Dominican Republic Holidays
Overview
Holidays to the Dominican Republic thus include soaking up the sun and swimming, hiking and walking through rainforests, and visiting its charming small towns. The Dominican Republic occupies half of the Hispanola island in the Caribbean region. The island was named by Christopher Columbus during the first of his four voyages to the Americas in 1492 because it reminded him of Spain due to its diverse terrain. You can learn more about the country’s history by taking a guided tour. Punta Cana is one of the most popular places in the country, with stretches of powdery white sand. Luxury Dominican Republic holidays often include a stay at this resort town which lies on the easternmost coast of the island. You can go parasailing, swimming with dolphins, zip-lining, or kayaking here. Still, a Dominican Republic holiday is not just about beaches.
One of the places to visit is the 16th-century Fortress of San Felipe de Puerto Plata, which was built as a defence against pirates. On the northern side of Samana Bay, there is a historic town to be found and explored. This was the last stop Columbus made in the New World. Nevertheless, the place is most popular for whale-watching. Beach lovers should stop by the resort of Cabarete, Playa Dorada, or Las Terrenas, while nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Eastern National Park. The latter holds the vast coral reef system popular with snorkelers and scuba divers. If you are interested in golf, La Romana resort on the southwest side of the country offers some of the best courses in the entire Caribbean.
Check out our Dominican Republic holiday packages 2025/2026 to get incredible deals on Dominican Republic flights and hotels.
View Dominican Republic on map
Why visit Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic combines long Caribbean beaches with mountains, rainforest and one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas. Many visitors choose a relaxed beach resort stay, while others add boat trips, waterfalls, whale watching or a day in Santo Domingo. Music, baseball and friendly hospitality make it a lively destination for couples, families and groups.
Highlights of Dominican Republic
- Punta Cana: Miles of palm lined white sand on the east coast, with resorts, golf courses and calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxing.
- Santo Domingo Colonial Zone: A UNESCO World Heritage Site of cobbled streets, the first cathedral in the Americas and historic fortresses.
- Saona Island: A boat trip to a protected island of palm trees and clear shallows, often with a stop at a natural pool for snorkelling.
- Samana Peninsula: A greener, quieter corner with waterfalls, hiking and horse riding, plus seasonal whale watching in the bay.
- Altos de Chavon: A hillside artists' village built in the style of a Mediterranean town, with an amphitheatre, galleries and river views.
Best time to visit Dominican Republic
The driest, sunniest period runs from December to April, with warm days and lower humidity. May to November is hotter and wetter, with afternoon showers and better value. Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk in late summer and autumn. Humpback whales visit Samana Bay from January to March.
Getting there from the UK
Direct flights from London to Punta Cana take around 8 to 9 hours, with services from Gatwick and sometimes other UK airports. Punta Cana International Airport is the main gateway for the east coast resorts. Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata are also served by flights.
Good to know
The currency is the Dominican peso, and US dollars are commonly accepted at resorts. Spanish is the main language, and English is spoken in tourist areas. Sockets are Type A and B at 110 volts. Always check the latest GOV.UK foreign travel advice for entry requirements before you book and travel.
Tours in Dominican Republic
Tailor-made holidays to Dominican Republic
There is no set package for Dominican Republic on the site right now, but our specialists build trips there to order: flights from UK airports, handpicked hotels and the experiences you care about. Call 020 3026 5457 or send an enquiry and we will plan it around your dates.
Plan my trip View all tours