Photo by Will Haddock on Unsplash
Things To Do in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is not just a place to sit by a pool for a week, though there is nothing wrong with that. From UNESCO heritage sites to humpback whale encounters, natural cenotes to deep-sea fishing, this island packs more variety into one destination than most travelers expect. Here are the excursions and activities I recommend to friends who visit me in the DR.
Saona Island Day Trip
The most popular excursion in Punta Cana, and for good reason. A catamaran ride to a stunning island with natural pools, starfish-filled shallows, and an all-you-can-eat beach barbecue. Nearly every resort offers this trip, but booking through Viator often saves $15 to $20 over resort pricing. Go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
Hoyo Azul Cenote at Scape Park
A natural limestone cenote with impossibly blue water at the base of a 75-foot cliff. The hike down is short but steep, and swimming in the cool water after a morning in the sun is unforgettable. Scape Park also includes zip lines, cave exploration, and cultural exhibits if you buy the full-day pass.
Santo Domingo Colonial Zone
The oldest European city in the Americas deserves at least a full day. The Zona Colonial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, the first cathedral in the New World, and some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. I live here, and I still discover new corners. From Punta Cana, guided day trips include transport and lunch.
Zip Line & Buggy Adventure
Combine a zip line canopy tour through the jungle with a dune buggy ride through Dominican countryside and villages. You will get muddy, you will get an adrenaline rush, and you will get to see a side of the country that resort guests rarely experience. Bring clothes you do not mind ruining.
Whale Watching in Samana
Every January through March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the Bay of Samana to breed and give birth. It is one of the best whale watching experiences in the world, and the DR is one of the only Caribbean destinations where you can reliably see them. The trip from Punta Cana is long (3+ hours each way), but worth every minute.
Deep Sea Fishing
The waters off Punta Cana hold marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna. Half-day charters leave from the Bavaro marina and Cap Cana, with most operators providing equipment, bait, drinks, and lunch. February through June is peak season for blue marlin.
Catamaran Party Cruise
An afternoon catamaran cruise along the Bavaro coastline with open bar, snorkeling stops, and a DJ. It is touristy, it is loud, and it is genuinely fun if you are in the mood for it. Most depart around 2pm and return by sunset. A great way to spend your second or third day when you have had enough poolside lounging.
Los Haitises National Park
A mangrove-lined bay with limestone formations, Taino cave paintings, and bird colonies. Los Haitises feels like Jurassic Park and is one of the most unique natural landscapes in the Caribbean. Accessible from Samana or as a long day trip from Punta Cana. Bring bug spray and a waterproof camera.
Booking Tips from a Local
Resort tour desks mark up excursions by 30 to 50 percent. Booking through Viator or directly with local operators almost always saves money and often gets you a smaller group size.
Always bring cash (US dollars are accepted everywhere in tourist areas) for tips and small purchases. Guides work hard and a $5 to $10 tip goes a long way.
For any excursion that involves a long drive (Santo Domingo, Samana, Los Haitises), leave early. Dominican roads are unpredictable, and starting at 6am means you arrive before the midday heat and the tour bus crowds.