Caribbean

Dominican Republic Holidays

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Beaches

Take your pick from more than 200 beaches, where you can swim, surf, snorkel and sunbathe

Activities

Go whale-watching, play a round of golf, or admire the panoramic views from Mount Isabel de Torres

Best for

With safe beaches and top-class resorts, the Dominican Republic suits couples and families alike

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Dominican Republic

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC? DODDLE.

A holiday to the Dominican Republic will take you to the eastern half of Hispaniola, one of the biggest islands in the Caribbean. It’s a classic tropical retreat with clear waters, palm-dotted sands and a luscious interior – but the Dominican Republic is significantly larger than its neighbours. It’s four times bigger than the Bahamas, and over one hundred times the size of Barbados. And with more space comes more choice, from the endless powdery beaches to the world-class hotels.

If your ideal day involves strolling along sugar-white sands, jumping in the Caribbean Sea for a dip, then sipping cocktails on a sun lounger – you’re going to the right place. Above all else, Dominican Republic holidays major in beach time. Whether you want to bounce along the waves on a jet-ski or snorkel among fish-filled corals, there’s a spot with your name on it. Punta Cana holidays, in particular, are perfect for beach-lovers. The easternmost tip of the island, this scenic town is where you’ll find popular Bavaro Beach, as well as a vibrant barrier reef and lots of fantastic resorts.

There are plenty more things to do in the Dominican Republic, besides beach-hopping. You could visit the capital city, Santo Domingo, and admire cultural sites dating back to the arrival of Christopher Columbus. You could ride a cable car to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres for sweeping vistas across the island. And, if you time your trip right, you might even see wild humpback whales migrating to breed in Samana Bay.

If you’re not sure where to stay or when to go, speak to our travel experts. Whether you’re planning a family holiday to the Dominican Republic or a romantic stay at an adults-only hotel, we’ll help you plan every detail.

Beaches

Things to do

Where to stay

Best time to go

Essential Info

Dominican Republic Beaches

With an 800-mile ribbon of sand running around its edges, the Dominican Republic boasts more than 200 beaches. So whether you’re seeking a family-friendly bay for paddling, a sweeping stretch for surfing or a tucked-away cove for a picnic, there’s a sandy spot for every mood.

You’ll find some of the Dominican Republic’s best beaches in Punta Cana, on the east coast. Bavaro Beach is classically Caribbean, with turquoise waters, talc-like sands and a large coral reef just off-shore. There’s a roped-off area where the calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while the sea beyond is perfect for watersports.

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Slightly further north, the Samana Peninsula also has its fair share of postcard-worthy beaches, but Playa Rincon is our pick of the bunch. Or you could head to Puerto Plata – the Silver Coast – on the island’s northern side. Playa Dorada is the main hub here, where the golden sands are backed by palm trees and green-clad mountains.

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Things to do

It might be hard to tear yourself away from the beach – but when you do, you’ll find lots of things to do in the Dominican Republic. Ride a cable car up to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, where you’ll have panoramic views over lush forests. Play 18 holes on one of the island’s 26 golf courses, complete with sea-view fairways and immaculate greens. Or, if you time your holiday right, why not go whale-watching? If you visit the Dominican Republic between mid-December and the end of March, you’ll almost certainly see humpback whales in Samana Bay.

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Alternatively, if culture’s more your thing, make sure you visit the island’s capital, Santo Domingo. Known simply as “La Capital” to the locals, this historical city was founded by Christopher Columbus in 1504. In its UNESCO-protected Zona Colonial, you can discover the first cathedral in the Americas, as well as Columbus Lighthouse and Alcazar de Colon – a stunning mansion built for the explorer’s son.

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Best hotels

Most of our handpicked hotels are in the popular area of Punta Cana. On the island’s east coast, this scenic stretch is filled with fantastic resorts that make the perfect base for your holiday to the Dominican Republic.

If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway, take a look at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana. Exclusively for adults, this five-star resort boasts a world-class spa, plush rooms and the largest free-form pool in the country. And, thanks to the hotel’s Unlimited Luxury® concept, you can enjoy complimentary drinks and à la carte dining, plus a long list of activities ranging from kayaking and snorkelling, to yoga and rum-tastings.

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But if you’re planning an all-inclusive holiday with the kids, consider staying at Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa. On the powdery sands of Uvero Alto Beach, this family-friendly resort has a huge pool and endless entertainment for all ages, including watersports, volleyball, football and theatrical shows. Little ones will love the games and crafts on offer at the Explorer’s Club, while the Core Zone gives teens a dedicated space to enjoy sports, games and weekly parties.

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Best time to visit Dominican Republic

Although it’s always warm in the Dominican Republic, the weather varies throughout the year. This Caribbean island has an average annual temperate of 25°C but, given its tropical climate, rain is always a possibility.

To enjoy the very best weather, try to book your Dominican Republic holiday between mid-December and March, when it’s sunny, fairly dry and not too humid. If you’re keen to avoid the rain as much as possible, it’s also worth remembering that easterly Punta Cana is generally drier than Puerto Plata on the north coast.

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As you might expect, though, December to March is also the most popular time for Dominican Republic holidays. So, if you’re travelling on a budget, consider going between April and July instead. Although the latter is officially wet season, August to November is actually the wettest time of year. It doesn’t rain continuously, but you can expect frequent downpours, especially in the northeast corner of the island. Conversely, the north coast is wettest in November and December.

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Essential Information

Visa: British citizens don’t need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic for less than 30 days
Language: Spanish
Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP) although American Dollars are also often accepted
Time difference: GMT -4 hours
Flight duration from London: A direct flight takes roughly nine hours
Capital city: Santo Domingo

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Beaches

Dominican Republic Beaches

With an 800-mile ribbon of sand running around its edges, the Dominican Republic boasts more than 200 beaches. So whether you’re seeking a family-friendly bay for paddling, a sweeping stretch for surfing or a tucked-away cove for a picnic, there’s a sandy spot for every mood.

You’ll find some of the Dominican Republic’s best beaches in Punta Cana, on the east coast. Bavaro Beach is classically Caribbean, with turquoise waters, talc-like sands and a large coral reef just off-shore. There’s a roped-off area where the calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while the sea beyond is perfect for watersports.

Show Less

Slightly further north, the Samana Peninsula also has its fair share of postcard-worthy beaches, but Playa Rincon is our pick of the bunch. Or you could head to Puerto Plata – the Silver Coast – on the island’s northern side. Playa Dorada is the main hub here, where the golden sands are backed by palm trees and green-clad mountains.

Show Less

Things to do

It might be hard to tear yourself away from the beach – but when you do, you’ll find lots of things to do in the Dominican Republic. Ride a cable car up to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, where you’ll have panoramic views over lush forests. Play 18 holes on one of the island’s 26 golf courses, complete with sea-view fairways and immaculate greens. Or, if you time your holiday right, why not go whale-watching? If you visit the Dominican Republic between mid-December and the end of March, you’ll almost certainly see humpback whales in Samana Bay.

Show Less

Alternatively, if culture’s more your thing, make sure you visit the island’s capital, Santo Domingo. Known simply as “La Capital” to the locals, this historical city was founded by Christopher Columbus in 1504. In its UNESCO-protected Zona Colonial, you can discover the first cathedral in the Americas, as well as Columbus Lighthouse and Alcazar de Colon – a stunning mansion built for the explorer’s son.

Show Less

Where to stay

Best hotels

Most of our handpicked hotels are in the popular area of Punta Cana. On the island’s east coast, this scenic stretch is filled with fantastic resorts that make the perfect base for your holiday to the Dominican Republic.

If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway, take a look at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana. Exclusively for adults, this five-star resort boasts a world-class spa, plush rooms and the largest free-form pool in the country. And, thanks to the hotel’s Unlimited Luxury® concept, you can enjoy complimentary drinks and à la carte dining, plus a long list of activities ranging from kayaking and snorkelling, to yoga and rum-tastings.

Show Less

But if you’re planning an all-inclusive holiday with the kids, consider staying at Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa. On the powdery sands of Uvero Alto Beach, this family-friendly resort has a huge pool and endless entertainment for all ages, including watersports, volleyball, football and theatrical shows. Little ones will love the games and crafts on offer at the Explorer’s Club, while the Core Zone gives teens a dedicated space to enjoy sports, games and weekly parties.

Show Less

Best time to go

Best time to visit Dominican Republic

Although it’s always warm in the Dominican Republic, the weather varies throughout the year. This Caribbean island has an average annual temperate of 25°C but, given its tropical climate, rain is always a possibility.

To enjoy the very best weather, try to book your Dominican Republic holiday between mid-December and March, when it’s sunny, fairly dry and not too humid. If you’re keen to avoid the rain as much as possible, it’s also worth remembering that easterly Punta Cana is generally drier than Puerto Plata on the north coast.

Show Less

As you might expect, though, December to March is also the most popular time for Dominican Republic holidays. So, if you’re travelling on a budget, consider going between April and July instead. Although the latter is officially wet season, August to November is actually the wettest time of year. It doesn’t rain continuously, but you can expect frequent downpours, especially in the northeast corner of the island. Conversely, the north coast is wettest in November and December.

Show Less

Essential Info

Essential Information

Visa: British citizens don’t need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic for less than 30 days
Language: Spanish
Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP) although American Dollars are also often accepted
Time difference: GMT -4 hours
Flight duration from London: A direct flight takes roughly nine hours
Capital city: Santo Domingo

Show Less

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All inclusive

Family

Beach

Majestic Colonial Punta Cana 5

Call to book

If you’re planning a luxury holiday to the Dominican Republic, this all-inclusive resort should be on your list. Majestic Colonial Punta Cana is in a fantastic spot on postcard-worthy Bavaro Beach, just down the road from Punta Blanca Golf Course.

Dominican Republic

All inclusive

Family

Beach

Majestic Mirage Punta Cana 5

From £1139pp

7 nights all inclusive including direct flights

Majestic Mirage Punta Cana is a beautiful all-suite resort in a prime position in Punta Cana, on the Dominican Republic’s tropical east coast. Set on white sands and lapped by turquoise waters, the resort welcomes both families and couples, but there are adults-only areas, including five 18+ buildings and a trio of child-free bars.

All inclusive

Beach

Adults only

Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana 5

From £1389pp

7 nights all inclusive including direct flights

Less than 25 minutes’ from Punta Cana International Airport, Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana is in a prime position on a large stretch of palm-fringed white sands, overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

All inclusive

Beach

Adults only

Excellence Punta Cana 5

If you’re looking for a romantic, all-inclusive getaway, this place might just tick all your boxes. Excellence Punta Cana is an adults-only, all-suite resort on the Dominican Republic’s east coast.

Dominican Republic

All inclusive

Active

Family

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana 5

Call to book

On the Dominican Republic’s east coast, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is in the perfect spot. And this five-star resort has everything you need for an action-packed family holiday. Take your pick from 13 sprawling pools, or take the children to one of the kids’ pools for waterslides and fun games.

All inclusive

Family

Beach

Dreams Punta Cana Resort and Spa 5

From £1089pp

7 nights all inclusive including direct flights

In a stunning location on the coast of the Dominican Republic, Dreams Punta Cana Resort and Spa places you among roaming flamingoes and tropical greenery. Have a dip in the largest free-form pool in the country, which snakes its way around the luxury accommodation and palm trees.

All inclusive

Adults only

Luxury

Hilton La Romana, All-Inclusive Adult Resort 5

Call to book

Whether you’re looking to recharge your batteries or have an action-packed holiday in the sun, Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adult Resort ticks all the boxes. The facilities are fantastic and heaps of activities are included.

Beach

Luxury

Active

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas 5

Call to book

If you’re looking for a backdrop of crystal-clear blue waters, sugar-white sands and palm trees swaying in the breeze, then you’ll feel right at home at Casa de Campo. And you’re not restricted to just one beach, as there’s a selection for you to enjoy.

All inclusive

Family

Active

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana 5

Call to book

There’s so much on offer at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana. Whether you’re after a fine-dining meal, a quick bite or a fruity cocktail, the unlimited all-inclusive covers all the restaurants and bars.

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Value

Whether you're looking for luxury or simplicity, we've got the perfect holiday for you.

Trust

Travelbag is fully protected by ATOL and ABTA, so your booking is completely secure.

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Caribbean

Dominican Republic Holidays

Beaches

Activities

Best for