To help tourists: what kind of sea is in the Dominican Republic? Dominican Republic.

11.01.2019

The Dominican Republic, or simply Dominican Republic, occupies most of the island of Haiti, and also has a number of small islands under its jurisdiction, which looks extremely attractive from the point of view of tourist recreation. Being the second largest state in the West Indies (after Cuba), the Dominican Republic has a long coastline - almost 1,300 kilometers, which indicates an impressive number of large and small resorts. Since the Dominican lands are washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, travelers often have questions - are there any differences between these coasts, what are they, and in this case, which part of the Dominican Republic is better to prefer for a vacation? Let's try to figure it out.

Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic

The Atlantic Ocean washes northern and eastern parts Dominican Republic. The very first thing that can be said about the resorts located on these shores is that they should be the first choice for all windsurfers, advanced divers and devotees of other marine activities. The Atlantic carries stormy waves, and if the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic is covered by an extended shield of coral reef, then on the northern shores, it happens that tourists do not even risk swimming for several days.

Geographically to northern part The Atlantic coastline includes the coastline from the border with Haiti to the Samana Peninsula. Another unique feature of the region is that in a relatively small area there are many climatic zones. On the western "outskirts" of the northern coast it is very dry - even arid. The terrain here is quite monotonous and flat. Vegetation does not tend to rise either: green spaces are represented mainly by shrubs. The apparent dullness of the area is diluted by two magnificent national parks with thickets of outlandish mangroves and beautiful sea views.

The piece of land between Cofresí and Nagua is also called the Amber Coast due to its rich deposits of amber. Golden beaches here are interspersed with lush mountain forests, which is why most of the hotels on the northern coast are concentrated in this region. Mountain biking, horse riding, ocean fishing, surfing, diving and other extreme sports are most widespread here. Speaking of diving: the Dominican Republic is generally considered the best place in the Caribbean for snorkeling and scuba diving: the coral reefs and underwater meadows in this region are distinguished by an amazing diversity of flora and fauna (the local waters are home to beautiful tropical fish and stingrays, even manatees and humpbacks swim whales!), the bottom topography is very picturesque and rich in cavernous formations, but the most interesting and exciting thing came to the bottom from the surface - these were sunken ships of various eras. Over the past half century, about four hundred ships have been in disaster in the region, so there is plenty for divers to admire. It is not surprising that under such conditions, in any resort in the Dominican Republic, a reputable diving center will be waiting for you, or even more than one. The Atlantic coast of the country is worth choosing for experienced divers, but beginners can practice and gain experience in the much calmer waters of the Caribbean Sea.

The Samana Peninsula ends the northern part of the Atlantic coast. Perhaps this is the most picturesque part of not only the Dominican Republic, but the entire Caribbean. This is exactly how we usually imagine an exotic paradise: many kilometers of deserted expanses of white sand, tired coconut palms tilting over turquoise water. While relaxing on Samana in January-March, you can see whales splashing in the distance: at this time they swim here from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to reproduce.


The best resorts on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata

The heart of the northern Dominican Republic, the place where Christopher Columbus landed, is Puerto Plata, located along the Amber Coast. This resort is the second most popular in the Dominican Republic after Punta Cana, although it is strikingly different from it: here you can relax in silence, relax, enjoy nature and learn how to tame the Atlantic wave on a surfboard. Fans of active nightlife in Puerto Plata will certainly be disappointed by the long and unsuccessful search for a working discotheque. Founded at the end of the 15th century, the city invites its guests to explore a number of ancient buildings (the old city center, the fort and the Cathedral of San Felipe) and visit several good museums. The main wealth of the resort is given to it by nature. For example, Isabel de Torres is the highest mountain in this area, the top of which can be reached by car, on foot or by cable car. From the top of Isabel de Torres, with outstretched arms, looking at the city... the statue of Christ the Redeemer! A smaller copy of the masterpiece from Rio de Janeiro was presented to Puerto Plata by the Brazilian authorities.

To visit Puerto Plata and not visit the 27 Fountains Nature Reserve would be a huge miss. This is a natural water park with twenty-seven, as the name suggests, cascading waterfalls. Tourists are invited to climb up seven, twelve or all twenty-seven waterfalls along secret paths and rope ladders, and then go down through the water.



Playa Dorada

Just east of Puerto Plata is the Playa Dorada resort complex. It is very popular among tourists, including due to the airport, located just 15 minutes away, which is very convenient for families with children and pensioners who find it difficult to endure long journeys. But, of course, this is not the only advantage of Playa Dorada. The fabulous-looking beach with a gentle entrance to the water is marked with the Blue Flag and is considered one of the best in the Dominican Republic. Amazing nature, the highest service in local hotels, unlimited space for active and extreme pastime, a large selection of restaurants and bars, a famous 18-hole golf course and a casino - all this together makes Playa Dorada an ideal holiday destination for any category of tourists.


Cabarete

A resort for young, active, full of energy and adrenaline people. He himself is young - just a dozen years ago, fans of surfboards chose the tiny fishing village located here for their activities, and now Cabarete beach is included in the world's Top 10 places ideal for surfing. All thanks to the fact that the waves of the Atlantic Ocean are not impeded by any coral barrier, and vigorous trade winds delight lovers of marine extremes all year round. Cabarete annually hosts world windsurfing competitions, as well as tournaments in the increasingly popular kiteboarding. The coastline of the resort is abundantly dotted with various bars, because where else, if not in a noisy establishment with a glass of strong drink, can you relax after taming the Atlantic waves?

For those who do not belong to the cohort of extreme athletes, we can recommend visiting the El Choco National Park, which is not much older than the resort itself: only 25 years ago it was given this official status. In El Choco you will find the richest flora, many orchids, tropical birds and even a dozen species of bats, but the main asset of the park is a system of underground caves with Caribbean Karst pools, where you can go on a tour and swim. The territory of the reserve is large, and it’s easy to get lost on foot without a guide, so it’s better to hire a guide or go around El Choco on horseback or in jeeps.



Sosua

Another youth place on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic is comfortably located in a calm bay between Cabarete and Puerto Plata. The small resort is the party center of the region: Sosua has many bars and discos; mostly bachelors relax here. The local white sandy beaches are quite wide, so despite the large number of vacationers, everyone can stay here comfortably. Not far from the coast there is a compact but densely populated coral reef where you can go snorkeling: the local diving center will provide tourists with a vivid experience. Other attractions of Sosua include the botanical garden and the old market, as well as the Jewish quarter: back in the 1940s, Jews fleeing Europe found refuge here. In winter, the main entertainment here is boat trips to pods of humpback whales, which swim here to procreate.



Samana

This peninsula is highly recommended for visiting by independent tourists. Despite the presence of two international airports and three large cities, Samana remains a quiet, peaceful place and is famous for its pristine nature: coconut groves, caves, waterfalls, clean rivers and deserted beaches - complete relaxation. There are several national parks on the peninsula, the largest of which is Los Haitises with mysterious caves in which Indians previously lived (as evidenced by the paintings on the walls), and now only bats. Another local attraction that would be extremely unfair to ignore is the 30-meter El Limon waterfall. They say that countless riches await everyone who bathes in it. Tasting excursions to ranches where coffee and cocoa are grown are very popular.

Part of the province of Samana is the small island of Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island - it was here that the first commercial for this popular brand was filmed. And if you are lucky enough to be on the peninsula in February, then your path must definitely run through the capital of the province - the city of Santa Barbara de Samana, where a cheerful salsa and merengue festival is taking place at this time.



Eastern Bank The Dominican Republic, washed by the Atlantic Ocean, is considered the most popular and sought-after recreational region of the country. Here are the largest resorts and practically no cities in the usual sense of the word. It is here that the hotels with which tour operators from the CIS countries work most actively are located. A large coral reef stretches almost along the entire coast, protecting the land from the energetic waves of the ocean and simultaneously creating excellent conditions for memorable diving. In other words, the resorts of the eastern part of the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic will be an ideal place to relax for both active and restless tourists and contemplative couch potatoes.



The best resorts on the east coast of the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana

This is a huge resort region located at the “junction” of the Atlantic Ocean with the Caribbean Sea. The largest, the most popular, the most beautiful - you can spend a very long time selecting adjectives in the superlative degree of comparison to describe it. The main pride of Punta Cana is its wide beaches, strewn with coral paper-white sand, planted with thick coconut palms and lined with exotic bungalows covered with dried palm claws. And all this beauty is municipal property, so you can sunbathe and swim freely and free of charge. Punta Cana is also lucky with the weather: the rainy season here is very short, and the average monthly temperature is practically unchanged all year round - around 30 degrees, which is softened by light ocean breezes. This resort for newlyweds is becoming increasingly popular: the days spent here will be remembered by the newlyweds for the rest of their lives as a truly honeymoon.

A few words about the national Dominican pastime - diving: the coastal waters are very clear, and visibility under water in the summer season reaches 30 meters. The most popular part of the reef for swimming is considered to be the “Marinarium”, where eagle rays and even harmless baleen nurse sharks live. There is also a “own” sunken ship here: even from the shore you can see the mast of the cargo ship Astron sticking out of the water (by the way, listed on the balance sheet in Russia), which ran aground during a storm in 1978 and sank. Another active, exciting and very popular entertainment among tourists from the CIS countries is a jeep safari, with which you can travel for a day from a cool hotel civilization to the riot of a tropical jungle and feel like the hero of an action adventure movie. Also in the vicinity of Punta Cana there are a dozen first-class golf courses, some of which, like Punta Espada, are included in various world rankings. And if someone doesn’t like these bourgeois excesses, then welcome to the world of agritourism: near the resort there are several villages in which travelers can touch the life of ordinary local residents and personally take part in harvesting sugar cane or other home crafts.

Those who like to party and dance in Punta Cana will not have to lose heart: in addition to the discos available at each hotel, the resort offers a lot of original clubs, the most popular of which, perhaps, can be called Imagine, located in a natural cave: three dance floors framed by stalactites you will definitely find remember for a long time!



Bavaro

In the very southeast of the Dominican Republic there is the Bavaro resort, which can be classified as a “luxury” resort. Just some 30 years ago, the winds simply rustled here in the mangroves, and today the area has all the attributes of an aristocratic vacation: five-star hotels, tennis courts, casinos, golf courses, stables, expensive shops and even a dress code in a number of establishments. For those who have had enough of comfort and respectability, Bavaro is ready to offer a lot of entertainment in addition to the traditional diving, snorkeling and jeep safari throughout the country: for example, an excursion to the “Palm Cemetery”, where strange birds are found in the mangrove dead wood, or to the Oleg Bat House cave - home to several species of bats. Those who come on vacation with the whole family have the opportunity to take their children to the dinosaur park or to Manati Park, where they can swim with dolphins. A new level of nightlife is offered by Bavaro's most famous club, Coco Bongo - this is not just a disco, but a real show with large-scale choreographic performances, vocal numbers and acrobatic sketches.


Cap Cana

If you are rich, then why not visit Cap Cana? This is a small and very young resort, one of the co-founders of which is Donald Trump. Just ten minutes from Punta Cana Airport, you can stay in a luxurious bungalow with private access to the ocean. The beauty, cleanliness and level of service in Cap Cana go far beyond the generally accepted five-star scale. The cost of all this happiness is quite high, which is why only businessmen and Hollywood stars come here.

Caribbean coast of the Dominican Republic

The Caribbean Sea washes the southern part of the Dominican Republic, so the two most obvious differences between the local resorts and the northern and eastern ones are the absence of waves and higher water temperatures. The capital of the state, the city of Santo Domingo, is located on the Caribbean coast, and the famous islands of Beata and Elephant are also located here.


The best resorts on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic

Boca Chica

Located near the capital of the Dominican Republic, the Boca Chica resort can be classified as affordable and democratic. At the same time, the moderate cost of tours here does not in any way affect the conditions of recreation or the level of service. First of all, families with children flock to Boca Chica: the resort has the unofficial title of the largest bath in the world thanks to its always warm and calm water and a very gentle entrance to the sea. Boca Chiqui beach is considered the cleanest on the entire southern coast: the coral reef absorbs everything that the waves can bring here, and natural underwater springs constantly feed the bay with crystal clear water.

The history of Boca Chica dates back only a few decades, so the resort is unable to offer its guests any special attractions. The most interesting place in the city is Calle Duarte, where most of the entertainment venues are concentrated.

Diving in Boca Chica is a must: the region offers ideal conditions for your scuba diving debut, and La Caleta Underwater Park is home to two shipwrecks! In the immediate vicinity of the shores of Boca Chica there are two tiny islands - La Matica and Los Pinos, which you can even reach on your own by renting a sea motorcycle. The first is covered with mangroves, the second with pine, in which you can hide from human noise and feel like Robinson.


La Romana

Describing the beach beauties of La Romana is a thankless task: the fine white sand, turquoise water and coconut palms here are just as incredible as in the already described Dominican resorts. The main focus of La Romana is a quiet and relaxing family vacation. Despite the fact that the city is over 500 years old, it is also not very rich in attractions: living a quiet life of a hard worker, La Romana was known throughout its history as a center for sugar cane processing. However, there are several interesting places in the vicinity of the resort that are worth visiting. For example, the village of artisans and artists of Altos de Chavon. Its construction was completed only in the 1990s, but all the buildings in it correspond to the canons of Italian architecture of the 16th century. The picturesque area (elevation above the gorge) and man-made beauty often attract newlyweds here for a marriage ceremony.

The Chavón River flows near La Romana, where you can kayak. You should definitely visit Cueva de las Maravillas (“Cave of Miracles”), which the skillful hands of architects turned into a real underground palace with several halls, stone bridges and stalactite arches.



Saona

While vacationing in La Romana or Punta Cana, you can go on a one-day excursion to Saona Island. Once upon a time, a commercial for the Bounty chocolate bar was filmed on this island, and since then the heavenly views of Saona have been firmly imprinted in the memory, and even the term “Bounty Island” has appeared in everyday speech, which can briefly and clearly describe the unearthly beauty of any shores. Unfortunately, it is impossible to stay here: there is not a single hotel on Saona, and the island itself is a nature reserve.



Santo Domingo

The capital of the Dominican Republic, located where Osama flows into the Caribbean Sea, more than compensates for the lack of attractions in other cities in the region. Founded in 1496 by the younger brother of Christopher Columbus, Saint-Domingue is the first city of the New World. The rich architectural heritage of the 15th-16th centuries allowed it to be included in the UNESCO registers. The abundance of colonial-era attractions earned Santo Domingo the title of Cultural Capital of the Americas in 2010, so get ready: there will be a lot of interesting things to see here!

The perfectly preserved Osama fortress, which protected the city from pirate raids, the Alcazar de Colon palace, the first cathedral in the New World - all these buildings appeared on the shores of the Caribbean Sea at the very beginning of the 16th century! The symbol of the city is the Columbus Lighthouse; the remains of the great navigator are also buried here. Alleys, parks, beautiful streets, a seaside promenade framed by palm trees - walks around Santa Domingo will be long and pleasant. Nature lovers will also not have to regret that they chose the largest city of the Dominican Republic for their vacation: there is a botanical garden, an aquarium, a unique cave complex and a zoo.



Juan Dolio

Between Santo Domingo and La Romana, on the shores of a beautiful bay, there is another popular resort in the Dominican south - Juan Dolio. The town is small and calm, so mostly those who like peace and quiet relax here. Along the wide sandy strip of the continuous beach there are comfortable hotels of various price categories. Diving and snorkeling of the highest Dominican quality, hiking and cycling in the surrounding area, and a visit to a nearby flower farm will diversify your relaxing holiday. The excellent location of Juan Dolio allows you to go sightseeing in Santo Domingo or admire the caves of La Romana at any time. It remains to add that the Dominicans themselves prefer to relax in Juan Dolio, and the residents of this country know a thing or two about resorts.



Barahona

This resort is located in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, near its border with Haiti on the Pedernales Peninsula. It cannot be included in the list of the most popular ones due to the fact that it is a little more difficult to get to. Yes, and there are no huge hotel complexes here either, but the main wealth of Barahona is its stunning nature. Firstly, these are deserted wild beaches in a bay surrounded by mountains. Secondly, a variety of picturesque water bodies - rivers, lakes, waterfalls. Thirdly, Barahona is surrounded by unique natural parks and reserves where you can find iguanas, flamingos, lizards and crocodiles. There is also a mysterious place here - Polo Magnetico. If you leave a car in neutral gear in this anomalous zone, you can observe a rare optical illusion: the car itself will crawl... up!

What do we know about the country and where is the Dominican Republic located, why is it remarkable and why does it attract tourists? Which sea is the Dominican Republic located near? When planning a trip, you need to find out what the mentality of the local residents is. Let's try to figure it out. The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Haiti, or Hispaniola as it is often called, in the Caribbean. The republic shares the island with the state of Haiti. The country's territory includes two neighboring islands, Saona and Catalina. These are national parks where ecotourism is developed.

What kind of sea or ocean is there in the Dominican Republic? We know from school geography lessons that the country is washed by the Caribbean Sea from the south, and the Atlantic Ocean from the north. The Mona Strait flows on the eastern side, separating the Dominican Republic from the United States. Everyone who is planning a trip to the country wants to know what the sea is like there, whether there are sharks, whether it is comfortable to go into the water, and how to have the best time.

Yes, there are sharks here. We hasten to reassure you that they are small. Extreme lovers can swim with them under the supervision of a specialist. As a rule, there are no sharks near the shore, but if you swim beyond the reefs, you may encounter a resident of the deep sea. It is also possible to see a shark while fishing, which is very popular here and widespread among tourists.

Knowing what kind of sea and fauna there is, you can plan your vacation correctly.

When going on a trip to some new country, you need to learn about the history, habits, and character of the local residents. This will help you better navigate and avoid getting into an awkward situation.

  • The country has about ten million inhabitants.
  • The currency is called the Dominican Peso.
  • The Dominican Republic occupies part of the island of Haiti and several smaller islands.
  • The sensational film about the Jurassic period was filmed in the Dominican Republic.
  • Siesta time is sacred; all establishments in the country are closed, even restaurants.
  • The natives have great faith in the lottery and constantly try their luck.
  • Swimming is not popular in the country and almost every second resident does not know how to swim.

  • There are no pensions in the country. It's not required. Dominicans create the strongest family ties; old people are never in need and rely on providing for their numerous relatives.
  • Marriages in the Dominican Republic begin early; families, as a rule, have many children.
  • Almost all Dominicans are not subject to the bad habit of smoking.
  • There is no ban on drunk driving in the country. Here you can't drink while driving in the truest sense of the word.
  • The Dominican Republic ranks first among cocoa exporters.
  • Most often, a barber is visited to straighten hair.
  • Dominicans speak almost no English, with the exception of hotel workers.
  • Ice is added to all drinks in the country, except coffee.
  • There is no centralized hot water supply here.
  • Dominicans are never in a hurry; they love to contemplate. From the outside it seems like laziness, but when you plunge into the rhythm of life of the aborigines, you realize that this is not so.

  • The tourist will need to be patient. Dominican "soon", "in five minutes" means at least an hour. Tomorrow means not very soon, and the day after tomorrow means never.
  • In all-inclusive hotels, you are sure to see swans, peacocks and flamingos. In less comfortable hotels, chickens take their place.
  • You can only drink bottled water here.
  • The Dominican Republic is a small dot on the world map, but it is very popular among tourists.

Resorts of the Dominican Republic

The Caribbean attracts with its exoticism, beautiful beaches, and tropical landscape. There are so many resort places here that choosing the right one is not always easy. But no matter which resort you choose, it will be elite, comfortable and pleasant. To get the most out of your vacation, think in advance what accents you would like to place:

  • vibrant nightlife;
  • holidays with children of different ages;
  • active pastime, extreme recreation;
  • Honeymoon;
  • lazy relaxation on the beach;
  • entertainment.

And based on this, choose a place. The beaches are characterized by features that are typical of the Caribbean region: tranquility, comfort, service and privacy.

Which resort to choose is up to you to decide based on your preferences. The most popular resort areas in the Dominican Republic at the moment are:

  • La Romana;
  • Punta Cana;
  • Puerto Plata;
  • Juan Dolio;
  • Viking;
  • Macau Beach;
  • Boca Chica.

These are the best resorts in the Dominican Republic, and they are far from the only ones, there are very, very many of them. There are plenty of paradises in the country, but resorts located in the Caribbean Sea are considered more comfortable for relaxation. The water here is warmer, the tides are less intense, and the water is saltier.

Dominican Republic resorts: how to choose

When deciding which option is best to choose, think about what you would like to get from your vacation: peace, drive, adrenaline or privacy and silence. All resorts can be divided into types, depending on who they are most suitable for:

  • newlyweds, people who prefer parties and nightlife;
  • older people, family vacations;
  • lovers of extreme sports and active pastime;
  • lovers of solitude;
  • for those who prefer a relaxing holiday;
  • lovers of VIP holidays.

Considering the fact that we are all different, for some the best resort will be the one where you can go surfing and diving, others will be delighted with the secluded lagoons and uncrowded beaches. Some people are looking for a vibrant nightlife, while others prioritize silence and the complete absence of unnecessary noise. Therefore, every traveler can find a great option that suits all parameters. Dominican Republic hotels are aimed at a variety of visitors.

Also, when choosing an option, the traveler relies on his financial capabilities.

Cost of a holiday in the Dominican Republic

People come here for a beach holiday, contemplation of medieval buildings, and delicious rum. History buffs get an unprecedented delight from visiting the heart of the country - Santo Domingo; the city has remained virtually unchanged since the time of Christopher Columbus.

The cuisine of the Dominican Republic is very diverse, it contains local recipes, as well as the best of European and African recipes.

Carefree, high-quality and meaningful vacation - this is how the country’s resorts can be called.

Almost all hotels belong to global chains and operate on an all-inclusive basis. This allows you to indulge in relaxation to the fullest, without worrying about the problems of food and accommodation.

You can relax in this bright place all year round, but the most comfortable time is considered to be the period from December to April. All year round, the water temperature is comfortable for swimming and is about twenty-eight degrees. Precipitation occurs from late spring until the first month of autumn. In September and October there are heavy rains and hurricanes occur. Already in November the weather has been getting better.

Prices for holidays in the Dominican Republic depend on the category and location of the resort. But despite the rating of the place, a holiday in the country is feasible for a person even with average income. To spend less money, you can take advantage of a last-minute tour.

Now you know which sea washes the country, what special things you can see and where is the best place to relax. When you come to the Dominican Republic, you will never regret your choice. Have a nice holiday!

In this article we will help you navigate the Dominican Republic: we will tell you where the Caribbean Sea is in the Dominican Republic, which side it is washed by the ocean, where which resorts are located, and what are their main differences.

The Dominican Republic is located in the eastern part of the island of Haiti. This island belongs to the Greater Antilles, which are located in Central America. The southern coast of the island is washed by the Caribbean Sea, and the northern coast by the Atlantic Ocean.

The most popular and largest resort in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana, is located in the eastern part of the island, which is washed by the Atlantic. However, resort guests have an excellent opportunity to travel a little further south and appreciate the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

After all, just not far from Punta Cana is the Eastern National Reserve, and its pearl is the island of Saona, which attracts tourists year after year with its magnificent pristine beaches. The island of Saone is already the Caribbean Sea.

Between Saona and the coast of the Dominican Republic is the Catuana Strait - it is believed that this is where the waters of the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea connect.

There are hotels on the Caribbean Sea, but there are not so many of them compared to the Atlantic coast.

This is due to the fact that there are very few sandy beaches on the southern side of the island. As a rule, the coast is a shallow coral reef, or mangroves extend along the coast.

Resorts on the Caribbean Sea:

  • Barahona
  • Boca Chica
  • Juan Dolio
  • La Romana
  • Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is also located on the southern coast. But beach lovers have nothing to do there. Although there are, of course, decent city-type hotels in the capital (for example, Hilton). But the nearest beaches are located outside the city limits - in the small settlements of Juan Dolio and Boca Chica.

The resorts of the Caribbean Sea are distinguished by the presence of not very large and comfortable hotels, clean beaches, and there are rarely such strong waves as on the Atlantic. There are good places for snorkeling and diving. Another bonus for aesthetes is the magical sunsets! Well, proximity to the capital, of course, will be a plus for many.

Resorts on the Atlantic

There are much more resorts on the Atlantic; we will list the most famous and popular:

  • Punta Cana (Bavaro)
  • Puerto Plata
  • Sosua
  • Cabarete
  • Samana
  • Las Terrenas

Of course, the largest resort on this list is Punta Cana. It is famous for its beautiful beaches and excellent all-inclusive hotels. This is a real tourist paradise. Here you can find entertainment for every age, taste, and budget.

11.01.2019

The Dominican Republic, or simply Dominican Republic, occupies most of the island of Haiti, and also has a number of small islands under its jurisdiction, which looks extremely attractive from the point of view of tourist recreation. Being the second largest state in the West Indies (after Cuba), the Dominican Republic has a long coastline - almost 1,300 kilometers, which indicates an impressive number of large and small resorts. Since the Dominican lands are washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, travelers often have questions - are there any differences between these coasts, what are they, and in this case, which part of the Dominican Republic is better to prefer for a vacation? Let's try to figure it out.

Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic

The Atlantic Ocean washes northern and eastern parts Dominican Republic. The very first thing that can be said about the resorts located on these shores is that they should be the first choice for all windsurfers, advanced divers and devotees of other marine activities. The Atlantic carries stormy waves, and if the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic is covered by an extended shield of coral reef, then on the northern shores, it happens that tourists do not even risk swimming for several days.

Geographically to northern part The Atlantic coastline includes the coastline from the border with Haiti to the Samana Peninsula. Another unique feature of the region is that in a relatively small area there are many climatic zones. On the western "outskirts" of the northern coast it is very dry - even arid. The terrain here is quite monotonous and flat. Vegetation does not tend to rise either: green spaces are represented mainly by shrubs. The apparent dullness of the area is diluted by two magnificent national parks with thickets of outlandish mangroves and beautiful sea views.

The piece of land between Cofresí and Nagua is also called the Amber Coast due to its rich deposits of amber. Golden beaches here are interspersed with lush mountain forests, which is why most of the hotels on the northern coast are concentrated in this region. Mountain biking, horse riding, ocean fishing, surfing, diving and other extreme sports are most widespread here. Speaking of diving: the Dominican Republic is generally considered the best place in the Caribbean for snorkeling and scuba diving: the coral reefs and underwater meadows in this region are distinguished by an amazing diversity of flora and fauna (the local waters are home to beautiful tropical fish and stingrays, even manatees and humpbacks swim whales!), the bottom topography is very picturesque and rich in cavernous formations, but the most interesting and exciting thing came to the bottom from the surface - these were sunken ships of various eras. Over the past half century, about four hundred ships have been in disaster in the region, so there is plenty for divers to admire. It is not surprising that under such conditions, in any resort in the Dominican Republic, a reputable diving center will be waiting for you, or even more than one. The Atlantic coast of the country is worth choosing for experienced divers, but beginners can practice and gain experience in the much calmer waters of the Caribbean Sea.

The Samana Peninsula ends the northern part of the Atlantic coast. Perhaps this is the most picturesque part of not only the Dominican Republic, but the entire Caribbean. This is exactly how we usually imagine an exotic paradise: many kilometers of deserted expanses of white sand, tired coconut palms tilting over turquoise water. While relaxing on Samana in January-March, you can see whales splashing in the distance: at this time they swim here from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to reproduce.


The best resorts on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata

The heart of the northern Dominican Republic, the place where Christopher Columbus landed, is Puerto Plata, located along the Amber Coast. This resort is the second most popular in the Dominican Republic after Punta Cana, although it is strikingly different from it: here you can relax in silence, relax, enjoy nature and learn how to tame the Atlantic wave on a surfboard. Fans of active nightlife in Puerto Plata will certainly be disappointed by the long and unsuccessful search for a working discotheque. Founded at the end of the 15th century, the city invites its guests to explore a number of ancient buildings (the old city center, the fort and the Cathedral of San Felipe) and visit several good museums. The main wealth of the resort is given to it by nature. For example, Isabel de Torres is the highest mountain in this area, the top of which can be reached by car, on foot or by cable car. From the top of Isabel de Torres, with outstretched arms, looking at the city... the statue of Christ the Redeemer! A smaller copy of the masterpiece from Rio de Janeiro was presented to Puerto Plata by the Brazilian authorities.

To visit Puerto Plata and not visit the 27 Fountains Nature Reserve would be a huge miss. This is a natural water park with twenty-seven, as the name suggests, cascading waterfalls. Tourists are invited to climb up seven, twelve or all twenty-seven waterfalls along secret paths and rope ladders, and then go down through the water.



Playa Dorada

Just east of Puerto Plata is the Playa Dorada resort complex. It is very popular among tourists, including due to the airport, located just 15 minutes away, which is very convenient for families with children and pensioners who find it difficult to endure long journeys. But, of course, this is not the only advantage of Playa Dorada. The fabulous-looking beach with a gentle entrance to the water is marked with the Blue Flag and is considered one of the best in the Dominican Republic. Amazing nature, the highest service in local hotels, unlimited space for active and extreme pastime, a large selection of restaurants and bars, a famous 18-hole golf course and a casino - all this together makes Playa Dorada an ideal holiday destination for any category of tourists.


Cabarete

A resort for young, active, full of energy and adrenaline people. He himself is young - just a dozen years ago, fans of surfboards chose the tiny fishing village located here for their activities, and now Cabarete beach is included in the world's Top 10 places ideal for surfing. All thanks to the fact that the waves of the Atlantic Ocean are not impeded by any coral barrier, and vigorous trade winds delight lovers of marine extremes all year round. Cabarete annually hosts world windsurfing competitions, as well as tournaments in the increasingly popular kiteboarding. The coastline of the resort is abundantly dotted with various bars, because where else, if not in a noisy establishment with a glass of strong drink, can you relax after taming the Atlantic waves?

For those who do not belong to the cohort of extreme athletes, we can recommend visiting the El Choco National Park, which is not much older than the resort itself: only 25 years ago it was given this official status. In El Choco you will find the richest flora, many orchids, tropical birds and even a dozen species of bats, but the main asset of the park is a system of underground caves with Caribbean Karst pools, where you can go on a tour and swim. The territory of the reserve is large, and it’s easy to get lost on foot without a guide, so it’s better to hire a guide or go around El Choco on horseback or in jeeps.



Sosua

Another youth place on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic is comfortably located in a calm bay between Cabarete and Puerto Plata. The small resort is the party center of the region: Sosua has many bars and discos; mostly bachelors relax here. The local white sandy beaches are quite wide, so despite the large number of vacationers, everyone can stay here comfortably. Not far from the coast there is a compact but densely populated coral reef where you can go snorkeling: the local diving center will provide tourists with a vivid experience. Other attractions of Sosua include the botanical garden and the old market, as well as the Jewish quarter: back in the 1940s, Jews fleeing Europe found refuge here. In winter, the main entertainment here is boat trips to pods of humpback whales, which swim here to procreate.



Samana

This peninsula is highly recommended for visiting by independent tourists. Despite the presence of two international airports and three large cities, Samana remains a quiet, peaceful place and is famous for its pristine nature: coconut groves, caves, waterfalls, clean rivers and deserted beaches - complete relaxation. There are several national parks on the peninsula, the largest of which is Los Haitises with mysterious caves in which Indians previously lived (as evidenced by the paintings on the walls), and now only bats. Another local attraction that would be extremely unfair to ignore is the 30-meter El Limon waterfall. They say that countless riches await everyone who bathes in it. Tasting excursions to ranches where coffee and cocoa are grown are very popular.

Part of the province of Samana is the small island of Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island - it was here that the first commercial for this popular brand was filmed. And if you are lucky enough to be on the peninsula in February, then your path must definitely run through the capital of the province - the city of Santa Barbara de Samana, where a cheerful salsa and merengue festival is taking place at this time.



Eastern Bank The Dominican Republic, washed by the Atlantic Ocean, is considered the most popular and sought-after recreational region of the country. Here are the largest resorts and practically no cities in the usual sense of the word. It is here that the hotels with which tour operators from the CIS countries work most actively are located. A large coral reef stretches almost along the entire coast, protecting the land from the energetic waves of the ocean and simultaneously creating excellent conditions for memorable diving. In other words, the resorts of the eastern part of the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic will be an ideal place to relax for both active and restless tourists and contemplative couch potatoes.



The best resorts on the east coast of the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana

This is a huge resort region located at the “junction” of the Atlantic Ocean with the Caribbean Sea. The largest, the most popular, the most beautiful - you can spend a very long time selecting adjectives in the superlative degree of comparison to describe it. The main pride of Punta Cana is its wide beaches, strewn with coral paper-white sand, planted with thick coconut palms and lined with exotic bungalows covered with dried palm claws. And all this beauty is municipal property, so you can sunbathe and swim freely and free of charge. Punta Cana is also lucky with the weather: the rainy season here is very short, and the average monthly temperature is practically unchanged all year round - around 30 degrees, which is softened by light ocean breezes. This resort for newlyweds is becoming increasingly popular: the days spent here will be remembered by the newlyweds for the rest of their lives as a truly honeymoon.

A few words about the national Dominican pastime - diving: the coastal waters are very clear, and visibility under water in the summer season reaches 30 meters. The most popular part of the reef for swimming is considered to be the “Marinarium”, where eagle rays and even harmless baleen nurse sharks live. There is also a “own” sunken ship here: even from the shore you can see the mast of the cargo ship Astron sticking out of the water (by the way, listed on the balance sheet in Russia), which ran aground during a storm in 1978 and sank. Another active, exciting and very popular entertainment among tourists from the CIS countries is a jeep safari, with which you can travel for a day from a cool hotel civilization to the riot of a tropical jungle and feel like the hero of an action adventure movie. Also in the vicinity of Punta Cana there are a dozen first-class golf courses, some of which, like Punta Espada, are included in various world rankings. And if someone doesn’t like these bourgeois excesses, then welcome to the world of agritourism: near the resort there are several villages in which travelers can touch the life of ordinary local residents and personally take part in harvesting sugar cane or other home crafts.

Those who like to party and dance in Punta Cana will not have to lose heart: in addition to the discos available at each hotel, the resort offers a lot of original clubs, the most popular of which, perhaps, can be called Imagine, located in a natural cave: three dance floors framed by stalactites you will definitely find remember for a long time!



Bavaro

In the very southeast of the Dominican Republic there is the Bavaro resort, which can be classified as a “luxury” resort. Just some 30 years ago, the winds simply rustled here in the mangroves, and today the area has all the attributes of an aristocratic vacation: five-star hotels, tennis courts, casinos, golf courses, stables, expensive shops and even a dress code in a number of establishments. For those who have had enough of comfort and respectability, Bavaro is ready to offer a lot of entertainment in addition to the traditional diving, snorkeling and jeep safari throughout the country: for example, an excursion to the “Palm Cemetery”, where strange birds are found in the mangrove dead wood, or to the Oleg Bat House cave - home to several species of bats. Those who come on vacation with the whole family have the opportunity to take their children to the dinosaur park or to Manati Park, where they can swim with dolphins. A new level of nightlife is offered by Bavaro's most famous club, Coco Bongo - this is not just a disco, but a real show with large-scale choreographic performances, vocal numbers and acrobatic sketches.


Cap Cana

If you are rich, then why not visit Cap Cana? This is a small and very young resort, one of the co-founders of which is Donald Trump. Just ten minutes from Punta Cana Airport, you can stay in a luxurious bungalow with private access to the ocean. The beauty, cleanliness and level of service in Cap Cana go far beyond the generally accepted five-star scale. The cost of all this happiness is quite high, which is why only businessmen and Hollywood stars come here.

Caribbean coast of the Dominican Republic

The Caribbean Sea washes the southern part of the Dominican Republic, so the two most obvious differences between the local resorts and the northern and eastern ones are the absence of waves and higher water temperatures. The capital of the state, the city of Santo Domingo, is located on the Caribbean coast, and the famous islands of Beata and Elephant are also located here.


The best resorts on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic

Boca Chica

Located near the capital of the Dominican Republic, the Boca Chica resort can be classified as affordable and democratic. At the same time, the moderate cost of tours here does not in any way affect the conditions of recreation or the level of service. First of all, families with children flock to Boca Chica: the resort has the unofficial title of the largest bath in the world thanks to its always warm and calm water and a very gentle entrance to the sea. Boca Chiqui beach is considered the cleanest on the entire southern coast: the coral reef absorbs everything that the waves can bring here, and natural underwater springs constantly feed the bay with crystal clear water.

The history of Boca Chica dates back only a few decades, so the resort is unable to offer its guests any special attractions. The most interesting place in the city is Calle Duarte, where most of the entertainment venues are concentrated.

Diving in Boca Chica is a must: the region offers ideal conditions for your scuba diving debut, and La Caleta Underwater Park is home to two shipwrecks! In the immediate vicinity of the shores of Boca Chica there are two tiny islands - La Matica and Los Pinos, which you can even reach on your own by renting a sea motorcycle. The first is covered with mangroves, the second with pine, in which you can hide from human noise and feel like Robinson.


La Romana

Describing the beach beauties of La Romana is a thankless task: the fine white sand, turquoise water and coconut palms here are just as incredible as in the already described Dominican resorts. The main focus of La Romana is a quiet and relaxing family vacation. Despite the fact that the city is over 500 years old, it is also not very rich in attractions: living a quiet life of a hard worker, La Romana was known throughout its history as a center for sugar cane processing. However, there are several interesting places in the vicinity of the resort that are worth visiting. For example, the village of artisans and artists of Altos de Chavon. Its construction was completed only in the 1990s, but all the buildings in it correspond to the canons of Italian architecture of the 16th century. The picturesque area (elevation above the gorge) and man-made beauty often attract newlyweds here for a marriage ceremony.

The Chavón River flows near La Romana, where you can kayak. You should definitely visit Cueva de las Maravillas (“Cave of Miracles”), which the skillful hands of architects turned into a real underground palace with several halls, stone bridges and stalactite arches.



Saona

While vacationing in La Romana or Punta Cana, you can go on a one-day excursion to Saona Island. Once upon a time, a commercial for the Bounty chocolate bar was filmed on this island, and since then the heavenly views of Saona have been firmly imprinted in the memory, and even the term “Bounty Island” has appeared in everyday speech, which can briefly and clearly describe the unearthly beauty of any shores. Unfortunately, it is impossible to stay here: there is not a single hotel on Saona, and the island itself is a nature reserve.



Santo Domingo

The capital of the Dominican Republic, located where Osama flows into the Caribbean Sea, more than compensates for the lack of attractions in other cities in the region. Founded in 1496 by the younger brother of Christopher Columbus, Saint-Domingue is the first city of the New World. The rich architectural heritage of the 15th-16th centuries allowed it to be included in the UNESCO registers. The abundance of colonial-era attractions earned Santo Domingo the title of Cultural Capital of the Americas in 2010, so get ready: there will be a lot of interesting things to see here!

The perfectly preserved Osama fortress, which protected the city from pirate raids, the Alcazar de Colon palace, the first cathedral in the New World - all these buildings appeared on the shores of the Caribbean Sea at the very beginning of the 16th century! The symbol of the city is the Columbus Lighthouse; the remains of the great navigator are also buried here. Alleys, parks, beautiful streets, a seaside promenade framed by palm trees - walks around Santa Domingo will be long and pleasant. Nature lovers will also not have to regret that they chose the largest city of the Dominican Republic for their vacation: there is a botanical garden, an aquarium, a unique cave complex and a zoo.



Juan Dolio

Between Santo Domingo and La Romana, on the shores of a beautiful bay, there is another popular resort in the Dominican south - Juan Dolio. The town is small and calm, so mostly those who like peace and quiet relax here. Along the wide sandy strip of the continuous beach there are comfortable hotels of various price categories. Diving and snorkeling of the highest Dominican quality, hiking and cycling in the surrounding area, and a visit to a nearby flower farm will diversify your relaxing holiday. The excellent location of Juan Dolio allows you to go sightseeing in Santo Domingo or admire the caves of La Romana at any time. It remains to add that the Dominicans themselves prefer to relax in Juan Dolio, and the residents of this country know a thing or two about resorts.



Barahona

This resort is located in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, near its border with Haiti on the Pedernales Peninsula. It cannot be included in the list of the most popular ones due to the fact that it is a little more difficult to get to. Yes, and there are no huge hotel complexes here either, but the main wealth of Barahona is its stunning nature. Firstly, these are deserted wild beaches in a bay surrounded by mountains. Secondly, a variety of picturesque water bodies - rivers, lakes, waterfalls. Thirdly, Barahona is surrounded by unique natural parks and reserves where you can find iguanas, flamingos, lizards and crocodiles. There is also a mysterious place here - Polo Magnetico. If you leave a car in neutral gear in this anomalous zone, you can observe a rare optical illusion: the car itself will crawl... up!

If you want to spend a vacation in paradise, then you should go to the resorts of the Dominican Republic on the Caribbean Sea. No matter where you choose - La Romana, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana or any other - you will be greeted by palm-lined beaches, gorgeous underwater tropical gardens, smiling dark-skinned locals and gentle breezes. The main wealth of Dominican resorts is the warm sea and sandy beaches. The best hotels in the world operating on the All Inclusive principle are located here. The average annual air temperature varies between +28 and +31 degrees. Travelers will forever remember the enchanting tropical forests, coral reefs and stunning waterfalls.

General characteristics of the resorts

The resorts of the Dominican Republic are in extraordinary demand among tourists today, as they offer complete relaxation with the highest level of comfort organized and constant sunny weather. The most popular type of recreation is luxury. Incredibly beautiful, one might even say fabulous, play an important role in it. Tourist vacations here are combined with national Caribbean events, fiery carnivals and expressive dances.

If you briefly describe the resorts of the Dominican Republic on the Caribbean Sea, you will get the impression that they are a real paradise, located in a stunning tropical forest. Holidays at any of the resorts will take place in the shade of coconut trees. The beach recreation areas filled with golden and crystal white sand impress with their well-groomed appearance and inviting warmth; they will give you a complete feeling of relaxation and absolute safety.

One of the most popular resorts

One of the most popular Dominican resorts is Punta Cana. It is located on the Caribbean Sea, or more precisely, on one of its shores, and its snow-white beaches stretch for 30 kilometers. It arose in the early 80s of the last century on a deserted sea coast. The resort includes several large tourist complexes. They are intended for family vacations or couples' vacations. Only in the spring can you meet only students here who come to have fun among the youth crowd.

The Punta Cana resort is known all over the world. And this is not surprising, because the best hotels on the coast are located here, historical and cultural attractions are concentrated, and only here there is a lot of interesting and educational things. At this resort, even those travelers who place the highest demands on their holiday will satisfy their needs. In Punta Cana, guests are surrounded by peacocks, rare species of flowers, mangroves and flamingos. Things that are unusual for Europeans will seem quite natural here.

Quiet and relaxing resort

La Romana (Dominican Republic) is a wonderful resort, which is the capital of the province of the same name. It was founded at the very beginning of the 16th century. On the coast of the modern resort there is a huge hotel complex, included in the list of the most respectable places in the world. This chic tourist center is the main attraction of La Romana.

The resort of La Romana (Dominican Republic) has dozens of luxurious cottages and hundreds of luxurious villas. This place is recommended for visiting by young married couples who prefer a calm, quiet vacation on the seashore. Athletes, both professional and beginners, can have a wonderful time here. There are several sports complexes for them. In La Romana you can go underwater fishing and the most popular sports are horse riding and tennis, and you can do them right in the La Romana resort.

Resort on the island of Haiti

The wonderful resort of Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic) is located on the island. It has more than ten hotels, including two-star and five-star establishments. The hotels offer guests a variety of entertainment for every taste: there is a club right on the beach, everyone will be taught diving and snorkeling, and you can also take part in sports games and competitions. Here you have the opportunity to enjoy endless white beaches and the warm Dominican sun.

There are not as many people in the resort of Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic) as in other resorts in the republic. Here you can always find an incredibly beautiful but secluded place for a relaxing holiday. The small Puerto Plata warmly welcomes all its guests - it is designed in such a way that everyone who arrives here can feel calm and comfortable. There is lush greenery and an unrivaled beach, and magnificent nature surrounds both on land and in the underwater world.

Favorite resort of Dominicans

Juan Dolio is a Dominican Republic resort located in the southeastern part of the island. It is loved by many travelers, but it has earned special recognition among local residents. Those who like the delights of the underwater world come here: near the shores of this particular resort there is a magical coral reef, which you can explore for days on end. Juan Dolio has more than ten upscale hotels, chic restaurants, clubs, discos and casinos.

It is almost impossible to imagine the Dominican Republic without the Juan Dolio resort. The beautiful town, which is located near the capital, is filled with interesting places, it is characterized by luxurious nature and an interesting history. There are many museums, small churches and chapels that you can visit at any time. Resort life here proceeds slowly, but this only benefits everyone here.

The most vibrant resort in the Dominican Republic

Many Dominican Republic resorts on the Caribbean Sea resemble a real fairy tale. One of these places was the Boca Chica resort, located in a lagoon protected by reefs. The resort is located in the suburbs of the capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo. Boca Chica was founded by wealthy industrialist Juan Visini in the first half of the last century. And the resort development of this place dates back to the 50s of the twentieth century. This happened after dictator Rafael Leonidas Trujillo ordered the construction of the modern Hamaca Hotel, which today is called Hamaca Coral By Hilton.

Modern Boca Chica is the busiest resort on the southeast coast. Life here flows to the rhythm of the merengue, the sounds of which spread from the numerous restaurants located on the beach. Here you can try tropical drinks and dishes from different cuisines of the world. The most popular in Boca Chica are fish delicacies, especially those that are grilled. The main advantage of the resort is the natural five-hundred-meter coral barrier.

Resort capital of the Dominican Republic

The best resorts were founded during the Middle Ages. For example, the now popular Santo Domingo was founded back in 1496 by Bartolomeo Columbus, the brother of that same Christopher Columbus. He named the city New Isabella, but then the resort was renamed Santo Domingo, which translates from Spanish as Holy Sunday.

The Osama River flows into Santo Domingo, dividing it into two parts. The western region is the cultural and business center of the city, and the eastern region is the historical one. The most interesting regions for travelers will be the colonial zone and Gazcue. In the center of the western part of Santo Domingo is the “commercial” heart of the capital. The best shops and restaurants in the city are concentrated here.

Port city of Barahona

We described all the popular resorts of the Dominican Republic above. But there is one more, on the Caribbean Sea, which is not very popular with tourists, but is no less wonderful - this is the port city of Barahona. It is hidden in a bay surrounded by mountain ranges. The pride of Barahona is the picturesque lakes scattered throughout the village. The resort offers tourists a wide variety of excursions.

Travelers can visit Las Caritasma, an archaeological site located in the northern part of Lake Enriquillo. This pond is home to pink flamingos, iguanas and crocodiles. Magnetic Hills is the most remarkable place in the Barahona resort. And if you have a passion for reptiles, you can visit Cabritos Island.

Holidays on the peninsula

The amazing country of the Dominican Republic. Which resort to choose for your vacation is a question that sometimes confuses many travelers. There is another place in the Dominican Republic on the Caribbean Sea that fascinates with its beauty. This is the Samana Peninsula.

In the 18th century, King Ferdinand VI of Spain ordered the founding of the city of Santa Barbara de Samana. Every year in February, a carnival is held here, which opens with the “ambula” dance. It is attended exclusively by male representatives, dressed in multi-colored masks.

The Cordillera mountain range crosses the peninsula from east to west. The ridge has become a natural feature between the island and the Samana conservation area. Samana Bay is a true tropical paradise. It has small islands. The bay is 11 kilometers wide, and its length reaches as much as 54 kilometers.