Are you stuck trying to plan your next vacation? Looking for something original to inspire you? We’ve got you covered if you’re seeking a Caribbean adventure brimming with discoveries and memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are four reasons to make the Dominican Republic your next vacation destination.
The Beaches
If your ideal vacation includes sun, sand, and Instagram-worthy selfies, grab your towels and park yourself on one of the Dominican Republic’s glorious beaches. Travel to the small town of Bavaro in Punta Cana, where you can relax on the unspoiled sands of Bavaro Beach, one of the Caribbean’s most popular beach strips that stretches up to 10 Kilometres along the coastline. Enjoy an ice-cold beverage from one of the chic beach bars as you admire the crystal-clear waters. Do not forget to get a Punta Cana e Ticket before your departure to make your entry and exit from the Dominican Republic seamless.
If you’d prefer a quieter setting away from other tourists, venture into Samana Peninsula, where you’ll find the small village of Las Galeras. Las Galeras has avoided mass tourism so far, but it still has plenty of charm, with several restaurants and hotels to enjoy. It also has incredible beaches and is a popular fishing spot. You can also participate in snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, hiking, and horseback tours.
Or, if you’re on a family holiday, check out Boca Chica Beach, located 20 miles east of the capital city of Santo Domingo on the southern coast of Hispaniola Island. Here, you can indulge in swimming, sailing, and beach volleyball. The water is also calmer and shallower, ideal for young children.
The Waterfalls
One of the biggest draws to this island paradise is its stunning waterfalls. Take a break from the beaches and go exploring through the lush greenery. Scattered throughout the vast countryside are hidden waterfalls, tucked away and just waiting to be uncovered. Some of the most notable waterfalls include:
- 27 Charcos
- Salto de Jimena
- Rio Chavon
- Baiguate Salto Waterfall
- El Salto del Limon
- El Limon
- Damajagua Waterfalls
- Parada La Manzana
These spectacular cascades aren’t just pretty to look at; make sure you dip in these cool waters to refresh after your trek!
The Resorts
If you want your resort to embrace more of the island’s natural beauty, then book the Natura Park Beach Eco Resort & Spa Hotel, located on the beachfront of Cabeza de Toro Beach. The resort is distinctive for its native plants and wildlife and its idyllic bridges over lagoons, making it an exceptionally romantic setting for couples.
And for weary parents looking to offload their restless kids, don’t stress – there is a Nickelodeon Hotel in Punta Cana! This is a haven for kids, packed with game rooms, a water park, dance parties, and a must-see Spongebob-themed Pineapple Villa.
The Food
One of the best ways to embrace some authentic Dominican culture is to sample their delicious cuisine. Try some mangú, the quintessential breakfast food (and a must-have if you’re a fan of fried food). Served with fried eggs, fried cheese, fried salami, and a slice of avocado (not fried!), this dish is known as ‘Los Tres Golpes,’ aka, ‘The Triple Punch.’
Another local favorite is sancocho, a hearty stew that is also a popular hangover cure. Made up of several ingredients, including chicken, pork, potatoes, onions, and yam, and served with a side of white rice, it can be found on most restaurant menus.
Should you find yourself craving something sweet, try some habichuelas con dulce. A liquid dessert made from coconut milk, condensed milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, salt, red kidney beans, sweet potatoes, and raisins, it’s then served in a big pot. And the best part? It’s garnished with cookies. Keep an eye out for it at local pastry shops.
