Dominican Republic
Hot SpotsNorth Coast
The north coast of the Dominican Republic borders the Atlantic Ocean and is characterised by dry, arid, low lying land and two stunning National Parks with exceptional marine life and mangroves. The long golden beaches stretch for miles and ensure that this part of the island remains a favourite with tourists and has the majority of the resorts and facilities. The Amber Coast (named for its deposits of amber) has a number of adventure sport activities and opportunities including watersports, mountain biking and horse riding.
Samana Peninsula
Jutting out into the Atlantic, the Samana Peninsula is the quintessential Caribbean that we imagine. Miles of deserted beaches are dotted with coconut trees which meet calm warm turquoise waters. The Samana Peninsula is best known for the 10,000 Humpback whales that migrate to this region for the warm waters every January until March. The peninsula has some beautiful view points from the middle as well as dense pockets of rainforest and waterfalls.
East Coast
The east coast of the Dominican Republic is mainly made up of large all inclusive resorts and complexes. If all you are looking for is to lay by a pool or on the beach, the east coast is for you. The landscape is dominated by sugar cane plantations and the world famous resorts of Casa de Campo, Punta Cana, Cap Cana and Bavaro. Punta Cana has its own airport so holiday makers coming to the all inclusive hotels have everything they require; activities, restaurants, spas and golf courses and so rarely have to leave their comfortable surroundings!
South Coast
The south coast stretches from the border at Pedernales to Bayahibe on the east. The south of the island has incredible diversity. Home to the country's capital city Santo Domingo, larger cities and National Parks, there are plenty of opportunities to witness 'typical' Dominican city life, such as their love for Malecón (boardwalk) strolling, Merengue music and dancing, and the Dominican national sport of baseball.
Interior
The centre of the Dominican Republic is dominated by the spectacular Cordillera Central mountain range. The area south of this includes everything from fertile farming valleys, world-renowned for tobacco production, to incredible rivers and waterfalls. The Cordillera Central includes the Caribbean's highest mountain, Pico Duarte, at 3087 meters.