Top 5 Destinations for the Ultimate Dominican Republic Road Trip

From its sprawling sandy-white beaches and turquoise waters to its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural history, the Dominican Republic has well earned its spot among the top ten locations to visit, live, and retire. Whether you are planning your next family vacation, business trip, or romantic getaway, the Dominican Republic has too much to offer for you to scrimp on the time you spend in the idyllic Caribbean nation.

Because there is so much to explore, you should come to the Dominican Republic with a list of spots you want to visit. Make an itinerary, but also take time to wander as you take in the magic of the picturesque tropical country. With countless scenic beach views, resorts, and historical landmarks, you never know what treasure awaits just down the road.

#1: Punta Cana

Located on the eastern edge of the island, the utopian town of Punta Cana is world-famous for its pristine beaches and clear, calm waters that span as far as the eye can see. Home to beaches facing both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean sea, Punta Cana is a piece of paradise on earth.

With no shortage of all-inclusive resorts or options for dining and nightlife, Punta Cana is the ideal location for a Caribbean getaway. For adrenaline junkies, Punta Cana also offers opportunities for aquatic and adventure sports including jet skiing, parasailing, shark diving, scuba diving, and dune buggy rides.

# 2: Santo Domingo

Sitting at the mouth of the Ozama River on the southeastern coast of Hispaniola, Santo Domingo is the largest city in the Dominican Republic and the nation’s capital. Founded in the late 15th century, Santo Domingo is the oldest current city founded by Europeans in the Western Hemisphere. With museums showcasing Medieval and Renaissance art and a thriving cafe scene, the capital city is an indispensable stop for history buffs, foodies, art lovers, and sightseers.

At the heart of the buzzing metropolis lies the historic Zona Colonial, also referred to as “The Zone,” which is filled to the brim with architecture, statues, cathedrals, and other celebrated historical landmarks. Watch history come alive as you walk through the Zone’s original stone walls and down some of the oldest cobblestone streets in the Americas.

#3: Puerto Plata

Located on the Northern coast of the island, the province of Puerto Plata is a tourism hub. Dotted with golden, tranquil beaches, Puerto Plata is less densely populated than Punta Cana, making it a prime spot to soak up stunning beach views while skipping some of the crowds. Because Puerto Plata is older than Punta Cana, which was designed to cater to tourists, visitors often select this destination for a more “authentic” Dominican Republic experience.

Once you’ve had your fill of sand and surf, take a stroll back in time as you walk through Puerto Plata’s Center City, which boasts countless exquisite colonial-era buildings. Among Puerto Plata’s most impressive landmarks is the Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century Spanish fortress that now serves as a museum.

#4: Cabrete

As you make your way along the island’s northern shore, you’ll want to uncover the hidden gem that is Cabrete. Widely considered the watersports capital of the nation, avid surfers flock to the shores of Cabrete’s beaches, which are regarded as some of the best surfing spots in the country. Also known for its exceptional kiteboarding, windsurfing, mountain biking, backpacking, and wakeboarding, Cabrete is a can’t-miss stop for the adventure-minded.

If you prefer activities that are less action-packed, take a stroll through the relaxed multi-cultural hub that is downtown Cabrete or enjoy a seaside dinner out with your toes right in the sand. Before you leave, you should also consider taking a tour through the area’s waterfalls or a guided horseback ride through Cabrete’s scenic mountain trails.

#5 Saona Island

Located off the Dominican Republic’s southeastern coast, Saona Island is a lush destination that is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty. A nature reserve, the largely uninhabited island is an oasis for wildlife including birds, turtles, dolphins, and manatees. The island’s beaches are so uniquely picturesque, in fact, that it has served as a filming location for several blockbuster movies and popular advertisements.

Here, you can catch a boat out of the fishing village of Bayahibe and take a day trip tour of the island’s otherworldly beaches. During the tour, you will feel like you’re in a movie scene yourself as you swim in crystal-clear waters or snorkel with tropical fish.

Make the most of your visit

The Dominican Republic has so many different destinations worth visiting, it can be challenging to pick just one. Thankfully, you don’t have to choose. Most of the island’s top tourist spots are within driving distance of each other. My advice? Rent a car so you don’t have to worry about missing out on anything this vibrant country has to offer.