18 Best Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic
If you’re dreaming of white-sand beaches, Caribbean sunsets, and warm people with even warmer smiles — the Dominican Republic is your paradise waiting to happen.
It’s one of my absolute favorite spots in the Caribbean because it’s not just about the beach (though wow, the beaches are next-level). It’s a country full of history, waterfalls, culture, and nature that surprises you every time you explore deeper.
Whether you’re an all-inclusive traveler or an off-the-map adventurer like me, there’s something here that will make you fall in love with this island over and over again.
Here are the 18 best places to visit in the Dominican Republic — each one offering its own kind of magic.
1. Punta Cana
Let’s start with the most famous — Punta Cana. It’s the go-to destination for beach resorts, clear turquoise waters, and stress-free vacations. Most travelers come here to relax at all-inclusive resorts, but there’s more to do than just lounge.
I snorkeled off the coast, took a catamaran to Isla Saona, and even went ziplining through the tropical forest. The beaches, like Bavaro and Macao, are absolutely stunning with powdery sand and endless palm trees.
It’s perfect for honeymooners, families, or anyone looking to recharge with a cocktail in hand and ocean views on repeat.
2. Santo Domingo
If you love history and colonial charm, Santo Domingo is a must. As the oldest European city in the Americas, the Colonial Zone is packed with cobblestone streets, cathedrals, and architecture that dates back to the 1500s.
I spent hours just wandering and learning about Christopher Columbus’ time here. Don’t miss Alcázar de Colón, the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, and the street art tucked between old stone buildings. There’s also a super cool café culture and vibrant nightlife scene that blends modern vibes with deep-rooted history.
3. Samaná Peninsula
This place felt like a secret paradise. Located in the northeast, Samaná is less touristy but wildly beautiful. It’s all lush rainforest, hidden beaches, and laid-back fishing towns.
I took a boat tour to see humpback whales (best from January to March!), hiked to El Limón Waterfall, and relaxed at Playa Rincon — one of the prettiest, most unspoiled beaches I’ve ever seen. Samaná is a dream for eco-travelers and nature lovers who want that untouched, local vibe with fewer crowds and jaw-dropping landscapes.
4. Las Terrenas
Tucked into the Samaná Peninsula, Las Terrenas is a small beach town with French-Caribbean flair. The mix of Dominican and European influence here makes for incredible food, stylish beachfront bars, and a laid-back but chic atmosphere.
I loved renting a scooter and zipping around to nearby beaches like Playa Bonita and Playa Cosón. The sunsets here are magical, and the vibe is just the right balance of rustic and trendy. It’s a great place for digital nomads, couples, or solo travelers looking for relaxation with a touch of local flavor.
5. Jarabacoa
Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring,” Jarabacoa is up in the mountains and is pure green paradise. It’s cooler than the coast, with pine forests, rivers, and waterfalls everywhere you turn.
I went white-water rafting, hiked to Salto de Jimenoa waterfall, and stayed in a rustic eco-lodge surrounded by birdsong. It’s a peaceful place for adventurers who love hiking, river tubing, or simply chilling in the cooler mountain breeze. You’ll see a totally different side of the DR here — one that feels untouched by mass tourism.
6. Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata blends beach fun with historic charm. Its Malecón (seaside boardwalk) is perfect for evening strolls, and the historic downtown has colorful colonial buildings and cobbled streets.
But the real star is the cable car ride up Mount Isabel de Torres, which gives you sweeping views of the city and coast — plus a Christ the Redeemer statue at the top! I also visited Fort San Felipe and floated in the nearby natural pools of 27 Charcos (more on that soon). It’s a great base if you want to mix beach time with sightseeing.
7. Charcos de Damajagua
If you love waterfalls and don’t mind getting a little soaked, you’ll adore 27 Charcos — a natural waterpark of waterfalls and emerald pools. Located near Puerto Plata, this is one of the most fun and active adventures I’ve ever done in the Caribbean.
You hike through the jungle with a guide, then slide, swim, and jump through a series of cascades. Some jumps are high (I chickened out of the 20-footer!) but it’s all doable with a helmet and life jacket. Go early to beat the crowds, and bring water shoes!
8. Isla Saona
This postcard-perfect island off the southeast coast is what beach dreams are made of. Isla Saona is part of a protected national park and features white sand, bright blue water, and swaying palm trees everywhere. Most people visit via catamaran or speedboat from Bayahibe or Punta Cana.
The trip usually includes a stop at a shallow natural pool where you can see starfish. I spent the day swimming, sipping rum punch, and snapping photos that looked like literal screensavers. It’s touristy, yes — but 100% worth it.
9. Cabarete
If you’re into kiteboarding, windsurfing, or yoga by the sea — Cabarete is your spot. Located on the north coast, it has strong winds that make it ideal for water sports. I tried paddleboarding (and mostly fell off), but the energy here is amazing.
There are beach bars, smoothie shops, and a community of surfers, nomads, and backpackers. At night, the restaurants set up tables right on the sand. It’s social, sporty, and super welcoming.
10. Bayahibe
Bayahibe is a small fishing village that surprised me with its calm beaches and access to incredible diving. It’s quieter than Punta Cana, and the coral reefs here are some of the best in the DR. I did a snorkeling tour and swam with schools of colorful fish and even spotted a sea turtle.
There’s a national park nearby (Parque Nacional del Este), where you can hike or spot wildlife. If you want a relaxed beach town that still has charm and access to natural beauty, Bayahibe is a gem.
11. Boca Chica
Close to Santo Domingo, Boca Chica is a popular beach for locals — and that’s part of what makes it fun. It’s a lively, shallow-water beach lined with seafood shacks, music, and families having picnics.
The water here stays warm and calm, and you can walk far out without going deep. While it’s not the most secluded spot, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick beach fix near the capital. Go during the week if you want fewer crowds.
12. La Romana
Located on the southeastern coast, La Romana is best known for its luxury resorts and beautiful golf courses. But it’s also home to Altos de Chavón — a replica 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River.
It’s filled with stone buildings, artisan shops, and even an amphitheater that hosts concerts. I wandered the cobbled streets, took in the views, and had coffee overlooking the river. Whether you’re staying at Casa de Campo or just visiting for the day, this area blends culture, art, and leisure in a super elegant way.
13. Parque Nacional Los Haitises
Nature lovers, don’t skip Los Haitises National Park. Located in the northeast, this lush, protected area is filled with mangroves, islands, caves, and hidden bays. I did a boat tour through the park and saw pelicans, ancient cave drawings, and towering rock formations rising from the water like something out of a fantasy movie.
It’s remote, mysterious, and one of the most biodiverse spots in the country. If you want an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with raw nature, Los Haitises delivers.
14. Constanza
Think Switzerland, but in the Caribbean. Constanza is another mountain town, known for its cool climate, farmland, and scenic valleys. It’s a great place for hiking, horseback riding, or just unwinding among pine trees and fresh air.
I stayed at a small eco-lodge with flower gardens and stunning sunrise views. The local produce here is amazing — strawberries, veggies, even apples! If you want something totally different from the beach, Constanza is refreshing and full of charm.
15. Monte Cristi
Located in the northwest corner near the Haitian border, Monte Cristi is one of the least-touristed places I visited — and that made it special. It has dry, desert-like hills, hidden beaches, and a dramatic mountain called El Morro that juts into the sea.
I climbed partway up for panoramic views, then spent the day swimming at quiet Playa El Morro. The vibe here is super local and peaceful. It’s perfect for travelers looking to go way off the typical route.
16. Playa Frontón
Accessible only by boat or a long hike, Playa Frontón is wild, remote, and ridiculously gorgeous. It’s located near Las Galeras on the Samaná Peninsula and surrounded by tall cliffs that give it a Jurassic Park kind of feel.
I took a boat out early in the morning, and we had the entire beach to ourselves — white sand, coral reef, and crystal-clear water. There are no services here, so bring snacks and water, but that’s part of the charm. It’s one of the most beautiful “secret” beaches in the DR.
17. Lago Enriquillo
For something totally unexpected, visit Lago Enriquillo — the largest lake in the Caribbean and one of the few places where you can see wild crocodiles in the Americas! Located in the southwest, it’s a saltwater lake below sea level surrounded by arid desert and cactus-studded hills.
I took a guided trip and spotted flamingos, iguanas, and yes — crocodiles sunbathing. It’s not a place to swim, but it’s absolutely fascinating from an ecological standpoint and shows a completely different side of the island.
18. Las Galeras
Last but not least, Las Galeras is a sleepy little village at the far end of the Samaná Peninsula. It’s quiet, super local, and surrounded by dreamy beaches. Playa Rincon is nearby, as well as Playa Madama and Playa Frontón.
I spent a few days here doing absolutely nothing — reading, swimming, and eating fresh-caught fish by the sea. If you’re looking to unplug and slow down in a place that feels authentically Dominican, Las Galeras is pure magic.
Final Thoughts
From lush mountains to turquoise seas, bustling cities to peaceful villages — the Dominican Republic is packed with surprises. It’s so much more than a beach destination (though wow, the beaches alone are worth the trip). I left with a sun-kissed heart, new friends, and unforgettable memories from every corner of the island.
If you’re planning a trip to the DR, let this list guide your adventure — and let your heart lead the rest.
