5 Dominican Republic Beaches You Don’t Want to Miss
For all those looking for an exotic vacation destination, the Dominican Republic always tops the lists. The Caribbean island nation of Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti to its west. The exotic paradise-like island is known for its stunning and pristine beaches and lavish and luxurious resorts outlining them. A top choice for those looking to let loose with their families and / or significant others. This amazing place is replete with natural wonders and of course, the beautiful Dominican Republic beaches it’s known for!
Every backpacker and vacationer is left in awe of the heavenly sanctuary that this Caribbean gem is, and its breathtaking natural beauty. Endless miles of white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters sprawl all over the island nation. The Dominican Republic is one place that is the epitome of beauty and magnificence. Be it the rich cultural offerings like the historic Gothic Catedral Primada de America or its many Spanish landmarks, there is something for everyone looking to explore and experience diversity and enjoy a break away from home.
For those with an adventurous spirit, this island nation also boasts a stunning natural terrain that consists of rich rainforests, wet savannahs, and sky-high peaks and highlands. In particular, Pico Duarte, the tallest peak in the Caribbean is always a welcome getaway for hikers and adventurers looking to explore its beautiful topography. But perhaps the most striking and alluring attraction in the Dominican Republic is its beaches and coastline.
Tourists and travelers flock to the Dominican Republic looking for a relaxing getaway and relax on its many idyllic beaches and resorts. Be it love-struck couples looking for the perfect romantic escape away from their home or families looking for re-connection with themselves and nature, the Dominican Republic is a top choice.
According to the Caribbean Tourist Organization, the Dominican Republic hosted more than 6.5 million tourists in 2019 and is the most visited destination in the Caribbean. And for good reason. For what else would one want other than the feisty aura of its city areas and the perfect beaches that it boasts?
Soft-sand beaches line the coast of the Dominican Republic offering stunning surfer sports and kiteboarding wonders. Many of its beaches are home to thrilling water sports such as snorkeling and wakeboarding. Be it the lavish resorts or raw natural habitats, this is one place that has everything you need.
Amazed by its many stunning beaches, we have put together a list of 5 best places to head to in the Dominican Republic. So wait no longer and get inspired for your next adventure.
Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana
The supreme setting of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean and maybe even the world. Bavaro Beach, however, takes the highlight as the most beautiful beach located at the northern tip of the coastal town.
A long stretch of palm trees fringes the coastline which sparkles all day and night with its breathtaking blue waters. The stunning warm waters known for their striking turquoise hue are the most idyllic setting for romantic sunsets and families looking for unwinding alongside the sea.
For those looking for some thrill and frenzy, the beach also offers several fun-filled sports such as parasailing, swimming, and paddling and boating. Those looking for a more relaxing experience can complement the stunning setting with chilled cocktails from the nearby beach bar or just a can of beer.
The thrill and adrenaline rush that one experiences while parasailing on Bavaro is unlike any other. Travelers taken by wanderlust are bound to return again and again to this stunning setting and relive their moments.
Another notable feature of Bavaro Beach is the many lavish resorts overlooking the sea that outline the beach including the Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro, the Barcelo Beach, and the Grand Palladium Bavaro Suites Resort. If the beach setting doesn’t relax and soothe you, the many luxurious (but pricey) bars and resorts on the beach are bound to make you let go of all your home troubles and be enveloped in the soothing scent of sea-air and scented candles.
The calm Caribbean waters are the perfect place for swimming away all your woes and relaxing under the warm Caribbean sun. Join in the action of boating and parasailing on this shore and you’ll never want to leave. Visitors who choose to stay at the beach though are reminded that the chain of luxury resorts come with a price tag.
Playa Rincon, Samana Province (Rincon Beach)
If you are a couple, a family, or a solo traveler who is looking to head on to a place of tranquility and quiet, then look no further than Playa Rincon. The somewhat isolated setting is perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of most public beaches and either spend a romantic secluded evening or a relax with your loved ones.
The Playa Rincon is easily accessible by boats from the nearby town of Las Galeras and is truly the perfect spot for a beach vacation. The soft shimmering white sand is complemented by the turquoise waters that will beckon you to jump right in and rediscover relaxation in its truest sense.
The untouched and largely untapped beach of Playa Rincon is the most stunning setting for some self-indulgence and maybe even some introspection. A string of local restaurants on the side offers some of the most scrumptious foods of the Caribbean from jerk pork to fried chicken and fish to fulfill your appetite after a long peaceful swim.
The placid waters at Playa Rincon and swaying palm trees are guaranteed to take you to a different dimension as you enjoy your meals. Nestled near the Playa Rincon beach is a protected cove which is home to the calmest waters for swimming and a beautiful freshwater stream called Cano Frio.
A stroll around the two-mile-long Playa Rincon beach will feel like a lifetime and will be complete with breathtaking views and sounds of the sea and your footsteps on the sand. Stare at the lush green mountains in the distance or explore the cove area, there is enough to make you thank nature and its many wonders.
Perhaps the best part about this beautiful abode is that it’s still untouched and not crowded because of its remote location. People looking for some tranquility are highly recommended to head on to Playa Rincon and get their perfect castaway experience without actually being stranded!
3. Cayo Levantado, Samana Province
Nestled in the Samana Peninsula, the Cayo Levantado island is also popularly known as Bacardi Island. The beach itself is divided into two sections. The first is the publicly accessible beach and the second is the stunning Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado Hotel. The Bahia Hotel region is only accessible by those who stay over at the sumptuous seaside resort (and pay its hefty fee).
However, both sections of the beach are stunning and an amazing sight to behold for all those looking for unwinding in a Caribbean picture-perfect environment. The calm and soothing beach waters of the Cayo Levantado are a spectacular backdrop for any family picnic or romantic getaway. Breathe in the warm sea air mixed with the fried smell of nearby vendor food as you live your best fantasy while staring down at the horizon.
Lifeguards are present at both sections of the beach for any mishap. If you choose to stay at the Bahia Hotel Resort you can even delve into the many available amenities. For those looking for fun and thrilling experiences, the Cayo Levantado is an amazing spot for snorkeling and sunbathing. Dive into the crystal clear aquamarine waters and admire the many wonders of marine life underwater.
Swimming alongside shoals of exotic mammals while admiring the natural flora and fauna is an experience unlike any other. The Cayo Levantado is the perfect place to let the adventurous juices flowing and get a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience underwater exploring the many wonders of the Caribbean. Those not much into the water can also experience sunbathing on the soft beach sands and relax and let go of any troubles and woes.
Other romantic activities on Cayo Levantado include a sunset cruise while you stare into the deep waters with your significant other and get blown away by the absolute majesty of this exotic getaway. If you are looking for a soothing drink to complement your view, the public beach is also home to many local authentic Caribbean bars and restaurants.
Grab your favorite mojito while you look into the many delights you can experience on this pristine beach. One visit to the Cayo Levantado is bound to make you yearn to go back and experience the natural unparalleled beauty of its beaches and nearby trails.
4. Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata
Situated on the Amber Coast, the Playa Dorada is one of the most popular beaches in all of the Dominican Republic and is home to probably the most stunning and most opulent all-inclusive resorts and bars by the sea. The idyllic setting can best be described as being someplace out of a fairy tale as it harbors the best views of the Caribbean and soft shimmering white sands to pay grace to the endless miles of ocean blue.
For those looking to spend some cash, the lavish luxury resorts outlining the Playa Dorada are the place to be. Enjoy the sweet scent of the sea air mixed with local fried delicacies alongside the aquamarine blue waters. The dazzling golden beach is bound to make you relax and unwind and have the time of your life. The paradise spot of Playa Dorada is known for the multitude of water sports it offers including snorkeling, windsurfing, and parasailing.
Get your adrenaline pumping and join in a thrill-guaranteed ride as you feel the wind crashing against your face and the scent of sea air tingling all your senses. The fun of discovering marine life underwater is also an experience of its own and is bound to make you dive right into the crystal clear waters. Most resorts on the Playa Dorada shore are also equipped with the necessary gear needed for water sports and can be rented for a fee.
The perfect setting filled with the dazzling bright sand, the warm turquoise waters, and lush green mountains are bound to take your breath away. Rest under the calming and cool shade of the palm trees enjoying the delicacies available on the beach as you stare into the horizon. Tick your bucket list goals joining in the windsurfing and water skiing fun or just bathe under the warm Caribbean sun, there is something that will satisfy your soul and quench your wanderlust.
Although there is quite a price on the luxurious resorts at Playa Dorada, the raw natural setting is bound to be enough for those looking to unwind and explore. The best part about Playa Dorada? The natural allure and luxury options coexist as the resorts are not towering high-rises but rather limited to a maximum of three stories due to strict building codes.
5. Playa Grande
Probably the quaintest yet the most beautiful beach in all of the Dominican Republic is the Playa Grande which is nestled far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and towns of Puerto Plata and Punta Cana. The scenic setting is one that is the definition of placidity and tranquility in all of the Caribbean.
Situated on the outskirts of the Rio San Juan region, the beach itself is complemented by two lavish and luxurious hotels and resorts on one end of the beach. For those looking to indulge in the sheer opulence of the resorts and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean, the Playa Grande is the perfect place to spend your time.
Those looking to have a magical family vacation away from the troubles and concerns of home, Playa Grande is a heavenly escape. For those looking to unwind and ignite a romance with their significant other, the beaches and resorts at Playa Grande are bound to offer the perfect amorous getaway due to its secluded nature. View the grand and glorious Caribbean sun sink deep into the ocean as the red hues blend into the blue at sunset.
The pristine sandy beaches are also a perfect spot to spread a mat and relish the stunning aura with a basket of food and fruits and relax to your perfect tunes. For those looking to spend a little on opulence and luxury, the resorts are sure to take your breath away. Indulge in the luxury of the spa area as you are submerged in the sweet aroma of scented candles and crackling warm fireplaces.
Those looking to get adventurous at Playa Grande can also participate in hiking activities that are conducted in groups or individually at the sandy beach and its outlying mountains. Those looking to dive right into the water and swim with shoals of diverse and magnificent marine species there is also an opportunity to take part in water sports such as snorkeling. Other sports worthy of participating are kayaking and windsurfing.
Feel the warm air crash against your face as you experience the ultimate parasailing and surfing experience on Caribbean waters. If you are looking for some fun on the soft beach sand, horseback riding is also available which is guaranteed to take you back to some old age and time.
The privacy of the beach is maintained as big groups of tourists and travelers aren’t permitted to visit the beach area. Relish the swaying palm trees and coral-colored beach as you hear the soft symphony of the beach waves.
Experience the distinct Dominican feel as you indulge in some of the many delicacies being sold at local restaurants and beach stalls. Day trips to the beach area can easily be organized from Cabarete or Puerto Plata areas. Those renting a car and driving themselves can also stop off at Playa Caleton which offers a quiet and peaceful cove to rest and relax.
In Conclusion…
From the tranquility that Playa Rincon offers to the sheer excitement and adventures that Bavaro Beach is home to, there is something for everyone at Dominican Republic’s stunning beaches and resorts. There is a unique adrenaline rush that one is bound to feel once you feel the warm Caribbean air caress your skin and your toenails dip into the cold aquamarine waters at one of the many beach settings in the Dominican Republic.
The thrill of parasailing and catching the best views of the ocean and the nearby hotels is one that is a wonderful experience for many. Swimming deep in the ocean with different kinds of fish and marine life is also an experience unlike any other.
Rejuvenate yourself and breathe in the placid calming vibes as you marvel at the many wonders in this tropical paradise. Relax and get toasted under the heat as you sunbathe on the pristine soft sandy beaches while the cool breeze tingles your senses and the calming shade of the Palm trees transports you to a different dimension. Join in the exotic cuisine and dances while a crackling fire roars alongside the sea or join in the many fishing activities with your family and friends. A visit to the Dominican Republic guarantees a perfect experience of rich culture and natural beauty and the stunning beaches are a testament to that beauty.