The site of a settlement established by Christopher Columbus in 1492, the Dominican Republic is a spectacular tropical gem with a lively culture influenced by its long Spanish colonial connection. Now a vibrant Spanish-speaking destination, the Dominican Republic covers around two-thirds of the island of La Hispaniola; the western third belongs to neighbouring Haiti. Popular with travellers from around the world, the island nation offers a tremendous range of accommodation options, including simple, off-the-beaten-track hideaways as well as superb luxury resorts. Many of the best places to stay in the Dominican Republic are right on the beach, but there’s heaps to explore in the island’s lush interior, too.

Stroll the streets of Santo Domingo, the island’s capital, for beautiful heritage buildings and thriving markets, cafés and restaurants. A couple of our top boutique picks are within Santo Domingo itself — spend a few nights here before heading towards the more tranquil resort towns of Sosúa and Las Terrenas for a laid-back beach break. If you’re into all-inclusive hotels with heaps of facilities and activities aim for Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.

Part of the Dominican Republic’s appeal is the plethora of things to see and do on the island. Take the time to hire a car and explore friendly hillside villages with stunning ocean views and delectable little eateries, or pause in sleepy towns to spot wonderfully preserved monasteries, monuments, mansions and squares. Outdoorsy adventurers will adore hiking through the gorgeous Haitises National Park, diving in the waters around nearby Isla Saona, and visiting the Dominican Republic’s many waterfalls. 27 Charcos, Salto de Jimenoa and Baiguate Salto Waterfall are some of our favourites. For breath-taking views, the Teleforico Puerto Plata Cable Car can’t be beaten!

Whether you’re dreaming of a rejuvenating eco-escape, an indulgent beachfront hideaway or a fun-filled family resort holiday, the Dominican Republic has it all. The island is especially busy during the Christmas and New Year season — the best places to stay in the Dominican Republic fill up fast, so book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in the Dominican Republic

For Absolute Indulgence

• Amanera is a gorgeous clifftop hideaway, with luxurious, minimalist rooms and suites boasting spectacular ocean views. Unwind by the infinity pool, tuck into marvellous Mediterranean cuisine and treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience. As with all the Aman group's terrific properties, this is indulgence of the highest order. A romantic hideaway for spa lovers.

For a City Stay

• Hostal Nicolas de Ovando offers a chic city stay in a heritage building, set on the very first cobbled street in the New World. A great value hotel with heaps of history and an excellent French restaurant. Ideal for exploring Santo Domingo.
• Casas Del XVI is a charming seven-bedroom B&B nestled in an old colonial house. Expect stylish interiors, leafy gardens and an inviting pool, as well as easy access to the UNESCO-listed old city of Santo Domingo. Characterful and intimate.
• Billini Hotel is a modernist design hotel in the colonial zone of Santo Domingo. Pick this place for a lively buzz and cool, contemporary feel. Some rooms feature hot tubs and private balconies, there are two restaurants and a terrific rooftop pool. A trendy city spot.

For a Luxury Resort

• Tortuga Bay Punta Cana stretches along five miles of untouched coastline, with 11 lagoons, an ecological park and a golf course. Designed by Oscar de la Renta, the luxurious villas feature splendid sea views, plus there are fantastic pools and a world-class spa. Guests are equipped with golf carts to zip around the resort with ease. The ultimate in Caribbean elegance and refinement for couples, groups or families.
• Zoetry Agua Punta Cana offers superb, all-inclusive resort stays in palm-thatched suites, with big cosy beds and all the mod-cons. An indulgent contemporary pick for travellers in search of rest and relaxation, with a sumptuous spa, candlelit restaurant and glorious sea views from rooms with white-on-white interiors. Very stylish.
• Casa de Campo is a legendary golf resort, boasting three fantastic golf courses, a tennis complex, eight restaurants and a spa, as well as heaps of further facilities and activities. Expect sleek, modern rooms and villas for couples or families. Covering 7000 acres, this is a fairly epic resort!
• The Ocean Club is a collection of smart and stylish sea-facing rooms and suites in lively Sosúa. Self-catering suites are a great pick for couples or families in search of some extra independence, although the resort also has two excellent restaurants. Think minimalist design, huge swimming pools and stacks of sea-focused activities: from diving courses to sailing. There's a soothing spa, too. For fans of clean, modern lines and active resort stays.

For Couples

• Casa Bonita is a lovely luxury lodge in Barahona, on the secluded southwestern side of the island. Book a spacious, romantic suite for lush ocean or river views and an appealing use of natural materials to create an organic design. A small but perfectly-formed escape for tranquil, spa-loving couples or adventurers who can try surfing, snorkelling, hiking, nature treks, fishing and cave tours.
• Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is a beautiful historic building with lavish, grown-up interiors. Pick this place for its beachfront location, indulgent spa and the award-winning cuisine served at Lucia, the hotel's fine dining restaurant. The fantastic wine cellar is also a big draw for foodies!
• Playa Grande Beach Club is a dreamy oasis on the wild north coast, with just nine charming bungalows set amidst verdant gardens. Six of the bungalows feature just one bedroom each, with fully-equipped kitchens, traditional tiled floors and pretty verandas. There's ample space for families in the larger bungalows, but this really feels like a romantic haven, complete with a gorgeous bar and restaurant.

For Families

• Millenium Hotel offers simple and modern one, two, and three-bedroom condos close to the beach in Caberete. A brilliant family choice, with heaps of activities for guests of all ages on both land and sea. The onsite restaurant also serves lovely Italian cuisine.
• Balcones Del Atlantico is a collection of stylish, contemporary suites and self-catering apartments with space for the whole family. Set around a huge pool, the complex boasts easy access to a beautiful beach, a top-notch seafood restaurant and a great kids club.
• Eden Roc At Cap Cana is a luxurious resort, complete with large private suites and multi-room villas offering plunge pools and hot tubs. Choose from a wide array of bars and restaurants, kick back on the pristine sand, or join in with the wide range of family activity programmes. A superb family choice.
• Sublime Samana is a cool, contemporary collection of 25 beachfront rooms, suites and multi-bedroom villas. Pick this place for the excellent spa, tennis courts, swimming pool, top-notch restaurants and endless array of activities. Fun for active families — there's stacks for everyone to do!

For an Eco Escape

• Natura Cabana is an eco-focused escape tucked amidst swaying palms on the beach just a few miles from Cabarete. Private cabanas feature palm-thatched roofs, and lots of wood, stone and seashells. With a superb yoga centre, spa treatments and a delectable seafood restaurant, this is a restful, restorative choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Dominican Republic?

• Fly into Punta Cana International Airport, Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo or Cibao International Airport, depending on your destination.
• You'll find lots to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• With balmy temperatures averaging at around 25 - 28°C throughout the year, the Dominican Republic is a gorgeous tropical destination. Book well in advance if travelling during peak season (December to April), and avoid the hurricane season (June to November) if you can. May is a great choice for hotel deals and quieter beaches!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in the British Virgin Islands.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Dominican Republic