DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: LUSH | DIVERSE | LIVELY
 SEE & DO: PALACIO NACIONALNational Palace, Santo Domingo - This magnificent building, furnished with gilt mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and art from prominent Dominican artists, is an absolute treasure. It is not regularly open to the public so ask your hotel to help make arrangements. Photo by: Jean-Marc Astesana | Flickr |  SEE & DO: MONUMENTO A LOS HÉROESMonumento a Los Héroes de la Restauración/Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, Santiago - The city’s most recognizable monument is a memorial to those who kept the country independent in the 19th century. From its hilltop location, it has spectacular views of the city. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  STAY: EDEN ROC AT CAP CANAThis boutique resort is a private sanctuary which offers 34 free-standing suites, each with its own swimming pool and spa area. Experience the glamorous influence of the French and Italian Riviera resorts in a beautiful Caribbean paradise. |
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 STAY: CASA DE CAMPOA tropical gem on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, this property is a playground of unsurpassed amenities, dining options, and entertainment. Arrive at the on-site heliport or sail into the marina & yacht club for a first-class experience. |  STAY: GANSEVOORTRelish the tropical landscape, private beach, and crystal clear waters of this seaside hotel. Indulge in your private plunge pool or rooftop hot tub at this modern and sophisticated getaway. This is what paradise in the Caribbean feels like. |  STAY: SUBLIME SAMANÁThis modern yet elegant luxury resort is tucked away in the unspoiled tropical paradise of the Samana Peninsula. Relax in the warm sea breezes and soothing sounds of waves lapping on the sand. |
 STAY: TORTUGA BAYDesigned by Dominican Republic native Oscar de la Renta, enjoy the unparalleled service offered throughout this luxurious boutique hotel. With magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea, stroll throughout the property in style while the evening turndown service prepares a flower-petal-filled bath just for you. |  EAT: EZE BAR AND RESTAURANTFeaturing an eclectic menu during the day, this chic beach bar and restaurant transforms into a romantic getaway spot with a Mediterranean-inspired menu every evening. Watch the sunset while you sip on a hand-crafted cocktail. |  EAT: LA CAVADesigned for today’s wine connoisseur, only six people at a time can dine in this exclusive and unique restaurant. Boasting one of the best wine collections in the Caribbean, prepare yourself to be surrounded by hundreds of bottles in this private dining experience. |
 EAT: LA PALAPAOne of the best restaurants in the Punta Cana area, savor the fresh seafood, Italian specialties, and Asian fusion dishes as you enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. |  EAT: LA YOLASet on stilts on the Caribbean Sea, this al fresco eatery is designed to inspire the feeling of being on a yola, or small fishing boat. Serving the freshest Mediterranean cuisine and seafood, indulge in the Punta Cana ceviche and the fresh catch of the day. |  EAT: PASSION PARADISUS PALMA REALSeafood-heavy Spanish cuisine paired with exquisite wines, create a sophisticated fine dining experience in a tropical paradise. Indulge in your favorite dish or treat yourself to a sampling menu to delight your taste buds. |
 DRINKS: BAIAThe roof-top bar at the Gansevoort hotel has a breathtaking panoramic view that should not be missed. Pair your refreshing cocktail with the delectable Asian-fusion cuisine and soak in the beauty of the surrounding beach. |  DRINKS: DON QUECO CIGAR BARSink into one of the soft leather couches at this relaxing cigar bar. Enhance your experience with a glass of premium Dominican rum. |  DRINKS: LULUSpend an evening at this stylish tasting bar in Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial. Showcasing amazing classic drinks, start with a rum cocktail featuring refreshing tropical flavors of pineapple and mint. |
 DRINKS: LUNA TAPAS BARSip on a fresh mango mojito or treat yourself to a tasting session of some of the Dominican Republic's finest rums. Add a few bites from the tapas menu and savor the evening. |  SEE & DO: PLAYA GRANDE GOLF COURSEAlong the picturesque coastline is this sprawling world-class golf course known as "Pebble Beach of the Caribbean” by the golf community. This 7,085-yard course has 10 holes and amazing views of cliff-side fairways and sloping greens. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE: CATEDRAL PRIMADA DE AMERICAFirst Cathedral in the Americas, Zona Colonial - This is the oldest church in operation in the Americas, with impressive vaulted ceilings and numerous interior chapels. Visitors can explore numerous paintings, old woodwork, furniture, sculptures, and tombstones. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |
 SEE: MONASTERIO DE SAN FRANCISCOSan Francisco Monastery, Zona Colonial - This monastery originally consisted of three connecting chapels. Today it stands as dramatic ruins that have been subjected to decades of hurricanes. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE & DO: CUEVA DE LAS MARAVILLASCave of Miracles/Cave of Wonders, La Romana – Navigate footpaths and explore walls decorated with several hundred pictographs drawn by native Taíno Indians. These caves are expertly lit to show off stalactites, stalagmites, tapestries, pisoliths and columns found in this natural wonder. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE & DO: ALTOS DE CHAVÓNAltos De Chavón Village, La Romana - Stroll along the cobblestone streets of this 16th century replica of a Mediterranean village perched high above the Chavón River. This architectural marvel is home to artistic creativity and cultural expression in the Dominican Republic. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |
 SEE & DO: ISLA SAONASaona Island, La Romana – Off the southern coast of the Dominican Republic is a small tropical island with swaying palm trees, white sand, and clear turquoise waters. Sail around the island, swim in the natural pools, and snorkel in the surrounding waters that are rich in biodiversity. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE & DO: TOWN OF PUNTA CANAKnown for its beautiful beaches like the palm-lined Bavaro and world-class golf courses, this large town is one of most popular tourist areas on the island. Spend the day zip-lining, windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing. Relax in the evenings at one of the many lavish resorts. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE: PARQUE NACIONAL LOS HAITISESLos Haitises National Park, Samaná – Mangrove trees form a lush, green canopy above the watery swamps of this protected park. Explore the sinkholes, caverns, and pristine islets scattered along the length of the coast. Photo by: Anton Bielousov | Wikimedia Commons |
 SEE & DO: DAMAJAQUA CASCADES27 Waterfalls, Puerto Plata – Hike to a series of twenty-seven waterfalls in the middle of an exotic rainforest. While most visitors jump from the top of the waterfalls into the sparkling pools below, you will sometimes find smooth chutes where you can slide down into the pools. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE & DO: FORTALEZA SAN FELIPEFort San Felipe, Puerto Plata - This is the oldest building in Puerto Plata. It was originally used to protect the city from pirates and buccaneers, and was also used for some time as a prison. Today, it is a museum that houses military artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |  SEE & DO: MOUNT ISABEL DE TORRESIsabel De Torres National Park, Puerto Plata - Take a cable car to the top of the enormous Pico Isabel de Torres where you will find a flower-filled botanic garden featuring all the flora of the country, a massive replica of Rio de Janerio’s Christ the Redeemer, and spectacular views of the city. Photo by: Dominican Ministry |
 SEE & DO: CIGARRERÍA LA AURORALa Aurora Cigar Factory, Santiago - Pay a visit to the oldest cigar factory founded in 1903. Producing more than 850 million cigars per year, the factory tour will leave you with an appreciation of the numerous blends offered to cigar aficionados worldwide. Photo By: Mstyslav Chernov | Wikimedia |  SPA: CYGALLE HEALING SPAOffering both indoor and outdoor spa services, this eco-friendly sanctuary uses 100% natural body-treatment products made from indigenous ingredients. As an added touch, they are made exclusively in small batches at the on-site spa pharmacy. |  SPA: GANSEVOORTOne of the newest spas in the Dominican Republic, guests are treated to an extensive menu of island spa therapies to rejuvenate the body and cleanse the mind. |
 SPA: SIX SENSESWith services based on Asian philosophy, treat yourself to a luxurious bath for complete and total relaxation. Surrounded by turquoise waters and a pristine white sandy beach, the Zen ambiance is extended to outdoor massage and treatment cabanas. |  SHOP: CACAOEl Sendero del Cacao, is an organic cacao plantation in San Francisco de Macoris which offers tours of its lands and facilities. Learn from their experts on each of the steps necessary to make quality cacao, and don’t forget to sample a taste of their savory chocolate! |  SHOP: CIGARSThe tobacco industry has had a long history in the Dominican Republic, making hand-rolled Dominican cigars one of the more popular souvenirs. Pick up selection of premium cigars on your visit to the largest handmade cigar factory in the world. |
 SHOP: FACELESS DOLLSOne of the most famous handicrafts are the traditional faceless dolls. Created to reflect the mixture of the many races in the Dominican Republic, each doll is handmade and hand-painted making each one unique. Photo By: creATive809 | Flickr |  SHOP: LARIMARFound only in the Dominican Republic, Larimar is a precious stone mined in a volcanic mountain range in the south of the country. Its varied shades of blues and greens mirrors the colors of the sea and makes for breathtaking jewelry. Photo By: Larimar-Stone | Flickr |
Discovered in 1492 by Christopher Columbus, the country is brimming with an intriguing history, rich museums and enlightening cultural experiences. The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation that shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti to the west. The country has a rich Spanish colonial history going back 500 years. Today it is known for its pristine beaches, warm turquoise waters, and natural beauty. Carnival is celebrated widely in February and it is a colorful and memorable event.
The all-inclusive nature of resorts throughout the island leave little to be desired as they are home to spectacular restaurants, heavenly spas, world-class golf courses and a myriad of watersports. Locally sourced Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, amber and larimar make great gifts.
Links take you directly to the establishment's site. For point-to-point directions, check out our custom Google Map.
BEFORE YOU GO
GETTING AROUND
Fly in to the privately owned Punta Cana International Airport located within the Punta Cana Resort and Club. Taxis are readily available and reliable, though there is also airport transportation you can pre-book. Public transportation comes in many forms though none will be as comfortable as renting a car.
STAY
All-inclusive luxury is the norm in the Dominican Republic. The country’s lavish resorts are plentiful and full of amenities to meet your every need. Most of these resorts are located in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, but wherever you go, a relaxing stay is guaranteed.
Casa de Campo
Eden Roc at Cap Cana
Gansevoort
Sublime Samaná
Tortuga Bay
EAT
Since the Dominican Republic was formerly a Spanish colony, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Spanish cooking. Indigenous Taíno and African influences also feature heavily on the menu. With its own Caribbean flair, savor the herbs and spices used in dishes prepared “a la criolla” or “guisado.”
La Palapa
La Yola
Passion, Paradisus Palma Real
DRINKS
Nightlife is lively and festive. Follow the locals to the favored nightclub of the evening and prepare to dance merengue into the early morning hours. If sipping cocktails by the shore is more your speed, you can count on a good selection of bars to meet your needs.
SEE & DO
The Dominican Republic is rich with history from the first European city in the Americas to the beautiful plazas found throughout the island. Watersports are abundant, golf courses are unparalleled, and merengue dancing is part of everyday life. You can swim in sparkling pools below cascading waterfalls, zip-line over tropical jungles, and enjoy hiking through caves decorated by natural limestone crystals. It is no wonder that this is one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean.
Santo Domingo
Alcázar de Colón - Columbus Alcazar
El Malecón - Oceanfront Promenade
Jardín Botánico - National Botanical Gardens
Palacio Nacional - National Palace
Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos - The 3 Eyes National Park
Plaza De La Cultura - Cultural Plaza
Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo
Catedral Primada de America - First Cathedral in the Americas
Monasterio de San Francisco - San Francisco Monastery
Museo de las Casas Reales - Museum of the Royal Houses
Zona Colonial - Colonial City of Santo Domingo (UNESCO)
La Romana
Altos de Chavón - Altos de Chavón Village
Cueva de las Maravillas - Cave of Miracles/Cave of Wonders
Playa Dominicus - Dominicus Beach
Parque Nacional del Este - National Park Of The East
Punta Cana
Samaná
Parque Nacional los Haitises - Los Haitises National Park
Cascada Salto el Limón - Salto el Limón Waterfall
Puerto Plata
Damajaqua Cascades - 27 Waterfalls
El Teleférico De Puerto Plata - Cable Car Of Puerto Plata
Fortaleza San Felipe - Fort San Felipe
Mount Isabel De Torres - Isabel De Torres National Park
Santiago
Cigarrería La Aurora - La Aurora Cigar Factory
SPA
Serene and modern facilities welcome you to the spas of the Dominican Republic. Rejuvenating treatments and classic massages are an enjoyable treat to compliment the hot Caribbean days.
SHOP
The Dominican Republic is known for its distinctive rum varieties, Arabica coffee, rich cacao, and hand-rolled cigars. The country is also home to the popular faceless dolls which represent the diverse array of people from the island.
Yellow, honey-colored amber is found here. This amber is also available in smaller quantities of red, green, and the extraordinary blue amber. Another local find includes Larimar, a rare blue variety of crystal, found exclusively in the Dominican Republic.