Dive into sizzling beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes in the stunning Dominican Republic.

Good to know

🤩 Fun Fact: The Dominican Republic is the only place in the world where you can find the Rhinoceros Iguana! 

🏖️ Best Beach: It’s got to be Bávaro Beach, hands down! With soft, white sand, turquoise waves, and the chance to swim with dolphins or snorkel among vibrant reefs, Bávaro is the epitome of paradise. What more could you possibly need? This beach has it all for a picture-perfect escape! 

🍺 Price of a Pint:  Around 250 Dominican Pesos which is approximately €3.92

Destination highlights

• Endless beaches: sunbathe, swim, and soak up the scorchio vibes!

• Lush rainforests: Explore nature's playground, mahoosive and bursting with life.

• Top-notch resorts: Swanky stays guarantee a boujee, 10/10 experience.

• Delish cuisine: Tuck into tantalizing dishes, each bite a fiesta.

💬 Local Lingo 💬

Dom-Rep's main language is Spanish, so if you're looking to meet your new Amigas Cheetahs, try some of these phrases and you could be on to a winner...

Hi - Hola 

Bye - Adiós 

How are you? - Cómo estás 

Thank you – Gracias 

You’re Welcome - De nada 

How much is it? - Cuánto cuesta 

Getting Around on your holidays to Dominican Republic

🚗 Public Cars
Public cars, or shared taxis, are a budget-friendly way to travel, especially for solo travellers or small groups. They typically fit 2–3 extra passengers, so expect a snug ride. Fares are around 50 pesos (1 USD), and you’ll need small change to pay as you board. Just let the driver know your stop when you get in.

🚐 Guaguas (Minibuses)
Guaguas are ideal for groups or longer trips, acting as a cross between a bus and a van. Routes are displayed on the windshield (e.g., “Puerto Plata - Sosua”), making it easy to spot your ride. Fares are usually 100–150 pesos for inter-city travel. Each guagua has a fare-keeper who handles payments and can assist with stops and directions if needed.

💡 Top Tips for Public Transit
Carry exact change for fares, as drivers often don’t provide change. Always confirm your stop with the driver when boarding to avoid confusion.

🚖 Taxis
Taxis are a convenient and flexible way to get around, easily arranged through hotels or local taxi services. Recognisable by their rooftop signs, they are great for both short trips and longer excursions. Confirm fares upfront to avoid surprises. For quick stops, drivers typically charge an extra 100 pesos per 10 minutes of waiting time. If you’re planning a multi-stop day, negotiate a daily rate, which usually ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 pesos. Payment is made at the end of your trip, offering flexibility if plans change.

🚌 Cross-Country Buses
For longer journeys, cross-country buses are reliable, affordable, and comfortable. CaribeTours, the largest operator, covers most of the country and even offers routes to Haiti. Metro Bus and Expreso Bávaro cater to popular destinations like Puerto Plata and Punta Cana. Fares typically range between 100 and 600 pesos, depending on the distance. Tickets can be purchased at bus terminals or booked online for convenience.

Where is the best area to stay in the Dominican Republic?

Whatever your style, a holiday to Dominican Republic has a spot for you. Whether you’re coupling up, bringing the kiddos, or living it up with your mates, here’s where to make your stay unforgettable...

For Couples – Looking to escape with your boo? Samaná Peninsula is the dream, with secluded beaches, lush rainforests, and waterfalls perfect for romantic adventures. From January to March, you can even whale-watch together—how’s that for a date idea? Or head to La Romana and Bayahibe for luxury resorts, candlelit dinners, and dreamy snorkelling trips to Catalina Island. Romantic vibes on your couples holiday, sorted.

For Families – Punta Cana is family holiday heaven, with all-inclusive resorts, calm beaches, and activities galore. The Bávaro area is especially great for little ones with its gentle waves and fun-filled resorts. Puerto Plata is another winner for families who love a mix of beach and adventure—don’t miss the Damajagua waterfalls for a day of hiking and swimming.

For Groups – If you’re rolling deep with your crew, Santo Domingo is where it’s at. Explore the vibrant Colonial Zone by day and dive into buzzing nightlife by night. For something more chilled, Punta Cana has everything from water sports to party spots to keep the whole squad happy. And for an adventurous twist, head to Puerto Plata for hiking and zip-lining that’s bound to bring on the laughs. Whatever your poison, Dom-Rep is the perfect pick for a group holiday.

Holidays to Dominican Republic 2025 - best beaches

The Dominican Republic is your go-to for some of the Caribbean's most dazzling beaches. From lively stretches buzzing with activities to serene shores tucked away from it all, whether it's a jolly summer holiday, or you wanna scoop up some winter sun, there's a sun-drenched slice of paradise waiting for every type of beach bum. So lets get into some of our fave beaches in the Dominican Republic that are gonna have your whole Insta-feed feeling well jel...

• Bávaro Beach, Punta Cana: Iconic for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and super soft white sands, Bávaro is where it's at! With loads of resorts, eateries, and shops, it’s perfect for sun-seekers looking to mix chill vibes with a touch of buzz.

• Playa Rincón, Samaná: Often hitting those top world beach lists, Playa Rincón is a real gem with miles of pristine sands set against lush green backdrops. It's a bit off the beaten path, ideal if you’re after some proper peace and quiet.

• Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata: A family fave and a paradise for water sports fanatics, this beach backs onto mountains and is decked out with everything from golf clubs to snorkelling spots.

• Playa Frontón, Samaná: Tucked away and best reached by boat, Playa Frontón is a dream for underwater enthusiasts with its spotless waters and colourful sea life, all framed by stunning cliffs.

• Playa Boca Chica, Santo Domingo: Close to the capital and kid-friendly with its calm, shallow waters thanks to a protective coral reef, this beach is buzzing with local life and tasty Dominican eats.

• Playa Juanillo, Cap Cana: If you’re looking to dodge the crowds and enjoy a chill, picturesque day by the sea, Playa Juanillo offers soft sands and clear blue skies, perfect for a lazy day or a romantic evening stroll.

• Playa Bahoruco, Barahona: Calling all surfers! With its steady waves and pebbly shores, Playa Bahoruco is a whopper spot for catching a wave or just soaking up the rugged, natural vibes.

The best hotels to stay at on your Dominican Republic holidays 2025

From swanky resorts with the best all inclusive, to charming beachfront stays that are perfect for some bliss with a dash of luxury, Dominican Republic holidays offer a variety of top-tier accommodations no matter what you're looking for. Here are some of our faves:

• Whala!boca Chica - Lush pools, an outdoor gym and the tastiest of tasty cuisine from the three on-site restaurants, it's giving gorge vibes.

• Bahia Principe Grand La Romana - Luxurious resort with sprawling grounds, top-notch dining, and activities for all ages - it ticks all the boxes, what more could you ask for?

• Barcelo Bavaro Palace - Family-friendly resort featuring a golf course (we hear the dads cheering), water park, and tonnes of delish dining options.

• Iberostar Selection Coral Bavaro - Exclusive, upscale experience with personalised service, gourmet dining, and stunning beachfront views, yeah, that's what the luxe life is all about.

• Caribe Club Princess - All-inclusive paradise with lush gardens, diverse dining, and plenty of entertainment options perfect for the whole fam.

Your Dominican Republic holiday travel guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do for families in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a family-friendly haven bursting with activities that’ll keep everyone entertained. Start your adventure at Manati Park in Punta Cana, where the little ones can get up close and personal with dolphins, parrots, and even iguanas. Take a family trip to Dolphin Explorer for a day of swimming with these friendly creatures and learning about marine life. For a bit of educational fun, visit the National Aquarium in Santo Domingo, which offers fascinating exhibits and touch pools.

Scape Park at Cap Cana is a must-visit with its zip lines, water caves, and jungle trails that promise endless thrills - but more on this later. Lastly, unwind at Bavaro Adventure Park, where everyone can enjoy activities like paintball, bungee trampolines, and a Dino World perfect for the kids. It’s a great mix of fun, learning, and adventure that the whole gang will love.

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to do for couples in the Dominican Republic

Couples seeking a romantic escape will find a Dominican Republic holiday brimming with dreamy activities. Begin your journey with a sunset cruise along the Punta Cana coastline, where you can sip champagne and watch the sky turn into a palette of vibrant colours. Or, maybe you fancy a stroll hand-in-hand through the charming streets of the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, soaking up the rich history and stunning architecture.

Indulge in a couples’ massage at one of the swanky beachside spas, like the Six Senses Spa at Puntacana Resort & Club, for a blissful, relaxing experience. Take a horseback ride on the beach at Puerto Plata, where the sound of the waves and the feel of the warm sand create the perfect romantic setting. Cap off your day with a candlelit dinner at a seaside restaurant like La Yola, offering gourmet cuisine and stunning ocean views.

🏝️ Things to do for groups in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is perfect for groups looking for a mix of adventure, fun, and relaxation. Start your group escapade with a catamaran party cruise in Punta Cana, complete with snorkelling, dancing, and tropical drinks. Explore the 27 Charcos de Damajagua, where you can hike, slide, and jump through a series of refreshing waterfalls – an absolute thrill for adventure seekers.

For a cultural twist, take a day trip to Saona Island with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for lounging and beach games. Visit the Cueva de las Maravillas, a stunning cave system near La Romana, for a guided tour that showcases ancient Taino petroglyphs. Round off your day with a lively night out at the Coco Bongo Show & Disco in Punta Cana, where acrobatics, live performances, and dance floors promise a night of unforgettable fun.

🪼 Things to do for foodies in the Dominican Republic

Foodies, rejoice! Holidays to Dominican Republic are a culinary paradise ready to be explored. Start your gastronomic journey with a visit to a local food market, like Mercado Modelo in Santo Domingo, to sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Dominican dishes such as mofongo and sancocho.

For breakfast, indulge in a hearty plate of mangu con los tres golpes at a local eatery. Head to the coast for a seafood feast at Jellyfish Beach Restaurant in Punta Cana, where the catch of the day is always fresh. Don’t miss out on trying Chimichurri burgers from a street vendor – a local favourite! In the evening, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at La Residence, a top-tier restaurant offering a fusion of Dominican and French cuisines, ensuring your taste buds are in for a proper treat. Looking for more foodie options? Keep reading and we'll hit you with our best recs.

More Caribbean holidays:

• Antigua

• Bahamas

• Barbados

• Cuba

• Jamaica

• St Lucia

• Tobago