Dominican Republic Holidays

Santo Domingo – Explore the city’s historic Colonial Zone – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then visit the Alcazar de Colon and the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor.

The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua – Go for a hike then cool off for a swim at the bottom of the waterfall – the rock formations here have become natural water slides.

Saona Island – Part of the Cotubamaná National Park and known for its natural beauty, plus the beaches’ coral reefs and marine life are great for snorkelling.

Los Haitises National Park – Take a boat tour through the mangroves, explore the ancient caves, and go birdwatching to see rare species like the brown pelican and frigatebird.

Zipline through the forest – If you fancy something more active, zip-lining through the jungle is an easy way to add a bit of action to your day. Glide above the treetops and rivers, with wide views across the surrounding landscape.

The Cave of Wonders – A large underground cave system, famous for its prehistoric rock carvings and paintings by the island’s indigenous people. Check out the natural formations like stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers.

Whale-watching in Samana Bay – Every year between January and March, wild humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Samana Bay to breed and give birth – join a guided boat tour to try and see them.

Carnival, February – La Vega Carnival is the largest and most famous carnival in the Dominican Republic, dating back to the 1500s. It’s on every Sunday in February, with the grand finale on the last weekend. Local celebrations often feature lively parades, traditional costumes and dancing to Dominican music, including merengue.

Local markets – Support small businesses and shop at Mercado Modelo in Santo Domingo. Sample fresh tropical fruit, buy local coffee and pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs to take home.

Baseball game – Baseball’s the national sport, and it plays a big part in everyday life for many locals. Visit the stadium in Santo Domingo to catch a Winter League game or go to one of the grass-roots games in the smaller towns.

Romantic beaches – The beaches here are considered some of best in the Caribbean, so they’re a good option for spending quality time with your partner. Places like Punta Cana and Playa Bonita are popular options, or choose the more secluded Bahia de las Aguilas for some one-on-one time.

Luxury resorts – The Caribbean is known for its luxury resorts, so they’re a popular choice for honeymoons. You’ll find VIP suites, swim-up rooms, beachfront locations and relaxing spas. Plus, most of these resorts are adults-only, too.

Cultural, history and nature – Immerse yourself in the local food culture, including fried fish, rice dishes and grilled plantain, or head out on a daytrip to pretty fishing villages and UNESCO sites. If you prefer a bit of action, go zip-lining through the rainforest.

Family-friendly beaches – Playa Bavaro in Punta Cana and Playa Dorada in Puerto Plata are favourites for their calm surf, warm waters and spacious beaches, plus they have handy facilities nearby like restaurants and bars.

Adventure and nature – Join a guided hike through the jungle, then go swimming at a waterfall. You can also book a boat tour through the mangroves and caves in Los Haitises National Park or take a group kiteboarding lesson in Cabarete.

Cultural and educational experiences – Visit the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo and explore its ancient fortresses, museums and beautiful plazas. Many towns also do guided tours to coffee plantations, sugarcane fields and cacao farms.

Nightlife – Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are home to lively beach clubs, regular parties and live music.

Outdoor adventures – There are loads of activities for everyone to get involved in – from ATV tours, zip-lining and group hikes to paddle-boarding, kayaking and boat trips.

Golf and fishing trips – Visit golf courses like Teeth of the Dog in La Romana, or if you’re into fishing, Punta Cana’s a popular spot for deep-sea fishing trips.

Destination events – The Dominican Republic is a popular option for hen parties, stag dos and weddings, thanks to its lively parties, beautiful beaches and luxury resorts.

Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana – This beach is known for its white sand, crystal-clear waters and colourful reefs. You can do watersports here, like paddle-boarding, kiteboarding and snorkelling, as well as parasailing and catamaran tours.

Playa Rincon, Samana Peninsula – A secluded bay with white sand and mountain views. It’s more off-the-beaten-track than the popular beaches, but the peaceful atmosphere is worth the journey.

Bahia de las Aguilas – Part of Jaragua National Park, this beach is full of natural beauty – it’s been left undeveloped and is more remote, so you’ll need to hire a 4X4 or to catch a boat from the nearby village of La Cueva to get there.

Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata – This golden beach on the northern coast is close to the city of Puerto Plata. The area is known for its calm waters that are great for swimming and watersports, like kayaking, sailing and windsurfing.

Playa Macao, Punta Cana – This beach is popular with surfers, as it gets some of the best waves on the island. But if you’re not into surfing, you can take an ATV tour along the coastline.

Playa Encuentro, Cabarete – You’ll find consistent waves that are great for beginner and advanced surfers, with surf schools right on the sand for lessons and rentals.

Snorkelling – The coral reefs and clear waters in Cayo Arena, Saona Island and Playa Fronton make them the island’s best spots for snorkelling.

Wreck diving – La Caleta Underwater National Park, Monte Cristi and Bayahibe are good choices if you want to explore shipwrecks, including the St George Wreck, which sank in 1999.

Beginner diving – Catalina Island, Playa Sosa and Punta Cana are all great for first-time divers, thanks to their easy-to-access reefs, calm waters and shallow sites.

Mangu – A traditional Dominican breakfast dish made with mashed green plantains, usually served alongside fried cheese, eggs and Dominican salami.

La Bandera Dominicana – The national dish of the Dominican Republic, made of rice, red beans and meat – usually chicken, beef or pork – served with salad and fried plantain.

Sancocho – A traditional stew often cooked for family gatherings and special occasions. It combines different meats with root vegetables and plantains, creating a slow-cooked dish that is typically served with rice and avocado.

Seafood – Fresh seafood features heavily on the menu here. You’ve got Pescado Frito – a whole fried fish served with rice, beans and salad. For something lighter, ceviche uses raw fish cured in citrus juices.

Chicharrón – Pork belly that is seasoned and fried until crisp, usually served with yuca or plantains for a simple, satisfying dish.

Mamajuana – A traditional local drink made by infusing rum, red wine and honey with tree bark, herbs and spices.

Presidente beer – A light Dominican lager that you will find in most bars.

Morir Soñando – A creamy, non-alcoholic drink made with orange juice, milk, sugar and ice. It’s a popular choice on hot days.

Jugo de chinola – This fresh passionfruit juice is one of the most common soft drinks in the Dominican Republic. It has a sharp, sweet flavour and is usually served over ice.

Coco Bongo, Punta Cana – This popular venue is more than a standard nightclub – it combines music with live shows and acrobatic performances.

Imagine Cave, Punta Cana – A nightclub set inside a network of natural caves, with several dance floors and different music styles, including reggaeton and electronic.

Jellyfish Beach Club, Punta Cana – A more relaxed option right on the beach – it operates as a restaurant during the day, then shifts into a bar in the evening, with DJs and a laidback atmosphere overlooking the sea.