If you are just going on vacation and mentally prepared for a transatlantic flight, then a vacation in the Caribbean will be the right choice at any time of the year. Read the reviews of tourists about the Dominican Republic - here are the best beaches in the world for comfortable swimming and families with children. Believe me, or better check. Americans love the Dominican Republic as, perhaps, only Canadians love Cuba. For them, this visa-free paradise is much closer. And if you want to meet and celebrate the New Year at sea, then you too are here. How long to fly to the Dominican Republic? Which resort to choose? Let's figure it out! And the rating of the 10 best resorts in the Dominican Republic, which the editorial team compiled based on the reviews of professionals, will help in this.
How to get there?
Trains to America do not run yet, you have to fly. The flight to the Dominican Republic will take about 13 hours if you fly from Moscow or St. Petersburg with a direct flight to Punta Cana. Or a little longer with docking in Europe or the USA.
Resorts of the Dominican Republic. What to choose?
As the saying goes - "what is good for a Russian, death for a German." Ours are looking for the best beaches, foreigners prefer to relax by the pool. Families with children choose hotels with a large territory and abundant all-inclusiveness; active youth prefer sports, new interesting places and a vibrant nightlife. We offer a short description of the top 10 popular resorts, and the choice is yours.
No. 1. Punta Cana
If you do not want to guess about where to go and which resort in the Dominican Republic to choose, go to Punta Cana. Transfer from the airport will take no more than half an hour. It has the largest selection of international hotel chains. It makes no sense to compare Barcelo and Melia, Iberostar and Bahia Principe. All are good. But 5 * and 4 * differ greatly. Both in price and in food, and in the number of services and amenities included in the all-inclusive. If the size of the room is not important to you, the presence of branded cosmetics in the bathroom, if a good buffet is enough for you and you do not need themed a la carte, if the minimum choice of imported alcohol does not bother you, but you came for the sake of the sea and the sun, - 4 * for the first line would be a good choice. Punta Cana is the most popular resort among tourists from Russia. People come here for gorgeous beaches and palm groves, easy shopping within walking distance, discos and casinos, the usual large hotels (on the territory, buildings not taller than a palm tree), a carefree resort atmosphere and an abundance of daytime and evening entertainment inside the hotel.
No. 2. Cap Cana
Cap Cana is for those who want to choose a new, prestigious and most expensive resort. Punta Cana Airport is within walking distance. Really wealthy people can afford to rest here. Such as Donald Trump, for example. They say that he already owns half of the local real estate. And it's not even about the superlatives and epithets that are asked to speak the language in this fabulous place. It's expensive here and smells like money. Luxury villas with private grounds and swimming pools, golf courses from world-class designers, luxury yachts in the marina and boutique hotels scattered along the endless beach among palm groves. Everything is very beautiful. So much so that all young couples who have chosen the resorts of the Dominican Republic for a festive ceremony and honeymoon dream of a wedding photo shoot in Cap Cana.
No. 3. La Romana
Less popular with our tourists due to the remoteness from the airports of Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. La Romana's own airport does not accept flights from Russia yet. But Americans feel at home here. The huge private tourist complex Casa de Campo covers an area of \u200b\u200b7,000 hectares. Built on an American scale, the resort boasts two excellent world-class golf courses, a shooting range and hunting club, tennis courts, a horse stable, and excellent spearfishing. But with the "all inclusive" is not very good here. The entire area is built up with villas that Americans rent or timeshare with large families and companies. Everything is quiet, cultural, private. You can find out if the villa is occupied by the presence of a car in the parking lot, the aromas of the barbecue and children's laughter from behind the fence.
No. 4. Boca Chica
Just 30 km from Santo Domingo and you are in Boca Chica. The beaches are not as wide as in Punta Cana, but the same snow-white. But the coral reef comes very close to the shore. Young children must be constantly looked after here. The entrance to the water is shallow, but sharp pieces of coral are constantly brought to the beach. But the expanse of water sports lovers: windsurfing, sailing, water skiing. Boca Chica hosts an international sport fishing tournament every April. Local hotels are quite modest 3 * and 4 *.
No. 5. Juan Dolio
Like Boca Chica, the resort town of Juan Dolio is located on the Caribbean coast of the Dominican Republic. The capital of the country is 55 km away. There is also a lot of coral by the beach, budget hotels and coastal cafes. Good diving, but getting into the water without special shoes is unlikely to work.
No. 6. Puerto Plata
No. 7. Cabarete
Isn't it a sonorous name for a small resort village on the Atlantic coast of Puerto Plata? Respectable parents do not come here with a brood of children. Young people with planks conquer the wave during the day and hang out in the evening in bars and discos. It is equally easy here to make non-binding acquaintances in the rhythms of merengue and bachata, or to meet your destiny. It is not for nothing that local beauties regularly make their competitors in the Miss Universe contest nervously gnaw their nails.
No. 8. Sosua
Another shelter for young and lonely lovers of a hassle-free holiday. The small town is snugly hidden in a quiet bay near Puerto Plata. As in Cabarete, it is full of bars, discos, entertainment and drinking establishments, between which young and not so lovers of new acquaintances move. Even if you overdid it, you are not in danger of waking up alone on the beach or getting caught by the police. Local residents and residents have long been accustomed to tourists and will always give them a helping hand in any situation.
No. 9. Samana
The protected Samana Peninsula will be appreciated by romantics and ecotourism lovers. The best sandy beaches are deserted, while dolphins and manatees can be found in the sea. And the nature here is so pristine that, if you're lucky, you will see with the naked eye the mating games of humpback whales from mid-January to mid-March. The best place for a romantic getaway away from the bustle of the city and for observing the underwater beauty is here. This is the islet of Cayo Levantado. Only three beach 5 * on all inclusions belong to the Spanish chain Bahia Principe.
No. 10. Saona
The largest and most deserted island off the coast of the Dominican Republic. There are no hotels here, and there are two ways to relax. The first is to sail with a yacht or boat tour for a couple of hours, the second is to buy a villa, as Bill Gates, Madonna and Julio Iglesias have already done. Tourists are more likely to choose the former. The excursion includes a boat trip with a stop on a sandbank: the depth is 1 m, starfish live at the bottom, with which everyone likes to take pictures, but you need to let the stars back into the water quickly, the air is contraindicated for them. And, of course, swimming in the shallow lagoon, and massage in the shade of palm trees, barbecues and cocktails on the beach.
Summarizing the above, we can answer the question, what are the pros and cons of the Dominican Republic. If everything is more or less clear with the pluses, then the minuses are not so obvious, more precisely, they are practically nonexistent. Maybe a long flight? Or an excess of sea and sun, love and joy? Or the feeling that all good things come to an end and it is not known when it will be possible to escape from the cold winter again? You need to live today! Come to the Dominican Republic, this is a great option to celebrate the New Year at sea.
On our site you can find photos of the beaches and hotels of the Dominican Republic in order to perfectly plan your vacation and choose the most suitable option. in the Dominican Republic it can be as comfortable as possible for tourists, it is a country with a high level of development, gorgeous beaches, excellent hotels and expensive restaurants. Columbus, having landed on the island of Haiti in the Dominican Republic, called it a lost paradise - and this metaphor is understandable, because the summer is mild and moderately hot here all year round.
Ideal for lovers of clean, untouched nature, there are many exotic plants and animals, unique coral reefs, fish and animals that cannot be found anywhere else. The Caribbean has many secluded but well-maintained beaches. You can find yourself here in hot summer at any time of the year.
Bavaro beach (Punta Cana)
Bavaro Beach (Punta Cana) is named after the village next to which it is located. The beach is 25 km from Punta Cana Airport. The main feature of this place is a huge coral reef that protects the beach from cold currents, dangerous sea inhabitants and too strong waves.
This reef provides a calm and pleasant seaside holiday, the beach itself is sandy, with a gentle entrance to the water and gradually increasing depth. Luxurious palm trees grow on the shore, so it won't be difficult to find shade here. This is a real paradise with warm, clear water and a gorgeous view. There is coral sand here, which does not heat up even on the hottest days.
The length of the beach is 3 km, on its territory there are points for renting uniforms for practicing water sports, as well as many bars, cafes and restaurants.
In the village of Bavaro, in several lines, there are hotels of different levels. The closest options to the sea are: Barcelo Domnican Beach 4 *, The Royal Suites Turquesa By Palladium 5 * and Occidental Grand Punta Cana 5 *. These are hotels with excellent, modern living conditions.
“Luxurious beach for relaxation, very beautiful, warm water and small waves, it is always calm and quiet here. My favorite vacation spot. "
Arena Gorda beach (Punta Cana)
To the north of Bavaro is the Arena Gorda (Punta Cana) beach. This is a wide strip of clean, snow-white coral sand, which is washed on one side by the waters of the ocean, and on the other - surrounded by sprawling, tall palm trees. On the beach you can use umbrellas, tables, rent sun loungers. You can also visit the bar and cafe on its territory. Also, you can rent equipment for water sports and diving.
The beach has a Blue Flag certificate. It should be noted that there is no sanitary zone or restaurants - it is better to take food with you. The rescue post works all year round. In late autumn and winter, this place has a rather strong wind and big waves; surfers like it, but not always suits ordinary tourists.
There are no hotels near the beach, they are in the distance. The closest are the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana, Iberostar Punta Cana, as well as the elite options Riu Bambu 5 * and Luxury Bahia Principe Esmeralda.
“It is very clean, beautiful, sand is sieved in the morning with special machines to get rid of the larvae. A great place for a relaxing holiday, but you can also do active sports. A unique place, I liked everything. "
Palenque beach (San Cristobal)
This beach is noticeably different from most others in the country, it is not white, but gray sand. It is very popular among locals, as there are no hotels surrounded by several kilometers.
Palenque beach (San Cristobal) still attracts tourists who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle and get closer to the culture of the Dominican Republic. Also, the place is very popular among diving enthusiasts, as at the bottom of the ocean there are very beautiful coral reefs and the remains of a ship that sank 200 years ago.
There is untouched nature, the sand is much dirtier, there are stones, and the bottom is worse than on the beaches near hotels. But, visiting this place is still interesting. There is also an excellent restaurant on the shore with delicious fish and seafood dishes.
“An interesting place, but I wouldn't go here all the time. Once we were here, on the whole, I liked it, a lot less people around and everything is local, the views are beautiful. But in terms of comfort, the beach loses to others. "
Bounty Beach (Saona Island)
Saona Island is a favorite tourist destination, it is located in the northern part of the Dominican Republic and excursions there are organized from all hotels. A feature of the island is that the country's authorities recognized it as a nature reserve and prohibited construction. There is only one small fishing village on the island.
Bounty Beach (Saona Island) is one of the best places in the Dominican Republic. There are always few tourists here, a place untouched by man allows you to immerse yourself in pristine nature and appreciate it. There are many palm trees on the shore, which bent to the water, a huge number of exotic plants, 112 rare species of birds. Turtles and other animals are quietly walking here. The water on the Bounty beach is azure-turquoise, transparent and calm, the waves are minimal.
Despite the lack of infrastructure, there are still some signs of civilization - showers, toilets, changing cabins. You can't take sports equipment here, but divers love the place.
You can get to the island on your own - you need to leave the capital of the Dominican Republic along the highway to La Romana, then get to Bayahibi. There will be many signs along the way.
“This is a stunning beach, truly a delight in heaven. We went on our own, but it is possible with an excursion. The cleanest water, beautiful nature, light ocean breeze - complete relaxation and relaxation. Next time we will definitely take diving suits. "
Sivori Beach (Punta Cana)
Sivori Beach (Punta Cana) is located away from the resort areas, it is one of the most popular in the region. There is fine, very clean bronze sand, clear and warm water. Nearby are the Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa, Sivory Punta Cana Boutique Hotel, Sirenis Cocotal Beach Resort and Excellence Punta Cana, which are predominantly luxury hotels.
Part of the beach is an open space with big waves, and part is a cozy bay with calm, so the place is popular among fans of active and beach holidays. If the weather permits, surfing lessons are held on weekends.
“We went to this beach to go surfing - we liked it. The waves are big, the wind is moderate, the water is warm and clean. The beach itself is also nice, clean and comfortable. We've been to group lessons on weekends a couple of times, but they're more for beginners. "
Playa Dorada beach (Playa Dorada)
This beach is ideal for lovers of a comfortable stay. Almost all of it is reserved for hotels, so every morning the staff performs a thorough cleaning and cleaning, sifts sand from grubs and shellfish, and also prepares for a new spa day.
There is white, fine sand, clear and clean water, gentle descent and gradually increasing depth. The place is fully equipped for tourists - there are sun loungers, umbrellas, cafes, catamarans and sports outfit rentals. Diving suits can be rented.
“We rested here with a young man, the place is good, but it is more of a resort for families with children. No entertainment, just a beach and a few restaurants. "
Boca Chica beach (Boca Chica)
Boca Chica Beach (Boca Chica) is located near the capital of the country, it is a picturesque lagoon that is surrounded by a large coral reef. Due to the presence of a reef, the lagoon is protected from any dangerous inhabitants of the ocean, cold currents and storms do not get here.
White, fine sand does not overheat in the sun, so the rest is always comfortable. The depth of the lagoon is only 1.5 m, but here you can often find surfers, as well as divers and sailboats. Some of them go water skiing here. Gambling tourists can take part in fishing competitions.
“Great place, postcard view. They brought a lot of great photos. The lagoon is very shallow, so it is good to swim with children, and in general it is suitable for those who like a quiet holiday. The beach has everything you need for a comfortable pastime, I really liked it. "
Caleton and Juanillo beaches (Punta Cana)
The beaches of Caleton and Juanillo (Punta Cana) are some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, which is confirmed by the photo. The wide, sandy, white stripe combined with turquoise water makes the view stunningly beautiful. This color of the sea in the Dominican Republic can be seen only on this beach.
These properties are located on the territory of the elite, most expensive residential complex in the country, Cap Cana. Access to the territory of the beach clubs is possible only with passes, and the pass is held by property owners and guests of the Eden Roc At Cap Cana and Golden Bear Lodge & Spa hotels - expensive and luxurious hotel complexes.
Other tourists can also visit the beaches, but the admission fee is 30 euros. This price includes the use of the pool, toilet, shower and towels.
On the territory there are sun loungers, comfortable and soft beach sofas. Outdoor enthusiasts can play volleyball, rent catamarans, boats and kayaks, and get scuba diving lessons and diving equipment. Sometimes there are horses that can be ridden for a fee. The beaches are very popular for photo shoots and weddings.
“This is the most beautiful place I've ever seen. It's just amazing, we were in the Dominican Republic with my husband for a honeymoon, we decided to see these beaches. Emotions are overwhelming, the beauty is incredible. We also decided to order a photo session here - it's expensive, but the result is gorgeous. "
Sosua beach (Sosua bay)
Sosua Bay is located in the north of the country and is in great demand among tourists. Sosua Beach (Sosua Bay) is one of the best places in the Dominican Republic, with pristine nature, lush growing palm trees, unusual corals at the bottom and many exotic plants. The sand here is not as white as on the southern coast, but in the bay, civilization has not touched nature, preserving its natural appearance.
It is a unique place with golden sands, turquoise waters and beautiful coral reefs. The bay itself is cozy and quiet, but along the beach there are restaurants, bars, cafes and souvenir shops. There are several nightclubs here. The place is quite popular, so there are always a lot of tourists here.
“Wonderful bay, very clean, beautiful, gorgeous photos were obtained. But a lot of people, there is even nowhere to lie. I had to go to Dorado. There is a wonderful restaurant and a great bar on the beach. "
Dominicus Beach (Bayahibe)
The clean and beautiful Dominicus Beach (Bayahibe) is always in demand among tourists. Hotels occupy almost the entire territory, so it is not always possible to find a place. You can leave your car in a paid parking lot and walk along the coastline to any of the closed beaches. You can also leave your car at the beach club and gain access to its territory.
Near this place are the hotels Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa, Catalonia Gran Dominicus and Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus - luxury hotels.
There is very beautiful nature here, clean and white, fine sand, palm trees, turquoise sea with a good bottom. The beaches are fully equipped for relaxation - they have sun loungers, umbrellas, paraphernalia for water sports, catamarans and much more. There are fewer tourists than on Bayahibe beach, but still there are a lot.
“I didn’t like it very much, the beaches are beautiful, but there are hotels everywhere, and coming to foreign territory you feel uncomfortable. The nature itself is luxurious, the water is warm, but the prices in the cafe are obscenely high, which is also a minus. "
The peculiarity of the Dominican Republic is that during the year the temperature of the air and water here almost does not change. In winter in the country +29 and water +26, and in summer the air warms up to +32, and water - up to +28. Therefore, you can come to rest at any time. But in summer the climate is more humid, there are practically no winds, in winter storms and strong winds are more common. Therefore, tourists usually come here in the off-season.
11.01.2019The Dominican Republic, or simply the Dominican Republic, occupies most of the island of Haiti, and also has a number of small islands under its jurisdiction, which looks extremely attractive in terms of tourist recreation. As the second largest state in the West Indies (after Cuba), the Dominican Republic has a long coastline - almost 1,300 kilometers, which speaks of an impressive number of large and small resorts. Since the Dominican lands are washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, travelers often have questions - are there any differences between these coasts, what are they, and in this case, which part of the Dominican Republic is better to prefer for vacation? Let's try to figure it out.
Dominican Atlantic coast
The Atlantic Ocean washes northern and eastern parts Dominican Republic. The very first thing that can be said about the resorts located on these shores is that they should be chosen, first of all, by all fans of windsurfing, advanced divers and adherents of other marine activities. The Atlantic carries stormy waves, and if the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic is covered by an extended shield of a coral reef, then on the northern shores, it happens that tourists do not risk swimming for several days.
Geographically to northern part The Atlantic coastline includes the coastline from the border with Haiti to the Samana Peninsula. Another unique feature of the region is that many climatic zones are represented on a relatively small section. The western "edge" of the northern coast is very dry - even arid. The relief of the area is rather monotonous and flat. The vegetation also does not strive upward: green spaces are represented mainly by shrubs. The seeming dullness of the area is diluted by two magnificent national parks with thickets of outlandish mangroves and beautiful sea views.
The piece of land between Cofresi and Nagua is also called the Amber Coast because of its rich amber deposits. Golden beaches are interspersed with lush mountain forests, which is why most of the hotels on the northern coast are concentrated in this region. Mountain biking, horseback riding, ocean fishing, surfing, diving and other extreme sports are most prevalent here. Speaking of diving, the Dominican Republic is generally considered the best place in the Caribbean for snorkeling and scuba diving: the coral reefs and underwater lawns in this region are distinguished by an amazing variety of flora and fauna (the local waters are home to the most beautiful tropical fish and rays, even manatees and humpbacks swim whales!), the bottom topography is very picturesque and rich in cavernous formations, but the most interesting and exciting thing that came to the bottom from the surface is the sunken ships of different eras. Over the past half century, about four hundred ships have suffered a disaster in the region, so there is something for divers to admire. It is not surprising that under such conditions, in any resort in the Dominican Republic, you will have a solid diving center, or even more than one. The Atlantic coast of the country should be chosen by experienced divers, while beginners can practice and gain experience in the much calmer waters of the Caribbean Sea.
The Samana Peninsula ends on the northern part of the Atlantic coast. Perhaps this is the most picturesque part of not only the Dominican Republic, but the entire Caribbean. This is how we usually imagine an exotic paradise: many kilometers of deserted expanses of white sand, tired coconut palms lurching over turquoise water. While resting on Samana in January-March, you can observe whales splashing in the distance: at this time they come here from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to reproduce.
The best resorts of the northern coast of the Dominican Republic
Puerto Plata
The heart of the northern Dominican Republic, the place where Christopher Columbus landed, is Puerto Plata, which stretches along the Amber Coast. This resort is the second most popular in the Dominican Republic after Punta Cana, although it is strikingly different from it: here you can calmly rest in silence, relax, enjoy nature and learn how to tame the Atlantic wave on a surfboard. Fans of active nightlife in Puerto Plata will certainly disappoint with the long and unsuccessful search for a working disco. Founded at the end of the 15th century, the city invites its guests to explore a number of ancient buildings (the old city center, the fort and the Cathedral of San Felipe) and visit several good museums. The main resources of the resort are bestowed upon it by nature. For example, Isabel de Torres is the highest mountain in this area, to the top of which you can climb by car, on foot or by cable car. From the top of Isabel de Torres, arms outstretched, looks at the city ... a statue of Christ the Redeemer! A miniature copy of the masterpiece from Rio de Janeiro was donated to Puerto Plata by the Brazilian authorities.
To visit Puerto Plata and not to visit the 27 Fountains Reserve will be a grandiose omission. This is a natural water park with twenty seven, as the name implies, waterfalls located in a cascade. Tourists are encouraged to climb seven, twelve or all twenty-seven waterfalls along secret paths and rope ladders, and then go down the water.
Playa Dorada
Just east of Puerto Plata is the Playa Dorada resort. It is very popular among tourists due to the airport located just 15 minutes away, which is very convenient for families with children and retirees who can hardly endure long journeys. But, of course, this is not the only advantage of Playa Dorada. The fabulous-looking beach with a gentle entrance into the water is marked with the Blue Flag and is considered one of the best in the Dominican Republic. Amazing nature, the highest service in local hotels, unlimited space for active and extreme pastime, a large selection of restaurants and bars, the famous 18-hole golf course and a casino - all this in the complex makes Playa Dorada an ideal place for recreation for any category of tourists.
Cabarete
A resort for young, mobile, full of energy and adrenaline. He himself is young - just a dozen years ago, surfboard fans chose the tiny fishing village located here for their activities, and now Cabarete Beach is among the world's Top 10 places ideal for surfing. This is due to the fact that not a single coral barrier impedes the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and vigorous trade winds delight fans of sea extreme all year round. World windsurfing competitions are held annually in Cabarete, as well as tournaments in the increasingly popular kiteboarding. The coastline of the resort is abundantly dotted with variegated bars, because where else, if not in a noisy establishment with a glass of a strong drink, can relax after taming the Atlantic waves?
For those who do not belong to the cohort of extreme athletes, we can recommend a visit to the El Choco National Park, which is a little older than the resort itself: only 25 years ago it was given this official status. In El Choco, you will find the richest flora, many orchids, tropical birds and even a dozen species of bats, but the main asset of the park is the system of underground caves with pools "Caribbean Karst", where you can get with an excursion and swim. The territory of the reserve is decent, it is not surprising to get lost on foot without a guide, so it is better to hire a guide or go around El Choco on horseback or in jeeps.
Sosua
Another youth spot on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic is nestled in a tranquil cove between Cabarete and Puerto Plata. The small resort is the party center of the region: there are many bars and discos in Sosua, mostly bachelors. Local white sandy beaches are quite wide, therefore, despite the large number of tourists, everyone can stay here comfortably. Not far from the coast there is a compact but densely populated coral reef where you can go snorkelling: the local diving center will provide tourists with vivid impressions. Other attractions in Sosua include the botanical garden and the old market, as well as the Jewish quarter: Jews who fled from Europe found refuge here in the 1940s. In winter, boat trips to flocks of humpback whales, which swim here to reproduce, become the main entertainment here.
Samana
This peninsula is highly recommended for independent tourists. Despite the presence of two international airports and three large cities, Samana remains a quiet, calm place and is famous for its virgin nature: coconut groves, caves, waterfalls, clean rivers and deserted beaches - sheer relaxation. There are several national parks on the peninsula, the largest of which is Los Gaitises with mysterious caves, in which the Indians used to live (as evidenced by the drawings on the walls), and now only bats. Another local attraction that would be extremely unfair to ignore is the 30-meter El Limon waterfall. They say that everyone who has bathed in it is waiting for untold wealth. Tasting excursions to the ranch where coffee and cocoa are grown are very popular.
The small island of Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, is also part of the Samana province - this is where the shooting of the first commercial of this popular brand took place. And if you are lucky enough to be on the peninsula in February, then your path should definitely run through the provincial capital - the city of Santa Barbara de Samana, where a cheerful festival of salsa and meringue takes place at this time.
East coast The Dominican Republic, washed by the Atlantic Ocean, is considered the most popular and demanded recreational region in the country. The largest resorts are located here and there are practically no cities in the usual sense of the word. It is here that the hotels with which tour operators from the CIS countries work most actively are located. A large coral reef stretches almost along the entire coast, protecting the land from the energetic waves of the ocean and simultaneously creating excellent conditions for memorable diving. In other words, the resorts of the eastern part of the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic will be an ideal vacation spot for both active and restless tourists and contemplative lazy people.
The best resorts on the east coast of the Dominican Republic
Punta Cana
This is a huge resort region located at the "junction" of the Atlantic Ocean with the Caribbean Sea. The biggest, the most popular, the most beautiful - you can take a very long time to select adjectives in the superlative degree of comparison to describe it. The main pride of Punta Cana is the wide beaches dotted with coral paper-white sand, lined with dumpy coconut palms and lined with exotic bungalows covered with dried-up palm paws. And all this beauty is in municipal property, so you can sunbathe and swim freely and free of charge. Punta Cana is also lucky with the weather: the rainy season is very short here, and the average monthly temperature is practically unchanged all year round - around 30 degrees, which are softened by light ocean breezes. This resort for newlyweds is becoming more and more popular: the days spent here will be remembered by the newlyweds all their lives as a real honeymoon.
A few words about the national Dominican fun - diving: the coastal waters are very clear, and the visibility under water in the summer season reaches 30 meters. The most popular part of the reef for swimming is considered to be a part of the reef called "Marinarium", where eagle rays and even harmless mustachioed nurse sharks live. There is also a "own" sunken ship here: even from the shore you can see the mast of the cargo ship Astron (by the way, on the balance sheet in Russia) sticking out of the water, which ran aground during a storm in 1978 and sank to the bottom. Another active, gambling and very popular among tourists from the CIS countries entertainment here is a jeep safari, with the help of which you can transfer from a cool hotel civilization to the riot of a tropical jungle for a day and feel like a hero of an adventure action movie. Also in the vicinity of Punta Cana there are a dozen first-class golf courses, some of which, such as Punta Espada, are included in various world ratings. And if someone doesn't like these bourgeois excesses, then welcome to the world of agritourism: next to the resort there are several villages where travelers can touch the life of ordinary locals and personally take part in the sugarcane harvesting or other household crafts.
Fans of hanging out and dancing in Punta Cana will not be discouraged: in addition to the discos available at every hotel, the resort offers to visit a lot of original clubs, the most popular of which, perhaps, can be called Imagine, located in a natural cave: three dance floors framed by stalactites, you are sure remember for a long time!
Bavaro
In the very southeast of the Dominican Republic there is the resort of Bavaro, which can be classified as "luxury". Just some 30 years ago, simple winds rustled here in the mangroves, and today the area has all the attributes of an aristocratic vacation: five-star hotels, tennis courts, casinos, golf courses, stables, expensive shops and even a dress code in a number of establishments. For those who are satiated with comfort and respectability, Bavaro is ready to offer a lot of entertainment in addition to diving, snorkeling and jeep safari traditional for the whole country: for example, an excursion to the Palm Cemetery, where strange birds are found in mangrove dead woods, or to the Oleg Bat House cave - home of several species of bats. Those who come on vacation with the whole family have the opportunity to take their children to the dinosaur park or to the Manati Park, where you can swim with dolphins. A new level of nightlife is offered by the most famous Bavaro club Coco Bongo - this is not just a disco, but a real show with large-scale choreographic performances, vocal numbers and acrobatic sketches.
Cap Cana
If you are rich then why not visit Cap Cana? This is a small and very young resort, one of the co-founders of which is Donald Trump. With just a dozen minutes' drive from Punta Cana Airport, you can live in a luxurious bungalow with private ocean access. The beauty, cleanliness and level of service at Cap Cana go far beyond the generally accepted five-star scale. The cost of all this happiness is rather big, that's why businessmen and Hollywood stars fly here entirely.
Dominican Caribbean coast
The Caribbean Sea washes the southern part of the Dominican Republic, so the two most obvious differences between the local resorts from the northern and eastern ones are the absence of waves and a higher water temperature. The capital of the state, the city of Santo Domingo, is also located on the Caribbean coast, as well as the famous islands of Beata and Elephant.
The best resorts of the southern coast of the Dominican Republic
Boca Chica
Located not far from the capital of the Dominican Republic, Boca Chica resort can be classified as affordable and democratic. At the same time, the moderate cost of vouchers here in no way affects the conditions of rest or the level of service. First of all, families with children tend to Boca Chica: the resort has the unofficial title of the largest bath in the world thanks to the always warm and calm water and a very gentle entrance to the sea. Boca Chica's beach is considered the cleanest on the entire southern coast: the coral reef takes over everything that the waves can bring here, and natural underwater springs constantly feed the bay with crystal clear water.
The history of Boca Chica is only a few dozen years old, so the resort cannot offer its guests any special attractions. The most interesting place in the city is Calle Duarte, where most of the entertainment venues are concentrated.
Diving is a must in Boca Chica: the region is ideal for a diving debut, while La Caleta underwater park has two sunken ships! In the immediate vicinity of the shores of Boca Chica, there are two tiny islands - La Matika and Los Pinos, which you can even get to on your own by renting a marine motorcycle. The first one is covered with mangroves, the second - with pine trees, where you can hide from the noise of people and feel like Robinson.
La Romana
To paint the beach beauty of La Romana is a thankless task: fine white sand, turquoise water and coconut palms are just as incredible here as in the already described Dominican resorts. The main focus of La Romana is a quiet and relaxing family vacation. Despite the fact that the city is more than 500 years old, it is also not very rich in attractions: living a quiet life of a hard worker, La Romana has been known throughout its history as a center for processing sugar cane. Nevertheless, there are several interesting places in the vicinity of the resort that are worth visiting. For example, the village of artisans and artists Altos de Chavon. Its construction was completed only in the 1990s, but all the buildings in it correspond to the canons of 16th century Italian architecture. The picturesque area (elevation above the gorge) and man-made beauty often attract newlyweds here for a wedding ceremony.
Near La Romana, there is the Chavon River, where you can go kayaking. You should definitely visit the Cueva de las Maravillas ("Cave of Miracles"), which the skilful hands of architects have turned into a real underground palace with several halls, stone bridges and stalactite arches.
Saona
While relaxing in La Romana or Punta Cana, you can go on a day trip to Saona Island. Once upon a time a commercial for the "Bounty" chocolate was filmed on this island, and since then the paradise views of Saona have been firmly imprinted on the memory, and even the term "bounty island" has appeared in everyday speech, which can briefly and clearly describe the unearthly beauty of any the coast. Unfortunately, it is impossible to settle here: there is not a single hotel on Saone, and the island itself is a nature reserve.
Santo Domingo
The capital of the Dominican Republic, located in the place where Osama flows into the Caribbean Sea, more than compensates for the lack of attractions in other cities in the region. Founded in 1496 by the younger brother of Christopher Columbus, San Domingo is the first city in the New World. The rich architectural heritage of the 15th-16th centuries allowed it to enter the UNESCO registers. An abundance of colonial sights in 2010 brought Santo Domingo the title of cultural capital of the Americas, so get ready: there will be a lot of interesting things here!
The perfectly preserved Osama fortress, which protected the city from pirate raids, the Alcazar de Colon palace, the first cathedral in the New World - all these structures arose on the shores of the Caribbean Sea at the very beginning of the 16th century! The symbol of the city is the Columbus Lighthouse, and the remains of the great navigator are also buried here. Alleys, parks, beautiful streets, a seaside promenade lined with palm trees - walks along Santa Domingo will be long and pleasant. Nature lovers will also not have to regret that they have chosen the largest city in the Dominican Republic for recreation: there is a botanical garden, an aquarium, a unique cave complex and a zoo.
Juan Dolio
Another popular resort of the Dominican south - Juan Dolio is located between Santo Domingo and La Romana on the shores of a beautiful bay. The town is small and calm, so mostly lovers of peace and quiet rest here. Comfortable hotels of various price categories are located along the wide sandy strip of the uninterrupted beach. Diving and snorkeling of the highest Dominican quality, hiking and cycling in the surrounding area, and a visit to a nearby flower farm will add to your leisurely holiday. Juan Dolio's excellent location allows you to go to contemplate the sights of Santo Domingo or admire the caves of La Romana at any time. It remains to add that the Dominicans themselves prefer to rest in Juan Dolio, and the inhabitants of this country know something about resorts.
Barahona
This resort is located in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, at the very border with Haiti on the Pedernales Peninsula. It cannot be classified as the most popular due to the fact that getting to it is a little more difficult. Yes, and there are no huge hotel complexes here either, but the main wealth of Barahona is amazing nature. Firstly, these are deserted wild beaches in a bay surrounded by mountains. Secondly, the variety of the most picturesque water bodies - rivers, lakes, waterfalls. Thirdly, Barahona is surrounded by unique natural parks and reserves where you can find iguanas, flamingos, lizards and crocodiles. Also here is a mysterious place - Polo Magnetico. If you leave a car in neutral in this anomalous zone, you can observe a rare optical illusion: the car will crawl by itself ... up!
Flights to Dominican Republic from Mexico through the USA were bought at a good price on the site:
Car rental in the Dominican Republic was taken from the calculation of fast and comfortable travel over rough terrain -
That is, an SUV. True, in fact, instead of all-wheel drive, they gave a front-wheel drive, but this is the specifics of pre-order in Latin America.
For them, that 4WD, that 2WD - all the same: the main thing is 7 seats, air conditioning and the same size.
Driving in the Dominican Republic
Driving and driving rules in the Dominican Republic are very simple:
- the one who is more impudent has priority
- crossing a solid, driving in the oncoming lane, driving at a red light - allowed for those who are bolder or in a hurry
- speed limit was invented by cowards
- have no restrictions: fuel trucks, heavily crumpled minibuses (the more crumpled, the more advantages), taxis without numbers, headlights and with doors and hoods of different colors.
The latter should be feared most of all. Especially at night, as they are simply not visible on the road
Persons moving in expensive, shiny, new cars do not have any rights and they can be safely rammed in the oncoming lane, cut off, not allowed in a traffic jam, and so on.
Mobile Internet in the Dominican Republic
At the airport Las Americas on the first floor, a SIM card was purchased for the iPhone6 \u200b\u200boperator Claro
To buy you need 42 dollars and a passport
Included traffic 1GB
She worked in cities and at the very least on a flat highway
There was no communication in the mountains and in the national park
Money exchange in the Dominican Republic
There are two banks and a couple of ATMs at the exit from the airport.
There are also currency exchange booths in the baggage claim area, but I know from experience that there is the most extortionate rate. The way it is.
But in banks the rate is normal
When withdrawing money through an ATM, an ATM commission is added to the requested amount - 200 pesos
Therefore, cash is better.
Province of Barahona
The province is located southwest of the capital Santo Domingo.
It is a mountainous peninsula on the border with Haiti. Provincial capital city Santa cruz de barahona.
The main attractions of the province are: Parque nacional jaragua - in him Bahia de las Aguilas, Laguna de oviedo and Hoyo de pelempito... Also nearby Parque Nacional Isla Cabritoswhere crocodiles are found, but we did not go there (further north, along the border with Haiti)
We were interested in the beaches of this province and having received the ordered car at the airport, we drove west along the toll (35 pesos) Las Americas motorway
I note that together with the car we rented a GPS navigation and it was very handy, since the map shows all lambads (speed bumps) on all roads in the Dominican Republic.
Tested and helped a lot ...
Navigation and google map go to the place ( Pedernales) 335 km
And although the speed of movement on the highway was 150-160 km / h, Santo Domingo strongly slowed us down (traffic jams, traffic lights, road repairs), as well as all the towns along the road: San Cristobal, Baths, Azua de Compostela
In addition, we stopped to drink beer and tickle our nerves with conversations with traders of all kinds of shnyaga near checkpoints and lambad
Spent the night in a town Playa azul and the next day began to explore the beaches of the peninsula
What can I say: the eastern part of this peninsula has kind of beaches. But we had no desire to swim in them
This part of the peninsula is windy, the waves raise lime mud. The entrance to the sea is covered with thorny limestone stones. But you can take pictures.
That is, the beaches: playa azul, el quemaito, playa meseta, la cienaga, san rafael, paraiso, los patos... - b a r a h lo
Lagoon Oviedo (Laguna Oviedo) is a large swamp covered with green duckweed.
You can only get to the lagoon through the checkpoint.
They immediately ask to pay for a boat tour of the lagoon, with listening to birds and photographing pink flamingos.
The tour was not included in our plans. The persistence of people annoyed, and they, in turn, refused to let us go closer to the lagoon to launch the drone (there are no photos and videos, respectively)
After 60 km after that we turned off the highway onto the dirt road in the direction of the airfield Cabo rojo
These places are remarkable for their bright burgundy soil.
Greenery looks beautiful against the background of such land.
Actually, this road leads to the goal of our journey - Bahia de las Aguilas (Orlov Bay)
Everything is completely different here: compared to the eastern coast of the province of Barahona, there are no waves here, the water is clean, the sand is white and soft.
In the sea, there are limestone slabs overgrown with algae: they can be seen in the photo - the water is dark blue, but they come across already at depth and are smooth and polished to the touch with their feet
On the road that leads along the edge of the sea towards the cape where the village is located Cabo rojo, fishermen offer to fry fish and lobsters.
You can buy fresh and use your own hair.
Housing, except for the village in the vicinity of ten kilometers - no.
There is a shadow, there is firewood, there are some ruined huts and you can take bricks for the hearth.
Seeing this "disgrace" I thought that it would be nice to come here with a company and tents - the place is very beautiful and wild.
Here boaters are concentrated, offering a transfer to the wild edge of the many kilometers of beach Playa de las Aguilas for some $ 100-200)))
There is a restaurant under a thatched roof - I do not strongly recommend it right away - tourists who buy a tour are brought here, they cook and serve disgustingly, prices are inflated
Here you have to pay 200 pesos to enter the Orlov Bay
The road descends from the hill into the hollow and runs into a parking lot, where they immediately offer the service “to look after the car”. Pay no attention to the valets.
Then there are several options: stop right there on the beach, walk on foot to a wild land, try to get there by car.
I must say right away that you can get there, but you need a jeep with high ground clearance and tires with off-road tread.
You don't have to meddle on an SUV - deep rut and boulders in places
The place is calm and good for swimming.
The presence of other passheros does not bother - everyone behaves modestly and quietly. In addition, you can move 100 meters away from them and take your own piece of the beach - it is very large.
My rating for this beach from all seen 5 with a minus.
The downside is the following: difficulty to achieve, lack of housing, shower, shops, restaurants.
This option is for those who will travel with tents and a couple of cars with a towing end, so that if something happens to drag each other
Still before Orlov bays there is a deserted beach of not the worst quality - I wrote about it above.
Before him from Pedernales go 20 minutes.
Pedernales itself is a hole.
But it has a general store, a tavern, and a filthy hotel for refugees from Haiti. In principle, with a strong desire, you can porobinson here for a couple of days - quite.
Buy fish and lobsters from fishermen, in the general store of beer, water and rum. The main thing is to get somewhere a foam cooler box and ice (neither one nor the other was found in the general store)
Well, we return to the starting point of the route to go on the next day.
About this in the next episode.
It has a huge coastline - almost 1,500 kilometers. Most of it is occupied by resorts and beaches, and some of them are called the best beaches for recreation in the world. White sand and water, so transparent that even at a depth of several meters, the bottom is clearly visible - this is what awaits vacationers.
Many tourists from all over the world adore the beaches of the Dominican Republic, because there is everything you need to relax, and most of all they like Punta Cana. This place has the largest number of hotels and inns, as well as various entertainment, such as nightclubs, entertainment centers, casinos and bars. Couples with children love the beaches of Uvero Alto and Samana, because there is romance, tranquility and silence. Young people love La Romana and Boca Chica.
Climate and location of the Dominican Republic
It is very hot in this republic, so the beach season opens in October. At this time there is wonderful weather and a warm sea. In summer, they travel less often to the Dominican Republic, because at such temperatures, fifteen minutes in the sun will be enough to burn out. Sightseeing trips in the summer will also need to be abandoned, because no tourist who is not used to the heat will be able to endure the trip to the end. In addition, in the summer, due to the influx of water on the banks, a certain amount of algae remains, which is not conducive to a good rest.
The Dominican Republic is located on and although the famous Cuba is located very close, this republic does not lose its leadership position and is popular with Russian-speaking tourists. It is also washed by several seas, the most famous is the Caribbean Sea. It was on its beaches that the films that became world famous - "Pirates of the Caribbean" were filmed.
What are the best beaches in the Dominican Republic
The republic has never been deprived of the attention of Russian and European tourists who visit it all year round. Some use tour operators and vouchers, where everything is included, others go to get to know the Dominican Republic in a way that other people do not know, rent cars and small coastal houses and explore the beaches of the Dominican Republic on their own. In any case, there are some of the most popular places in it, which are definitely worth a visit.
Punta Cana
Perhaps the most popular resort in the Dominican Republic. Occupies the east coast of the island and has approximately 70 kilometers of pristine white sand beaches, clear waters and many hotel complexes with different numbers of stars.
Ecology and natural beauty is a very important aspect in Punta Cana's beaches and coastal areas are protected from construction, which could harm the pristine beauty and many which the island is planted with.
One of the richest beaches with all the amenities is Bavaro Beach. This resort takes about 50 kilometers and takes 60% of the tourists from all over the world. Its popularity is due to the coral reef, which is located in the water at a distance of 800 meters from the coast, which is very close and gives many advantages. The water becomes calm and calm, there is a wonderful opportunity for diving and other water sports.
Boca Chica
This resort boasts an excellent location and all the amenities for a family holiday. In the southeast of the republic, the Boca Chica beach has gained its popularity. The Dominican Republic is a small country, but it is problematic to visit many places for a short vacation. Boca Chica is located just 30 kilometers from the center of the republic - Santo Domingo, which is rightfully considered one of the most colorful and exotic tourist centers. It is there that you can get on many excursions and plunge into the life of the local population, taste national cuisine and consider architecture.
Boca Chica's beaches are protected by a coral reef that forms a lagoon that is no more than 1.5 meters deep, so it is safe for children. If Punta Cana has the best hotels and resorts for vacation, then Boca Chica has the best beaches with the finest sand and the most transparent waters.
Santo Domingo
Once on the lands of this city, the first Spanish city called Isabella was built. After a while, due to a powerful typhoon, only fragments remained of the city, and a new city was erected on its ruins, which UNESCO rightfully considers the heritage of mankind - Santo Domingo.
This city has no beaches to swim in, despite the fact that it is located on the coastline. The fact is that the coast is very rocky and inconvenient, so this city is worth visiting for architecture and nightlife. On the famous Mackelon (avenue 15 kilometers) there is a huge number of cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and other establishments, among which there is an opportunity to have an unforgettable vacation without visiting the beaches of the Dominican Republic.
While vacationing in Santo Domingo, you should definitely visit the Columbus Lighthouse, which is located in the eastern part of the city on a hill. There is a museum at the lighthouse with the remains of Columbus and other interesting monuments. For relaxing on the beach, you can go to the coastal villages, which are 40 minutes from the center, and enjoy the clear sea.
Samana
This is the place for those who prefer individual holidays and do not want to share the beach with other tourists. Samana is considered a truly wonderful and mysterious place, which for some unknown reason has not yet settled down by tourists. The beaches there are also protected by a coral reef, but besides the resting people, you can find huge sea turtles, humpback whales and many species of birds.
La Romana
This city is preferred by tourists due to the fact that it has an international airport, and Santo Domingo is located 131 kilometers away, which is very close and convenient. While in this city and visiting the beaches of the Dominican Republic, you are visiting the beaches of the Caribbean. It is also a huge cultural center combined with natural splendor.
