best beaches in the dominican republic

The best beaches in the Dominican Republic feature soft, white sands, clear blue water, and palm trees that make every spot feel like paradise. From the popular shores of Punta Cana to the peaceful bays of Samaná and the wild coastline of Barahona, this guide shows you the top beaches to visit across the country. Whether you love swimming, relaxing, or exploring nature, there’s a perfect beach waiting for you.

Table of Contents

• Punta Cana Beaches (East Coast)

• La Romana & Bayahibe Beaches (Southeast)

• Samaná Beaches (Northeast)

• Puerto Plata Beaches (North Coast)

• Barahona & Pedernales Beaches (Southwest)

• Other Great Beaches in the Dominican Republic

✅Punta Cana Beaches (East Coast)

Punta Cana is one of the most popular destinations in the Dominican Republic. It features 48 kilometers (30 miles) of beautiful, white-sand beaches lined with tall coconut trees. The beaches here stretch along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The sand is soft, and the water is usually calm and great for swimming, thanks to reefs that break the waves.

This area is full of all-inclusive resorts, but there are also a few quiet and natural spots to enjoy. Here are some of the top beaches to visit on Punta Cana’s east coast:

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca, which means “White Beach” in Spanish, is part of the Puntacana Resort & Club. It’s known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, perfect for relaxing or having fun in the ocean.

This beach is popular for water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. You can rent all the gear you need right there on the beach.

There’s also the Playa Blanca Restaurant right on the shore. It serves fresh local seafood, grilled meats, and tropical drinks for lunch and dinner. If you eat at the restaurant, you get access to the beach too, making it a great place to enjoy a tasty meal with an ocean view. The restaurant is open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can book a table on their website or by phone.

If you want to stay nearby, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club is right next to Playa Blanca, giving guests easy access to this amazing beach.

Juanillo Beach

Playa Juanillo is a stunning, luxury beach located in Cap Cana, a private community just south of Punta Cana. Many people say it’s one of the best beaches in the country. The beach has soft white sand, tall palm trees, and clear turquoise water that is calm and shallow, perfect for swimming or just wading. It’s usually peaceful and not too crowded because it's mostly used by guests from the nearby high-end resorts. But here’s a tip: the beach is open to the public. Even if you’re not staying at a resort, you can enter through the Cap Cana gate by taxi or car, then enjoy the beach and maybe grab a bite at the Juanillo Beach Bar.

Nearby resorts include Secrets Cap Cana and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana for adults-only stays, as well as Sanctuary Cap Cana and Eden Roc Cap Cana for more luxury options.

Bávaro Beach

Bávaro is one of the most popular places to visit in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. It’s often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sand is soft and white, and the calm, light blue water is perfect for swimming. Even with many resorts along the shore, it still feels wide and open thanks to its 20-kilometer stretch. The Dominican government calls it a national treasure, and UNESCO recognized it as one of the best in the 1970s. Travelers enjoy the stunning views, clear water, and easy access to restaurants and hotels.

Popular all-inclusive resorts in the area include Paradisus Palma Real for a luxury stay and Barceló Bávaro Beach for something more affordable.

Macao Beach

Macao Beach is a more natural and wild beach located north of the resort zone. It has golden sand and dramatic limestone cliffs, giving it a more rugged look. The waves here are strong, which makes it a great spot for surfing and bodyboarding. Several surf schools operate on this beach. Because of the waves, it’s not the best place for easy swimming, but strong swimmers enjoy it. There are also a few small local restaurants where you can eat fresh fish and drink cold beer right on the sand. A great tip: Macao usually doesn’t have much seaweed, even during seaweed season. That makes it a good choice if other beaches are affected. You can read more about seaweed in the Dominican Republic here.

It’s also a quick trip from Bávaro, and Dreams Macao is right on the beach. For more info, take a look at our page about Macao.

Uvero Alto

Uvero Alto is a quiet beach about one hour north of central Punta Cana. It has golden-orange sand and is surrounded by green plants and trees. The waves here can be stronger, especially in winter, so the water is not always good for swimming. However, it’s perfect for people who want peace or enjoy long beach walks. Compared to the busy atmosphere of Bávaro, Uvero Alto feels like a private escape.

Resorts in this area include Excellence Punta Cana and Live Aqua Beach Resort for a romantic, upscale stay. Sirenis Punta Cana is a more affordable all-inclusive option.

Travel Tips for Punta Cana

• ✔️Sargassum seaweed season usually runs from March to August, with the most seaweed from May to July. Some beaches may get seaweed during this time, but Macao Beach often stays clear.

• ✔️All beaches in the Dominican Republic are public, so you can walk along any part of the shore. However, the lounge chairs at resorts are only for guests. Bring a towel if you want to relax on the sand.

• ✔️Getting around is easy with taxis. Renting a car gives you more freedom to visit places like Macao Beach.

• ✔️Pay attention to red flag warnings on the beach. These mean the water is not safe for swimming that day.

• ✔️Always bring sunscreen (reef-safe is best if you’re snorkeling) and bug spray for the evening

✅La Romana & Bayahibe Beaches (Southeast)

The southeast coast of the Dominican Republic is a great place to enjoy calm, clear water and soft white sand. This area includes La Romana, Bayahibe, and the nearby islands of Saona and Catalina. Because it faces the Caribbean Sea, the water is usually gentle and very clear, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

La Romana is known for its luxury resorts and golf courses, like Casa de Campo. Bayahibe, once a small fishing village, has become a popular starting point for boat trips to the islands.

Dominicus Beach (Playa Dominicus)

Just west of Bayahibe, this long, clean beach was the first in the DR to get a Blue Flag certification for its water quality. The sand is fine and white, and the water is crystal clear, ideal for families and snorkeling right from the shore.

Some parts of the beach belong to resorts, but there’s a public section at one end. You can walk along the beach for about a mile, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Near the shore, you might spot some artificial reefs that attract fish.

Resorts like Viva Wyndham Dominicus and Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus offer mid-range stays and are especially popular with European visitors.

Saona Island (Isla Saona)

Saona is the most famous island near La Romana and a must-see for anyone looking for a paradise beach. You can reach it by catamaran or speedboat from Bayahibe. Once you arrive, you’ll find long stretches of white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear water.

One of the highlights is Playa Palmilla, also known as the Natural Pool, where you can walk through shallow turquoise water and spot starfish. Just remember not to touch them, as they are protected. Even though Saona is a popular destination, it is large enough that you can always find a quieter area if you walk a bit farther.

For tips on how to visit and what to expect, check out our full Saona Island guide.

Catalina Island (Isla Catalina)

Catalina is another beautiful island near La Romana, known for its clear water, soft sand, and calm setting. It’s a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving thanks to its colorful reefs and marine life.

Places like the Catalina Wall and the Aquarium are popular with visitors, where you might see tropical fish, coral, and even stingrays. You can explore the area with a mask and snorkel right from the shore or join a guided trip.

For more tips and info, see our full page about visiting Catalina Island.

Travel Tips for La Romana & Bayahibe

• ✔️Protect the environment: Use reef-safe sunscreen and don’t touch starfish at the Natural Pool.

• ✔️Stay hydrated: Many island tours have open bars, but don’t forget to drink plenty of water too.

• ✔️Bring cash: You’ll need it for tips and buying souvenirs on the islands.

• ✔️Snorkel from shore: At Playa Magallanes, a rocky cove near Bayahibe, locals recommend it for clear water and plenty of fish.

• ✔️Go early: If you want to use the public area of Dominicus Beach, arrive early to grab a good spot under a palm tree.

✅Samaná Beaches (Northeast)

The Samaná Peninsula in the northeast of the Dominican Republic is one of the most beautiful and peaceful coastal regions in the country. Unlike the busy resort areas like Punta Cana, it offers a more relaxed vibe with lush green mountains, swaying palm trees, and quiet, uncrowded beaches.

The water is calm and clear, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. From January to March, humpback whales can often be seen in the bay. Popular beach spots include Las Terrenas on the north coast and Las Galeras on the eastern tip. Here are some of the best beaches to explore in Samaná.

Playa Rincón

Playa Rincón is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It stretches for about three miles and features soft white sand, bright blue water, and a peaceful, natural setting. One side of the beach has calm water that’s perfect for swimming, while the other has gentle waves for a bit more movement.

A small river called Caño Frío flows into the sea at one end, creating a cool, refreshing spot where you can take a dip. There are no large buildings or busy shops here, just a few simple seafood shacks where you can grab something to eat or rent a beach chair. This quiet setup gives the area a calm, untouched feeling.

Playa Rincón is about a 30-minute drive from Las Galeras. The road can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is a good idea, but you can also get there by boat from the town.

Playa Frontón

Playa Frontón is a remote and quiet beach located at the base of tall cliffs on the eastern tip of the Samaná Peninsula. It’s one of the most untouched spots in the area, known for its clear water, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling. You can only get there by boat from Las Galeras, which takes about 20 minutes, or by hiking through the forest on a trail that takes around an hour and a half.

There are no restaurants, shops, or bathrooms, so you’ll need to bring everything with you, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and something for shade. Most visitors go by boat, which you can arrange with local fishermen in Las Galeras.

Prices usually range from RD$2,000 to RD$3,000 per person, which is about 35 to 50 US dollars. If you decide to hike, it’s best to go with a guide or a group, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the trail.

Playa Cosón

Close to the town of Las Terrenas, Playa Cosón is a long, quiet beach with golden sand, palm trees, and soft waves. It’s great for swimming, walking, or just relaxing. There are a few small hotels and villas nearby, and a famous beachside fish shack called Luis’s. But overall, the beach is peaceful and never crowded. Stay in Las Terrenas and drive about 10 minutes to get to Playa Cosón.

Playa Bonita & Las Ballenas

These beaches are right next to Las Terrenas town. Playa Bonita (which means "pretty beach") has calm water on one side and waves for surfing on the other. You’ll find small hotels and lush greenery along the beach, giving it a cozy feel.

Las Ballenas Beach is nearby and has shallow, clear water and little islands you can paddle out to by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Both beaches have restaurants, beach clubs, and places to stay, making them lively spots during the day and fun hangouts at night.

Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)

Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardí Island, is one of the most beautiful spots in Samaná Bay. With white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees all around, it’s the perfect place to relax, take photos, or enjoy a swim. Snorkeling is great here, and many tours include drinks like a piña colada served in a fresh pineapple.

You can visit on a day trip from Samaná, but for the full experience, stay overnight at the island’s luxury hotel. It offers direct beach access, all-inclusive dining, and amazing views.

Book your stay at Cayo Levantado Resort. Or join a boat tour from Samaná and enjoy a laid-back day in paradise.

Travel Tips for Samaná

• ✔️Transportation: Rent a car or ATV if you want to visit different beaches. Some roads are rough, especially to places like Playa Rincón, but they’re worth the trip.

• ✔️Excursions: You can book guided tours from Las Terrenas or Las Galeras to harder-to-reach spots.

• ✔️Money: Bring cash. Many beach restaurants, local boats, and small shops don’t take cards. Learn more.

• ✔️Best Days: Most beaches are quiet during the week. Sundays can be livelier with local families enjoying the day—great if you want a local experience!

• ✔️What to Pack: Don’t forget insect repellent—mosquitoes and sand flies can be around, especially in the early morning or evening. Get the full packing list.

✅Puerto Plata Beaches (North Coast)

The North Coast of the Dominican Republic, along the Atlantic Ocean, is where tourism first began, especially around Puerto Plata. Today, it’s a fun mix of beach resorts, water sports, and local culture. You’ll find everything from calm sandy beaches to dramatic rocky coastlines with waves.

Thanks to steady ocean winds, this area is a top spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Cabarete is famous around the world for these sports. But you’ll also find quieter beaches for swimming and snorkeling. Here are some of the best beaches to check out along the north coast.

Playa Dorada

Playa Dorada is the most well-known beach near Puerto Plata, located just a few minutes from the city center. This long stretch of golden sand is part of a resort complex built for tourism, offering calm waters, thanks to a protective coral reef just offshore. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or trying light water activities.

The beach is clean and well-organized, with nearby restaurants, beach bars, and shaded areas. It’s popular with both resort guests and day visitors, and the view of Mount Isabel de Torres in the background gives it a scenic touch, especially in the late afternoon.

For accommodations, Casa Colonial is the top choice for a luxury stay, with oceanview suites, a spa, and a peaceful atmosphere. For something more affordable, Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada offers a well-rated all-inclusive experience just steps from the sand.

Playa Sosúa

Sosúa Beach sits in a calm, protected bay on the north coast, making it one of the best spots for swimming and snorkeling. The water is clear, and the coral reefs are just a short swim from shore. The beach is popular with both locals and visitors and has a fun, lively atmosphere without feeling too busy during the week.

There are beach bars, snack stands, and small shops along the shore where you can grab a cold drink, try local food, or buy souvenirs. On weekends, the energy picks up with music, friendly crowds, and games of dominoes under the trees. It’s a relaxed and colorful place with a local vibe.

Sosúa is also known for its nightlife, and some parts of town have a visible adult scene, especially in the evenings. It’s easy to avoid if that’s not your thing, and it doesn’t affect the beach experience during the day. Many families, couples, and solo travelers visit Sosúa for the calm water, good food, and welcoming atmosphere.

For a beachfront stay, Casa Marina is a well-known all-inclusive option. For something quieter and stylish, Casa Veintiuno is a boutique hotel just a few minutes from the beach.

Cabarete Beach & Kite Beach

Cabarete is known for its energy, especially on the beach. It’s one of the best places in the Caribbean for kiteboarding and windsurfing, with strong, steady winds almost all year. Both the main beach and nearby Kite Beach are famous worldwide, and the area often hosts international competitions.

In the afternoons, the sky fills with colorful kites as riders glide across the water. If you’re new to the sport, there are plenty of schools offering beginner lessons right on the beach. Mornings are usually calm, which makes them perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

After sunset, the beach turns into a social hub. There are restaurants, bars, and live music right by the water. The atmosphere is laid-back but lively, popular with younger travelers and anyone who enjoys a fun beach vibe.

There are no large all-inclusive resorts here, but you’ll find plenty of great places to stay. Millennium Resort & Spa offers comfortable oceanfront rooms, and there are also hostels, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals ideal for longer stays or surf-focused trips.

Playa Encuentro

Encuentro Beach is just a short drive west of Cabarete and is one of the top places in the Dominican Republic for surfing. The waves are steady year-round, with the best conditions during the winter months when the swells are stronger.

This is a more natural and relaxed beach, popular with surfers from around the world. There are no large resorts or beach clubs here, just surf schools, board rentals, and a quiet atmosphere. It’s not the best beach for swimming or sunbathing, but it’s a great spot to catch waves.

Beginner surfers can ride smaller waves near the shore, while more experienced surfers paddle out to the larger breaks. Most lessons take place in the early morning when the water is calm and the wind is low, creating perfect conditions to learn.

Punta Rucia

Punta Rucia is a quiet fishing village located on the northwestern coast of the Dominican Republic, about 67 kilometers (41 miles) east of Monte Cristi and not too far from Puerto Plata. The beach here is truly stunning, with soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and beautiful mountain views in the background.

It’s a perfect place to relax, snorkel, and dive. The peaceful atmosphere makes it great for unwinding while enjoying the natural surroundings.

One of the top nearby attractions is Cayo Arena, also called Paradise Island. It’s a tiny sandbar surrounded by coral reefs, making it a top spot for snorkeling. You’ll see colorful fish and vibrant marine life in the crystal-clear water.

For accommodations, check out Punta Rucia Lodge. It offers a comfortable stay that blends the lush Caribbean greenery with the sparkling Atlantic waters. It’s the ideal base for exploring the area while enjoying nature at its finest.

Travel Tips for the North Coast

• ✔️Mornings are best for swimming and snorkeling—the wind and waves get stronger in the afternoon.

• ✔️Most beaches don’t have lifeguards, so always swim where others are or look for safety flags.

• ✔️Sunsets are amazing here (over the ocean!)—watch one from Cabarete or Sosúa.

• ✔️Want to try kiteboarding? Cabarete schools offer lessons for about $100–$150 with gear included. Look for certified instructors (IKO).

• ✔️Local food tips: Try yaniqueque (fried dough) or fresh fruit from vendors on Sosúa Beach. At Playa Grande, order the pescado frito (fried fish)—locals love it.

• ✔️The North Coast is spread out, so consider renting a car or hiring a driver if you want to visit different beaches.

✅Barahona & Pedernales Beaches (Southwest)

If you’re looking for adventure and want to get away from the usual tourist areas, the southwest of the Dominican Republic offers something special. This region is known for its dramatic landscapes, quiet coves, and some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the country. The beaches here can be harder to reach, but the reward is worth it. You’ll find peaceful, unspoiled places where you can slow down and truly disconnect.

Bahía de las Águilas (Pedernales)

Many consider Bahía de las Águilas the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic. It stretches for about eight kilometers, with bright white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, all set within a protected national park. There are no hotels, no restaurants, and no cell service—just quiet, untouched nature.

The beach is backed by dry cliffs and scattered cacti, giving it a dramatic, desert-like landscape. Getting there takes some effort. It’s about a six-hour drive from Santo Domingo to Pedernales. From there, you can reach the beach with a 4x4 or take a short boat ride from Cabo Rojo. If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s best to go with a local guide. Staying overnight in Pedernales or at a nearby eco-lodge like Eco del Mar helps make the trip easier.

Since there are no services at the beach, bring everything you need, including water, snacks, sun protection, and something for shade.

Playa San Rafael & Los Patos (Barahona)

Playa San Rafael and Los Patos are two of the most unique beaches on the wild coast of Barahona in the southwest. Both offer a mix of rugged nature and local life that feels far from the typical tourist trail.

Playa San Rafael sits where a freshwater river flows into the sea, creating cool natural pools just steps from the shoreline. The beach is a mix of pebbles and sand, surrounded by green hills and cliffs. On weekends, it’s a popular gathering spot for locals who come to swim, eat fresh seafood, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

A short drive down the coast brings you to Los Patos. This beach is home to one of the shortest rivers in the Caribbean, flowing just a few meters from a spring into the sea. The river pool is cool and clear, perfect for relaxing after a hot day. The beach has bigger waves and coarse sand, but the setting is peaceful and the views are stunning.

Both beaches are great for experiencing the natural beauty of the region and getting a feel for everyday Dominican life.

Travel Tips for the Southwest

• ✔️Transportation: Rent a car or book a tour—public transit is limited. Make sure your vehicle is reliable and fill up on gas when you can.

• ✔️Safety: Travel during the day and with others if possible. Let someone know your plans, as these areas can be remote.

• ✔️Pack smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and first aid. There’s often no shade, so a pop-up tent or umbrella can be a lifesaver.

• ✔️Local connections: Interacting with locals can lead to unexpected adventures—a friendly villager might offer a boat ride or show you a hidden spring. A small tip in return is always appreciated.

• ✔️Timing: The southwest can be hot and dry, especially in summer.

✅Other Great Beaches in the Dominican Republic

• Playa Esmeralda (Miches). Playa Esmeralda is a quiet, undeveloped beach near Miches on the eastern coast. It has soft sand, calm water, and a peaceful setting. The area is starting to grow, with new resorts now open or under development, including Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Secrets Playa Esmeralda, and Zemi Miches by Hilton. Improved road access makes Miches easier to reach and one of the Dominican Republic’s emerging destinations. Discover more about Miches.

• Cabo Rojo (Pedernales): Cabo Rojo is a quiet beach near Pedernales in the far southwest of the country. It has soft white sand, turquoise water, and a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. The area is starting to grow with the opening of a new cruise port in 2024, which has brought more visitors and development plans. New resorts and infrastructure are underway, but the beach still feels calm and uncrowded. It’s a good time to visit before the area becomes more built up.

• Boca Chica (near Santo Domingo): Boca Chica is one of the closest beaches to Santo Domingo, known for its shallow, calm water and lively atmosphere. The beach is popular with locals, especially on weekends, and has plenty of food stalls, music, and activity along the shore. It’s easy to reach from the capital, which makes it a convenient choice for a quick beach day. While it’s not the quietest spot, it’s great for families and anyone looking for a local experience near the city.

• Juan Dolio (near Santo Domingo): Juan Dolio is a quieter alternative to Boca Chica, located a bit farther east along the southern coast. The beach is longer and less crowded, with soft sand and calm water that’s good for swimming. It’s a popular choice for weekend getaways and day trips, but the vibe stays relaxed even when it’s busy. There are beachfront restaurants, small hotels, and vacation rentals nearby, making it a nice option for a more peaceful beach day within easy reach of Santo Domingo.

Ready to hit the beach? Make sure you're prepared! Check out our articles on beach safety, seaweed conditions, and our ultimate packing list to make the most of your beach day in the Dominican Republic. Stay safe, pack smart, and enjoy the sun!

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