These 7 Dominican Republic Destinations Are Trending With Travelers Right Now

Last Updated 2 months ago

There’s perhaps no better indicator of the Dominican Republic’s growing popularity among travelers than the astounding revenue figures tourism has generated this year.

During the first half of the year, the tourism sector contributed a whopping $7,668.9 million in revenue to the country’s treasury – the highest recorded in the last 5 years.

With the nation well on its way to hitting the ambitious goal of 10 million visitors by the end of 2023, it’s no wonder that tourist hotspots across the country are gearing up for a wave of travelers.

However, among these diverse destinations, a select few have emerged as clear favorites among travelers, as evident from their high hotel occupancy rates.

So, let’s delve into what makes these trending hotspots so appealing and discover why they’re the top choices for travelers seeking the perfect Caribbean getaway.

Bávaro-Punta Cana

When it comes to Dominican Republic destinations, Punta Cana’s Bávaro area is the shining star, and it’s not hard to see why.

This paradise owes much of its fame to its pristine beaches, regarded as some of the Caribbean’s best, and its extensive collection of all-inclusive resorts.

Ranging from wallet-friendly to truly luxurious, these resorts suit every budget and style, yet all of them offer their guests amenities and experiences of the highest quality.

And with the addition of even more exclusive and exciting resorts on the horizon, Punta Cana’s already massive popularity is set to soar.

La Romana-Bayahibe

A journey to the southeast side of the Dominican Republic will take you to La Romana, a city known for its gorgeous beaches and breathtaking natural wonders.

Here, you’ll find the lavish Casa de Campo Resort & Villa, regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most luxurious resorts, and the famous Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village.

If you head just 10 miles east, you’ll reach Bayahibe, an idyllic fishing town renowned for its secluded coastlines and diving sites teeming with marine life.

Bayahibe also serves as the gateway for boat trips to the Saona and Catalina islands – two of the Dominican Republic’s most paradisiacal destinations.

Boca Chica

Found near Santo Domingo, this charming beach town offers long stretches of sandy beaches with calm waters, making it the perfect location for a family getaway.

While being a somewhat lesser-known destination than the other entries on the list, Boca Chica offers travelers a host of experiences.

You can explore stunning coral reefs and shipwrecks at La Caleta Underwater Park, discover various bird species at the mangrove-covered La Matica islet, or go on a delightful sailing journey along the coastline.

Puerto Plata

One of the main tourist hotspots in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata features some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, which combine lush tropical mountain scenery with stunning ocean views.

Puerto Plata is also a popular cruise ship port, showcasing two cruise ship terminals from which tourists can explore the region’s various attractions and natural wonders.

You can hop on the Puerto Plata funicular railway for awe-inspiring panoramic views from Loma Isabel’s mountain summit, delve into the city’s colonial center, home to the 16th-century San Felipe fortress, or simply unwind on the gorgeous Playa Dorada beach.

Santo Domingo

For a fascinating cultural and historical exploration, Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital city, is the place to go.

Make sure to visit the Zona Colonial, the city’s historic center, where charming cobblestone streets lead you to numerous cafes, restaurants, antique shops, and museums.

old town in santo domingo with beautiful buildings

Being the Dominican Republic’s economic center, Santo Domingo is also rising as a bustling business hub, with several exciting construction projects in the works.

Samaná

A four-hour drive from Santo Domingo takes you to Samaná, a natural paradise that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.

However, don’t mistake serenity for a lack of attractions.

Truqoise water in Samana and a white sand beach

The Samaná Bay area offers travelers endless opportunities to explore natural wonders such as Cosón, Madama and Frontón beaches, El Limón Waterfall, the nearby Los Haitises National Park and much more.

If you visit Samaná during the months of January to March, you can embark on a whale-watching tour for an unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures.

Santiago de Los Caballeros

Once the Dominican Republic’s very first capital, Santiago de Los Caballeros has evolved into a thriving historical, cultural, and artistic hub.

Massive monument to the heroes of the restoration in Santiago

Some of the notable historical landmarks include the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, the León Cultural Center, the Santiago Apostol Cathedral, and more.

Beyond its rich history, this colonial city showcases a vibrant atmosphere, featuring numerous restaurants, nightclubs, bars and lounges.