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Best Beaches in Dominican Republic

  • Writer: Naureen Chhipa
    Naureen Chhipa
  • Jul 10
  • 20 min read

After visiting over 50 beaches, here are our top 15 beaches in the Dominican Republic! This list was not easy to make, but if your time is limited and you want to visit the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, then keep reading. We ranked the beaches based on scenery, seclusion, and clear waters. I'll also be sharing the pros and cons of visiting each beach.

Isla Saona, Dominican Republic. Dominican Republic Beaches.
Isla Saona (Saona Island)

The Dominican Republic is one of my favorite destinations worldwide to have an epic beach adventure. I love the Dominican Republic so much that I try to visit every year. I love how this small Island can be so diverse, with different destinations catering to all types of travelers. Whether I'm in the mood for adventure and zip lining in the jungle, or disconnecting and re-gaining my balance at a yoga retreat, or living it up with the girls at an all-inclusive resort, the Dominican Republic always has my back! I've found some of the best beaches in the world to be in the Dominican Republic.


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases you make when you click on these links at no additional cost to you.


The Dominican Republic is one of my favorite destinations worldwide to have an epic beach adventure. 

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic

Table of Contents:

  1. What Area has the Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic

  2. The Best Beach Resorts in the Dominican Republic

    2.1. Best All-Inclusive Beach Resorts in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

    2.2. Best Lodges and Cabanas for an Eco-Friendly Stay in DR

    2.3. Best Boutique Hotels, Beach Villas, and Tree Houses in DR

  3. What is the Best Place to Visit in DR for a First-Time Traveler

  4. Where are the Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic without Seaweed

  5. What is the Most Beautiful Area in the Dominican Republic

  6. Top Most Beautiful Beaches on the Samaná Peninsula

  7. Top Most Beautiful Beaches on the Southeastern and South Coast of DR

  8. Top Most Beautiful Beaches on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic

  9. Top Most Beautiful Beaches in Punta Cana (East Coast) Dominican Republic

  10. Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic Map

  11. 2-Week Dominican Republic Road Trip Itinerary | Related Posts


What Area has The Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic

The Most Beautiful Beaches of The Dominican Republic

Boat on the shore of Cayo Arena in the Dominican Republic. Republic Beaches.
Cayo Arena | Paradise Island | Island in the Dominican Republic

After backpacking the entire Island, we found the most beautiful beaches to be in the Samaná Peninsula, the northwest coast of the Dominican Republic, the southeast coast, and the southwestern coast. Punta Cana (on the east coast) also has excellent beaches, but they have become very commercialized and full of tourists; therefore, it is not my favorite place to visit for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path secluded beach destination.


The Best Beach Resorts in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Beach Resorts. Punta Rucia Lodge. Beautiful Beach.
Punta Rucia Lodge | Dominican Republic

You have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to beautiful beach accommodations with turquoise waters in the Dominican Republic. I've done it all from the all-inclusive, the lodges, the cabanas, the beach houses, and the boutique hotels. What I've found is that every type of accommodation caters to a different kind of traveler. If you're looking to stay put at a resort, enjoy a plethora of dining options and water activities on beautiful beaches, while taking occasional day trips. Then, an all-inclusive resort in places like Punta Cana is the way to go! Staying at a beach resort in the Dominican Republic is also an excellent option for first-time visitors to the Island, as you can get a taste of what the Dominican Republic has to offer. For those travelers who are a bit more adventurous, don't mind driving, and are looking for off-the-beaten-path, secluded destinations, then a lodge or boutique hotel is the way to go! Here are a few of my favorites from each category, offering the best Dominican Republic beaches within walking distance:


Best All-Inclusive Beach Resorts in the Dominican Republic | Beautiful Beaches

Barceló Bávaro Palace | All-Inclusive | Punta Cana | Mid-Range / Upscale

beautiful beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Barcelo Bavaro Palace all-ensuite suite room with Jacuzzi.
Our Room at Barcelo Bavaro Palace All-Inclusive Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

We love the Barceló Bávaro Palace All-Inclusive Resort in Punta Cana, primarily because of its location, which is within walking distance of Bavaro Beach —one of our favorite beaches on the Dominican Republic's east coast. This resort is also great for those who do not plan to rent a car, as it offers a shuttle service to and from the airport in Punta Cana, making your trip easy and requiring minimal planning. Click here for more information and the latest prices. And click here to check for flights to Punta Cana.


Dream Macao Beach Punta Cana Resort and Spa | All-Inclusive | Punta Cana

Republic Dominican travel beautiful beach front accommodations. Dream Macao Beach Punta Cana.
Photo Credit: Dream Macao Beach Punta Cana Resort and Spa

Playa Macao (Macao Beach) is another stunning white-sand beach in the Dominican Republic, ideal for travelers who want to try their hand at surfing, as the waves in this area are perfect for water sports. I also love that Macao beach is open to the public and not just resort guests, so even if you're staying at another resort nearby, you can still travel and visit this beach! Macao Beach tends to be less crowded compared to other beaches in the Bavaro area. Click here for more information and the latest prices.


Tracadero Beach Resort | Mid-Range | Bayahibe, La Romana

Trip to Dominican Republic. Infinity Pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea at Tracadero Beach Resort.
Tracadero Beach Resort | La Romana, Dominican Republic | Places to Stay Near Isla Saona

Tracadero Beach resort is not all-inclusive, but I loved my stay here, so I had to add it to the list of the best beach resorts in the Dominican Republic. I love Tracadero because it's not touristy, it feels more intimate, and has the best infinity pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Tracadero is also an excellent place to stay if you're looking to visit Isla Saona on a day trip. Isla Saona is one of the beaches with the most transparent waters in the Dominican Republic. You can even spot starfish nearby! The resort is only 20 minutes away via boat from the Island. Click here for more information, the latest prices, and to book your stay.



Best Lodges and Cabanas in the Dominican Republic | Beautiful Beaches

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa | Mid-Range | Sosua / Cabarete

woman swimming at a pool in Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel and Spa in Cabarete.
Staying at Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa offers a stylish, nature-inspired, eco-friendly experience. Located in the town of Sosua, it is just a short walk from Cabarete and Kite Beach, which are ideal for kite surfing and various water sports. The beaches on the north coast of the Dominican Republic are renowned for their laid-back, bohemian vibe and emphasis on sports, in contrast to the beaches on the east coast.


We enjoyed our stay at Natura Cabana and have written a blog post about our experience, along with recommended activities, which you can read here. Alternatively, click here for the latest prices at Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa.


Punta Rucia Lodge | Mid-Range | Punta Rucia, Dominican Republic

Pool at Punta Rucia Lodge. Dominican Republic Beaches.
Punta Rucia Lodge | Punta Rucia, Dominican Republic

Punta Rucia is my favorite beach destination in the Dominican Republic, especially when traveling with kids, and Punta Rucia Lodge is conveniently located right across from it. What makes Punta Rucia so special for children is its shallow waters, which are perfect for some safe play time. Don't worry, adult travelers—Punta Rucia is also an excellent choice for those looking to unwind in paradise. This Dominican beach offers a spa-like atmosphere with salt-infused sea air that will help you relax and drift off into a peaceful nap. The loungers by the pool and beach are ideal for soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing break. You can also take a day trip by boat from here to Cayo Arena (Paradise Island), one of my favorite beaches in the Dominican Republic for snorkeling. Punta Rucia is one of those beach towns in the Dominican Republic flying under the radar, so don't sleep on it! It's one of my favorite off-the-beaten-path beaches of the Dominican Republic (República Dominicana Beach). If you'd like more information, I have an entire guide to Punta Rucia Lodge that you can read, or you can click here for the latest prices and to book your stay.


Best Boutique Hotels, Beach Villas, and Tree Houses in the Dominican Republic

Casa el Paraiso | Mid-Range | Santa Bárbara de Samaná, Las Galeras, Dominican Republic

Best Beach Towns in Dominican Republic Las Galeras. Pool overlooking the Samaná Bay at Casa el Paraiso Eco-Lodge.
Our Stay at Casa El Paraiso | Las Galeras, Samaná, Dominican Republic

You'll need a car to get here (click here for the latest prices on car rentals in the Dominican Republic), but, oh boy! is it worth the drive.. Casa el Paraiso lives up to its name (Paradise House). I spent a few days there and loved the open-plan rooms that overlook the Samaná Bay area, not to mention their in-house Italian chef, who makes the best dinners ever. Book a room at Casa el Paraiso to experience an unforgettable time in the Dominican Republic that you'll never forget. Some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, including Playa Frontón, are also a short drive from here. Read a full review here on my blog post on Casa el Paraiso, or click here for the latest prices and to book your stay.


ZÂRIA Formerly Known as Unique Exotic Boutique Hotel | Budget | El Valle, Samaná


I love, love, love staying at this jungle boutique hotel! You'll need a car to get here, but the seclusion and adventure are well worth the drive! If you want to know more about this hidden gem spot, read my full blog article on Zâria, formerly known as Unique Exotic Hotel, here, or click here for the latest prices and to book your stay.


Dominican Tree House Village | Mid-Range | El Valle, Samaná, Dominican Republic

Tree House Accommodations in the jungle at Dominican Tree House Village. Samana Peninsula.
Dominican Tree House Village | El Valle, Samaná, Dominican Republic

If you ever wanted to sleep in a tree house in the jungle, then this is it! Talk about checking off a bucket list item ;) The accommodations are described as luxurious on their website; however, it's worth noting that they are more eco-friendly, nature-infused, and rustic than luxurious. Think of it as glamping in a tree house in the jungle on the Samaná Peninsula. Click here now for more information and the latest prices.



What is The Best Place to Visit in the Dominican Republic for a First-Time Traveler?


If it's your first time visiting the Dominican Republic and you have limited time, or you want to relax, then Punta Cana is a great option. Numerous all-inclusive resorts offer a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury. For those with more time and an adventurous side, who are not averse to driving, I recommend visiting the capital, Santo Domingo, the Samaná Peninsula (my personal favorite), and the northwest coast. I have a 2-week Dominican Republic Blog post with a complete itinerary that you can read here.


Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic Without Seaweed


Seaweed, particularly sargassum, is a common sight on the beaches of the Dominican Republic. Seaweed naturally occurs on beaches worldwide, so you may encounter it during your travels. However, you can reduce the chances of seeing seaweed by selecting the area of the Island you visit based on the time of year. Seaweed is more prevalent during the warmer months due to changes in ocean currents and temperatures. Typically, the peak season for seaweed spans from May to July, with August often seeing particularly high levels, and this can affect the beauty of the beaches and whether you want to sit under coconut palms to enjoy the day or even partake in water sports.


Some areas are more susceptible to sargassum than others. For instance, Punta Cana, which faces the Atlantic Ocean, is more likely to experience seaweed than beaches located on the south (Caribbean) side of the Island. Therefore, the best time to visit Punta Cana and enjoy the beaches, free from seaweed, is between November and May.


What is The Most Beautiful Area in the Dominican Republic


My favorite area in the Dominican Republic is the Samaná Peninsula. There are three major areas to explore: "Las Terrenas", known for its resemblance to villages in France, and for being home to "Playa Bonita" (Beautiful Beach), renowned for its scenic beauty and for being one of the top 10 best beaches in the Dominican Republic, popular with vacationers. You have "El Valle", my favorite! El Valle sits right in the middle and offers a less touristy experience with rich jungle life, scenic panoramic views, and epic-looking beaches that are perfect for swimming. Lastly, you have "Las Galeras". Las Galeras sits at the tip of the Peninsula, and if you visit from mid-December to mid-March, you can go whale watching in this area. You can also find one of our all-time favorite boutique hotels here, "Casa el Paraiso", an amazing stay on its own without having to venture out! The water in Samaná's beaches is inviting year-round. Still, I would recommend avoiding visits during the rainy season (May to November) if driving, as the streets are not always paved and can become muddy, except the highway, which is well-maintained.


Our Top Most Beautiful Beaches on The Samana Peninsula

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic, Samaná


Playa El Valle | El Valle, Samaná | Dominican Republic Beaches on the Samaná Peninsula

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic. Woman on a ladder at El Valle Beach.
Playa El Valle, Samana Bay

Pros

  • Secluded beach.

  • Walking distance to accommodations to fit every budget.

  • Beach camping grounds are available.

  • Beautiful, dramatic views of mountains and the endless Caribbean Sea.

  • A small sweet water river connecting to the beach.

  • Local fish boats are available for nearby excursions.

  • Crowd-free.

  • Very photogenic beach #doitforthegram

  • Perfect for swimming.

  • Only one small local shack restaurant is open with no regular hours, so getting lunch can be a hit or miss. They usually open from 12-3 pm (at the time of our visit.)

  • Local town vibes.


Cons

  • Only one small local shack restaurant is open with no regular hours, so getting lunch can be a hit or miss. They usually open from 12-3 pm (at the time of our visit).

  • Electricity is limited, and at night, the beach and roads become dark.

  • No shopping area nearby, you'll have to drive into town.



How to Get to El Valle or The Samaná Peninsula:


The most direct way of reaching the Samaná Peninsula and El Valle Beach is by flying into Santo Domingo (the capital) and renting a car at the airport. The drive will take you approximately 3 hours. The highway is well-paved, but avoid driving after sunset, as streetlights are limited once you enter the small fishing village of El Valle.


Best Accommodations / Where To Stay to Visit El Valle in the Samaná Peninsula:


ZÂIRA Retreat Center (Unique Exotic Hotel) ➡️ Click here for the latest prices and more info.


Favorite Day Trips to El Valle Beach and the Samaná Peninsula:


🔹 Private Zip-Line Samaná with Playa El Valle Lunch and Expert Local Tour Guide


Playa El Ermitaño | El Valle, Samaná | Dominican Republic Beaches

Hidden Caribbean beach in the Dominican Republic. Best Beaches in Dominican Republic.
Playa El Ermitaño, Samana

Pros

  • This beach is located right in the center of the rainforest/jungle, lining the shores with hundreds of coconut trees. You truly feel like you're in a tropical paradise.

  • Playa el Ermitaño is a secret, hidden beach, therefore tourist-free!

  • Lush jungle vibes everywhere you turn!

  • Very photogenic beach #doitforthegram

  • Waves are perfect for swimming and are kid-friendly.

  • Secluded beach, chances are you'll have it all to yourself!


Cons

  • You need a boat to reach this beach, so you must be willing to travel.

  • You're not allowed to stay overnight.

  • No food or drink is available for purchase while on the island.



How to Get to Playa el Ermitaño on the The Samaná Peninsula:

Playa El Ermitaño "Hermit Beach" is reachable via boat ride from Playa El Valle in Samana.


Playa Rincón | Las Galeras, Samaná | Dominican Republic Beaches


Pros

  • Large beach layout with restaurant options.

  • Considered one of the top 10 beaches in the world due to its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water. 

  • Offers great scenic panoramic views. 

  • You can spot marine life and coral reefs. 

  • There's an accessible area with hammocks and chiringuitos (beach shacks) for those looking to relax, to the right of the entrance. 

  • You can spot humpback whales between mid-December and mid-March. 


Cons

  • The beach gets a lot of seaweed between March and October, so avoid visiting playa Rincón during those months. 

  • Littering has become a significant issue among visitors, leaving the beach dirty and littered with plastic.

  • It can get crowded and loud due to its popularity. 

  • Slowly losing its natural coral reef system. 


How to Get to Playa Rincón, in Las Galeras, on The Samaná Peninsula:


Playa Rincón Beach can be reached by either car or boat. If you are driving from Las Terrenas, the journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes through the Samaná Peninsula. The road is winding but well-maintained, offering breathtaking views of the lush Caribbean countryside that leads to one of the best Dominican Republic beaches.


Best Accommodations / Where To Stay to Visit Las Galeras in the Samaná Peninsula:



Favorite Day Trips to Las Galeras and the Samaná Peninsula:


🔹 Playa Rincon Safari Adventure from Samaná
🔹 Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Full Day Tour


Javo Beach "La Playita" | Las Galeras, Samaná | Dominican Republic Beaches

hidden stunning beaches in the Samana peninsula Dominican Republic. La Playita, Playa Blanca.
Javo Beach "La Playita" Las Galeras, Samaná, Dominican Republic

Pros

  • White sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

  • Central downtown location in Las Galeras.

  • Located in an old, quiet fishing village.

  • Great beach to catch an epic sunset when visiting Las Galeras in the Samaná Peninsula.

  • Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rental.

  • Shopping and restaurants are within walking distance.

  • Its shallow waters are great for young kids to play in a safe environment.

  • A beautiful, small, and quaint beach with a local feel.

  • Great for snorkeling.

  • Deep-tissue massage stalls/ masseuses are available.

  • Affordable prices for food and drinks.

  • Accommodations can be found within walking distance.

  • Boat trips and excursions are available here.

  • Hidden gem beach vibes.


Cons

  • It can be out of the way if you're not visiting/ staying in Las Galeras.



More Beaches to Explore in the Samaná Peninsula, Dominican Republic:

Las Terrenas, Samaná, Dominican Republic | Best Beaches in Dominican Republic
  • Playa Bonita

  • Playa Cosón

  • Playa Las Ballenas

  • Playa Punta Popy

  • Playa El Portillo

  • Playa Jackson

  • Playa Perdida

  • Playa Anclón


Las Galeras, Samaná, Dominican Republic | Best Beaches in Dominican Republic
  • Playa Fronton

  • Playa Madama

  • Cayo Levantado (Island off the Samaná Bay)

  • Playa El Morón

  • Playa Colorada

  • Playa Aserradero


Our Top Most Beautiful Beaches on The South Coast

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic, Southeast and South Coast


Isla Saona (Saona Island) Southeastern Coast, Off the Coast of Bayahibe, La Romana

Dominican Caribbean Beaches. Saona Island Day trip.
Isla Saona (Saona Island)

Isla Saona is one of the most popular day trips on the Island, and it's easy to see why. Many movies, such as "Pirates of the Caribbean," were filmed near this Island due to its vibrant, deep Caribbean hues and breezy palm trees, which make Saona Island a top Caribbean beach destination and one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic to visit.


Pros

  • Easy to book a day trip from anywhere on the Island.

  • Vibrant hues and clear water for snorkeling.

  • Massages are available for booking on the Island (some of the best.)

  • Snacks and refreshments are available for purchase.

  • Very Photogenic and Iconic beach #doitforthegram

  • Waves are perfect for swimming.

Cons

  • Isla Saona gets crowded after 11 am due to all the day trips from Punta Cana, Bahahibe, and Santo Domingo.

  • It's become a bit of a tourist trap, so prices on the Island are high--even for coconut water!

  • You can't stay overnight.



How to Get to Isla Saona (Saona Island), in the Dominican Republic:


Isla Saona is only accessible via boat. There are many day trips daily to visit Saona Island. The closest town to Isla Saona is Bayahibe in La Romana. From Bayahibe, Saona Island is a short boat ride away. When crowd-free, Isla Saona is the best beach in the Dominican Republic due to its clear waters and smooth waves, which are ideal for swimming.


Best Accommodations / Where To Stay to Visit Isla Saona (Saona Island) on a Day Trip:


Tracadero Beach Resort (Bayahibe) ➡️ Click here for more info and the latest prices.

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas (La Romana)➡️ Click here for more info and the latest prices.

Barcelo Bavaro Palace (Punta Cana) ➡️ Click here for more info and the latest prices.


Favorite Day Trips to Isla Saona (Saona Island) Dominican Republic:


🔹Saona Island: Beach & Natural Pool Small-Group Tour w/ Lunch

More Beaches to Explore on the South Coast of the Dominican Republic:



Our Top Most Beautiful Beaches on The North Coast

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic, North and Northwest


Cayo Arena (Paradise Island) Northwestern Coast, Near Punta Rucia in Monte Cristi

Caribbean Island Beach in Monte Cristi, Punta Rucia. Best beaches Dominican Republic.
Cayo Arena

Cayo Arena, also known as "Paradise Island," and one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, is a tiny, epic coral islet located on the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic.


Pros

  • You get that feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, stranded on an island.

  • Shallow Clear Waters.

  • Coral Islet is home to tropical fish ideal for snorkeling.

  • Wild seagulls roam around the Islet.

  • A few human-made huts are available for shade.

  • Very photogenic #doitforthegram

  • Mangroves are nearby.

  • Exploring this Islet is an adventure for sure!

Cons

  • Only accessible via boat.

  • You can't stay overnight unless you want to sleep in the water!

  • It's a bit far from everything else on the Island.

  • No snacks or drinks are available for purchase; you must bring your own.

Dominican Republic Islet. Best beaches in the Dominican Republic for snorkeling.
Cayo Arena (Paradise Island) Punta Rucia, Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic
Cayo Arena, Monte Cristi. Paradise Island Dominican Republic. Boat on a beach.
Paradise Island (Cayo Arena) Punta Rucia, Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic

How to Get to Cayo Arena (Paradise Island), in the Dominican Republic:


The nearest airports are Cibao International Airport (STI) and Puerto Plata International Airport (POP). From there, I recommend renting a car and driving to Punta Rucia. Punta Rucia has one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic for traveling with kids, due to its clear, shallow waters, and is one of the best, secluded beach towns in the Dominican Republic. The drive is about 2 hrs and 30 minutes. From Punta Rucia, you'll have to take a boat to the Islet of Cayo Arena (Paradise Island). Alternatively, if you're looking to save money, consider flying into Santo Domingo's International Airport (SDQ), as flights to the capital are generally cheaper. However, the drive from Santo Domingo to Punta Rucia is a long one, at 4 hours and 30 minutes. But the beautiful beach is worth the drive!


Best Accommodations / Where To Stay to Visit Cayo Arena (Paradise Island):


Blue Island Punta Rucia (Budget) ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.

Rustic House Punta Rucia (Entire Apartment)➡️ Click here for the latest prices.


Favorite Day Trips to Cayo Arena (Paradise Island) Dominican Republic:


🔹 VIP Tour to Paradise Island & The Mangroves (Pick-up from Cabarete, Sosua or Puerto Plata)

Encuentro Beach, Kite Beach, and Cabarete Beach

North Coast, Cabarete, Dominican Republic | Best Beach for Kite Surfing / Surfing

Kite surfing in kite beach, Cabarete, Dominican Republic. Best beaches in the Caribbean for kitesurfing.
Kite Beach | The Perfect Beach to Learn How to kite surf in Cabarete, Dominican Republic

There are three main beaches along the Cabarete Bay area. You have Encuentro Beach with waves more suitable for surfing. Here you'll find great surfing workshops for beginners to experts. Encuentro Beach is more secluded, where you'll find an occasional cafe to grab a drink at, but they're not as abundant as in the other beaches. At Encuentro Beach, you can also go horseback riding. After Encuentro Beach, you have Kite Beach, which is popular among kite surfers. I love Kite Beach for its fun and adventurous vibe. At Kite Beach, you can learn kite surfing as the winds are ideal here. Kite Beach is perfect for those seeking to engage in water sports. After Kite Beach, you have Cabarete Beach. Cabarete Beach is perfect for swimming. You can still see kite surfers from here, but they are at a distance, so you won't bump into them as much while swimming. Cabarete Beach also boasts numerous restaurants serving excellent food! If you're looking for nightlife, Kite Beach and Cabarete Beach are the best, offering a mix of laid-back beach bars and lively clubs.


Pros

  • Best beach in the Dominican Republic for water sports.

  • The top beach in the world for kite surfing and learning how to kite surf.

  • Local surfing schools offer classes for both short-term and long-term sessions.

  • Bohemian town vibe.

  • Crystal blue waters.

  • Great restaurants along the beach.

  • Budget-friendly destination.

  • Nightlife destination.

  • Beach villas are available for large group rentals.


Cons

  • Not ideal for swimming in the afternoon due to the large number of kite surfers in the area (Kite Beach) and the strong waves that make swimming difficult (Encuentro Beach).

  • Not the most beautiful or scenic beach in the Dominican Republic.



How to Get to Kite Beach, Cabarete, Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic:


Fly into Puerto Plata International Airport (POP). From the airport, you can rent a car for a drive that takes about 30 minutes. Please note that there is no direct public transportation from Puerto Plata Airport (POP) to Kite Beach in Cabarete. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private transfer by booking a car or shuttle service and visit this Dominican beach.


Where To Stay to Visit Kite Beach, Encuentro Beach, and Cabarete Beach:


Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.

El Encuentro Surf Lodge (Budget) ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.

Residencial Mananero (Apartment/Flat) ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.



Favorite Day Trips & Things to Do in Cabarete, Dominican Republic:


🔹Damajagua: Waterfalls with Lunch Buffet
🔹 27 Waterfalls: Zip 'n Splash Adventure with Horse Ride
🔹 Puerto Plata: Snorkeling Excursion to Sosúa Bay
🔹 Cabarete: 2-Person Dominican Countryside Buggy Tour

More Beaches to Explore on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic:

  • Playa Grande

  • Playa Caleton

  • Playa Dorada

  • Playa Alicia (Alicia Beach)


Our Top Most Beautiful Beaches on The East Coast

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic, Punta Cana


Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Best Beaches on the East Coast of the Dominican Republic

Bavaro Beach view point with palm trees. Best beaches in Punta Cana.
Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Bavaro Beach is one of our favorite beaches along the Punta Cana resort area. Punta Cana is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea, resulting in calmer waters ideal for swimming. Punta Cana is renowned for having some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic, with resorts catering to those seeking an all-inclusive stay in paradise.


Pros

  • White sand beach with turquoise waters.

  • Calm waters that are ideal for various water and beach activities.

  • The beach is lined with numerous resorts, restaurants, and shops.

  • A walkable beach to reach different areas.

  • Public access beach, so you can visit even if staying at another resort.

  • Family-friendly.

  • Many tours and day trips depart from this area.

  • Resorts offer great pools for those seeking a break from the beach.

  • The best time to visit a seaweed-free beach is October to December.


Cons

  • It's a very touristy area.

  • The food is just okey, catering more to an international audience rather than authentic Dominican cuisine.

  • The extreme seaweed problem occurs between May and July.


How to Get to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic:


The most convenient way to travel to Punta Cana from the United States or any other part of the world is to fly directly to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). The Punta Cana International airport is very popular, so you can find great deals to land here! Many resorts offer complimentary or fee-based shuttle pick-up to and from the airport, so it's best to check with your hotel directly. You can also rent a car and pick it up directly at the airport, or hire a private car or shuttle van. Alternatively, you can also take a guagua (local bus). These buses are budget-friendly, but not always reliable, and can be a hassle if carrying luggage.


Where To Stay to Visit Punta Cana, Dominican Republic | Best All-Inclusive Resorts:


Barceló Bávaro Palace (All-Inclusive) ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.

Excellence Resorts Punta Cana ➡️ Click here for the latest prices.


Favorite Day Trips & Things to Do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:


🔹 Saona Island Beach & Natural Pool Small-Group Tour w/ Lunch
🔹 From Punta Cana: Higuey Expedition Cultural & Historic Tour
🔹 Los Haitises Parks, Yanigua Waterfall & Montaña Redonda Tour
🔹 Punta Cana: Zip-line, Chairlift, Buggy & Horse Ride Adventure
🔹 Punta Cana: Monkey Land Half-Day Safari and Plantation Tour
🔹 Punta Cana: Catamaran Tour with Food, Drinks, and Snorkeling

More Beaches to Explore on the East Coast and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic:

  • Macao Beach

  • Juanillo Beach



Best Beaches in Dominican Republic Map

Best Beaches in Dominican Republic Map. Best Beach Dominican Republic.

If you're planning a road trip in the Dominican Republic, you can read my two-week itinerary guide here, which highlights the best stops along the way.



I hope this blog post helped you narrow down which beaches to visit in the Dominican Republic. Every year, I visit the Island and find a new one to add to the list, so stay tuned! Thanks for reading. Till next time!

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Isla Saona Day Trip.



More Blog Posts on the Dominican Republic:

Where to see star fish in the Dominican Republic.

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Naureen Chhipa Where To Nau
About Me

HELLO!

I'm Naureen but my friends call me Nau. Welcome to Where To Nau a travel and lifestyle blog featuring travel guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots from around the world.  I split my time between living in NYC  as a print/lifestyle model and content creator for products and brands I believe in, traveling the world, and sharing secrets of my travel adventures on this blog. Read More

 

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