Although the Dominican Republic is a small country primarily known for its stunning beaches and ocean views, its list of attractions is extensive and caters to all tastes. Whether you’re a fan of cities and architecture, a mountain and waterfall enthusiast, or a lover of hiking, there’s plenty to explore. In this article, you’ll find the most exciting attractions in the Dominican Republic, complete with maps, descriptions, prices, and operating hours. Most importantly, I’ve rated each attraction to help you decide whether it’s worth the visit.
It is important to know:
The ratings are subjective but should give you a sense of whether traveling across half the country for a particular attraction is worthwhile — or if it’s better to prioritize something even more impressive.

Table of contents:
- Santo Domingo and its attractions
- Bahía de las Águilas (Eagle Bay)
- El Limón Waterfall
- Saona Island
- Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)
- Aguas Blancas Waterfall
- Whale Watching in the Dominican Republic
- Playa Frontón and Playa Madama
- Montaña Redonda (Round Mountain)
- Pico Duarte — The Highest Point in the Caribbean
- 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
- Altos de Chavón — The Artist Village
- Mount Isabel de Torres and the Cable Car in Puerto Plata
- Playa Cosón
- Laguna Dudu — A Karst Lake
- Magnetic Pole — A Geomagnetic Anomaly
- Oviedo Lagoon and Pink Flamingos
- Las Galeras and Playa Rincón
- Jarabacoa — What to See in This Charming Town
- Monkey Jungle Park
Dominican Republic Attractions
This is by no means an exhaustive list of things to see in the Dominican Republic. However, the author believes that every traveler will find at least a dozen destinations worth visiting.
Important to Know:
I haven’t included all the major landmarks in the capital, Santo Domingo. Otherwise, this list would grow by at least 20 more amazing spots. You’ll find a link below to a comprehensive guide on what to see in Santo Domingo. Be sure to check it out!
Interactive Map of Attractions in the Dominican Republic
The map is dynamic, allowing you to click, zoom in, and plan your route. If you have any questions about a particular attraction, feel free to ask in the comments!
1. The Capital of the Dominican Republic — Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the largest and most populous city in the country, and it absolutely deserves your attention. Located in the heart of the country on the southern coast, it’s no surprise that all roads lead through this city. Unfortunately, many travelers don’t give the capital the attention it deserves — and that’s a mistake.
For those who don’t want to read an in-depth guide about the capital, here’s a list of its main attractions. These landmarks are famous across the entire country and could easily be highlighted in this article as standalone must-visit spots:
- Presidential Palace
- Calle Las Damas (Ladies’ Street)
- Three Eyes Cave System with Lakes and an Underground Ferry Right in the City Center
- National Pantheon
- Botanical Garden
- Columbus Lighthouse
- Zona Colonial (Colonial Zone)
- Diego Columbus’ House
- Fort Ozama
- Numerous museums and churches

Quick Facts About the Capital and Its Attractions:
- How much time to allocate: At least one full day. You can cover all the key landmarks in two days, while three might feel excessive.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- How to get there: Santo Domingo serves as a convenient hub for traveling north to the Samaná Peninsula or east to Punta Cana, thanks to excellent wide roads.
- Drawbacks: No beaches or beach activities, and not all areas of Santo Domingo are safe for tourists (be mindful of safety tips).
- You’ll find a detailed guide on what to see in Santo Domingo via the link provided.
Author’s recommendation:
8/10 — If you’re spending two weeks in the Dominican Republic, definitely set aside a day for the capital. If your trip is only a week long, there are arguably more interesting places to visit, especially if you’re more into nature than architecture.
2. Bahía de Las Águilas (Eagle Bay)
Bahía de Las Águilas is first and foremost a national park and state-protected reserve. Hotel construction, pools, and other permanent structures are strictly forbidden here — even roads are not allowed.
Located in a remote part of the country along the Caribbean Sea, this is one of the driest regions of the Dominican Republic. Even during the rainy season, it’s relatively dry. Instead of lush green palms like in the north, you’ll find massive cacti and dense shrubs.
What draws people here is the sea, the mesmerizing water color, and the paradise-like landscapes.
Important to Know:
People often ask whether it’s possible to make a day trip from Punta Cana to Bahía de Las Águilas and back. The answer is no — that would be a completely wasted day in the Dominican Republic.

Quick Facts About Bahía de Las Águilas:
- Coordinates: 17.831834, -71.627789
- How much time to allocate: At least one overnight stay, preferably two
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- Entrance fee to the national park: Around $3
- Drawbacks: Extremely far — a four-hour drive from Santo Domingo by rental car. There is no public transportation to this location.
- Attractions Along the Way: You can stop by Magnetic Pole, and if it’s the right season, see pink flamingos.
- Tip: This is one of the best places to try glamping, a popular trend that combines camping with comfort. You can stay in a tent equipped with electricity and a proper bed right on the beach by the sea — it’s an amazing experience.
- A detailed report on our trip to Bahía de Las Águilas and our glamping experience can be found via the provided link.
Author’s recommendation:
7/10 — Stunning but very far. Only worth visiting if you have the time and a rental car. There are plenty of beautiful places and beaches in the Dominican Republic without venturing this far. Still, it’s a destination worth seeing.
3. El Limón Waterfall
A breathtaking waterfall standing 55 meters tall, hidden in the jungles of the Samaná Peninsula. El Limón is the third-highest waterfall in the Dominican Republic, but it’s the easiest to access.
The hike to the waterfall is manageable for people of all fitness levels, offering a mix of mountains, jungle trekking, river crossings, and stunning views. And of course, there’s the magnificent waterfall itself, where you can swim. It’s simply out of this world.
If you’ve ever dreamed of horseback riding but lacked time for lessons, this is the place to make that dream come true.

Quick Facts About El Limón Waterfall:
- Coordinates: 19.270665, -69.445824
- Operating Hours: From 8 AM until sunset
- Ticket Price: $1 if you go on foot
- How much time to allocate: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Nearby Attractions: Plenty in the region, including Bacardi Island, humpback whales, and some of the Dominican Republic’s top-10 most beautiful beaches — Cosón, Rincón, Frontón, and Madama.
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but it’s best from May to October during the rainy season when the waterfall is more powerful.
- A detailed report on our independent visit to El Limón, including excursion options and tips on avoiding crowds, is available via the link.
Author’s recommendation:
10/10 — A must-see for every traveler. No matter which resort you’re staying at, a visit to the Samaná Peninsula is essential. There are countless incredible places within a 30 km radius. The map at the beginning of the article proves it.
4. Saona Island
Saona Island is the largest island in the Dominican Republic, and the entire island is a protected nature reserve. Construction of any kind is prohibited, which is why there are no hotels on the island. Until a year or two ago, spending the night here was impossible. However, the residents of the island’s only village now rent out their huts.
The island is located in the southern part of the Dominican Republic, in the Caribbean Sea. The only way to get there is by boat since there is no regular ferry service. You simply arrive at the beach in Bayahibe, find a boat, negotiate the price, and in 30-40 minutes you’ll be on Saona. The boat will also pick you up in the evening.
Pros of Saona Island:
- Crystal-clear water
- Best snorkeling in the Dominican Republic
- Sea stars and heavenly beaches
- A stunning water color that rivals the Maldives
Cons:
- It can get crowded during the high season

Quick Facts About Saona Island:
- Coordinates: 18.130183, -68.736748
- Operating Hours: From 8 AM until sunset
- Ticket Price: Around $20-30 per person for a round-trip boat ride if you arrange it independently in Bayahibe. Tours start at $60, including transportation from Punta Cana and a delicious lunch.
- How Much Time to Allocate: Almost a full day of daylight hours
- Nearby Attractions: Saona is conveniently accessible if you’re staying at the Punta Cana, Bávaro, or Cap Cana resorts. The journey is quick and not exhausting.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- A detailed report on visiting Saona Island can be found via the provided link.
Author’s Rating:
9/10 — Personally, I’m not a fan of spending the entire day lying on the beach, and that’s what this experience is mostly about. However, the place is amazing, and I highly recommend it to everyone. If you have to choose between visiting Saona or the Samaná Peninsula with its attractions, I would lean toward Samaná. But ideally, visit both.
5. Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado)
On one hand, it’s yet another island with idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters. But Bacardi is entirely different from Saona. They are two distinct islands that leave completely different impressions.
Unlike the vast Saona with its endless beaches, Bacardi Island covers less than 1 square kilometer. Half of the island is occupied by an exclusive hotel, while the other half is open to tourists.
You can reach Bacardi Island independently from the port of Samaná on the Samaná Peninsula or as part of a whale-watching tour. Bacardi Beach is genuinely beautiful, stretching only about 500 meters.
It is important to know:
During the high season, cruise ships anchor in these waters, and passengers are ferried to the island. If you visit during whale season, all the boats from the whale tours also head here. As a result, this small beach can accommodate thousands of people simultaneously. At that point, it resembles a crowded beach in Italian Rimini, where people are practically sunbathing on top of each other.
Bacardi Island’s official name is Cayo Levantado, but it got its nickname because the iconic Bacardi rum commercial was filmed here. The beach looks truly heavenly in the ad — completely empty without a single tourist. You can find an article via the link about other movies and commercials filmed in the Dominican Republic.

Quick Facts About Cayo Levantado:
- Coordinates: 19.167382, -69.279563
- Independent Visit: You can take a boat for $10 round trip.
- Tour Inclusion: Free (the island visit is included in the price of whale tours).
- How Much Time to Allocate: There’s not much to do besides the beach. Tours usually stop for 2.5 to 3 hours. If you visit independently, you can stay all day, though I personally had enough after an hour.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- A detailed article about Cayo Levantado is available via the provided link.
Author’s Rating:
3/10 — My personal opinion is that there’s not much to do here. Crowds of people on a tiny patch of land, and everything costs money: sun loungers, water, etc. Worst of all, you can’t leave until your boat arrives. The beaches on the Samaná Peninsula, just 800 meters from Bacardi Island, are just as good, if not better, with far fewer people. Consider visiting Cosón or Frontón beaches instead.
6. Aguas Blancas Waterfall
This impressive waterfall is the second tallest in the Dominican Republic, standing about 83 meters high. It’s not a popular tourist spot for two reasons:
- The waterfall is in the middle of nowhere, far from tourist routes. It makes sense to visit if you’re planning to hike Pico Duarte or explore the town of Jarabacoa.
- Even if you are nearby, the last 10 kilometers of the road are a nightmare — full of potholes and bumps. Regular cars can’t make it; only a 4×4 can handle it, and even then, it’s questionable. However, you can rent a jeep from a tourist company in Constanza for just $50 for this stretch.
Swimming here is prohibited, and this is the highest-altitude region in the Dominican Republic. Aguas Blancas sits at an elevation of about 1800-1900 meters, making it 10-15 degrees cooler than the coast almost year-round.

- Coordinates: 18.844226, -70.677263
- Independent Travel: Not possible, even with a rental car. They promised to build a proper road by 2026, so if you’re visiting and find it finished, please leave a comment.
- Vehicle Rental: $50
- Time at the Waterfall: 1-2 hours should be enough
- Best Time to Visit: June through August, which is both the rainy season (when the waterfall is at its fullest) and the hottest part of the year
Author’s Rating:
7/10 — A stunning waterfall, but it would be much better if it were in a tourist-friendly location with decent road access. El Limón beats it on all these points. Only visit if you’re already in Jarabacoa and have plenty of free time.
7. Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic
This is one of the main reasons some people specifically choose to visit the Dominican Republic. There aren’t many places in the world where humpback whales come so close to shore every year. It’s a breathtaking sight. You’ll be incredibly lucky if you witness a whale breach the water or wave its tail.
There’s a detailed guide in this travel book about seeing humpback whales, so I won’t go into too much detail here.
Important to Know:
You can only see the whales on a guided tour during specific months

- Whale Season: January through March every year
- Tour Time: Boats depart from the shores of the Samaná Peninsula at 9 AM. They say your chances of seeing whales are better in the morning.
- Tour Cost: Starting at $60 if you book directly at the Samaná pier. More expensive if booked through a hotel with transfer.
- Tour Duration: 3-4 hours
- A step-by-step guide with tips on how to see humpback whales is available via the provided link.
Author’s recommendation:
10/10 — If it’s January to March and you’re in the Dominican Republic, don’t hesitate. Find this tour immediately. You’ll likely never get closer to humpback whales, and who knows if you ever will again.
8. Frontón and Madama Beaches: Two Dominican Attractions
These two beaches are located quite close to each other. They are very different but both rank among the top ten most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Frontón Beach is even in the top 5 most stunning beaches in the entire Caribbean.
These beaches are far from tourist crowds, just 5 kilometers from the town of Las Galeras on the Samaná Peninsula. You can get there in two ways:
- By Boat: $60-$80 per person. First, you’ll be taken to Madama Beach, then to Frontón Beach. You’ll have one to two hours at each beach to swim, sunbathe, and take photos.
- On Foot through the Jungle: This route takes about 2.5 hours or 6 kilometers one way. It’s not an easy path, but it’s worth it.
Until a couple of years ago, there was no jungle trail, and the only way to get there was by boat.

- Madama Coordinates: 19.302479, -69.161695
- Frontón Coordinates: 19.297104, -69.151575
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7 for independent visitors
- Ticket Price: Free if on foot, $70 by boat
- Tourist Crowds: Virtually nonexistent — just 5-10 people on the entire beach
- Time to Allocate: 3-4 hours if arriving by boat. If hiking, it’s impossible to see both beaches in one day. Better to split it into two days.
- A detailed report on visiting Frontón and Madama beaches, including the trail, tips, and hacks, is available via the link.
Author’s Rating:
10/10 — Frontón Beach was especially impressive. Madama is beautiful too but very small and didn’t leave the same impact. So if you have to choose just one, definitely go with Frontón. The photos speak for themselves.
9. Redonda Mountain
To be honest, this is a rather questionable attraction. First of all, it’s not really a mountain but more of a hill, about 300-400 meters high. Secondly, while the views from Redonda are nice, they’re not exactly breathtaking.
The main attraction at the top is Sky Swings, perfect for taking fun photos. Without the swings, it would be a pretty dull place.
This spot is quite far from most tourist routes and primarily targets visitors from Bávaro and Punta Cana. Since there aren’t many remarkable places for excursions in that region, local tour companies found this hill with decent views, installed Sky Swings, and started selling tours for $40-50.

- Coordinates: 18.982305, -68.916700
- Operating Hours: Daylight hours
- Entrance Fee: $5 for hill access. Public transport doesn’t reach here, so you’ll need a car or taxi. Tours cost about $40 and usually include all tickets, a jeep ride to the top, and a meal.
- Time Required: From Bávaro, the whole visit takes about 2-3 hours
- A detailed report on visiting Redonda Mountain is available via the provided link.
Author’s Rating:
3/10 — If you’re staying in Bávaro and don’t plan to explore the country, this place might be worth a visit to break the routine since there aren’t many alternatives nearby. But it’s better to focus on Saona Island and Altos de Chavón. If you’re vacationing on the northern coast, don’t even think about wasting your time on this.
10. Pico Duarte
This is a vastly underrated attraction in the Dominican Republic. Remember, the country offers not just beautiful sights but also great hiking opportunities. Pico Duarte is the highest point not only in the Dominican Republic but in all the Antilles and the entire Caribbean region.
The peak stands at 3083 meters, giving you the chance to conquer a true three-thousander. It’s an impressive achievement to add to your collection, and a photo from the top of the highest point in the region is sure to be a source of pride. Plus, it’s a great alternative to just lounging on the beach with a Cuba Libre!

- Coordinates: 19.034361, -71.006474
- Trailhead Location: 20 km from the town of Jarabacoa in the central part of the country, about 2-2.5 hours by car from Puerto Plata or Santo Domingo
- Time Required: Start the trek at 7-8 AM. Two options are available:
- A light three-day trek with two overnight stays
- A more challenging two-day trek with just one overnight stay — perfect for those without extra time, money, or sanity (like us).
- Cost: $150 to $800 per person
- Best Time to Visit: The trek is open year-round, but it’s best to go during the dry season when there’s less rain. The trail can get so muddy during the rainy season that you might find yourself knee-deep in mud.
- A detailed report on how to conquer Pico Duarte in two days, along with tips and hacks, is available via the link.
Author’s Recommendation:
If you love mountains, hiking, and have decent physical fitness — 10/10. It’s an epic adventure and a remarkable achievement on the other side of the world. Plus, this attraction is rarely mentioned since 95% of tourists come here solely for the beaches.
11. Damajagua’s 27 Waterfalls
This is another amazing attraction in the northern part of the country near Puerto Plata, located in a mountainous area 20 km from the city.
Unlike the other two waterfalls mentioned in this guide, this is a mountain river that carves through rocks and crevices, creating a series of 27 cascades, rapids, and waterfalls over a stretch of 1-2 kilometers. The cliffs are completely covered with jungle.
Here, you’ll need to swim. It’s an exhilarating adventure where you choose your route, from the simple (7 waterfalls) to the extreme (27). You’ll be provided with a life jacket, helmet, and guide. Going without a guide is not allowed. Your group will hike to the top of the mountain and then begin the descent along the river, with jumps, canyon swimming, and water slides. It’s guaranteed to be thrilling and unforgettable.
Surprisingly, the water is warm.

Summary of the 27 Waterfalls
- Coordinates: 19.734529, -70.819194
- Time Required: 4 hours for the full 27-waterfall route
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 3 PM. Note that for the longest route, you must arrive at the park by noon.
- Ticket Price: Starting at $14 for the 7-waterfall route
- Best Time to Visit: The rainy season is ideal; during the dry season, some sections may be closed due to low water levels
- A detailed report with tips and recommendations about this attraction, including our visit, is available via the link.
Author’s recommendation:
10/10 — A fantastic must-visit attraction. Even if it’s the dry season and some routes are closed, check out our report via the link above. You’ll learn why even the simple 7-waterfall route during the dry season is totally worth it.
12. Altos de Chavón, the Artists’ Village
If you’re a fan of strolling along medieval streets in European cities, then visiting Altos de Chavón is a must. This small town, or rather a village, sits beautifully on the Chavón River. Fun fact: the famous movie Anaconda was filmed here.
Altos de Chavón was built as an exact replica of a 15th-century Spanish village, reminiscent of the time when Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas. Construction lasted 20 years and was completed in 1992.
The village itself is small but packed with numerous spots offering stunning photo opportunities. You’ll also find a breathtaking view of the Chavón River’s mouth. The Grecian-style amphitheater with a capacity of 5,000 is a marvel to behold.

Highlights of Altos de Chavón
- Coordinates: 18.422454, -68.891302
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket price: $25 per person — a bit pricey, especially considering that similar places in Europe are often free.
- Time to explore: It’s a compact village; one hour is enough unless you’re planning to check out every museum, shop, and stone for photos. In that case, budget 2-3 hours.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- A detailed review with interesting facts, plenty of photos, and tips is available via the provided link.
Author’s Recommendation
7/10 — It’s a charming spot with beautiful views and a great atmosphere. On the downside, it’s relatively expensive, and the village itself isn’t very large. Still, if you’re fond of medieval European vibes, this place is a must-visit.
13. Mount Isabel de Torres
One of the main attractions of Puerto Plata, Mount Isabel de Torres stands nearly 800 meters tall and can be seen from anywhere in the city. A cable car conveniently connects the city center to the mountaintop.
At the summit, you’ll find a picturesque park with a replica of the Christ the Redeemer statue from Brazil — albeit smaller. There are also several observation decks, a pond, a cave, a restaurant, and numerous walking trails. If you keep an eye out, you might even spot hummingbirds in the park.

Highlights of Mount Isabel de Torres
- Coordinates: 19.764620, -70.710675
- Cable car hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket price: $10 for the cable car ride
Alternatively, you can drive up the mountain (there’s a road), though the 12-kilometer hike up is quite long. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s free.
- Time to explore: 1-2 hours
- Best time to visit: Year-round
A link provides detailed information about Puerto Plata attractions and visiting tips.
Author’s recommendation:
5/10 — The park is beautiful and well-maintained, but it doesn’t evoke strong excitement. Not worth a dedicated trip, but if you’re in the area with time to spare, it’s worth a quick visit. We combined it with the 27 waterfalls, visiting the falls in the morning and Mount Isabel de Torres by lunchtime.
14. Cosón Beach
Another contender for the list of the most beautiful beaches. Honestly, I can’t even say whether I prefer Cosón or Frontón Beach — I love them both, though they are quite different.
Cosón Beach is located just 5 kilometers from Las Terrenas on the Samana Peninsula. There are no mountains here, and the sand is a warm yellow hue. But why describe it when the photos speak for themselves? Since it’s somewhat removed from town, it’s always quiet and serene. It’s a true paradise.

Total about Coson beach
- Coordinates: 19.296648, -69.598560
- Opening hours: Open 24/7
- Ticket price: Free
- Time to explore: From 15 minutes to infinity
- Best time to visit: Year-round
Author’s recommendation:
10/10 — If you love walking barefoot along the beach, listening to the ocean waves without pesky vendors interrupting your peace, then this is the place for you.
15. DuDu Lagoon – karst lake
There are countless karst lakes and caves in the Dominican Republic — reportedly around 10,000 caves and as many lakes. Laguna Dudú is one of the most accessible, located just 200 meters off the road connecting the Samana Peninsula and Puerto Plata.
There are about five similar locations in the Dominican Republic, but Laguna Dudú is my favorite. If you don’t know about it, you might drive right past without noticing. But once you take that turn, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
The area is well-kept, with a restaurant and clean restrooms. In the center lies a stunning karst lake with crystal blue waters. You can swim here — the lake is 25 meters deep. The standout feature is the zipline stretched 10 meters above the water. Hold onto the handles, glide to the middle of the lake, let go, and plunge into the water below. It’s a fantastic and mildly thrilling experience. My wife chickened out in the end. 🙂

Highlights of Laguna Dudú
- Coordinates: 19.564325, -69.908203
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Ticket price: $6 for entry plus $1 per zipline jump. Swim as much as you want.
- Time to explore: From 1 hour to a full day. Locals often come here for a picnic, especially on weekends when it gets crowded.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- A detailed review with photos, tips, and recommendations is available via the provided link.
Author’s Recommendation
6/10 — Not worth a dedicated trip, but if you’re driving by, it’s definitely worth stopping for an hour or two. Great water, a cool zipline, delicious food, and a beautiful setting.
16. Polo Magnetico – Magnetic Field – A Natural Anomaly
This is a very peculiar attraction with almost no information available online. However, it may gain popularity in the next few years.
What is it?
It’s just a simple stretch of road in the middle of nowhere. No signs or markers. Nothing at all. You simply need to precisely transfer the coordinates from the map into your GPS.
Once you reach the spot, stop your car, turn off the engine, release the handbrake—and your car will start rolling uphill. Pour water on the road, and it will flow uphill as well. The initial reaction is pure shock.
People are divided into two camps: some believe it’s a real anomaly and a natural wonder. Others say it’s just an optical illusion where the terrain gives the false impression that the car and water are moving against gravity.

- Coordinates: 18.162459, -71.254949
- Operating hours: 24/7
- Admission fee: Free
- Time needed: 5 to 7 minutes at most
- Best time to visit: Year-round
Author’s rating:
4/10 — and that’s being generous for originality. I’ve never encountered anything like this before, and the first 30 seconds were genuinely shocking. However, after taking a good look around, it became clear that this is merely an optical illusion caused by the unusual landscape. There’s no true anomaly here, but it’s still an interesting experience. You might consider taking a 20 km detour to see it if you’re heading to Bahia de las Aguilas. Otherwise, it’s not worth the long trip.
17. Oviedo Lagoon and Pink Flamingos
Oviedo Lagoon is one of the largest lakes in the country. Interestingly, it’s also a chalky lake with white, murky water, creating surreal scenery and a somewhat desert-like landscape. The water here is extremely salty—three times saltier than the ocean.
The lagoon stretches over 10 km and is almost entirely surrounded by impenetrable mangrove thickets, making it a perfect home for many bird species. Pink flamingos are among the most famous inhabitants, gathering on more than 20 sandbanks in the lagoon.
Timing is crucial, though. I never quite figured out when flamingos appear or disappear. Our guide couldn’t provide a clear answer either, claiming it changes every year. I’m not sure I believe him, though.

- Coordinates: 17.791880, -71.366592
- Operating hours: Boat rentals available from 9 AM
- Admission fee: Free to access the lagoon; boat tours vary based on group size, averaging $30-$40 per person
- Time needed: A boat tour lasts about 2-3 hours
- Best time to visit: Whenever flamingos are present (unfortunately, I couldn’t determine exactly when that is; they seem to be there year-round but disappear for three to four months annually)
Author’s rating:
2/10 — Perhaps if we had seen the flamingos, my rating would be different. As it stands, this place is in the middle of nowhere. Besides taking a boat tour, there’s absolutely nothing to do here—no beach, no infrastructure. That said, it’s the only place in the Dominican Republic where flamingos live in their natural habitat.
18. Las Galeras and Rincon Beach
This is my absolute favorite spot in the Dominican Republic. A small village at the very tip of the Samana Peninsula, where time stands still. Mass tourism hasn’t reached this place yet; there are no sprawling hotel complexes, no beachside attractions, banana boats, or inflatable tubes. Forget about perfect beaches with neat rows of sun loungers—that’s not what Las Galeras is about.
Here, life has frozen in time, though not for long. In 2022, a new road was built, and land was allocated for future hotel developments. So hurry, because in ten years, it might be too late to experience its charm.
What to Expect:
Walks along deserted beaches by the ocean. Palm trees swaying in the breeze. Local kids playing volleyball or soccer. Fishing boats dotting the shoreline. The famous Rincon Beach may be well-known, but it’s not much different from the other beaches in Las Galeras—all are equally beautiful.
Staying in this village gives you access to nearby attractions such as Playa Madama, Playa Fronton, El Limon Waterfall, and, if you visit during the right season, humpback whale watching. Additionally, there’s my favorite villa perched on a hill with a fantastic view, complete with hummingbirds in the garden and the ocean on the horizon. More about Las Galeras.

- Coordinates of Rincon Beach: 19.288861, -69.249361
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but ideally January through March when the whales arrive
- Suggested Stay Duration: In my opinion, 4 to 5 nights. That way, you can enjoy the beaches and explore the peninsula’s attractions without feeling rushed.
- An overview of the eco-villa overlooking the ocean and with a hummingbird on the terrace is here.

Author rating:
10/10 — This is a highly subjective opinion. Objectively, it’s probably an 8/10. The huge advantage of this place is the absence of package tourism and the abundance of nearby attractions within walking distance. And accommodations like the villa I mentioned are hard to come by elsewhere in the Dominican Republic.
19. Jarabacoa and Its Surroundings
Jarabacoa is a mountain town with a population of around 50,000 people. It’s not particularly popular among tourists due to the lack of beaches and temperatures that are consistently 8-10 degrees cooler than the coast. However, it’s a beloved destination for locals.
The area is rich in mountain rivers and waterfalls. You can try paragliding, rent an ATV, or even go white-water rafting—Jarabacoa is the rafting capital of the Dominican Republic.
If you’re planning to hike Pico Duarte, consider spending a day in Jarabacoa. It’s a fantastic place to visit, and not far from here lies the country’s second-highest waterfall, Aguas Blancas, which I mentioned earlier.

- Coordinates: 19.105799, -70.634238
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- Time needed: 1-2 days
- Read an overview of the city and its sights here
Author rating:
7/10 — Despite the absence of beaches and the relatively cooler temperatures, this place is awesome. Mountains, waterfalls, and rafting make it worthwhile. Just make sure to plan your activities and routes in advance to get the most out of your visit.
20. Monkey Park
Many travelers heading to the Dominican Republic expect a wildlife experience similar to Southeast Asia. For some reason, I often get asked about monkeys. Let me clarify—monkeys are not common here. They don’t roam the streets like in Thailand or Malaysia. In fact, there are only a couple of places in the country where you can find them.
One such place is located in the jungles of northern Dominican Republic, between Sosua and Cabarete. Here, a colony of capuchin monkeys lives freely in their natural environment. These small, harmless, and non-aggressive creatures are a delight to observe.
The park has an admission fee, which isn’t cheap. However, if you’re traveling with kids over the age of three (younger children aren’t allowed), they’ll have an unforgettable experience. The monkeys roam freely, hopping onto visitors’ shoulders and heads. At the entrance, you’re given food to feed them.
Additionally, the park features a zip line that lets you soar over the jungle.

- Coordinates: 19.713754, -70.472307
- Official website: monkeyjungledr.com
- Operating hours: 9 AM to 4 PM daily
- Admission fees: $40 for adults, $30 for children over three for the monkey park; $55 for the zip line. A combo ticket is available for $70.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- Time needed: About 40 minutes for the monkey park. Guided tours are mandatory, ensuring visitors don’t overfeed the monkeys or pull their tails.
- Note: They don’t accept credit cards—cash only. By the way, the park features the longest zip line in the Dominican Republic.
Author’s Rating:
7/10 — If you’ve frequently visited Asian countries, this may not impress you. However, I highly recommend it for families with kids.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic offers a wide array of attractions, enough to fill a list of over 100 destinations. In this guide, I’ve tried to highlight the most essential and interesting locations. You can also find a list of the 20 top attractions in the capital city in my article about Santo Domingo. There’s plenty to explore there as well.
I hope this guide has answered your question about attractions in the Dominican Republic. Even if you’re vacationing here for two to three weeks, this list will keep you entertained beyond the beach.
Wishing you unforgettable experiences and smooth journeys between destinations in the Dominican Republic!
Resources to help you plan your dream trip to Dominican Republic
- Cheap Flights and best deals
- Car rental: DiscoverCars – a largest international resource
- Hotels and apartments:
- Vacation packages:
- Tours, excursions and extreme activities:
- GetYourGuide – more than 800+ tours and water activities.
- Viator – 3500+ tours and excursions in Dominican.
- Comprehensive travel insurance: EKTA
- Internet and Calls:
- Airalo – eSIM with internet package.
- Drimsim – universal SIM card (or eSIM) in any country in the world.
- Taxi and airport transfers: Intui.Travel
Hello
Loved your article 🔥
We are going to the Dominican Republic for 40 days. And wanted to ask for advice regarding accommodation. We plan to make 4 main points.
1 Bavaro 10 days
2 Next, we want to go down to the Caribbean coast, tell me the best area in your opinion? We want to stay here for 8-10 days
3 The third point is to make Santo – Domingo for 3-4 days. 4 And then go towards Samana.
And of course, go on excursions from each location, not just bask on the beach.
Thank you in advance for your response)
Gala, I’m sorry your comment has gone to spam. It may not be relevant to you anymore, but I will answer the rest of the readers. Your itinerary is great. And on the Caribbean coast, it is probably best to choose Bayahibe beach and its environs
Hello, do you have coordinates of sights?
Elena has a map, but you’re not the first to ask. I’ll be sure to add it in the near future.
Hello! The article is super, I read it, it’s practically impossible to find it on the Internet, everything is on the shelves. Can I have some advice, please, we are going to the Dominican Republic in March-April, the northern part of the island attracts me personally, but I’m afraid of big waves (my daughter is afraid to swim in big ones 🌊), but the beaches dotted with tourists do not attract at all, please advise which side of the island to look at? I hope to hear that the waves of the Atlantic Ocean are not so scary and you can go😅
Ekaterina, that’s right – the waves are not so scary 🙂 Here you even have to look not to the north or south, but to choose between specific beaches. Because 2 beaches in the north can have completely different waves. For example, the beaches of Las Galeras on the Samana Peninsula are practically without waves, since there is a dead reef not far from the coast that breaks them all. On the Rincon beach, which is on the outskirts of the same Las Galeras, there are already more waves, but as for me, they are also still small. But Coson beach, there is already a more serious ocean.
And yes, the calmest ocean and the most equipped beach for tourists in Bavaro and Punta Cana
Thank you very much for the prompt response 🙂 we are tourists from the category of renting a car and riding and exploring the beauty, the less touristy, the better. (Is it generally safe? 😅😱) And the hyped Punta Cana or the same Bavaro is not about us, there is no soul there, as for me (this is my personal opinion, do not judge strictly 😅). On the Samana Peninsula and its environs, I think there is where to roam (is there?) And I will be glad for any of your advice on the beaches.
Catherine, please. Yes, it’s safe. And for the beaches, see the top 10 best beaches in this guide, mark in the navigator and go. My personal favorites are Fronton Beach, Coson, and Eagle Bay
Hello! Let me just say, this site is great. Thank you very much)) We are going to the Dominican Republic on February 20 for two weeks. We rent a car. The short plan is:
1. Saona or Bay of Eagles for 2-3 days.
2. 27 waterfalls 1-2 days.
3. Samana Peninsula: whales, Los Haitises National Park, beaches, zipline. In general, everything we have time.
Question on point 1. I can’t decide which is better than Saona or the Bay of Eagles. I want silence, few people, beautiful beaches and snorkeling.
Thanks in advance ))
Anastasia, please))
Well, the main difference is this: Saona has a lot of greenery, palm trees and is easy to get to, even though it is an island. And the Bay of Eagles cacti and get a long time, even by car. Everything else is great there and there. Well, in the Bay of Eagles you can still watch sunsets and the restaurant, although not cheap, has a normal menu and opening hours almost around the clock. And I don’t remember restaurants in Saona 🙂