Choose from 59 Fun Things to Do in Dominican Republic
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 59 listings.
Museum of the Royal Houses (Museo de las Casas Reales)
Travelers looking to get in touch with Dominica Republic’s deep European roots will find the Museum of the Royal Houses a must-see stop in Santo Domingo. This 16th-century building was once home to the administrative offices of the Spanish colonies.
Two distinct structures—the South and North buildings—were designed to house the first court of the New World, the offices of political leaders and the workspace of the comptroller. Visitors can wander the grounds and explore the labyrinth of rooms, which include displays on early legislation, the office of the chief judge, historical ceramics, military function and old world family life.
Practical Info
Museum of the Royal Houses is located in the city’s Zona Colonial district. Self-guided and audio tours are available.
Address: Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
From $ 79
La Isabela
La Isabela is located within the Puerto Plata province of the Dominican Republic. It is the second-oldest European settlement in the New World, founded by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage in 1493. Columbus named the area after Queen Isabella I of Castile. Columbus established La Isabela to search for gold, but when he found very little, he enslaved people to the island. The inevitable issues of hunger and disease led to a wealth of problems like mutiny, punishment and, of course, more disease and hunger. Combine that with repeated conflicts with the local Taíno, and the colony was doomed. Columbus’ failure got him called back to Spain, and the colony was ultimately abandoned in 1498.
Today, La Isabela is an archaeological and historical park.Excavations started in the late 1980s. It is presumed the ruins were more extensive, but the area was bulldozed in 1960. A military fort was built at that time to ward off potential invasions by associates of Fidel Castro. The Parque Nacional La Isabela still contains a few notable structures and artifacts worth visiting. There are walls that are believed to have been part of Columbus’ home, the church where the first mass was conducted in the New World and an observation tower. Remains were found in the chapel’s cemetery, and the skeleton of a Spaniard who died of malaria is on display.
There is a small museum on-site with some artifacts unearthed during excavations, including a pottery oven, kiln, 16th-century crucifix, containers used to purify gold, Taíno religious icons and pottery shards.
Practical Info
La Isabela National Park is open daily from 9am. to 5:30pm. The site was declared a national park in 1998.
Address: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Hours: Daily from 9am to 5:30pm
From $ 160
Macao Beach
Clear blue waters and white sandy beaches make Macao an ideal spot to experience the real Caribbean. Because it’s public, this beach attracts both far-off travelers and close-to-home locals. Visitors won’t have to worry about aggressive vendors or crowded shores, either, making this an ideal spot for a peaceful morning stroll or an active outdoor afternoon.
Travelers can lounge in the sand, boogie board or learn to surf near Macao Beach’s bigger breakers. And for those who prefer to stay dry on land and keep out of the water, an afternoon horseback ride still offers stunning coastal views and fresh saltwater air, without the hassle of getting wet.
Practical Info
Macao Beach is considered one of Dominican Republic’s most beautiful coastal escapes. Several stands sell cold beers and local snacks along the shore, like fresh-caught fish and lobsters. The beach is located a 20 minute drive from most resorts and accessible by taxi or tour.
Address: Macao Beach, Macao, Dominican Republic
From $ 50
La Flor Dominicana Cigar Factory
You’ve heard of Cuban cigars, but have you heard of Dominican Republic cigars? Located a short drive from La Romana, the La Flor Dominicana Cigar Factory is home to the most well-known cigars on the island. The factory focuses on creative blends and handcrafted, boutique-style products.
Visitors can take a tour to learn about the factory's own tobacco farm on the island, which allows for better control of product quality. They'll also learn about the process of how plants are turned into premium cigars, which includes leaf stripping and sorting, the rolling, aging and fermenting process, as well as packing. Masters tastings are also offered, where travelers can interact with the producers behind the very cigars they get to smoke.
Even those who aren't cigar smokers will find interesting information about this prominent industry on the island.
The factory is located at La Estancia in La Romana, and a variety of onsite tours are offered.
Address: La Estancia, La Romana, Dominican Republic
Admission: $5-$40
From $ 45
La Cana Golf Course
La Cana Golf Course in Punta Cana has been called a difficult course — though it's understandably tough to focus when 14 holes out of 27 have views of the Caribbean Sea. Regarded as one of the Dominican Republic's most exclusive and scenic courses, La Cana has sand dunes, fairways, and tees that are close enough to the turquoise water that you would think you were golfing at the beach.
When you first step up to the manicured tee box and take a look down the fairway, it's nearly impossible to tee off your ball without stopping to snap a photo.
Practical Info
The golf course is located about 10 minutes by car from the Punta Cana Airport and 30 minutes from Bávaro Beach. Caddies and club rentals are available, and visitors will also find a putting green, a driving range, and a bar and restaurant on site.
Address: La Cana Golf Course, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
From $ 79
Playa Dorada
Playa Dorada is one of the most popular beaches in the Puerto Plata area. Here you will find a number of the major resorts along its shoreline. The gated community features around a dozen luxury resorts and hotels that border the Amber Coast.
If you are not staying along the bay of Playa Dorada, one of the best ways to experience the area is from the water. Take a catamaran tour along the North Coast from Playa Dorada to the Bay of Sosua. If the idea of spending an afternoon on a boat isn’t appealing, resorts along Playa Dorada rent watersports equipment. Try your hand at windsurfing, kayaking, sailing or parasailing. The waters at Playa Dorada are crystal clear and the shallow, sloping beach makes it a popular spot for families with small children. You can go snorkeling right off the beach with coral reefs only a short swim away.
If you want to experience more than a day on the beach, Playa Dorada has a number of options to keep you busy. Go shopping at the plaza, which features boutiques, restaurants and a cinema. There is also an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones. Other non-beach activities include an equestrian center and several casinos. Playa Dorada is also home to the Caribbean’s biggest go-kart center, complete with three tracks.
Practical Info
Playa Dorada is considered the Dominican Republic’s first tourist area but it still remains one of the best. The beach is only a five-minute drive from Puerto Playa. Other things to see and do in the area include the 16th-century San Felipe Fortress and a cable car ride up to the Mount Isabel de Torres summit.
Address: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
From $ 59
Calle de las Damas
Calle de las Damas is one of the Colonial Zone’s most picturesque destinations. The cobblestone street—said to be the first ever in the New World—is lined with classic Spanish-style houses and beautiful European churches that are a nod to the city’s ancient past. Travelers can venture back in time as they wander past Fortaleza Ozama, Calle El Conde and Hoeyl Sofitel—the first solar clock on the continent. While the scenic street is worth checking out, visitors agree that the surrounding shops, quiet restaurants and colonial charm make Calle de las Damas.
Practical Info
Calle de las Damas is the most famous attraction in the Colonial Zone. It’s named for the ladies—including local dignitaries—that took evening strolls along the street each night.
Address: Calle de las Damas, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
From $ 50
La Hacienda Park
This popular Bavaro and Punta Cana attraction is perfect for the entire family and blends plenty of tropical wonder with outdoor excitement and Dominican culture and tradition.
Travelers who venture out on this wilderness adventure will have the chance to horseback ride on rugged trails that wind through tropical forests, past scenic rivers and towering mountains. A high-speed buggy ride offers up the ideal adventure for thrill seeking adventurers and an island safari showcases the best of this Caribbean destination’s biodiversity. Travelers will learn about the history of farming in the region from their expert guide, as well as the importance of coffee and cocoa plantations that produce some of Dominican Republic’s most-famous exports. The safari even includes a stop at La Hacienda’s own village for a look at local life.
After working up an appetite in the great outdoors, visitors can tuck into a hearty buffet filled with traditional Dominican favorites, including rice, beans, chicken and plantains—served with a jungle view!
Practical Info
La Hacienda Park is open Tuesday through Saturday and a US$99 entry fee includes horseback riding, a safari trip, dune buggy ride, and traditional Dominican food.
Air-conditioned shuttles are available for travelers staying in select Bavaro, Uvero Alto and Punta Cana hotels.
Address: La Hacienda Park, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday
Admission: $99 entry fee
From $ 75
Ocean World Adventure Park
Snorkeling opportunities, dolphin shows, and a beach full of lounge chairs all contribute to Ocean World Adventure Park’s standing as a top family attraction in the Dominican Republic. The park is prime for kids during the day and transforms into a casino after dark, complete with a restaurant, slot games, a disco floor, and a Vegas-style show, offering parent-friendly nightlife with Caribbean flair.
The Basics
A day pass to Ocean World Adventure Park is a good value for a day of fun, granting access to most of the park’s major attractions and activities, including Dolphin Beach, a freshwater pool, and the Tropical Reef Aquarium, in addition to a buffet-style lunch. Daily sea lion and dolphin shows entertain, while the tropical bird exhibit and iguana habitat spotlight animal species native to the tropical rainforest. For those who want to play after dark, the Bravissimo show offers a live performance with unlimited drinks and optional dinner followed by casino games and a disco party. Dinner show packages are available, as are day trip tours from Santo Domingo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Programs often sell out, so it’s best to guarantee entrance by booking ahead.
- Be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, sun protection, and spending cash.
- The site features changing rooms and shower, and fee-based lockers are available.
- All facilities are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for visitor use with advance notice.
- Flip-flops and shorts are not permitted at the Bravissimo Show.
- Kids are allowed at the Bravissimo show, but visitors must be 18 or older to enter the casino or disco.
- Ocean World Adventure Park offers the chance to swim with dolphins, sea lions, and sharks for an additional fee. Prices start at $79, and reservations for these interactive programs are required.
How to Get There
Ocean World Adventure Park is set three miles (five kilometers) west of Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic's north coast, about a 30-minute drive from Gregorio Luperon International Airport. Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off from the Puerto Plata area, although hotels farther out can incur additional fees. Those who wish to arrive and leave on their own schedule can travel by private vehicle or taxi.
When to Get There
Ocean World Adventure Park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30am to 5:30pm. The Bravissimo Show runs on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 9pm.
Dolphins at Ocean World Adventure Park
Ocean World Adventure Park boasts the largest man-made dolphin habitat in the world, currently home to 15 Atlantic bottlenose dolphins from Cuba and Honduras. They each eat up to 26 pounds of fish per day.
Address: Calle Principal #3 Cofresí, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic
Hours: Daily: 9am - 6pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
From $ 69
Playa Caleta
A small, rocky beach frequented by locals, Playa Caleta gives visitors a more cultural taste of beach life in the Dominican Republic than other beaches in La Romana. You'll enjoy stunning scenery and local cuisine while at Playa Caleta.
This remote beach area comes equipped with stunning scenery, local cuisine and a small bay ideal for swimming. Snorkel equipment may come in handy here, as there are fish and sometimes other sea creatures to see off its shores. There are also many vendors at Playa Caleta who serve fresh fish and other local delicacies like yaniqueques. Bring pesos or be prepared to bargain, as vendors don't always have change for American dollars. Finish off your meal with a refreshingly cold Presidente beer, a favorite brew in the Dominican Republic.
Practical Info
Hop in a cab to get to La Caleta, or take a tour bus. If taking a cab, arrange a time for the driver to pick you up. Otherwise, you may have a hard time getting back to your resort or cruise ship. The beach is quite rocky, so you may want to pack a pair of water shoes to avoid the pain that comes from stepping on sharp rocks.
Address: La Romana, Dominican Republic
From $ 110
National Botanical Garden
Founded in 1976, the National Botanical Garden in Santo Domingo was named after a Dominican botanist who published a guide to the plant life of Hispaniola. The calming paths of this quiet and contemplative garden are ideal for escaping the city streets, and athletic travelers agree the garden’s five miles of well-kept tread are perfect for early morning runs, too.
The botanical garden’s tram winds visitors through multiple ecosystems, tropical foliage and a broad range of displays that showcase Dominican Republic’s diverse flora. Travelers agree the impressive Japanese garden is an essential stop on any visit to the National Botanical Garden, and the lush lawns also prove ideal for afternoon picnics.
Practical Info
The National Botanical Garden is located on a square mile of land north of Avenida de Los Proceres. It is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Address: Avenida República de Argentina, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
From $ 50
Fun Fun Cave
Set within the dramatic landscape of the Dominican Republic’s Los Haitises National Park, Fun Fun Cave (Cueva Fun Fun) lives up to its name by offering horseback riding, cave exploring, and rappelling. Fun Fun Cave shakes up your beach routine and provides the perfect adventure-packed day trip from Punta Cana fit for an active family.
The Basics
Fun Fun Cave is composed of a system of tunnels that wind 65 feet (20 meters) below ground. After rappelling down into the cavern, you can see massive stalagmite and stalactite mounds, encounter the insects and animals that call the caves home, and swim in the cave’s underground rivers. Tour guides ensure your safety and lead you through the labyrinthine caverns to see the site’s relics of West Indian paintings and petroglyphs dating back hundreds of years, offering insight into the Dominican Republic’s early inhabitants. Simply accessing Fun Fun Cave is part of the adventure, as most tours hike or ride horseback through the beautiful scenery of Los Haitises National Park to reach the cave entrance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Fun Fun Cave tour is a must for adventure seekers visiting the Dominican Republic.
- You must be physically fit for this rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- A swimsuit is recommended.
- For the safest and most convenient excursion, look for tours that include all transportation and meals.
- One of the most adventurous activities available from Punta Cana, admission to Fun Fun Cave tends to sell out early. If you want to guarantee a chance to go on this unforgettable adventure, be sure to book a tour in advance.
How to Get There
Fun Fun Cave is located in the Dominican Republic’s remote northeast corner and is best accessed as part of a guided tour. It is roughly a 2.5-hour drive inland from Punta Cana.
When to Get There
Visiting Fun Fun Cave from Punta Cana takes a full day, making it unsuitable for short shore excursions. Plan to visit when you have a few days in the Dominican Republic, which experiences a peak in tourism during July and August, and then again between December and March. It’s best to avoid the Caribbean’s hurricane season, August through October.
Address: Dominican Republic
Admission: Varies
From $ 145
Fort San Felipe
Built under the orders of King Philip II of Spain, Fort San Felipe has been guarding the waters off Puerto Plata for more than 450 years. It was designed to protect the town from pirates as well as European invaders and later served as a prison. Today visitors come to tour the ruins and to enjoy the sweeping sea views from its ramparts.
The Basics
Fort San Felipe stands on a promontory at the end of the malecón (seawall promenade) overlooking the Atlantic. Its thick stone walls and doorways protected with coral spikes were intended to keep out invaders. In 1800, the fort was the site of a battle against the United States, when US troops defeated a combined French–Spanish force. During its time as a prison, the fort held Juan Pablo Duarte, one of the Dominican Republic’s founding fathers.
The fort is filled with military artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries, including cannons and artillery, and information panels in English and Spanish explain the building’s history.
Fort San Felipe is a popular stop on guided tours of Puerto Plata.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to Fort San Felipe is via paid ticket.
- Audio guides are available for visitors.
- Watching the sunset from the adjacent park is a popular activity.
- The fort is not wheelchair accessible.
- Make time to visit Puerto Plata lighthouse, located next to the fort.
How to Get There
Fort San Felipe is located at Avenida General Gregorio Luperón in Puerto Plata. It can be reached on foot from most places in the city center, by taxi, or as part of guided tour with round-trip transport provided.
When to Get There
Fort San Felipe is open every day except Sunday. Lunchtime through early afternoon is the most popular time to visit, but the fort never feels overcrowded. Plan to spend around 30 minutes here perusing the exhibits and enjoying the view.
The Beaches of Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata means “silver port,” and for many years it was one of the most important silver-trading ports in the Caribbean. In modern times, the city has become famous for its beautiful beaches, with soft sand, crystal clear waters, and attractive resort hotels. Sosúa Beach and Golden Beach (Playa Dorada) are among the most popular with vacationers.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
From $ 64
El Limón Waterfall
Whether it’s hiking up the rugged terrain of Dominican Republic’s tallest falls on foot or riding horseback through the steep mountain passes, a trip to the El Limón waterfall is a quintessential Dominican Republic experience. Crested mountaintops stretch some 2,100 feet into the sky, and tropical plants, like coffee and cocoa, line trails that lead to the impressive cascade. And if picturesque Caribbean landscape isn't enough, a crystal-clear natural pool at the foot of the falls offers tired travelers the perfect place to cool off after a hot mountain hike.
Practical Info
The falls are located about a 35-minute walk from Sendero Arroyo Surdido. Guides are available, but travelers say well-marked trails make the path easy to self-navigate. The park entrance fee is about 50 pesos per person.
Address: Samana, Dominican Republic
Admission: 50 pesos
From $ 99
Centro León
Santiago De Los Caballeros is the tobacco capital of the Dominica Republic, home to the country’s cigar barons, so it’s no surprise that one of the city’s greatest museums was built by the tobacco fortunes of the León Jimenez family. Centro León has one of the best collections of Dominican art and culture housed in a stunning building with Caribbean sunlight streaming from the crystal dome, and three permanent exhibitions describing the island’s biodiversity, the history of the native Taino people, and Dominican culture, including a beautiful collection of Dominican art and photography. There are also galleries with temporary exhibits and a sculpture garden and aviary outside.
Practical Info
More than just art exhibits, Centro León is a popular gathering spot for locals who come for events like the Friday night mixers with live music and drinks and snacks from the café. Check the calendar online to see what’s happening.
Address: Av 27 de Febrero 146, Santiago De Los Caballeros 51053, Dominican Republic
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 10am-7pm
Admission: Around $3, more for guided tours in English
From $ 160
Chavón River
Follow the same winding waterway as popular films like Jurassic Park, Rambo and Apocalypse Now along the Chavón River, arguably the most picturesque river in the country. The best way to see the river is aboard one of the river cruises that pass through steeps gorges, up to 250 feet tall in places, and offer glimpses of the unique wildlife that lives along the riverbank, including freshwater turtles and hawks. The Chavón River also passes by the interesting and beautiful Altos de Chavón, an artist’s colony perched high on a hill above the river that was designed to look like an ancient Mediterranean village, complete with cobblestone streets and an Greek-style amphitheater.
Practical Info
The Chavón River runs from the interior mountains all the way to the Caribbean Sea near the ultr-luxe Caso de Campo resort, about 6 miles east of the city of La Romana. The artist’s colony Altos de Chavon sits just a couple miles inland from the river mouth.
Address: La Romana, Dominican Republic
From $ 50
Brugal Rum Center
Named after Catalonian expatriate Andres Brugal, a visit to the Brugal Rum Center offers visitors a chance to see the magic of turning sugarcane into one of the Dominican Republic’s chief exports – rum. From golden brown to crystal clear, the rum you’ll see, smell, and taste at the Brugal rum center will open your eyes to the possibility of what a refined drink rum can be. Families enjoy the wondrous automated distilling and bottling process and marvel at the mechanics of turning sugarcane into the nectar of the gods. An excellent escape from the ordinary while in Puerto Plata, take some time to explore a local icon and learn a bit about distilling in the process.
Practical Info:
The factory offers free tours on an ongoing basis Monday thru Friday 9:00 am to noon and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Address: Dominican Republic
Hours: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.- noon, 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
From $ 64
Ozama Fort (Fortaleza Ozama)
This 16th-century fortress located in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo was built by the Spanish and is recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage site. History buffs can explore La Fortaleza—which is the oldest European-style military building in the Americas—and learn more about how this old-school castle that once guarded the port of Dominica Republic’s capital city. Travelers can explore the grounds of this imposing castle that once served as a prison on their own or with the help of a local guide. A climb to the Torre del Homenaje offers incredible 360-degree views of the city, and a nearby powder house and rows of cannons reflect the fort’s important military history.
Practical Info
The fort is located on Calle de las Damas. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is RD $70.
Address: Calle Las Damas, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6:30pm, Sun 9am-4pm
Admission: RD $70
From $ 50
Higuey
In the Dominican Republic's eastern-most province of La Altagracia Province lies the city of Higuey. A busy, bustling area that has been rapidly growing over the past decade, Higuey is also home to some must-see historical and religious sites.
The Basilica of Altagracia, a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in 1972, serves as the city's biggest attraction. Despite its fairly recent development, the church holds a strong religious presence and is the place of pilgrimages each year. It is well-known due to its location, where a sighting of the Virgin Mary is said to have occurred. This elevated the church to high esteem, and Pope John Paul II visited the site in 1992.
The Church of San Dionisio is also a site to see, though this one holds significance due to its history. The small church dates back to 1572, making it one of the oldest churches in the Americas, and features Spanish colonialism architecture and a stately bell tower.
Higuey is also home to charming streets, restaurants and markets, all ready to be explored. Though the city may be lacking in some grandeur and sophistication, visitors can experience the city side of the Dominican Republic.
Practical Info
Higuey is located 32 miles from La Romana. It can be reached by car, though you may want to choose a tour that stops in Higuey to save yourself the hassle of navigating city traffic and finding parking.
Address: Higuey, Dominican Republic
From $ 85
Juanillo Beach (Playa Juanillo)
A former fishing village on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, Juanillo Beach is today one of the region's most desirable stretches of white-sand beach. Wide open, powdery soft, and lined with palm trees, this stretch of sand runs from Cap Cana Marina to the Sanctuary Cap Cana Golf & Spa Resort. While open to the public, the beach is only accessible through Cap Cana Resort, making it a calm and quiet place to soak up some rays.
The Basics
A hidden gem in Punta Cana, Juanillo Beach is far less frequented that more popular stretches of shore in the area, meaning it's a nice spot to avoid the crowds. Travelers based in Punta Cana without a rental car can visit this sleepy beach on a full-day catamaran cruise, which includes a chance to swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters of one of the nation's hidden cenotes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This beach is a must-visit for sun seekers and families.
- Remember to bring your ID; you might need it when entering Cap Cana Resort.
- Cabanas and loungers are available for rent along the beach.
- Public restrooms are not available on the beach.
How to Get There
Juanillo Beach is located in Cap Cana, about 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport by road. The easiest way to reach the beach is by taxi or on a catamaran ride from Punta Cana.
When to Get There
There isn't really a bad time to visit Juanillo Beach, though it can get lively when special events are taking place, usually on the weekends. The weather is warm and beach-worthy year-round, though hurricanes are somewhat of a threat in the Caribbean between June and November.
Things to Do at Juanillo Beach
Warm, shallow, blue waters create a natural swimming pool at this beautiful beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It's also a destination for windsurfing when the weather allows. If you plan to windsurf, snorkel, or partake in any other water sport, be sure to join a guided excursion or bring your own equipment, as rentals are not available on the beach.
Address: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
From $ 169