Amazing beachfront location and luxurious amenities await
Yes. In the Dominican Republic, the water temperature is warm year-round; the eastern and northern coasts feature vast white-sand beaches, and in the coves sheltered by coral reefs, the sea is calm and perfect for swimming. The palm-lined beaches are home to large resort complexes as well as small fishing villages and national parks, so you can choose exactly what suits you best: spend a week enjoying resort life to the fullest, or opt for a quieter spot.
The crystal-clear sea stretches along the eastern and southeastern coasts, where coral reefs and shallow sandy shoals ensure calm waters. Beaches near Bávaro and Punta Cana are famous for their light-coloured, crystal-clear, and shallow waters; boat tours to the islands of Saona and Catalina also depart from there. On the Samaná Peninsula, the water in the wind-sheltered bays—for example, in the vicinity of Las Galeras—is also crystal clear.
Punta Cana and Bávaro are home to the longest and most famous beaches, with soft sand and waters protected by coral reefs. On the northern coast, in Puerto Plata and Cabarete, there is more wind, making these places ideal for surfers and kitesurfers. In Samaná and Las Terrenas, there are small coves backed by hills, while in Bayahibe on the southeastern coast, the sea is calm, and the islands are easily accessible.
December through April is the driest time of year, when the sun shines brightest and the sea is calmest, this period attracts the most tourists, and prices are higher. May and November fall between these two extremes: the water is warm, brief showers are possible, and prices are more affordable. Hurricane season lasts from June through November, with the risk of storms highest from August onwards.
On the coast of the Dominican Republic, all-inclusive packages are the norm and typically include buffet-style meals or à la carte dining, snacks, and local beverages. At large resort complexes, the package includes a swimming pool, lounge chairs, beach access, and evening entertainment programmes. Guesthouses and apartments in Samaná, Las Terrenas, and Cabarete typically offer accommodation without meals or with breakfast included.
Plan for a stay of about 7 to 10 nights. Since the round-trip flight from the UK takes almost a full day, a short stay will leave you with little time to enjoy the beach. A week is the ideal length of time to take 1 or 2 day trips from a single location. If you’d like to combine your resort holiday with a visit to Samaná, the northern coast, or the mountainous regions around Jarabacoa, consider extending your stay to 14 nights.