The Dominican Republic is a tropical paradise that offers visitors a wide array of activities and attractions. From stunning beaches and lush green mountains to historic sites and lively cities, there are plenty of things to do in Dominican Republic Excursions .
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or the best beaches in Dominican Republic, we’ve got you covered. Let’s learn about how to make your Dominican Republic excursions amazing!
Did You Know?
The Dominican Republic is a country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea. The DR shares the island with Haiti and covers an area of 48,442 square kilometers (18,704 sq mi). It is the second largest country in the Caribbean by area and has a population of 11,391,529, making it the most populous country in the Caribbean.
One of the amazing facts about Dominican Republic is that it has the highest mountains in the Caribbean. Pico Duarte is the tallest mountain in the Dominican Republic and all of the Caribbean islands, rising to an elevation of 3,098 meters (10,164 ft).
The DR is also home to some of the best beaches in the world. Playa Rincón is often ranked as one of the top 10 beaches in the world and is a must-see if you’re visiting the DR. Other popular beaches include Playa Los Tres Ojos, Playa Grande, and Playa Bonita.
If you’re looking for some adventure on your trip and things to do in Dominican Republic, there are plenty of options for excursions and activities.
The Best Dominican Republic Excursions – You Can’t Miss These!
1. Punta Cana:
White sand beaches, clear blue waters, and incredible resorts make Punta Cana a top destination in the Dominican Republic. But there’s more to this region than just lying on the beach.
Things To Do In Punta Cana:
Take a tour of a cigar factory: The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s largest producers of cigars. Take a tour of a local factory to learn about the process of making these iconic smokes.
Go on a safari: Explore the countryside on a safari tour. You’ll see some of the Dominican Republic’s diverse wildlife and maybe even spot a few endangered species.
2. Santo Domingo:
The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, is a must-see for any visitor to the country. This colonial city is full of history, culture, and nightlife.
Things To Do In Santo Domingo:
Visit La Fortaleza: This ancient fortress is one of the oldest in the Americas and is a great place to learn about the history of Santo Domingo.
Explore the Cathedral of Santa María: The largest cathedral in the Americas, this beautiful church is a must-see for any visitor to Santo Domingo.
Stroll through the Colonial Zone: The colonial zone is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Santo Domingo. This area is full of museums, restaurants, and shops.
3. Puerto Plata:
A popular resort town, Puerto Plata is situated on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, as well as its lively nightlife.
Things To Do In Puerto Plata:
Visit the Amber Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and production of amber, a type of fossilized tree resin found in the Dominican Republic.
Explore La Isabela: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site founded by Christopher Columbus. It’s a beautiful area to explore, and it’s also home to some fascinating ruins.
Visit the Damajaqua Cascades: These are a series of 27 waterfalls located in a lush, jungle setting. You can take a guided tour to see the cascades or hike to them on your own.
4. La Romana:
La Romana is a popular stop for cruise ships, a beautiful city on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s known for its luxury resorts and championship golf courses.
Things To Do In La Romana:
Play Golf: La Romana is home to some of the best golf courses in the Dominican Republic. If you’re a fan of the sport, be sure to check out one of the many championship courses.
Visit Altos de Chavón: This open-air museum replicates a 16th-century Mediterranean village. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Dominican Republic.
Take a Boat Tour: There are several boat tours available in La Romana. You can tour the bay, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or even take a glass bottom boat to see the coral reefs.
Note: You can also consider Isla Saona Excursion. It is located in the southeastern coast of Dominican Republic and is a part of National Park del Este. It is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. You’ll love the tours it offers which include catamaran tour, speedboat tour, yacht tour etc. All these tours offer a great way to explore the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches of Isla Saona.
5. Samaná:
Situated on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Samana is a nature lover’s paradise. This region is home to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the world-famous Los Haitises National Park.
Things To Do In Samana:
Go Hiking: Samana is home to some of the best hiking trails in the Dominican Republic. There are trails for all levels so everyone can enjoy a day in the great outdoors.
Visit Los Haitises National Park: This park is known for its caves and petroglyphs (ancient rock art). There are also several hiking trails and boat tours available.
Go Whale Watching: Samana is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Thousands of humpback whales come to the region every year to mate and give birth. Tours are available from January to March.
6. Jarabacoa:
Located in the central highlands of the Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa is a popular destination for adventure seekers. This region is home to some of the country’s highest mountains and most beautiful waterfalls.
Things To Do In Jarabacoa:
Go White Water Rafting: Jarabacoa is one of the best places in the Dominican Republic for white water rafting. There are several rivers to choose from, so you can find one that’s perfect for your skill level. If you’re interested in this exciting experience, check our article about Rafting and everything you must know about it.
Visit Pico Duarte: At 10,417 feet (3,175 meters), Pico Duarte is the highest mountain in the Dominican Republic. You can hike to the summit if you’re up for a challenge.
Go Horseback Riding: There are several horseback riding tours available in Jarabacoa. This is a great way to explore the region’s mountains and forests.
7. Cabrera:
Situated on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Cabrera is a beautiful town with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s known for its pristine beaches, as well as its duty-free shopping.
Things To Do In Cabrera:
Go to the Beach: Cabrera is home to some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re looking to relax or play, you’ll find a beach that’s perfect for you.
Shop til You Drop: Cabrera is a duty-free zone where you can find great deals on clothing, jewelry, and other items.
8. Las Terrenas:
A popular surfing and kitesurfing destination, Las Terrenas is situated on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. This lively town is also known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters.
Things To Do in Las Terrenas:
Surfing lessons: Though the waves can be a bit rough, Las Terrenas is a great place to learn how to surf. There are several surf schools located on the beach where you can take lessons.
Kitesurfing: This is a popular activity in Las Terrenas, and there are several kitesurfing schools located on the beach where you can take lessons.
ATV tours: There are several companies that offer ATV tours of the area. This is a great way to see the beaches and the countryside.
9. Cayo Arena Paradise Island:
Cayo Arena is a small island located off the coast of Puerto Plata. It’s known for its clear blue waters and pristine beaches.
Things To Do On Cayo Arena:
Swimming and snorkeling: The waters around Cayo Arena are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There’s a lot to see underwater, so make sure to bring your camera.
Sunbathing: Cayo Arena is the perfect place to relax and catch some rays. Make sure to put on sunscreen though, as the sun can be quite strong.
Zipline: There’s a zipline that runs from one end of the island to the other. This is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the island.
Waterfalls: There are several waterfalls located on the island. Be sure to take a swim in the refreshing waters.
10. Damajagua:
Located in the northwestern province of Puerto Plata, Damajagua is home to 27 breathtaking waterfalls.
Things To Do In Damajagua:
Cascada El Limón: One of the most popular activities in Damajagua is to take a tour of Cascada El Limón. This tour includes hiking and swimming in natural pools formed by the waterfall.
Parque Nacional Francisco Alberto Caamaño Deñó: This national park is great for hiking and seeing some of the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty.
Playa Grande: Playa Grande is a beautiful beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
The Best Beaches In Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean Sea. It shares the island roughly equally with the nation of Haiti, making Hispaniola one of two islands in the world (along with Malta) that are shared by two sovereign states. The Dominican Republic is a tourist destination for visitors from around the world, attracted by its beaches, resorts, golf courses, tropical climate, and culture.
1. Punta Cana Beach
Punta Cana is one of the best beaches in Dominican Republic. It is a resort town located in the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its sandy beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, including meals, drinks, and activities.
Punta Cana is also a popular destination for golfers, as it is home to several championship golf courses. There are many things to do in Punta Cana, from exploring the town to taking part in water sports or simply relaxing on the beach.
2. Playa Rincón (Cabo San Lucas)
Located in the municipality of Cabo San Lucas, Playa Rincon is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mexico. It is well known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and soft sand. Playa Rincon is also a popular surfing destination, as the waves here are some of the best in the country.
3. Bavaro Beach
Bavaro Beach is located in the province of La Altagracia on the east coast of the Dominican Republic. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, as it is renowned for its beautiful white sand, crystal-clear waters, and luxury resorts. Many of the resorts here offer all-inclusive packages, which include meals, drinks, and activities.
4. Macao Beach
Macao Beach is located in the province of Puerto Plata on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is a popular tourist destination, as it is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts. Macao Beach is also a popular surfing destination, as the waves here are some of the best in the country.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Dominican Republic?
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds at popular attractions. Try visiting in May or November if you’re looking to avoid the crowds but still experience good weather. These months are still considered part of the dry season, but are typically quieter in terms of tourism.
Best Place To Stay In Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is the best place to stay in Dominican Republic if you’re looking for a resort-style vacation. This region is home to some of the country’s most luxurious hotels, as well as a variety of activities and attractions.
If you’re interested in spending time on the beach, Punta Cana has plenty of options. Playa Boca Chica is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. For something a little more active, you can try your hand at kitesurfing or stand-up paddleboarding.
If you’re looking to explore the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty, head to Parque Nacional del Este. This national park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as stunning beaches and coral reefs.
No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, Punta Cana is the best place to stay in Dominican Republic.
Where To Stay In Dominican Republic?
When it comes to staying at Dominican Republic, there are plenty of options: from all-inclusive resorts to smaller hotels, there’s something for everyone. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose to stay at a place that’s close to the beach or in the city center.
Resorts:
There are many resorts located throughout the Dominican Republic, so you’ll be sure to find one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort, there are plenty of those to choose from as well. Some popular resorts in the Dominican Republic include the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, and the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana.
Hotels:
If you’re not looking for an all-inclusive resort, there are also plenty of hotels located throughout the Dominican Republic. If you want to be close to the beach, there are plenty of beachfront hotels to choose from.
Or, if you prefer to be in the city center, many hotels are located in the capital city of Santo Domingo. Some popular hotels include the Hilton Santo Domingo, the JW Marriott Santo Domingo, and the Radisson Hotel Santo Domingo.
The Final Word
There’s no shortage of Dominican Republic excursions to keep you busy on your next trip. From exploring the colonial streets of Santo Domingo to getting up close and personal with nature at Los Haitises National Park, there’s something for everyone. No matter your interests, there are many things to do in Dominican Republic to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country.