine a zipline experience with a visit to the nearby Hoyo Azul lagoon or a morning horseback ride. 

Jeep Safari and Sand Buggy Tours

One of the most popular Punta Cana tours is exploring the rugged coastal landscapes and sand dunes along the Atlantic coast. Set out on a half-day Jeep safari or buggy excursion to Macao Beach, stopping en route to tour a local coffee plantation, swim in a natural cave pool, or visit Fantasy Cave and “Bedrock City.”

Puerto Plata, the oldest city on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, sits sandwiched between the mountains and the sea. From its colonial-era fort to its oceanfront promenade, there’s plenty to do in this working port town. Here are some ideas if you have just 24 hours to spend in Puerto Plata.

Morning: City Sightseeing

While much of Puerto Plata’s appeal lies in its beaches and coastal scenery, even those with limited time should plan to spend at least half a day exploring the colonial city center. Get oriented during a sightseeing tour of some of the city’s most notable attractions, including Fort San Felipe (the oldest fort in the New World), the Amber Museum (Museo de Ambar Dominicano), and the Brugal Rum Distillery. If time permits, take the cable car to the top of Mount Isabel for its sprawling botanical gardens and panoramic views of the Amber Coast from 2,560 feet (780 meters) above sea level. 

Afternoon: Sun, Sand, Sea

It would be a shame to leave Puerto Plata without spending some time in the warm Caribbean waters, and you have a range of ways to do so. Hop aboard a glass-bottom boat for an afternoon of snorkeling or observing colorful marine life from the boat itself; go stand-up paddleboarding at Sosua Beach; or experience the water from two vantage points: from the back of a Jet Ski and while parasailing behind a speedboat. Certified divers can opt to spend the afternoon exploring coral reefs and sunken Spanish galleons off the northern coast. 

Night: Sunset Dinner

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding horseback on a beautiful beach, now’s your chance. Put on your bathing suit and saddle up for a sunset ride along a quiet beach, and take a dip in the Caribbean sea with your horse. Afterward, sit down for dinner on the beach, followed by roasted marshmallows around a campfire as the stars begin to come out. Night owls and groups of friends can opt for a party-hopping tour along the north coast instead, stopping for cocktails and dancing at the bars and clubs of Puerto Plata, Sousa, and Cabarete.

Not only is Puerto Plata a fascinating historical destination, it’s also an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty and heritage of the Dominican Republic’s northern coast. With three days, you’ll have time to see the city’s highlights and head farther afield to experience the wonders of this Caribbean nation. Here are some tips. 

Day 1: History and Heritage

Kick off your trip to Puerto Plata with an orientation of the north coast aboard an open-top safari truck. Get an introduction to the area’s history, culture, and ecosystems as you drive along the back roads, passing through rural villages and by hidden beaches, visiting an artisan craft market and local school along the way. In the afternoon, take some time to tour the historical highlights of Puerto Plata itself. Walk the historic walls of Fort San Felipe (the oldest fort in the New World); sample rum at the Brugal Rum Distillery; learn about the region’s semiprecious gemstone at the Amber Museum; and ride the cable car to the top of Isabel de Torres for panoramic views. End your day with a romantic horseback ride along one of Puerto Plata’s quiet beaches at sunset.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Puerto Plata is the kind of place where you can choose your own adventure, whatever thrill level appeals to you. Head into the tropical rain forests outside Puerto Plata to explore one of the Caribbean’s top natural attractions, the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua. Other options include an ATV ride through the rugged country landscape, a zipline tour through the canopy, a horseback ride from a local ranch, or sailing, snorkeling, or scuba diving in Sosua Bay. No matter how you spend your day, keep the fun going into the night with a north coast barhop between Puerto Plata, Sosua, and Cabarete. 

Day 3: Dominican Day Trip

Get a broader view of the Dominican Republic with a day trip. One popular option is swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters off Cayo Arena, also known as Paradise Island. History and natural beauty blend within Los Haitises National Park, where you can explore petroglyph-covered caverns and spot manatees in dense mangrove swamps. If you’re visiting in winter, consider spending the day whale watching in Samana Bay, where humpback whales come to mate and give birth. These day trips can be quite long, so plan for a quiet dinner at your hotel or resort.

While Punta Cana is best-known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters, this resort destination in the Dominican Republic is also an excellent place to sample local cuisine. Treat your tastebuds to the flavors of the Caribbean with these foods and activities.

Must-Try Dishes

Dominican cuisine displays cultural influences from Spain, Africa, and the indigenous Taino people. Fuel your day with Los Tres Golpes, a hearty breakfast of fried eggs, salami, cheese, and mangú (boiled plantains). La Bandera, perhaps the most popular dish in the Dominican Republic, is made from rice, stewed beans, stewed or roasted meat, and a side salad. If you’re looking to warm up after a dip in the sea, opt for a bowl of sancocho, a hearty meat-and-vegetable stew. Another popular dish, mofongo, hails from Puerto Rico and includes fried plantains, garlic, and chicharróns (fried pork skins).

Must-Do Experiences

• Get a hands-on introduction to Dominican cuisine during a cooking class led by a local chef.
• Taste your way through Punta Cana during a culinary tour to some of the city’s local foodie hot spots.
• Sample locally made rum and cigars while learning more about the island’s economic exports.
• Try Dominican coffee, chocolate, and spirits during a guided shopping excursion.
• Treat your tastebuds to traditional Dominican dishes while spending a day on Saona Island.

Two days in Puerto Plata lets you tour the city’s colonial monuments with time to spare for soaking up the natural beauty and outdoor-adventure opportunities that make the Dominican Republic so appealing. Here are some tips for how to make the most of 48 hours on the northern coast.

Day 1: City and Sea

**Morning:**Take these cool morning hours to explore the town of Puerto Plata and all its historic charms. During a sightseeing tour, you’ll have the chance to visit Fort San Felipe, sip spirits at the Brugal Rum Distillery, tour the Amber Museum, and ride the cable car to the top of Isabel de Torres Mountain for views across the Amber Coast. 

**Afternoon:**Cool off this afternoon with some time in the azure Caribbean waters. Spread out a towel on a local beach or opt for a more active afternoon of snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, Jet Skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing. Tours typically include all necessary equipment, so all you need to do is show up and have fun.

**Night:**After a day of activity, get ready to party like a VIP during a bar crawl to some of the hottest nightlife spots on the northern coast. Leave the driving to someone else as you drink and dance your way from one private table to the next in Puerto Plata, Sousa, and Cabarete.

Day 2: Inland Adventure

**Morning:**The Dominican Republic is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and today is all about exploring the great outdoors. Kick off your day with a short trek to the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, where you can swim, jump, and slide in Mother Nature’s very own waterpark. Alternatively, explore the rugged countryside by dune buggy. 

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, take to the trees to experience the beauty of the Dominican Republic while soaring through the canopy by zipline. For a convenient and budget-friendly day, combine your favorite adventures—such as ziplining, ATV riding, and waterfall hiking—into a single tour.

**Night:**Tonight, treat yourself to an evening of dinner and live entertainment at Ocean World Puerto Plata. This Vegas-style dinner show features intricate costumes and upbeat Caribbean music, paired with an open bar and time to play some slots or dance at the Ocean World disco.

Tucked between the mountains and the ocean on the Dominican Republic’s northern coast, Puerto Plata is considered the birthplace of tourism in the country. While there’s plenty to do in town, the multitude of beaches and biodiverse waters just off shore are highlights. Here are some options for encountering sea life during your stay.   Snorkeling The clear, warm waters of Sosua Bay are home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the region. No experience is needed to join a tour, and equipment—a snorkel, mask, and fins—is typically included. The bay is sheltered by an impressive reef, which keeps the waters calm and provides a habitat for a diverse array of fish. ** Scuba Diving** Those who want to go deeper and get closer to the sea life of Puerto Plata can do so, with or without a scuba certification. New and inexperienced divers will learn the basics in a simulator pool before heading to the ocean to see marine life with a certified instructor, while more experienced divers can opt for a 2-tank dive to see sunken ships and coral reefs off the northern coast.   Catamaran Cruising It’s hard to beat a day of sailing on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Though many catamaran cruises offer passengers opportunities to swim and snorkel, you can also spot marine life from the decks, including dolphins and flying fish.   Whale Watching The Bay of Samana, located within day trip distance of Puerto Plata, welcomes some 1,500 humpback whales to its warm waters each year. During peak season (January to March), it’s one of the best places on earth to spot whales. Whale watching tours to this region often include a horseback ride to El Limon waterfall as well.

Spanish explore Christopher Columbus discovered the island of Hispaniola (which the Dominican Republic shares with Haiti) on his first voyage in 1492, and Santo Domingo was founded by his brother Bartholemy in 1496. The largest city in the Caribbean and the oldest continuously inhabited location in the Americas, Santo Domingo has a modern feel mixed with some of the first outposts of the New World. Here are some top sites that speak to the city’s history.

Columbus Alcazar (Alcázar de Colón)

The entire Zona Colonial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Alcazar is one of the highlights. The building was completed in 1512 and was once the home of Diego Columbus (son of Christopher Columbus), who acted as Governor of Hispaniola, and his wife María de Toledo. The couple’s bedrooms, grand entertaining hall, and intricate inlaid floors are well preserved.

Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colon)

The exact location of Christopher Columbus’ remains are unknown. Some believe he is buried in a tomb in Seville Cathedral in Southern Spain, while others swear that the mausoleum here at the Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colon) is his final resting place. Whatever the case, this huge cross-shaped 10-story building, finished in the 1990s to mark 500 years since the 1492 discovery, is an atmospheric memorial to the great days of exploration.

Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor (Catedral Primera de América)

A lasting reminder of the historically close relationship between the Catholic church and the Spanish state, the Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor was built during the 1500s by a succession of architects. The building that stands today is a combination of Gothic, Romanesque, and baroque styles, and plays its own role in the history of Santo Domingo: The English explorer Francis Drake used the cathedral as his headquarters while briefly gaining possession of the city in the 1580s.

The Dominican Republic province of Puerto Plata may be where Christopher Columbus made his famous landfall in the Americas, but today, the Atlantic-facing region is known for its azure waters, electric-hued coral reefs, and miles of sun-soaked sands. See below for a few of the premier beaches in Puerto Plata.

Sosua Beach

This picturesque, crescent-shaped stretch, about 20 minutes east of Puerto Plata by road, fills with both travelers and locals on weekends. Hang out on the white sands, cruise the turquoise waters by catamaran, or explore the underwater park on a snorkeling excursion. 

Grand Beach (Playa Grande)

This palm tree-fringed beach may look tranquil, but its waters are not for the faint of heart—Playa Grande some of the biggest swells in Puerto Plata. Those who prefer to hang out on the safety of the sand will find plenty of diversions and deals—beachfront vendors are known to sell fresh-caught lobster lunches for under $20.

Golden Beach (Playa Dorada)

Beach-goers who crave a bit of action need look no further than this resort-filled swath of sand, known for its pristine waters and lengthy list of aquatic sports from paddle boarding to snorkeling and deep-sea fishing.

Cofresi Beach

Located west of Puerto Plata, Cofresi is known for its calm, swimmable waters, pristine golden sands, and laid-back beachfront restaurants. Right next door, however, is the Ocean World Adventure Park (in case the kids get bored).

Cabarete Beach

Travelers looking to learn a new skill—be it windsurfing, kiteboarding, or laser sailing—should make a beeline for this sports-centric beach east of Puerto Plata. The seas are regularly dotted with billowing sails, as both travelers and locals catch air out on the water. The beach is also dotted with small hotels, restaurants, and bars perfect for those seeking shade—or that 3pm Presidente beer.

Paradise Key (Cayo Arena)

Paradise Key is not technically a beach but rather a tiny, uninhabited islet off the coast of Puerto Plata where the electric blue sea meets bright white sands. Travelers typically arrive by boat (embarking in Punta Rucia, about a two-hour drive from Puerto Plata) on a full-day excursion. Pull up to the coral-fringed island, dive its crystal-clear waters, and kick back with a local brew—the journey will prove worthwhile.

Samana is a true gem in the Dominican Republic and a worthwhile stop for travelers to the Caribbean. Located on a tiny peninsula in the country’s northwest region, Samana’s rugged outdoor terrain, beautiful beaches and friendly fishing villages are the hallmark of this destination that draws travelers eager to experience a different side of the islands. Three days is enough time to see the sites, relax on the sand and head to untouched regions of one of Dominican Republic’s hidden wonders. 

Day 1: Relax on One of the World’s Best Beaches

Playa Rincon, a pristine stretch of white sand located about 25 kilometers outside of Samana, has been rated among the top beaches in the world and is a favorite stop for travelers. Hop on a minibus or hire a car and venture to this secluded destination, where crystal blue waters and near empty beaches make Rincon feel like an exclusive getaway. Visitors can horseback ride, snorkel or while away the afternoon sipping cold brews from one of the local watering holes. Playa Rincon proves the perfect introduction to the natural beauty (and pure relaxation) this region is known for. 

Day 2: Dig Deep into Samana’s History

Start the day at Taino Park, a tropical island inhabited by Dominican Republic’s indigenous people some 1,500 years ago. Wander the grounds where 25 life-size figures depict the peaceful life and bloody battles of the Taino people before exploring the other exhibits, which include stone carvings and clay pots. Afterwards, head to Las Garelas, a historic fishing village stationed along the coast of Santa Barbara. The palm-lined beaches allow access to some of the country’s best snorkeling, and travelers exploring the streets can talk with locals about their old-world lifestyle in new-world times while sipping cold beers and tucking into plates of fresh boiled lobster. 

Day 3: Venture into Uncharted Lands

Samana is home to a number of untouched destinations that offer travelers an escape from the well-worn tourist path, but perhaps none are as remote as Cabo Cabron National Park. Spend a day venturing into the uniquely beautiful protected reserve, where uninhabited coastlines, rocky cliffs and rugged trails signal a true departure from the chaos of the country’s urban centers. Hire a guide to navigate the challenging trails of this national park, which snake through thick tropical vegetation and winds up challenging passes. After a difficult trek through some of Dominican Republic’s most scenic landscape, cool off in the natural pool tucked inside the park’s hidden volcanic area. It may not be a beautiful beach, but travelers agree it’s an experience that’s not to be missed. 

The city of La Romana has just the right amount of variety when it comes to things to do and see, which makes it easy to spend three days exploring. From relaxing beaches to interesting architecture to nature both above and under the water, you’ll experience a region of vibrant scenery and culture. 

Day 1: Relaxing on the Beach

La Romana has stunning beaches with soft sand that gets lapped up by clear sea water. A visit to this city wouldn't be complete without time spent at one of the beaches, which are generally high on travelers' to-do lists. You have several choices of where to lay down your beach towel while in La Romana, though the wide, pristine coastline of Bayahibe is great for sunbathers and Playa Caleta is the spot for those looking to experience the local way of life.

Day 2: Altos de Chavón

Altos de Chavón is the recreation of a 16th-century Mediterranean village that is focused on keeping the culture of the Dominican Republic alive. Altos de Chavón has stonework that makes for a stellar backdrop to the restaurants, museums and shops that can be found within the little village. 

Day 3: Island Time

Off the coast of La Romana are two small islands perfect for a day trip: Catalina Island and Saona Island. On Catalina Island, you’ll find six square miles of lush beauty and one of the best snorkeling spots in the region. On Saona Island, you can also find good snorkeling, though most visitors choose to spend their time exploring this island's vibrant nature reserve.

Santo Domingo is a city rich with colonial history and New World charm. The capital of Dominican Republic is not only the oldest and largest European city in the Americas, it’s also the most-populated city in the Caribbean. Settled by the Spanish in 1946, this tropical urban center has enough history, culture and cuisine to satisfy almost any traveler.

Day 1: Old World Zona Colonial

Spend a day getting lost in the history (and the streets) of Zona Colonial. Home to Calle de Las Dammas—the oldest paved road in the Americas, as well as a handful of historic churches, Spanish-style homes and quiet town squares—this old school neighborhood takes travelers on a trip through time. Travelers find the idyllic architecture and quieter vibe to be a welcome respite from the rest of this bustling city and agree that a day spent wandering Zona Colonial is a must for visitors to the capital city.

Day 2: Los Tres Ojos

Step outside the city’s manmade wonders and explore Los Tres Ojos, one of Santo Domingo’s most unique—and popular—attractions. This open-air limestone cave houses three beautiful lakes that are accessible by foot or by boat. The blue, green and yellow waters are rich with local wildlife and an impressive natural formation of stalactites and stalagmites are the perfect setting for a relaxing day spent in nature’s beauty.

Day 3: Architectural Highlights

Round out a stay in Santo Domingo with a visit to some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Start the day with a visit to Faro a Colon, a bold and imposing cross-shaped structure that serves as a tribute to one of the world’s most famous explorers. Though not a traditional coastal lighthouse, this well-known building projects a cross-shaped beam of light that can be seen from the shores of nearby Puerto Rico. Next explore the historic Museum of the Royal Houses, which was once home to Dominican Republic’s Spanish administrative offices. Finally, head to Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor—one of the oldest churches in the Americas—for an up close look at classic Gothic and Baroque architecture that nods to the country’s European roots.