Dreaming of white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying palms with your favorite person? These unforgettable Dominican Republic beaches offer the perfect blend of beauty, serenity, and tropical charm for a romantic getaway.
This is what I recommend that you do:
Best Dominican Republic Beaches:
1. Bavaro Beach
Relax on white sands and swim in turquoise Caribbean waters.
Location: Bávaro, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Recommended For: Honeymooners, beach lovers, families, and travelers seeking a tropical luxury escape
What we Love: “A Caribbean paradise with impossibly white sand, warm turquoise water, and endless views—Bávaro Beach is a postcard come to life.”
- Stroll barefoot along soft, silky white sand that stretches for miles.
- Swim in the calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing dips or floating blissfully in the sun.
- Marvel at the shimmering ocean as you bask in one of the Caribbean’s most scenic beach spots.
- Stay at one of the luxury beachfront resorts that line the shore, offering premium views and amenities.
- Admire the peaceful beauty and gentle breeze that make every moment magical.
- Capture unforgettable photos of this tropical dreamscape.
Cost: Free to access for most public stretches, resort access varies by guest policy
Best time to visit: December to April for ideal weather and clear skies
Local tips: Visit early in the morning or around sunset for fewer crowds and golden light
Distance: About 20 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport
How to Get There: Fly into Punta Cana and take a short drive or resort shuttle to the beach area
Address: Bávaro Beach | Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
2. Playa Dorada
Enjoy water sports and unwind at luxurious beachfront resorts.
Location: Amber Coast, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Recommended For: Couples, beach lovers, families, and resort vacationers seeking both beauty and space
What we Love: “An expansive, tranquil stretch of golden coast with mountain views and calm waters—Playa Dorada delivers postcard-perfect Dominican bliss without the crowds.”
- Relax on stunning golden sand framed by swaying palms and soft breezes.
- Admire the gorgeous views of distant Dominican mountains from your beach lounger.
- Explore the long coastline with plenty of room to find your own quiet spot.
- Swim in the warm, clear waters ideal for a refreshing dip or gentle wade.
- Stay at low-rise resorts that blend with the landscape and keep the beachfront sunny and open.
- Dine at nearby restaurants offering Dominican flavors and international cuisine just steps away.
Cost: Free for beach access; resort and facility use may vary by guest policy
Best time to visit: December to April for dry weather and clearer skies
Local tips: Visit early or late afternoon for the most stunning lighting on the water and mountains
Distance: About 20 minutes by car from Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP)
How to Get There: Fly into Puerto Plata and drive or take a resort shuttle to the Playa Dorada beachfront area
Address: Playa Dorada | Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Romantic Beaches:
3. Boca Chica Beach
Swim in shallow waters and enjoy a lively beach atmosphere.
Location: Just outside Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Recommended For: Families with kids, casual swimmers, locals and visitors from the capital
What we Love: “A peaceful, kid-friendly beach minutes from Santo Domingo where calm waters meet fun-filled sands—Boca Chica is a family favorite with a local heart.”
- Swim in shallow, protected waters thanks to a natural coral reef barrier.
- Play games like volleyball or join in family beach fun under the sun.
- Relax on the soft sands with plenty of beach chairs and shaded areas nearby.
- Visit during the week to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and more space to unwind.
- Explore nearby cafés and shops for snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs.
Cost: Free public access; local vendors and chair rentals may charge a fee
Best time to visit: Mid-week mornings for peace; dry season (December to April) for best weather
Local tips: Avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer a more peaceful beach vibe
Distance: About 30 minutes east of Santo Domingo
How to Get There: Drive, taxi, or take a local bus from Santo Domingo
Address: Boca Chica Beach | Near Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
4. Playa Rincon
Explore unspoiled shores and admire breathtaking tropical scenery.
Location: On the Samana Peninsula near Las Galeras, Dominican Republic
Recommended For: Couples, off-the-beaten-path travelers, peace seekers, and nature lovers
What we Love: “A hidden Caribbean paradise framed by swaying palms and quiet waters—Playa Rincón is where serenity meets sand.”
- Reach Playa Rincón by boat from Las Galeras or via a scenic, slightly rugged drive.
- Unwind in a secluded, peaceful environment far from crowds and resort developments.
- Stroll along one of the most pristine, untouched beaches in the Dominican Republic.
- Find shade beneath the towering palm trees that edge the beachline.
- Swim in calm waters or simply soak up the views of this postcard-perfect setting.
Cost: Free; boat ride fees may apply
Best time to visit: Weekdays, especially during the dry season (December–April), to avoid crowds and muddy roads
Local tips: Bring your own food and water—there are limited services available on the beach
Distance: Approximately 25 minutes by boat or 40 minutes by car from Las Galeras
How to Get There: By boat from Las Galeras or by road (4WD recommended)
Address: Playa Rincón | Samana Peninsula, Dominican Republic
Family Dominican Republic Beaches:
5. Playa Grande
Surf powerful waves and relax on expansive sandy shores.
Location: North coast of the Dominican Republic, near Río San Juan
Recommended For: Surfers, beach lovers, nature seekers, and those avoiding large tourist crowds
What we Love: “A quiet escape with golden sands and powerful surf—Playa Grande is a gem hidden in plain sight.”
- Swim, sunbathe, or surf in a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty.
- Experience one of the island’s most awe-inspiring beach vistas, untouched by mass tourism.
- Snack on local food at the traditional concessions lining the beach.
- Ride the impressive waves—Playa Grande is a favorite among Dominican surf spots.
- Relax in a serene environment, far removed from the busy resort strips of Puerto Plata and Punta Cana.
Cost: Free entry; optional fees for local snacks or day tours
Best time to visit: November to April for optimal beach weather and wave conditions
Local tips: Visit during weekdays to experience the beach nearly to yourself; bring sunscreen and water
Distance: About 10–15 minutes by car from Río San Juan
How to Get There: By car or organized day trip from cities like Puerto Plata or Cabrera
Address: Playa Grande | Dominican Republic
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
What makes the Dominican Republic's coastline special?
- With a very long coastline stretching around the north, east, and south sides of the country, the Dominican Republic is replete with magical beaches that will take your breath away.
-
Do all beaches in the Dominican Republic offer the same experience?
- Each beach has its own advantages and features, with some offering lots of amenities and activities, while others remain purer and more untouched by the country’s thriving tourism industry.
Best Time to Visit Beaches in the Dominican Republic
- December to April – Best overall time for sunshine, low humidity, and ideal beach conditions.
- January to March – Peak season with warm temps, lively beach scenes, and great snorkeling and water sports.
- May & November – Shoulder months with fewer crowds, lower prices, and generally good weather.
- June to October – Hot and humid with occasional rain; beaches remain beautiful, but it's hurricane season.
- August to October – Peak hurricane season—travel is quieter, but monitor forecasts closely.
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip