The Dominican Republic is a tropical paradise, home to a diverse range of activities and experiences. Making the most of your days in the D.R. could mean any number of potential possibilities; here are several for your consideration.
Beach Days for Days
First and foremost: This is a beach vacation. You're bound to spend time at the beach — and the Dominican Republic has a wealth of options to choose from. You could spend your days lounging idyllic at:
Playa Bávaro
Often considered the best beach on the island — and one of the best in the world — Playa Bávaro sports pillow-soft sand, a long grove of coconut palms swaying serenely in the sea breeze and gentle surf lapping the shoreline. It is, in a word, bliss. The modern, often ultra-luxe developments of Bávaro’s hotel zone right beyond the beach promise you’re never far from your ideal treat.
Playa Rincón
Another contender for best beach on the island and in the world, Playa Rincón is tucked away on the Samaná Peninsula, a stunning undeveloped stretch of pristine shoreline. You can find both calm, shallow swimming areas and wave-heavy spots in the mix along its three miles, ensuring everyone has access to their tastes of perfect beach day.
Bahía de las Águilas
The final contender for best beach on the island and subsequently the world, this five-mile stretch of diamond-white sand boasts only clear turquoise water. There are no hotels, shops or restaurants — Bahía de Las Águilas is protected from development as part of the Jaragua National Park. Just getting here requires either renting an all-terrain vehicle or chartering a boat. The payoff is Eden-like; this is paradise, wholly unblemished by mankind.
It's easy to feel on top of the world with a cable car ride over Puerto Plata.
Dominican Daytrips
Beyond the beaches, the thrums of the Dominican Republic’s rich culture and lively daily life beckon. Perhaps a leisurely walk through the immaculate greenery of the National Botanical Garden suits you; mayhap you’d enjoy people-watching at Independence Park. A joyride in the Puerto Plata Cable Car awards you sweeping, breathtaking views of Puerto Plata as it ascends the mountain. Maybe various plunges into the 27 Waterfalls of Rio Damajagua are your idea of an enchanting adventure. Whatever your day entails, you’re likely to work up an appetite; why not sample some of the finest subterranean cuisine in the world at El Meson de la Cava? The restaurant at the bottom of a historic cave features both classical French and local Caribbean cuisine.
JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar: Your paradisical home-away-from-home.
The Suite Life at an All-Inclusive Resort
Of course, all the above are only if you feel compelled to leave your resort — and the very nature of all-inclusive resorts are that you find your every want satisfied before you may want it. Take for example JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar: This all-inclusive, adults-only luxury resort sits on a choice section of the aforementioned Playa Bávaro, promising unrivaled access to stunning beach. But the beach may be the quaintest part of your stay; with three pools, a variety of onsite restaurants, butler and concierge service, tailor-made spa treatments and access to the island’s best golf course, you’ll find yourself hard-pressed for a reason to leave the resort outside of your return flight home.
The only thing more relaxing than drinks by the pool? Not having to plan how to get there or get home.
Trust a Travel Agent to Elevate Your Trip
Beach vacations are naturally relaxing, but working with a travel agent to make your vacation happen is a whole new level of breeziness. Our agents will help you brainstorm, with insider tips, recommendations and answers to questions you didn’t even consider. Then, we’ll handle all the logistics and bookings — you can sit back and start relaxing before you’ve even arrived. Plus, our travel agents are able to secure exclusive perks, amenities, discounts and savings thanks to their working relationships with all the leading names in travel. Summed up, our agents know JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar well, so we can help you choose, plan and book your vacation to perfection.
