;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
Rum punch, reggaeton and tropical temps – live your best island life on holiday to the Dominican Republic.
Big on beaches
The Dominican Republic’s the second-largest island in the Caribbean – creds to its major coastline. We’re talking over 1,000 miles of beach cliché realness – white sand, swaying palms, clear waters etc… so it’s easy to see why it’s considered so beaut. On the east coast, Punta Cana’s super still shallows are a great spot for swimming and paddle-boarding, and the reefs right near the shore were made for snorkelling. Up north, Puerto Plata’s beaches are home to a thriving surf scene, and La Romana’s south-facing sweeps and off-shore islands are the perfect setting for watching the sun set.
Culture combo
There’s a strong Spanish vibe here, but the island’s roots start way before Columbus turned up. The Taino – the indigenous people – were here first and have left their mark with prehistoric paintings in the southern caves. Fast forward to the sixteenth century and the Spanish arrive, building the oldest European settlement in the Americas. You can soak up all the history in the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, which is now a UNESCO site. The food and the music have a bit of everything, though – flavours from Africa and the Middle East have made their way onto menus, and you’ll hear beats that borrow bits from bachata, merengue and reggaeton playing everywhere.
Nature’s finest
The beaches are the star of the show, sure, but don’t sleep on the Dom Rep’s diverse landscape. Beyond the coast, the island is covered in jungle, mountains and waterfalls straight from a fantasy film. Kayak across mangrove lagoons, hike in Los Haitises National Park and zipline through the rainforest canopy… it’s all core memory material. The wildlife here’s off the scale, too – join a boat tour and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, dolphins, manta rays and sharks. On dry land, look out for flamingos, iguanas or even monkeys – and you might spot a wild celeb in the boujie resorts, too.
Best resorts in the Dominican Republic
On the east coast, this pick’s home to some of the Caribbean’s most beaut beaches. We’re talking 50 kilometres of white sand lined with palms and reef-filled shallows – no wonder it’s a prime spot for celeb sightings… Bavaro is the liveliest resort, or sleepy Uvero Alto is more peaceful.
Down south, La Romana’s sweeps are the postcard pic for Caribbean holidays – Blue Flag beaches back onto pastel fishermen’s huts, thatched parasols and beach bars. Then, you’ve got a row of luxe hotels sitting pretty between palm-covered countryside and lush golf courses.
Top Dominican Republic holiday deals
HM Alma de Bayahibe
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 17 March 2025
Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort and Aquagames
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 25 March 2025
Bahia Principe Grand La Romana
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 17 March 2025
Impressive Punta Cana
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 25 March 2025
Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort and Spa
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 25 March 2025
Bahia Principe Fantasia Punta Cana
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 18 March 2025
Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 17 March 2025
Family Club at Grand Bavaro Princess
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 25 March 2025
Riu Bambu
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 18 March 2025
Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana
Manchester - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 18 March 2025
Why pick Dominican Republic holidays
G.O.A.T. beaches
Wildlife scenes
Adventure time
Culture for days
Your guide to holidays in the Dominican Republic
Discover the Dominican Republic’s rich roots at these must-visit sites…
- Santo Domingo – Explore the city’s historic Colonial Zone – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then visit the Alcazar de Colon and the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor.
- The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua – Go for a hike then cool off for a swim at the bottom of the waterfall – the rock formations here have become natural water slides.
- Saona Island – Part of the Cotubanamá National Park and known for its natural beauty. The beaches’ coral reefs and marine life are perfect for snorkelling.
- Los Haitises National Park – Take a boat tour through the mangroves, explore the ancient caves, and go birdwatching to see rare species like the brown pelican and frigatebird.
The island’s bays, rainforest and mountain scenes are a whole Jungle Book moment…
- Zipline through the forest – Get your adrenaline fix zip-lining through the lush jungle. You’ll soar above treetops and rivers with unreal views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Cave of Wonders – A large underground cave system, famous for its prehistoric rock carvings and paintings by the island’s indigenous people. Check out the cool natural formations like stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers.
- Whale watching in Samana Bay – Every year between January and March, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Samana Bay to breed and give birth. Join a guided boat tour to catch sight of them and tick it off your bucket list.
Get to know the Dominican culture with these picks…
- Carnival – La Vega Carnival is the largest and most famous carnival in the Dominican Republic, dating back to the 1500s. It’s on every Sunday in February, with the grand finale on the last weekend. Think buzzy parades, traditional costumes and lots of dancing to Dominican music, like merengue.
- Local markets – Support small businesses and shop at Mercado Modelo in Santo Domingo. Sample fresh tropical fruit, buy local coffee, and pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs to take home.
- Baseball game – Baseball is the national sport, so it’s a huge deal for the locals. Visit the stadium in Santo Domingo to catch a Winter League game or go to one of the grass-roots games in the smaller towns.
Tropical temps, dreamy beaches, 10/10 natural beauty… love is so in the air on a Dominican Republic holiday.
- Romantic beaches – The sweeps here are considered some of best in the Caribbean, so they’re the perfect setting for spending some quality time with your love. Spots like Punta Cana and Playa Bonita are always a fave, or the more secluded Bahia de las Aguilas will make you feel like you’re the only people that exist.
- Luxury resorts – The Caribbean is big on boujie resorts, which makes it a perfect match for honeymoons. We’re talking VIP suites, swim-up rooms, beachfront locations and sleek spas – a couple’s massage is so on. Plus, most of these resorts are adults only…
- Cultural, history and nature – Whatever your love language is, the Dom Rep’s got it covered. If you’re foodies, the fried fish, rice dishes and grilled plantain are going to change your life. If it’s quality time, daytrips to pretty fishing villages and UNESCO sites are all yours. Shared experiences? Zip-lining through the rainforest will set your hearts racing for sure.
Warning – family holidays to the Dominican Republic come with some epic bragging rights back at school…
- Family-friendly beaches – Playa Bavaro in Punta Cana and Playa Dorada in Puerto Plata are favourites for their calm surf, warm waters and spacious stretches, plus they have handy facilities nearby like restaurants and bars. Spend days on the sand playing ball games, building sandcastles and snorkelling in the shallows.
- Adventure and nature – For the ultimate family adventure, join a guided hike through the jungle, then go swimming at a waterfall. Book a boat tour through the mangroves and caves in Los Haitises National Park or take a group kiteboarding lesson in Cabarete.
- Cultural and educational experiences – Visit the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo – the oldest European settlement in the Americas – and explore its ancient fortresses, museums and beautiful plazas. Experience Dominican traditions and customs at cultural festivals, like carnival celebrations and local markets. Many towns also do guided tours to coffee plantations, sugarcane fields and cacao farms.
Level up your next mates’ trip by making it long haul.
- Buzzy nightlife – If you’re struggling to get the trip out of the group chat, maybe mention that Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are home to legendary beach clubs, regular parties and live music… just saying.
- Outdoorsy adventures – There are loads of activities for everyone to get involved in, from ATV tours, zip-lining and group hikes through the rainforest to paddle-boarding, kayaking and boat trips.
- Golf and fishing trips – Switch up your usual setting and tee off in golf courses like Teeth of the Dog in La Romana. Or, if you’re all into your fishing, Punta Cana’s a popular spot for deep-sea fishing trips.
- Destination events – Score some serious maid-of-honour or best-man points and take the party to the Dominican Republic – beachy days and buzzy nights out is the ideal combo for any hen or stag do. Or, if it’s your big day, the luxe resorts and stunning setting is perfect for a destination wedding.
The fact that Dominican beaches are considered some of the best in the Caribbean is really saying something.
- Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana – Known for its powdery white sand, 4K-clear waters and vibrant reefs. You can do all kinds of watersports here, like paddle-boarding, kiteboarding and snorkelling, as well as parasailing and catamaran tours.
- Playa Rincon, Samana Peninsula – A secluded bay with white sand and mega mountain views. It’s a bit of a hidden gem as it’s slightly harder to reach than the more popular beaches, but the peaceful vibes are so worth it. Head to the far end of the beach, where a freshwater stream meets the sea – it’s like a natural plunge pool compared to the warmer sea water.
- Bahia de las Aguilas – Part of Jaragua National Park, this beach nails the natural aesthetic. It’s been left completely undeveloped, and it’s so remote you’ll need to hire a 4X4 or catch a boat from the nearby village of La Cueva to get there. The conditions are perfect for snorkelling or paddle-boarding, although you’ll need to bring them along with you.
If you like beach days with a bit more action, these picks are where you’ll want to be.
- Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata – A beaut golden beach on the northern coast, close to the city of Puerto Plata. The area is known for its calm waters, great for swimming and watersports like kayaking, sailing and windsurfing.
- Playa Macao, Punta Cana – This beach is a must-visit for surfers, as it gets some of the best waves on the island. If you’re not into surfing, you can take an ATV tour along the coastline.
- Playa Encuentro, Cabarete – Another top surf spot in the Dominican Republic. This beach has consistent waves that are great for beginners and advanced surfers, with surf schools right on the sand for lessons and rentals. After a day here, the local surf crowd tend to head into Cabarete to hang out in one of the bars.
The Dominican Republic’s coastline looks just as good underwater as it does from the shore…
- Snorkelling – The coral reefs and HD-clear waters in Cayo Arena, Saona Island and Playa Fronton make them the island’s best spots for snorkelling.
- Wreck diving – Suit up and dive to La Caleta Underwater National Park, Monte Cristi or Bayahibe for fascinating shipwrecks, like the St George Wreck which sank in 1999.
- Beginner diving – Catalina Island, Playa Sosúa and Punta Cana are all great for first-time divers, thanks to their easy-to-access reefs, calm waters and shallow sites.
This is the Caribbean, so you already know the seafood is fresh, the plantain is crispy and the rice is seasoned to perfection…
- Mangu – A traditional Dominican dish made from mashed green plantains, usually eaten at breakfast. It’s normally served with fried cheese, eggs and Dominican salami, Los Tres Golpes.
- La Bandera Dominicana – This is the national dish. It means ‘The Dominican Flag’ and is a wholesome meal of rice, red beans and meat – usually chicken, beef or pork – and served with salad and fried plantain.
- Sancocho – A hearty stew that’s popular for family gatherings and special occasions. It’s made with a mix of meat, root vegetables and plantains. It’s a rich dish that’s full of flavour, usually served with rice and avocado.
- Seafood – For seafood lovers, Pescado Frito is a must-try – a perfectly fried fish served with rice, beans and fresh salad. If you fancy something light and zesty, try Ceviche – a combo of raw fish marinated in citrus juices and spiced to perfection. Feeling adventurous? Order Pulpo a la Gallega – tender octopus cooked in olive oil and paprika, served with potatoes.
- Chicharron – Seasoned pork belly which is fried until crisp and served with yuca or plantains.
Get ready for the best rum punch and fresh fruit juice you’ve ever tried…
- Mamajuana – Made by infusing rum, red wine and honey with tree bark, herbs and spices. The locals say it has various health benefits, but it’s pretty strong stuff.
- Presidente Beer – This light lager will be your regular bev during your trip, and it hits different when it’s served ice cold.
- Morir Soñando – A creamy drink made with orange juice, milk, sugar and ice. It’s a local fave, especially on hot days.
- Jugo de chinola – Fresh passionfruit juice is the most popular non-alcoholic drink in the Dominican Republic. It’s tangy, sweet and super refreshing, usually served with ice.
From laidback bars and beach parties to huge nightclubs, it’s easy to see why Spring Breakers love the Dom Rep…
- Coco Bongo, Punta Cana – This iconic venue’s more than just a nightclub… it’s a full-on entertainment experience with live performances and acrobats and known for its epic events.
- Imagine Cave, Punta Cana – Name a cooler club concept, we’ll wait… This venue’s inside a network of natural caves with multiple dance floors and loads of music genres, from reggaeton to electronic.
- Jellyfish Beach Club, Punta Cana – For a more low-key night, head to this pick right on the sand. It’s a restaurant in the day before turning into a bar in the evening. Get comfy and listen to the DJ’s chilled beats while you soak up the ocean scenes.
Why we love the Dominican Republic
Recommended hotels
Popular holiday types
The Dominican Republic’s got a huge coastline, and large parts of it are lined with mega All Inclusive resorts that come with their own private beaches. Whether you go for a full-on fly-and-flop or use your stay as a base for exploring, these All Inclusive hotels have everything you need to live your best island life.
The Dominican Republic is a fave, thanks to its great range of All Inclusive family-friendly resorts. Most have activities for all ages, like kids’ pools, waterparks and day programmes, including sports and arts and crafts. Some have tailored kids’ clubs and babysitting services, too, so you can make the most of the adults-only spa areas while the kids have fun.
With a major 300 days of sunshine a year, the Dominican Republic is pretty much always a great shout – and a win for last-minute holidays… If you’re looking to get away ASAP, check out availability from now.
La Romana’s luxe stays meet the boujie brief – the whole area’s surrounded by peaceful countryside and lush golf courses. Bayahibe’s hotels come with five-star facilities, and San Pedro de Macoris is home to huge village-sized resorts where you won’t have to lift a finger – unless it’s to pick up your next rum punch, ofc.
Dominican Republic FAQs
You can count on blue skies and sunshine in the Dominican Republic. The northern shore packs in a massive 300 sunny days a year, with average temperatures in the high 20s. Things get even hotter between June and October, although you’ll get a few tropical downpours. Over in Punta Cana, average temperatures sit at around 29°C, with summer temperatures nudging into the low 30s. Hurricane season usually lasts between June and September.
Citizens from the UK, US, Canada and the EU don’t need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. If you’re from a non-Schengen country, make sure you check specific visa requirements before your trip. Your passport also needs to be valid for at least six months after you plan to return – you can check this with our passport checker.
Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). You’ll find ATMs in the main in touristy areas, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for local markets and tips. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but you might get charged international transaction fees.
You’ll need to bring a plug A or B adapter for the Dominican Republic, which are the same types used in the US and Canada.
Tipping isn’t mandatory in the Dominican Republic, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is usually included in the bill, but you could leave an extra 5-10% for good service.
)
)
)
)
)
)
Dominican Republic travel advice
Passports and Visas
British citizens must have a valid passport to visit the Dominican Republic. A tourist visa card is required for entry and is included in the cost of your holiday, so you won’t be expected to pay for this on arrival. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/dominican-republic/entry-requirements.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/dominican-republic/health
Get a second opinion
Check out what some of our customers had to say about us…
HOT PICK
Can’t talk rn, bit busy living the tropical life at Decameron Club Caribbean, All Inclusive in Jamaica.
Book now