Wondering what to do in the Dominican Republic? Don’t worry – while paradise might seem overwhelming at first, this tropical destination offers incredible adventures for everyone!
Luckily, Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and other popular places throughout the Dominican Republic offer so many natural wonders and fun opportunities for excursions.
A tour we think you'll love
Check out the best things to do in the Dominican Republic for explorers of all ages:
1) Take A Guided Excursion In The Dominican Republic
If you want to maximize your time in the Dominican Republic, there’s no better way to enjoy the Caribbean Sea, Dominican landscape, and local culture than a guided tour. From a cultural journey through Santo Domingo to a fun voyage to an island with perfect beaches, there are countless exciting activities to explore in the Dominican Republic with an experienced guide:
At Punta Cana Excursions, we’ve been crafting unforgettable experiences for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation with private adventures designed for all ages for 25 years. Need some inspiration for places to explore during your upcoming vacation? Check out our most popular excursions:
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Saona Island Day Tour – Experience breathtaking Saona Island just off the Dominican Republic’s southeastern tip. This excursion lets you enjoy the island’s gorgeous beaches, lush mangroves, abundant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. Our popular full-day option includes time spent relaxing on white sand beaches, a swim in a natural pool, and a buffet lunch.
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Santo Domingo City Tour – Come explore the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement of the Americas under the wing of an experienced local guide! This comprehensive excursion includes Three Eyes National Park, First Cathedral of the Americas, Alcázar de Colón, the National Pantheon, panoramic views of the Presidential Palace and Columbus Lighthouse, opportunities to shop for rum, crafts, and cigars in the Zona Colonial (Old Town), and a traditional Dominican lunch.
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El Limón Waterfall – During this “wild and free” excursion, you’ll cruise by boat across Samaná Bay to explore Cayo Levantado, swim beneath a 67-meter-tall tropical cascade, ride through Samaná in an open-air Safari-style truck, and go horseback riding through lush forest terrain to reach El Limón Waterfall. During the period from January to March, Samaná Bay is a top spot for whale watching that attracts thousands of humpback whales for mating season.
We offer 21 amazing excursions to choose from in total! We also offer private booze cruise and snorkeling excursions that let you kiss paradise from aboard a luxury catamaran. Experience the Dominican Republic like a local with our expert guides who know all the hidden gems!
Book your tour with Punta Cana Excursions to experience paradise through the eyes of a local!
2) Journey To Puerto Plata For An Unforgettable Day Trip
Puerto Plata is a major coastal city and trading port on the north coast. Many tourists stay in Puerto Plata because it offers a collection of some of the best resorts in the Dominican Republic. In addition to being a true resort town, Puerto Plata also has historical significance. Check out these attractions:
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Fortaleza San Felipe – This historic fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates. Wander its old stone walls and imagine the battles once fought here while enjoying stunning views of the ocean and Puerto Plata.
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The Amber Museum – Housed in a charming Victorian mansion, this museum showcases one of the finest collections of Dominican amber in the world. Discover ancient fossils trapped in golden resin and learn about the island’s rich natural history.
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Playa Dorada (Golden Beach) – Famous for its sparkling golden sand and clear blue waters, Playa Dorada is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying water sports. The beach is lined with resorts, restaurants, and plenty of spots to soak up the sun.
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Ocean World Adventure Park – A family favorite, this park offers fun encounters like swimming with dolphins, snorkeling among tropical fish, and watching exciting sea lion shows. It’s a great place to connect with marine life and enjoy a day of adventure.
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Teleférico Puerto Plata Cable Car – Hop on the only aerial tramway in the Caribbean and glide up Mount Isabel de Torres. From the top, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city, lush forests, and the Atlantic Ocean below—an unforgettable experience.
Fun Fact: Puerto Plata was established as a settlement by Spanish colonists in the 16th century. While Philip III of Spain ordered the settlement to be depopulated and destroyed in 1605, it was reestablished by farmers from the Canary Islands a century later.
3) Relax In The Sun At Boca Chica
As one of the closest white sand beaches to the capital, Boca Chica offers the ultimate way to escape for a quick and easy day trip. What makes this gorgeous beach one of the most remarkable places for a getaway is that it’s actually separated from the rest of the Caribbean by a natural rock wall.
For beach visitors, that means a calm, warm pool where swimmers of all ages and skill levels can bathe. While this is a calming and relaxing spot, visitors looking for some fun and excitement won’t be disappointed. The beach is lined with beach bars and waterfront restaurants serving up seafood, cocktails, and live music.
Good To Know: Plan your visit to this famous beach based on how you intend to spend your time. Boca Chica has three distinct areas: the main Boca Chica section for swimming and nightlife, La Caleta for diving enthusiasts, and the Andrés area where you’ll find local sailors and fishermen.
4) Enjoy The Beautiful Beaches Of Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas is a coastal town located on the northeastern coast of the Samana Peninsula. You’ll love the unique landscape here – miles of pristine, protected waters and untouched white sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. Playa Bonita, Playa El Portillo, and Playa Moron are the most popular beaches here.
Las Terrenas is a friendly spot where cultures mix, creating a lively and welcoming vibe for everyone. You’ll love the quaint boutiques and cozy local spots that serve up some genuine Dominican warmth. Whether you’re in the mood to chill or chase some adventure, Las Terrenas is an ideal setting for a memorable beach escape.
Good To Know: Parlez-vous français? This is the place to whip out your French skills! The influence of French inhabitants over the centuries still remains strong here. With French being the official second language of Las Terrenas, many locals and business owners speak French as a first language.
5) Visit The Dr. Rafael Maria Moscoso National Botanical Garden In Santo Domingo
Founded in 1976 in honor of a famed Dominican botanist named Rafael Maria Moscoso, this 400-acre garden is one of the best places to visit during a stay in the city if you’re seeking solitude and natural beauty.
The stunning landscape here is covered in lush plants and flowers that are native to the island. Tram tours make it easy to visit all of the places within the garden.
Fun Fact: One of the biggest floral clocks in the world, the flower clock at Dr. Rafael Maria Moscoso National Botanical Garden has a diameter of 20 meters. A circular pond filled with aquatic plants encircles the clock.
Let Us Show You All The Best Things To Do In The Dominican Republic
It only takes a moment to book your unforgettable adventure in the Dominican Republic with Punta Cana Excursions! Our famous tours bring you to all the best places to learn about the interesting history and wild beauty of the island.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or getaway with friends, we offer the most affordable way to experience waterfalls, natural pools, and adventures on the Caribbean while visiting the Dominican Republic. Book your adventure with us today!
