Eylul Tunc 
Island life is a never-ending adventure, so I hope you’re ready for an exciting trip in this Caribbean country! In this post, you’ll discover where to stay in Dominican Republic, including the best towns and the most incredible island hotels for each area!
I carefully compared all the accommodation options and only included those that had raving reviews, helping you find the best place to stay in Dominican Republic! Don’t worry, I included options for all budgets (and sorted them by price)!
In short, Punta Cana is the best area to stay in the Dominican Republic! This town has gorgeous beaches and offers so many fun attractions!
But if Punta Cana isn’t really for you, scroll below and check out some of the other places too!
This country is one of the world’s major holiday destinations, so I highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are the best places to stay in the Dominican Republic with hotels from luxury to budget. They are all conveniently located and have great reviews!
Contents
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here is a map of the regions of the Dominican Republic that I will be talking about in this blog post so you can easily visualize them:
- PUNTA CANA: for first-timers
- SANTO DOMINGO: for sightseeing
- PUERTO PLATA: for a well-rounded experience
- SAMANA: for nature lovers
- SANTIAGO DE LOS CABALLEROS: off the beaten path
- LAS TERRENAS: for couples
- SOSUA: for beach lovers
- CABARETE: for water sports
- LAS GALERAS: for relaxation
1. Punta Cana – where to stay in Dominican Republic for the first time
Punta Cana is one of the most famous destinations in the country and the best place for first-time visitors!
Set on the East coast of the island, Punta Cana offers white sand beaches, iconic hotels that boast unparalleled views of the Caribbean Sea and lots of restaurants and bars.
Since it’s one of the main towns in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is home to an international airport.
While here, you can explore the town’s amazing areas. You should definitely start with Bavaro, which has the highest concentration of hotels (including lots of all inclusive resorts), so this might end up being your base! Which is perfect, since this area offers some of the most scenic sunsets! Make sure you catch one on Bavaro Beach (map)!
Although the beaches are the biggest attractions here, you should definitely check out all the other things to do! Like zip-lining in Bavaro Adventure Park, playing some golf at Corales Golf Course (map), kiting or snorkeling, and shopping at BlueMall Punta Cana (map).
Since Punta Cana is the most popular place to stay in the Dominican Republic do not forget to make your booking in advance to catch these beautiful places and have better deals.
P.S. You might notice when reading about Punta Cana that they have gated communities in some towns, which are usually closed to public access and have security. Just something to keep in mind, if you find yourself coming across one of these places or staying in one.
You’ll never get enough of this hotel that has such stylish interiors, rooms with indoor and outdoor hot tubs and comfortable beds and many other incredible things! When you’re not out and about you can chill by the outdoor pools, sports courts, try some massages at the spa, eat yummy food at one of the 7 restaurants and drink some rum in one of the 11 bars!
Other accommodation options in Punta Cana
This great hotel has 2 swimming pools, 10 on-site restaurants, a spa, and spacious suites for guests
Chill by the swimming pool of this hotel that has 7 restaurants, a spa and a theater
This Airbnb has beautifully decorated rooms, a swimming pool, garden and is a great place to stay for families in Punta Cana
Things to do in Punta Cana
- Take golf lessons at Corales Golf Course
- Visit the natural beauty of Hoyo Azul (map)
- Have fun at Scape Park
- Join a sunset horseback riding tour
- Visit the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve
- Chill on Playa Bavaro and Playa Macao (map)
- Check out Playa Limon (map)
- Take a day trip to Saona Island
2. Santo Domingo – the best area for history lovers
Welcome to Santo Domingo, the capital of the island and one of the oldest cities in the Dominican Republic!
Set on the southern coast, just 2h away by car from Punta Cana, Santo Domingo is great for those who want to explore the historical side of the island and learn more about its past!
Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the best place to start your adventures! There are so many historic buildings here and important attractions like Columbus Park (map), Museum of the Royal Houses, Alcázar de Colón (map) and many others!
Santo Domingo is also great for those traveling on a budget! Hotel prices are lower here than in other parts of the country.
You can start your day by discovering the historic streets, visiting the attractions and of course stopping for some coffee and food at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Laurel (map) is a great one!
Then you can also indulge in some shopping, as there are so many cool places to get souvenirs like Downtown Center Shopping Mall (map).
Wake up to a stunning view of the city in the spacious rooms of this hotel set downtown Santo Domingo, just a stone’s throw from all the attractions! Start your day with some breakfast at one of the 3 restaurants and then head to the spa to recalibrate after your flights! Their rooms have large windows that overlook the city, comfortable beds and a tub.
Other accommodation options in Santo Domingo
This hotel offers a free, yummy breakfast, rooms with garden views and a patio
A nice room that has a comfortable bed, a private bathroom and a flat-screen Tv
Wake-up to a stunning sea view while staying in this studio that has a kitchen and free parking
Things to do in Santo Domingo
- See the impressive church Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación
- Check out the desert in the Dunes of Bani (map)
- Explore Plaza de la Bandera (map)
- Have fun at Caribbean Splash Water Park
- Make some new friends at Parque Zoológico Nacional
- Take a trip to Juan Dolio or Santa Cruz de Barahona
- Admire the views in Mirador Del Sur Joaquín Balaguer Park (map)
- Visit Playa Isla Catalina by boat (map)
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3. Puerto Plata – where to stay for a well-rounded experience
This coastal town is set on the Easternmost tip of the island, 5h away from Punta Cana by car and it’s known as the place where tourism began in the Dominican Republic!
Punta Cana combines a bit of what both Punta Cana and Santo Domingo offer and it’s ideal for tourists looking for a well-rounded experience with amazing beaches, a colonial-era center, and lush forests!
The Downtown area is the perfect location to start your holiday! This vibrant area has lots of colorful streets and fun attractions like the Macorix House of Rum where you can learn all about rum-making, Fortaleza de San Felipe (map) and many others.
Make sure you also jump on the cable car (map) that offers incredible views of the island!
What’s great about Puerto Plata is that it has this urban vibe but also lots of amazing beaches! Most of them are set south of the city center, and cater to different interests from chilling with the family to surfing all day long!
Costa Dorada Beach (map) is just perfect for a day out with the kids! And if you’re looking for some other fun things to do with your little ones, definitely take them to Ocean World Adventure Park where you can swim with sharks and dolphins!
Sunbathe on the rooftop pool of this hotel that also has 4 hot tubs on that terrace (wow)! The accommodation has spacious rooms with a simple yet elegant design, a spa center, 2 restaurants and a stunning private beach area.
Other accommodation options in Puerto Plata
A great place that has rooms with balconies overlooking the sea and a swimming pool
Villa Carolina Bed and Breakfast
Here’s a more affordable hotel that offers family rooms, a pool and breakfast
Things to do in Puerto Plata
- Learn about rum making at Macorix House of Rum
- Visit Fortaleza de San Felipe
- Spend a fun day with the family on Costa Dorada Beach (map)
- Visit Playa Los Mino (map)
- Hike up Mount Isabel de Torres
- Go see the Damajaqua Cascades (map)
- Kitesurf all day on Playa Dorada (map)
- Swim with dolphins at Ocean World Adventure Park
4. Samana – best place to stay for nature lovers
Are you a lover of secluded beaches and untouched natural beauty?
Then Samana might just be the right place for you! Located on the Samana Peninsula, around 5h away from Punta Cana, by car, this area is such a gorgeous place!
Its lush rainforest and waterfalls will make you fall in love and never want to leave!
Some must-see things while you’re here are El Limón Waterfall (map) and Playa Cayacoa (map) where you can relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun!
There are also some town attractions that you should check out like the Whale Museum of Samana and the Boardwalk (map) which is lined with colorful houses!
Samana is also famous for humpback whale watching, usually from January to March. So if you’re coming during that time, definitely check it out!
Catch a scenic sunset by the infinity pool of this hotel that comes with an airport shuttle and a restaurant. Their spacious room boasts a small kitchen and a furnished balcony that overlooks the sea.
Other accommodation options in Samana
A nice villa with room for 4 people, a kitchen and an inner courtyard view
This comfy place comes with a terrace, a lounge area and a garden view
Chill by the infinity pool of this place that has a kitchen and a balcony
Things to do in Samana
- Go for a swim at El Limón Waterfall
- Learn new things at the Whale Museum of Samana
- Take a day trip to the secluded beach Cayo Levantado (map)
- Snap a pic of the colorful houses on the Boardwalk
- Get some yummy fruits from Mercado Publico (map)
5. Santiago de los Caballeros – off the beaten path
This is the country’s second-largest city and it’s located in the North part of the island, around 4.5h away by car from Punta Cana.
Santiago de los Caballeros is great for those who want to visit multiple towns in the Dominican Republic. It’s set a bit off the beaten path, as not a lot of tourists come here since they prefer to spend the time that they have at the beach.
Although here you won’t find beaches since it’s positioned in the middle of the country, there are lots of hotels with outdoor swimming pools where you can cool off during the hot days!
But you will find lots of historic buildings, shops and restaurants!
While here, make sure you explore the Historic Center and its attractions like Fortaleza San Luis (map), Duarte Park (map) and Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration (map).
What better way to end a day of exploring the city than with a swim in the rooftop pool of this hotel that has 3 restaurants and elegant rooms. You’ll also find a casino on-site, in case you want to try your luck!
Other accommodation options in Santiago de los Caballeros
This place offers amazing city views, a free airport shuttle and a restaurant
A spacious apartment that has a balcony, a kitchen and free parking
Great place for a family that has 2 rooms, free parking and mountain views
Things to do in Santiago de los Caballeros
- Visit Fortaleza San Luis
- Grab a bite at Noah Restaurant & Lounge (map)
- Explore Duarte Park
- Take a trip to Constanza
- Enjoy the views at the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration
6. Las Terrenas – the best area in Dominican Republic for couples
Las Terrenas is located on the Northeastern coast and is half an hour’s drive from Samaná El Catey International Airport.
With its white-sand beaches, stunning coastline, coconut plantations, and romantic hotels, it is definitely the best place to stay in the Dominican Republic for those who are looking for a romantic getaway.
Imagine spending days on the white sand beach, having a coconut under the palm trees, swimming in the Caribbean Sea and admiring the stunning views with your partner. Las Terrenas has everything you’d expect from a tropical island holiday!
Even though you can find beautiful beaches all around the island, here you will be able to find more couple-friendly hotels in secluded areas.
Some really fab beaches here are Coson (map) which is just perfect for swimming and sunbathing, Playa Escondida (map) and Punta Bonita (map).
Las Terrenas also has some hiking areas, perfect for those who crave a bit of adventure! Loma Suiza (map) and Loma La Jagua (map).
Located right on the beach, this luxury hotel offers 2 large swimming pools, romantic rooms with sea views, a private beach, a fitness center, and free parking. Enjoy a nice cocktail in the hotel’s bar that’s overlooking the beach and admire the sunset. I highly recommend this hotel for couples who would like to have a romantic getaway!
Other accommodation options in Las Terrenas
Wake-up to a stunning view of the sea while staying at this hotel that has a private beach area
Centrally located in Las Terrenas, this hotel features a swimming pool, free parking, and clean rooms with free Wi-Fi
This Airbnb has fully furnished rooms, a big kitchen, and a large terrace with a nice view
Things to do in Las Terrenas
- Take a kitesurfing lesson at LT’Kite – Las Terrenas Kitesurf
- Sunbathe all day long on Coson
- Swim in the crystal clear water at Punta Bonita
- Join a boat tour to Los Haitises National Park
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at Restaurant Candelita (map)
7. Sosua – where to stay for beach lovers
Looking for a place where you can relax on the iconic Dominican Republic beaches all day long, sipping cocktails and relaxing?
Then you might enjoy staying at a hotel in Sosua, located just 6 km (4 miles) away from the Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata.
Sosua is also known for its lively nightlife! There are lots of bars and clubs in the area where you can have some drinks (definitely try the island’s rum) like Flip Flop Sports Bar (map) and Plan B Bar (map).
As for the beaches, you’ll just never get enough of them! You can try a new one each day and I recommend starting with Playa Sosua (map), probably the most popular one around, then there’s Playa Alicia (map) and Laguna Beach (map) which is one of the best secluded beaches on the island.
You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, shops and some cool attractions like the Mundo King Art Museum.
Never a boring moment here!
Relax during your holiday by the outdoor swimming pool of this resort in Sosua that has everything you need from a spa center, to a restaurant. With a beachfront location, free parking and an airport shuttle, this hotel is definitely a keeper!
Other accommodation options in Sosua
One of the best boutique hotels that has an outdoor pool, a restaurant and family rooms
Affordable apartments in a villa that has an on-site restaurant and free parking
Things to do in Sosua
- Grab a drink at Plan B Bar
- Sunbathe all day on Playa Sosua
- Visit the Mundo King Art Museum
- Enjoy some silence on Laguna Beach
- Go for a swim at Laguna Costera (map)
8. Cabarete – where to stay in the Dominican Republic for water activities
Cabarete is located on the North coast and is just a half an hour’s drive from Puerto Plata International Airport. It’s the ultimate destination for those of you who love trying different water sports and going on underwater adventures!
This part of the tropical island offers everything from surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing.
Cabarete has a bit of a bohemian atmosphere and thanks to its multitude of water sports, it attracts lots of adventurous tourists. It can definitely get pretty crowded here so make sure to keep that in mind, especially if you’d prefer a more secluded and tranquil area.
Here you’ll find cool cafes, beach bars, trendy restaurants, and gorgeous beaches! Some really great ones are Kite Beach (map) where, as you can tell by the name, everyone goes to try kiting, Playa Cabarete (map) and Playa Secreta (map).
As I mentioned before this area has a young vibe, and thanks to the great selection of budget accommodation, I also recommend staying in Cabarete for backpackers.
One of the best luxurious villas in the area that has a private pool where you can sunbathe all day long and relax and a hammock! Inside the villa, you’ll find a kitchen with a spacious lounge area and a Tv and 3 rooms.
Other accommodation options in Cabarete
This hotel has a charming infinity pool, private beach, rooms with a sea view, and free wifi
An affordable apartment that offers a kitchen, with a seating area and a shared outdoor pool
This Airbnb has rooms with a unique design, a nice swimming pool and a large garden
Things to do in Cabarete
- Learn kitesurfing at Kite Beach
- Explore the caves at Parque Nacional El Choco y Las Cuevas de Cabarete (map)
- Surf all day at Encuentro Beach (map)
- Have fun mountain biking in Cabarete
- Explore Playa Grande (map)
- Chill on Playa Cabarete
9. Las Galeras – where to stay for relaxation
Looking for a place that’s not super crowded and has lots of beaches? Then stop scrolling and check out the town of Las Galeras!
Located on the Northeastern coast, a 3h car drive away from Las Americas International Airport, this fishing village is pretty small but it has the one thing that all tourists who come to the Dominican Republic seek: tranquility and powdery sands!
Yep, you’ll find some of the most stunning hidden beaches here like Bahía de Las Galeras (map), Playa Caleton (map) and Playa Escondida (map).
This fishing town also offers amazing restaurants and local shops from where you can get some cute souvenirs! La Terraza at Arena (map) is a great place that serves traditional Dominican food. Definitely a must-try if you like their cuisine.
Chalet Tropical is the best hotel to stay in Las Galeras. This bungalow is tucked away between the lush greenery and it has 5 swimming pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, and a great restaurant. You can arrange hiking, snorkeling, and horse riding tours from the hotel. For those who would like to be surrounded by amazing landscapes, you will love this ecological hotel.
Other accommodation options in Las Galeras
Located right on the beach, this hotel offers beachfront rooms overlooking the Caribbean sea and a great breakfast
This hotel has spacious rooms with a sea view, a swimming pool, and is a great place to stay for families
This Airbnb overlooking the beach has a very large garden, a kitchen and a terrace
Things to do in Las Galeras
- Swim in the turquoise water at Bahía de Las Galeras
- Try some traditional food at La Terraza at Arena restaurant
- Spend the day snorkeling at Kaio Natural Aquarium (map)
- Have fun scuba diving
- Have an afternoon walk at the scenic Playa del Aserradero (map)
- Enjoy a delicious seafood meal at La Playita Restaurant & Beach Bar (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | $300 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | $150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $70 |
| 📍 Best area: | Punta Cana |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Majestic Colonial |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Princess Family Club |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Caribe Deluxe Princess |
FAQs about where to stay in Dominican Republic
🗺️ Which is the best side of the Dominican Republic?
Offering stunning white sand beaches, the East Coast is the best side of the Dominican Republic. Some of the best hotels on the East Coast are located in Punta Cana are Majestic Colonial and Princess Family Club.
🤔 What is the safest area in the Dominican Republic?
Punta Cana is one of the safest areas in the Dominican Republic. This is the country’s tourist hub with lots of resorts, which are super safe.
🌴 Which is better, Santo Domingo vs Punta Cana vs Puerto Plata?
It depends on your preferences. Santo Domingo is great for history lovers, Punta Cana for those who prefer resort life and Puerto Plata for those who want great beaches but also an urban atmosphere.
🕺🏻 What is the best place to stay in the Dominican Republic for singles?
Sosua is a great place to stay in the Dominican Republic for single people and young adults. The town has a lively nightlife and fun things to do.
🛎️ What are the best all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic?
Majestic Colonial and Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana are some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic! Both offer incredible locations and top-notch services.
⏳ How many days do you need in Punta Cana?
I’d recommend staying between 1 week or 2 weeks, that way you can relax, take some day trips and visit attractions!
☀️ What is the best month to go to the Dominican Republic?
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is December to April when the weather is at its best. If you’re looking for the cheapest time to visit, you should plan your trip to DR from May through September.
💰 Is Dominican Republic cheap?
Although some places are cheap to visit in the Dominican Republic, you’ll also find lots of super-expensive resorts.
💑 Is Punta Cana or La Romana a better choice for a romantic getaway?
I’d recommend staying in Punta Cana as there are lots of romantic hotels, just perfect for a couple’s getaway.
🚗 Should you rent a car in the Dominican Republic?
If you want to explore the country, I’d say yes rent a car, but make sure you pick a known international company.
Final words on where to stay in Dominican Republic
I’ll never get enough of tropical islands! Who here feels the same?
I hope you enjoyed this guide on where to stay in the Dominican Republic! I made sure to add only the most incredible hotels and top areas.
I do recommend booking your hotels in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-April) when the prices go up.
If you’re still not sure which hotel to pick, check out below my top 2 favorite options, both set in Punta Cana:
- Majestic Colonial – an all-inclusive resort with a private beach area and hot tub rooms
- Princess Family Club – set right near the beach this hotel offers 2 pools and 10 restaurants
There you go! Now you’re ready to plan the most incredible trip!
If you have some questions about the Dominican Republic don’t shy away from leaving me a comment below! I’d be happy to help you out!
Have an amazing holiday,
Eylul
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