Dominican Republic
What to do in Dominican Republic
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period brings plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and cooler breezes—perfect for beach vacations, hiking, and sightseeing.
Peak tourist season falls around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter, when resorts are lively, but prices may be higher. If you’re looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying good weather, November and early May offer a sweet spot with fewer visitors and lower costs.
The wet season, from May to October, sees higher humidity and tropical showers. While still warm and sunny for much of the day, there’s a higher chance of storms (especially August to October). However, prices drop significantly during this time, and it’s still a great period for lush green scenery and uncrowded beaches.
Things to do in Dominican Republic
- Relax on Bávaro Beach and Playa Juanillo
- Snorkel and scuba dive in Bayahibe and Catalina Island
- Windsurf or kiteboard in Cabarete
- Go whale watching in Samaná Bay (January to March)
- Take a boat tour to Saona Island or Isla Catalina
- Hike Pico Duarte, the tallest mountain in the Caribbean
- Explore Los Haitises National Park with its caves and mangroves
- Ride the cable car to Mount Isabel de Torres in Puerto Plata
- Dance to merengue and bachata at local clubs and beach bars
- Catch a Dominican baseball game, a national favorite
Where to go in Dominican Republic
National & State Parks
Dominican Republic National Park Sites: https://national-parks.org/dominican-republic
Major Cities
Bávaro
A resort town adjacent to Punta Cana, it offers palm-lined beaches, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
La Romana
Known for upscale resorts like Casa de Campo, beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the Altos de Chavón artist village.
Puerto Plata
Located on the northern coast, Puerto Plata mixes Victorian architecture with scenic beaches. The nearby Mount Isabel de Torres offers panoramic views via cable car.
Punta Cana
A top beach destination with luxurious all-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. It’s a hub for relaxation and watersports.
San Pedro de Macorís
An industrial port town with a rich baseball legacy and a mix of Caribbean and European architectural influences.
Santiago de los Caballeros
The second-largest city and cultural heart of the Cibao Valley, Santiago is known for its tobacco production, universities, and arts. It’s more laid-back than the capital but still cosmopolitan.
Santo Domingo
The vibrant capital city is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. It boasts a bustling metropolitan area, rich colonial history, and a lively cultural scene. Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see.
Where to Stay
Major Airports
- Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) in Punta Cana
- Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo
- Cibao International Airport (STI) in Santiago
- Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata
- La Romana International Airport (LRM) in La Romana
Dominican Republic Basics
Santo Domingo
Atlantic (no daylight savings)
DO
Spanish
Bayahibe Rose
Palmchat
The Heart of the Caribbean
Santo Domingo