Things to Do in the Dominican Republic

Beaches and Resorts

While the image may seem reductive, the Dominican Republic is most often associated with its stunning beaches lined with coconut palms... and resort complexes. It’s true that the DR remains one of the world’s top beach and all-inclusive tourism destinations, attracting the vast majority of its 12 million annual visitors.

You’ll find a vast selection of beaches and resorts, starting with the Punta Cana - La Romana region in the southeast, by far the most tourist-heavy spot, as well as Puerto Plata on the north coast, the Samaná peninsula, and even the east of the capital. There’s also a still largely untouched area with magnificent beaches and wild nature: the southwest coastline running from the city of Barahona to the Haitian border. Peace and a change of scenery are guaranteed... but for how much longer?

Diving

As is often the case in the Caribbean, the waters around the Dominican Republic reveal beautiful seabeds, with rich marine life and flora, coral reefs, caves, and shipwrecks to explore. Most of the island’s resort complexes offer diving activities, snorkeling, and guided underwater excursions. Whatever your preferences, skill level, or budget, you’ll find something to suit.

Other Water Activities

Whale watching: This is one of the "musts" in the Samaná region, with sightings possible roughly from mid-July to mid-March.

Deep-sea fishing: Beyond various annual competitions, boats depart from several resorts for trips to catch barracuda or swordfish, among others.

Watersports: First up is kitesurfing, windsurfing, and surfing. The best opportunities are in Cabarete (in the north) and, to a lesser extent, west of the capital. Around twenty surf spots (and surf camps) are also listed, mainly on the north coast for the best conditions.

Thalassotherapy and Wellness

The Dominican Republic offers high-quality thalassotherapy and wellness services. While most centers are part of resort complexes in beach destinations, they are generally open to non-residents. Note, however, that these services are usually not included in the base price of all-inclusive packages.

Hiking

Hiking

Though the DR has some great hiking opportunities in its central mountain range, including the Pico Duarte for the more experienced, these are often overlooked by visitors. For many, it’s not the image associated with the country, and the options are "far" from the beach resorts.

Cycling

This is an activity that’s starting to grow in the country, especially mountain biking—including now electric bikes—which lets you venture (a little) off the beaten path. The central mountain range and the regions of Cabarete and Samaná are particularly popular for this. That said, while road cycling is possible, it’s best avoided given the dangers of traffic in the country. Otherwise, expect to pay at least the equivalent of 20 € for a day’s bike rental.

Horseback Riding

Most beach resorts have a ranch or equestrian club offering horseback rides, especially beach outings.

Outdoor and Adventure Sports

Golf

The Dominican Republic is a golf destination, as it has the most courses in the region, some of them stunning in beautifully landscaped settings. The one at Casa de Campo, on the outskirts of La Romana, is world-famous. Every beach resort has at least one golf course.

Other Activities

White-water sports: Rafting and canyoning are possible in the central mountain range, particularly around Jarabacoa.

Climbing: Climbing is available in the Samaná area and in the central mountain range.

Caving: The country has many caves, some of which can be explored through caving.

Cultural Life and Activities

Beyond the vibrant local culture and traditions of its people, the Dominican Republic is one of the few Caribbean destinations with a significant historical heritage. First and foremost is the entire colonial old town of the capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nightlife

With or without tourists, Dominican nightlife is lively, revolving around rum and local music like merengue and bachata. In addition to bars and restaurants, nightclubs are plentiful in the capital and beach resorts, with Boca Chica and Cabarete known for their party scenes. Many resort complexes also have a casino.