The Dominican Republic is a destination with waterfalls, lagoons, beaches, and impressive caves that create a dreamlike setting. The current concept most people have of paradise seems to be embodied in the land, and the Caribbean beaches perfectly illustrate this comparison, specifically those in the Dominican Republic.
It's no wonder they are listed among the 50 best in America for 2024, a ranking in which more than a thousand travel experts participated. Additionally, they are in the top 10 best beaches in the Caribbean according to TripAdvisor. With this guarantee, the Dominican Republic offers multiple aquatic attractions for all types of expectations: from those who want to lie on the sand and forget everything, to those who want to marvel at underwater wonders or seek adrenaline in the midst of imposing waterfalls.
Cayo Levantado
A private resort island that redefines the concept of luxury with its sustainable accommodation proposal. The place is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, such as humpback whales that provide a natural spectacle for guests, who can be assured that these mammals are protected with initiatives to preserve the species. In addition to sustainability and marine fauna, this destination offers a natural pool with crystal-clear waters to relax in extremely soft sand, as well as wellness services, signature mixology, and luxury suites for an unforgettable vacation.
La Romana
A destination defined by exclusivity, where celebrities like Oscar de la Renta or King Juan Carlos of Spain have properties. Besides its incredible beaches that invite you to spend the whole day swimming, it offers options like Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean-style village built in the 1980s, which serves as a cultural center for residents, tourists, and artists. It hosts artistic workshops in pottery, weaving, and screen printing; all on cobblestone streets with views of the Caribbean Sea.
Cotubanamá National Park
Located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic, this 430-square-kilometer site has wonders for the whole family. A must-see is Saona Island, known for its impressive coral reefs where you can snorkel, hike, zip-line, mountain bike, rent ATVs or buggies, as well as admire its mangroves or swim in turquoise waters. Here you will also find the Flamingo Lagoon, a place for spotting these beautiful birds. The destination also has room for adventure with attractions like the Cueva del Puente, a three-level rock formation with stalactites, stalagmites, Taíno pictographs, and numerous bats. To get here, you have to walk along a trail in the jungle with spectacular views where there are lizards and numerous types of birds.
Jaragua National Park
One of the first biospheres recognized by UNESCO, it spans 1,295 square kilometers where you can enjoy the sea, lagoons, islands, and caves. This site houses Bahía de las Águilas, recognized in 2015 as "the clearest beach in the world," ideal for spending a day relaxing and admiring the beauty of the place. Because it is protected, camping is the only option here, as there are no resorts or hotels built to preserve the flora and fauna. In Jaragua National Park, you will also find the Oviedo Lagoon, a site where you can take excursions with certified guides who lead tourists to experience flamingo sightings, birds, iguanas, or even turtles.
Cayo Arena
Located northeast of Puerto Plata, this sandbank is also known as Paradise Cay due to the shallow waters of the ocean where you can swim, snorkel, or dive to admire the marine fauna. Because it is in a protected area, day tours can be purchased to visit this site where there are no lodging options, making it an island where you can enjoy nature in its fullest splendor.
Reserva Ecológica Ojos Indígenas
This place houses more than 500 species of plants, 36% of which are endemic to the Dominican Republic. Additionally, you can observe a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as 12 freshwater lagoons formed by the Yauya underground river. The reserve is also known for family tours, where, besides swimming in the impressive lagoons, you can do other activities like turtle, iguana, and bird watching, as well as visit its Marine Innovation Center, where you can learn about coral reef restoration.
Damajagua Waterfalls
Also known as 27 Waterfalls, this magical destination is just an hour from Puerto Plata. Here, adventure blends with nature, offering hiking in the forest, suspension bridges with river views, and waterfalls where these turquoise crystal-clear pools flow, which can be explored with certified guides. It should be noted that this dream experience requires good physical condition, as you must walk quite a bit to reach paradise. Once there, the whole family can experience the magic of this place and taste the authentic cuisine of the region.
