We have been all day there. Definitely it isn't best place in Bavaro but once you can try it. Biggest problem this place is you not allowed going in by motorcycle. Doesn't matter which motorcycle you have. We parked well , got taxi 10 dollars one way. Same taxi took us out. Little hi prices for drinks , depend on drinks 😜, meals ok. Beach isn't best definitely, just my opinion. I would suggest others beaches of Bavaro. Totally we happy!!! Vision, resorts!

Was beautiful. The absolute most beautiful beach I've ever been on. The weather was perfect. Now let's talk about the food. The hamburgers were AWFUL. they are the hamburger in my adult life that I didnt finish. No one at our table finished anything they ordered except the fish, it was good.

beautiful place. unfortunately they built too many hotels and apartments here recently. so the quietness is gone. my pics are from Sept. 2018

Nice place to eat at the public beach. Beach is very nice and scenic. Check out the pics. The food is nice to share and good quality

The beach is beautiful and very quiet. Well worth a relaxing day during your trip to Punta Cana.

Beautiful beach, restaurant is good! Restrooms were clean yesterday! You dont need any cash, credit card was enough!

MARCIA is the greatest! The service was excellent! She’s sweet and attentive. The best beach experience I’ve ever had!! The food was AMAZING!!!

Great place to visit although extremely hard to find the reservation. I would have rated it a five but directions to get there are confusing. Once there, if you find it, it is gorgeous. Bring your bathing suit, towel and bottle of water. It is an easy trail to walk, and a great place admire beautiful water holes (lagunas) and tropical vegetation. If you are lucky and you don’t find crowds it is a great place to meditate and look at turtles and fish. It is very well kept although an $40 dollars per person entrance fee is an steep price to pay. Try to buy a weekly pass or other cheaper alternatives since you don’t need a guide. You need to make a reservation because there is a set schedule and I assume to control crowds.

Locally rich, calm paced excursion. We booked via the website and it was about $90 a person. They are time slotted so make sure to buy in advance. It included transport, animal visits, informational aspects, a great guide and two lagoons. It was about 2 hrs with some walking at the pace you set. If you want to experience the country without too complicated of an excursion this is for you. It’s about 20 minutes into Punta Cana, located by a resort. Would be good for kids, and the elderly in my group enjoyed it. The trails are easy to manage.

Los Ojos, the 12 natural lakes in Punta Cana, are truly a hidden gem! The water is so crystal clear that I was able to take these photos with just my iPhone, without any editing. Visiting this place was an unforgettable experience. If you plan to go, the entrance is inside Punta Cana Resort — on the right side at the gatehouse, and the fee is $50. Besides the lakes, they also have a bee farm, unique plants, iguanas, horseback riding, even swimming with horses in the ocean, an oyster farm, and a beautiful white beach nearby with a hotel. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Punta Cana — it’s a true jewel of the Dominican Republic🌿💕

What an amazing and tranquil place! One thing lets it down and that’s price. It’s so over priced it’s unreal and if I hadn’t driven 90mins to get there I probably would’ve have paid. It’s $90 each to get in and you’re only allowed to swim in one pool (not sure how they’d police that but apparently that’s the rules). Also you need to make a reservation ahead of time. That being said we explained to the reception that we had been trying to book online and the website wasn’t working and they pulled some strings to get us in. So that’s the bad out the way. The place is stunning!!! So much nature to see and soak up!!! The cenotes are like something from a fairytale. Crystal clear waters and in most pools you will see a variety of fish and turtles that you can swim with. It’s natural so goes without saying there will be rocks. We wore swim shoes which were perfect. The pools are deep so if you’re not a confident swimmer you may want to stay near the stairs. If you are visiting Punta Cana a lot of excursions include access to this so do your research and could save yourself some $$.

This made our whole trip in the Dominican Republic. Absolutely beautiful and highly recommended. Staff is AMAZING.

I had the time of my life here. Free entry if staying within Punta Cana resort and club. Beautiful waters, plenty of space to explore, and the walking was all fairly flat, which was important as my grandparents do not walk well. Lots of turtles and fish, butterflies, birds, and one large iguana! My family and I spent over 3.5 hours swimming and exploring. Truly beautiful

0/5 You can’t go without a guide/tour. It’s unfortunate that this natural reserve is privatized essentially only for the nearby hotels and resorts, Tortuga Bay the closest costing $1000 USD/night. All previous mentions of $10-$50 entrance are false. You can only enter through a tour for $90 USD. Only at 10am and 2pm. Seems they don’t have their story straight about timing either because the woman told me 2:30pm would be the latest time to enter, when I was there at 3pm and a previous review said the latest time to enter is 3:15pm. I didn’t find a private tour to enter this place that was cheaper than $140. If you want to do the underwater horse riding tour, there seems to be an agency right across that charges $240 for a couple to ride 1 horse. Maybe there was a point when this was a public space to admire nature. But it isn’t now, and $90 USD per person and timed entry / limited time allowed seems exorbitant even for “conservation efforts of flora and fauna.” The world’s best botanical gardens and ecological parks in the world do not charge this much.

Great time for our family!!!! Bring sun screen, bug spray and water to drink. Price was reasonable for what we were able to do all day. Guides and staff were friendly, kind and helpful. Our family of six were able to park for free. Pay and get in the park very quickly. The staff will convert your payment into Dominican pesos quickly and let you know what you are spending in dollars. My favorite was jumping into the “Oyó Azul”. Cool and refreshing. Bring walking shoes that can get wet. Towels, backpack and a credit card were safe in the lockers that were guarded by a staff members. We had fun and felt safe as a family!!!!! Grasias para todo. Lo pasamos muy bien.

A little smaller than expected with a bit of a hike to get there, but beautiful! Life jackets available once you get down there. Water is cold and refreshing.

Perfect blue waters, It's exactly as seen in the pictures. You'll feel like flying, Prepare to walk for a while and be mindful that's a bit small. It was crowded when we went, so we had to wait in line to jump inside, but it was totally worth it. #recommended @Aventure.dos

I went here on an excursion. Spent a lot of time getting there. I was a little disappointed. It's kinda small and when I went out was very crowded. Little room to swim or enjoy it. It was beautiful but not what I expected.

It's worth seeing but probably not worth spending a ton of time at. It's fun to jump (10 feet?) into the water, but the water is cold because there is no direct sunlight and the swimming space isn't very big.

This place was beautiful. If you go late in the day you can get the place to yourself. It's super magical. Jump of the ledge and it won't seem cold.

They closed the gates and we stuck there. They requested us to pay a bribe of $350 to open the gates. Had to brake it to escape. Then they were chasing us on a car with a shotgun. Tried to kill or smth. But we drove away They charge 69$ for this cinote which is a lot. You can go to other similar places and pay $4/pp. its kind of a scam

Most beautiful island I’ve ever seen which such lovely people on the island, great buffet lunch fresh and lovely (included in our excursion). You also see cute grabs scattering about. Though If you’ve booked an excursion with open bar and buffet- this excursion is a bit manic as it’s not very organised in timings. We only got 1.45 hour on the island when originally we were told 3. So make sure you pick a good provider with good reviews. Also be prepared to pay a load of money if they take your photos..

The most magical and stunning beach (island) I ever visited in my entire life. Words are not enough to express my feelings toward this island…

Isla Saona is absolutely stunning, a bounty island. The sea and the island are breathtaking and the natural pool stop is awesome (children can stand in the water, but please leave the animals alone). Fast boats are worth the extra cost: a slow boat wastes time and you’ll just get sunburned; for young people, the party-boat option is a lot more fun. Drinks sold on the beach can be expensive — try one and share, but bring your own drinks and sandwiches (pancakes and fruit from breakfast work great) to be safe, because on the boat trip they will asume you’re meat lover meat and/or pork. Not enough fruit and veggies for vegans and vegatarians! Bring a big hat and reapply sunscreen constantly — 10–20 times if you don’t want to come back like a red lobster. This goes for skin types white to brown. Bring you own musicbox and create youw own vibe. The view is magnificent either way and well worth the trip. This is a must see Island!

Little bit overcrowded but definitely worth visiting! The island is very beautiful with nice clear blue water.

Isla Saona: Nature’s VIP Lounge — Five Stars, Zero Complaints If you’re ever in the Dominican Republic and don’t take a trip to Isla Saona, did you really even go? Because let me tell you, this island isn’t just beautiful — it’s a living screensaver, but with actual sea breezes, giant starfish, and zero Wi-Fi (which is honestly part of the magic). Getting There: We arrived on the island like explorers of old — except with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a boat full of excited tourists and reggaeton beats. The boat ride itself was a highlight: blue skies, turquoise waters, and that feeling that you’re slowly leaving reality behind. (Pro tip: don’t sit near the speakers unless you want your ribcage massaged by bass.) Nature Up Close and Personal: Once we landed, it felt like stepping into a postcard. Nature doesn’t just “surround” you on Isla Saona — it basically hugs you. Palm trees lean casually over the beach like they own the place (and honestly, they do), while the soft white sand welcomes you like a powdered donut made of dreams. Yes, there are some seaweed patches washed ashore, but they’re not the nasty kind — they just kind of vibe there, like nature’s beach towels. Nothing smelly or gross, just authentic seaside realism. Think of it as seasoning for your Instagram photos. The Water & Underwater Wonderland: Now let’s talk water. Crystal clear, bathtub warm, and shimmering like liquid turquoise. The kind of water that makes you rethink your entire life and wonder why you don’t live on a beach full-time. Whatever you do: BRING YOUR SNORKEL AND MASK. I’m not kidding. This is not a drill. The underwater life is next-level. We saw giant seashells (the kind you could hear the ocean from... probably because it was literally still in the ocean), and massive starfish that looked like they were training for the Sea Olympics. It’s like swimming in an aquarium, but without the glass or judgmental fish. Turtle Rescue Station (aka: The Surprise Gem of the Island): In a little village on the island, we stumbled upon a sea turtle rescue center — yes, really! Not only was it fascinating, it was heartwarming to see locals working to protect these ancient, flippered creatures. We learned a lot (and possibly got a little emotional, but let’s blame the saltwater). A great stop if you want a dash of education with your sunburn. Final Verdict: Isla Saona is paradise with personality. You get untouched nature, pristine beaches, epic snorkeling, and even a feel-good turtle experience. It’s the kind of place where your soul exhales — and where your phone battery dies, but in the best possible way. Five stars. Ten if I could. Just go. And don’t forget your snorkel — or your awe.

We visited Saona Island during our holiday in the Dominican Republic, and it truly felt like stepping into a postcard. The turquoise waters were unbelievably clear and calm, perfect for a swim or just soaking in the beauty. Towering coconut trees lined the shore, swaying gently in the breeze — it was nothing short of breathtaking. The island has a dreamy, tropical charm that makes you want to stay forever. While it was a bit crowded with tourists, it’s easy to understand why so many are drawn to its natural beauty. If you’re visiting the Dominican Republic, Saona Island is a must-see — just be prepared to share the paradise with others. 🌊🌺🐚

If you’re visiting the Dominican Republic, Saona Island is an absolute MUST! From the moment you step off the boat and feel the soft white sand under your feet, you’ll understand why this place is often called paradise on Earth. The views are unreal — crystal-clear turquoise waters, endless palm trees, and a peaceful breeze that makes you want to stay forever. We took a catamaran tour that included a stop at the natural pool, where we swam in shallow waters and saw huge starfish. It felt like something out of a dream! The guides were fantastic — friendly, fun, and full of interesting facts about the area. Lunch was served right on the beach and included delicious Dominican-style food and drinks. Everything was relaxed and beautifully organized. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you want to take stunning photos, snorkel, dance on the boat, or just soak up the sun — this trip has it all.

Beautiful, but not breathtaking Parque Nacional del Este is definitely worth a visit if you're in the Bayahibe area. The natural beauty, turquoise waters, and peaceful surroundings make for a relaxing day. However, in my opinion, the excursion itself isn’t something spectacular — especially if you’ve already seen similar beaches in the Caribbean. The boat trip and views are enjoyable, but don’t expect anything unique or out of the ordinary. Still, if you're looking for a calm escape in nature, it’s a nice option. Perfect for first-time visitors to the Dominican Republic.

The water color is beautiful but the minute you step on the island, the locals harass you way to much. The water was full of sea weed and the boats kept revving up, making the whole place stink of fuel, so I didn't even go in the water. This was not a fun place.

Beautiful island with white soft sand, perfect for a relaxing day, snorkeling or swimming; lots of tours from main island (price varies from $50 to $100) but they ere all the same, so look for the cheapest price possible, everyone goes in the same bots, Catamaran one way and fast boat combined; unless you get yourself a private one. Do not miss the natural pool.

Our day trip to Isla Saona was wonderful. A beautiful beach, lots of palm trees that are beautiful and provide shade. You need to take a boat from Bayahibe to get to this island. We booked an excursion from Punta Cana

If you ever have a chance to visit this place I highly recommend it. It's just absolutely beautiful. The water was so warm, calm and the sand was so soft. We took a catamaran Excursion for the day and had a blast. The beach was not crowded at all which was very nice.

The beach is gorgeous. Careful when going in as there is coral and shells. Looks exactly like what was depicted in the movie Blue Lagoon. Lunch was simple but nice. Friendly service. Naturally beautiful.

Beautiful scenic beach. We took a day trip from Dominican Republic resort. Tourguide was nice. Boat ride was bit long and loud constant Spanish music during boat ride put me off. All in all it was a great trip.

Went there super early, it was empty but the staff were nice and friendly. We played a little roulette, won a bit, lost a bit, had a good time, all good!

Casino was small but had table games and slots, including roulette, the downside is the attached club is all the way at the back and they just charge you and dont even tell you how much the drink was! I got a jack and coke type drink and NO RECEIPT OR ANYTHING stating how much the drink was! Beware!

Nice small casino and very inexpensive to play.... restaurants and bars in the same complex... minimum bets are RD$100 ( about $2.50 cad )... we play for hours and lose very little....

No my type of place because the casino suck is very small no too many tables nor machines. I don't think anybody wins there. The atmosphere is weird the music in the club was awful and ultra loud. I probably never come back.

An okay spot for some nighttime fun. This place mainly attracts foreign locals and tourists. The crowd is a mix from 20s to 40s. The music is upbeat and loud. There is a casino in the front of the building and you walk through it to get to the club. It can get busy on weekends or during events.

Dingy atmosphere and randomly scattered sparse Game Machines and tables. The Disco didn't open on time and then tried to charge us 20 US dollars to get in for a special event that had no one in there. We left

Staff here is very polite and helpful, you can get drinks from Casino and the prices are moderate. There are parking lots for about 30 vehicles. Place is very close to the beach a 5 or 10 minutes walk. Enjoyed time there.

Nice free public beach….free if you bring your own chair or towel to sit on. There is a fee to rent a lounge seat. We were charged $20 USD for 2 seats for the day. But the beach is lovely. Lots of waves but shallow to swim & wade in the water. It was pretty crowded but still very enjoyable. Especially considering that most beaches in the northern coast area are full of seaweed right now, just the peak of summer. There are a few vendors at entrance and we only noticed one food option, but it was delicious! Cold drinks, seafood platters, fries and such reasonably priced considering you’re paying for the convenience. One of the coldest beers I had on the island! Taxis hover around the area so not hard to find a ride, but they can be pushy. Overall a good afternoon.

Beautiful beach. That was the last stop on our buggie trip and was worthed to stop by and enjoy the view. I wish we've had enough time to go for a swim. The water looks amazing and inviting for a swim.

A stunning beach with palm trees, soft white sand, and gentle waves. A great place for relaxing and swimming. There wasn’t a bunch of seaweed like some of the other beaches around Punta Cana. There are also a few places to get drinks and snacks as well as chairs and umbrellas to sit under. I highly recommend a visit

Visited during an excursion. The beach itself is nice. The views are beautiful. But the water is not blue, it was brown, of dark color. Surprisingly, there were not any sargassums there. There are many annoying souvenir vendors. The restrooms (toilets), have no accommodations. The doors would not close, the lockets are stolen and broken, the bulbs are missing, you can see only wires, even the flush buttons are stolen, it is dirty, it is ghetto. Even if you come there, there is no way you can find a place to change your clothes.

It's a beautiful beach with wide sandy spots and calm waves. It can get crowded but if you walk to the ends there are fewer people. Parking closer costs money but farther away there are limited free spots. There are bathrooms and lots of places to buy drinks and souvenirs.

Beautiful beach. Lots of local families enjoying a beach day. Places to get refreshments. A few vendors but they weren't pushy.

The beach is beautiful, in comparison to other beaches around the Dominican Republic, I give it a three-star review because while you do not have to partake in renting beach chairs, umbrellas, or even purchasing the food... I wanted to; however, the prices they list are all in dollars and in many instances are far more than prices paid in the U.S. and wv n in Japan where I just traveled from. Additionally, if you pay via credit card you will pay between 10% and 25% additional charge. While I wanted to support the local economy, I do not appreciate being taken advantage of with these ridiculous prices placed on what is supposed to be a public beach. A comparison between Bayahibe and Macao, places Bayahibe prices much more reasonable than Macao prices.

Very beautiful. But very dirty, take 20$ but don't clean the beach. They trimmed the trees to avoid shade, so they could sell more templates and umbrellas. All foto from closed beach.

Beautiful beach with turquoise water and natural sand this it’s your place to go for beach in Dominican Republic: Playa pública Dominicus La Romana. Here in the public area you can enjoy this stunning beach! The ocean it’s so clear that you can see your feet and the sand under the water and plenty of area that you can get in the ocean that it is not deep at all. They have umbrellas with beds for rent or bring your own one with chairs and have a great family and friend time. Food and drinks available for purchase and great variety of souvenirs shops too.

A Caribbean Dream! Dominicus Beach in Bayahibe is by far the most beautiful place I’ve seen during my trip to the Dominican Republic 🇩🇴. While we stayed in Punta Cana with my family, we were disappointed to find the beaches there (especially Bavaro Beach) covered in sargassum (seaweed), with a strong smell and murky waters—swimming was nearly impossible. Just a couple of kilometers further, Playa Macao had slightly cleaner water, but nothing compares to Bayahibe. This area belongs to the Caribbean Sea, unlike Punta Cana, which faces the Atlantic Ocean. The difference is huge: the water in Bayahibe is crystal clear, calm, and perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Dominicus Beach offers white sand, turquoise sea, and a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere—ideal for couples, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy paradise. If you’re planning a trip to the DR, skip the resorts of Punta Cana and head to Bayahibe. You’ll experience the real Caribbean here.a

The beach itself is absolutely beautiful, transparent waters, all sandy ground, on one part with a fun wave caused by a sand bank. The shoreline is quite steep on some parts, so when going in, you're in hip or breast deep water in just a few meters, but it stays like this for a good 50-100m. The sand area is a bit littered, it doesn't seem like the locals keep it very clean, and bordered left and right by two all inclusive hotels who blast their music on the beach, additionally to the locals who love to bring their music boxes and mount a party on the beach. It is a quite crowded beach, due to its good access. So if you're looking for quiet relaxation and few to no other people, you better head further down the beach towards the nature reserve. You can rent two sun loungers + umbrella for 1000 RD$, one plastic chair for 150 and only an umbrella for 500. There is no shade on the front line, only in the access part of the beach are a few trees that provide good shade, if you don't mind the ants on the floor. We haven't seen any food shops, but there is a bar with shadow on the entrance of the beach and a couple tourist shops right on the shore. There's a large parking at the entrance, where you "can pay a fee or not" to the security guy to "watch" your car. There are no public showers or bathrooms. It is not allowed to bring animals. It's a blue flag beach so the water quality is monitored and good. Perfect place to watch the sunset.

Really clean beach and beautiful water it's a must see if you in Dominicus. You should be there early really crowded in the weekend

I love it. The water is great and the beach is very clean! I always enjoy it every time I go there

Pretty beach, they try to keep it clean fairly well. Gets very busy and packed , but not uncontrollably loud on Sundays as some smaller local beaches do. Maybe I just didn’t see it, but I don’t think this one has any fresh water/hose/shower anywhere either . No clue about the bathrooms either , maybe only by the one little restaurant

AMAZING massages! I had a 90 min relaxation and a 30 min four-handed massage during my stay this week and both were incredible! This place is clean and has such a relaxing vibe with the ocean waves right below. The masseuses took great care to make us feel comfortable and relaxed during the whole massage. They were able to accommodate five of us at once at the exact time we wanted with booking the appointments the day before. The prices were so reasonable for the five star experience we had. I highly recommend Tropical Treasure and will come back the next time I’m here!

We stayed at Breathless Resort (just a 5-minute walk along the beach) and I’m so glad I followed the Reddit recommendations to visit this place instead of using the resort spa. What I loved most was the no-pressure, no-sales approach—they let you browse and decide at your own pace, whether for spa services or items in their charming gift shop. We ended up purchasing a few beautiful souvenirs to bring home, and I also treated myself to a Panama straw hat for just $30. I lost count of how many compliments I received on it back at the resort and airport on the way back home!

Benedict at Tropical Treasures was amazing and a friendly face and voice during our stay in the area. Her canny humor, knowledge of the area and service are... Topically French. 💛🌴 We enjoyed the couples massage, and got some reasonably priced souvenirs and needed beach items.

Tropical treasure has been the best message I have ever received. My masseuse was Ana Celia and my wife's was Grisela. We have paid for a message both in America and in multiple resorts. Do not pay the way over priced cost of a resort message if you are staying anywhere in Punta Cana. Come to Tropical Treasure, listen the waves as they crash against the beach. Ask for Ana Celia and you will not be disappointed. The gift shop is also adorable and reasonable priced. Filled with all sorts of trinkets and gifts. I have not been super excited with our resort here in Punta Cana but if it means getting another message from Celia then I'm excited to come back any time.

If you are staying in Punta Cana, anywhere near the Breathless Resort, you are within walking distance of this souvenir and massage shop. Don’t waste your time spending too much money with the people walking on the beach or at your resort - go to Tropical Treasures! They can accommodate multiple people on the massage deck. The prices are unmatched and the quality is amazing. Feeling the breeze & listening to the water while getting a relaxing massage is the best scenario and worth every penny. Notes: *they will wash your feet off before laying down so, don’t worry about the sand *you put your personal belongings in a basket which goes under your table *women, if you’re comfortable, wear a swim top or bra that can easily be undone by the massage therapist for a more enjoyable experience. *bring USD (you can pay with a card but they currently are charging 18% cc fee as of Feb’25) not to mention foreign currency fees may be applicable depending on your card *bring USD to tip your massage therapist DIRECTLY before you go inside to pay *reservations highly suggested (they accommodated us within 2 days of our arrival but they do welcome walk-ins if they have availability) *they have a lot of souvenirs that may be slightly cheaper than what you find at a resort depending on what you’re looking for.

Tropical Treasures is a small beach front massage and gift shop. It's located between Exellence and Secrets Tides. The lady who owns and runs it does a nice job of coordinating everything. The gift shop is cued in his lots of local items at a reasonable price. The only thing preventing me from giving it a five-star is that it is not a spa experience. That being said, it is a tremendous value! The quality of the massage was as good as I've had anywhere. However, you are tightly packed in with others. If you can get past that, close your eyes and drift off into the peacefulness of the waves, it is well worth it.

Great place for a massage in the beach! Highly recommend I had two there and they were both very good. My friends complained that the girl they got had really rough hands so sometimes it felt like scratching but I didn’t have that problem either time. So I can’t speak on that I thoroughly enjoyed my massages and would go again! The prices were really good and the massage on the beach with the waves crashing was the most relaxing ever.

Wonderful place! Definitely worth the drive from Punta Cana. Everyone is so happy in the Dominican and especially in and around the Basilica. A lot of positive energy. I am very grateful for being able to visit and catch a service.

Visited this church during an excursion. Beutiful and unique building. It is the biggest church in Dominican Republic. Even The Papa visited it, and donated the golden crown incrustated with precious stones and the ikon of Saint Marry. This told us our guide, so if it is not right, then just look for this information online by yourself.

Visiting the Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia was an unforgettable and moving experience. The moment you step inside, you feel a deep sense of peace and reverence. The architecture is breathtaking, with soaring ceilings and beautiful stained glass that fills the space with light. Beyond its beauty, the basilica carries a profound spiritual presence — it’s a place where faith, history, and culture come together in the most powerful way. Whether you come to pray, reflect, or simply admire its grandeur, you leave with a feeling of calm and connection. Truly a sacred and inspiring place that touches the heart.

What an amazing experience. We really enjoyed our visit to the basilica, with its great architectural design and the beautiful grounds. The site museum shows you the history of the building and relics related to the adoration of the icon inside the church, we had the opportunity and the pleasure of listening to a singer and organ player while we were admiring the interior of the basilica.. Do not miss this very important and beautiful religious site when you visit The Dominican Republic.

Beautiful and peaceful. There's a sense of calmness. Well maintained and clean. Don't miss going to the altar to see it up close. The place is extremely well maintained and clean. Not very crowded on a weekday. Large parking lot and bathroom available.

A real nice church ride at the centre of Punta Cana. It's perfectly symmetrical. It was really quiet when we visited so we didn't have to wait to enter. There a car park right in front, as well as an additional car park at the nearby museum.

Very good experience! The place was clean and beautiful. The museum was nice too, and the park around it was very well maintained. The gift shop also had plenty of great options.

This resort is very clean and well maintained. The food is okay, but the coffee bar was definitely the highlight,we really loved it! The Brazilian and Japanese restaurants were also quite good. The Kids Club was a big plus, as they have staff who take great care of the kids. The shows at the theatre were very entertaining and fun for the whole family. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and would recommend this resort.

We have had an amazing 2 weeks stay at this hotel as a family of 5. Rooms cleaned everyday. Food good. The best part of our stay was Johanna megia, she looked after us every morning and afternoon at the buffet restaurants. She was amazing and never left us without a drink. She was fabulous!! All of our family will miss seeing you for sure.

Everyone experiences are different but very disappointed in this hotel. And we still have 5 more days to go. Food in the main restaurant is the same every day NO themed nights, uncooked burgers and so bland. No entertainment on for the children at night or adults. Location you literally have to walk 40+ mins to get to a supermarket that isn't a rip off. VIP membership get some benefits but wouldn't be worth paying for them. Room was still dirty and the beds well please look into them when you get here, balcony door stiff. Oh and be ready to be eaten alive, by various bugs as no mosquito nets around the beds, they do not spray the hotel area to help reduce them and it's absolutely horrendous, never in my life have I been bitten this much. The beach bed are all broken in the peasant area, and you have to be a VIP member to have the ones that aren't broken. They don't rack the beach/sand so loads of leaf debris and it's ants galore. The sea is very rough this side of the island and overall not the best and definitely not a 5 star because the point above would be done. Stayed at the Riu in JA at max capacity and it wasn't this dirty. Definitely not recommended but I guess you'll see when you get here.

Overall location is good, staff are nice (spicy in entertainment team especially), but the food overall isn’t very good. It’s not only repetitive, but not that great. Even with the “special” restaurants that you have to book in advance (like the Brazilian) aren’t very good either. So decent place yeah, nice beach, but I wouldn’t say it’s worth the money it actually is to stay here.

My son had a great time at this resort.This resort is perfect for family with young kids. There's plenty of things to do from the beach, pool and slides for kids and adults.Night time activities is for all ages. Plenty of restaurants to choose from. We had a great time creating memories at this resort. My son is already asking us when we're coming back. Our extended family also stayed at this resort with us but we all stayed at different area's of the resort. We all loved our rooms. Very clean and complete of all the necessities we needed for our stay. We will come back again and will reccommend it to our family and friends in Canada.

The resort is wonderful. I had a wonderful experience with the restaurants, very tasty food and excellent service. The bar staff is very friendly, especially Angelica from Pergola has a wonderful energy and is very warm and friendly. The entertainment team is absolute wonderful specially Angi. The staff from restaurant and the bar from the pool it is amazing friendly and helpful. The live music it is amazing. Recommend this resort %100. Very grateful to Mr. Diego, thank you for everything you did our stay absolutely amazing ☺️

Our stay at the Grand Sirenis was great! The housekeepers took such good care of us and we loved the energy at the hotel. The staff were all so welcoming, especially Yeny Bares at the main bar - she was amazing! We always felt like she was excited to see us and whenever we walked by she was ready with a table for us (and always remembered our drink order and kept them coming!). The spa was also amazing. Don't sleep on the hydrotherapy circut there. So relaxing. Such a great experience!

Historic charm and spectacular views. We spent the day walking around, visiting shops, and tasting food and drink. You may catch a wedding or a concert on any day.

This is a place you have to visit once in your lifetime. An amphitheatre that is carved in the stone, just look at the pictures and judge for yourself, also if you like golf you can enjoy the best golf course in the Caribbean and possibly all Latinoamérica in Casa De Campo as well.

This place is an oasis. If you are interested in craftsmanship, history and supporting local artisans, this is the place. We absolutely loved the church, the amphitheater, and the museum was the highlight for us. Learning about the local indigenous culture and seeing original artifacts. If you want an experience that’s a little more special… and to find a souvenir that really means something, this is the place. There are small boutiques, and artists studios to visit. We didn’t eat there, but there are restaurants as well.

Beautiful Mediterranean inspired church and village perched on the cliffs overlooking the Chavon River. Even after finding out it was a real estate development project in the 80s, the stone work, landscape, and charm of this spot transports you in time.

What an amazing place! It is such a romantic and magical place! Had the opportunity to celebrate our wedding anniversary and had the most delicious dinner with an out of this world view!!

A Hidden Mediterranean Village in the Heart of the Caribbean. Perched above the winding Chavón River, Altos de Chavón feels like stepping into another world where time slows down and stone-paved streets tell stories of art, music, and culture. Designed in the late 1970s as a tribute to 16th-century Mediterranean villages, this one-of-a-kind place was brought to life by Dominican architect José Antonio Caro and Italian designer Roberto Coppa. Built entirely by local artisans using limestone, handcrafted wood, and wrought iron, every corner of the village carries the warmth and pride of its makers. Visitors enter through the gates of Casa de Campo, the private resort that surrounds Altos de Chavón. Guests of the resort can access the village freely, while outside visitors pay an entry fee that typically ranges from 25 to 50 dollars per person, depending on what’s included. Once inside, you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, galleries, and cafés, along with stunning views of the river valley below. One of the most visited spots is the small but beautiful St. Stanislaus Church, where a relic from the saint himself, ashes sent by Pope John Paul II, rests behind the altar. At the heart of the village is the amphitheater, a 5,000-seat open-air venue carved into the hillside. Since its grand opening concert in 1982 featuring Frank Sinatra, the stage has welcomed some of the world’s biggest performers including Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, Juan Luis Guerra, Sting, Plácido Domingo, Luis Miguel, and Marc Anthony. With its impressive acoustics and dramatic backdrop, the amphitheater offers a unique concert experience under the stars. Altos de Chavón also offers several excellent dining options. Alegría serves a varied menu with breathtaking views of the river, with favorites like lobster rice, croquetas, and perfectly grilled churrasco. Onno’s Café, just steps from the amphitheater, is a laid-back spot popular for cocktails and quick bites. Other notable places include Chilango Taquería for tacos, La Piazzetta for Italian dishes, and Dye Fore Bar for drinks with a panoramic view. It’s important to note that after 5 p.m., non-resort guests are not allowed to dine in the village unless invited by someone staying in Casa de Campo, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting for the day. Parking is simple and close to the entrance, especially near Onno’s. The village is best explored on foot, but wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone paths can be uneven. Arriving early in the day allows for a quieter visit and the best photo opportunities, while sunset brings a magical glow over the river valley that’s hard to forget. Altos de Chavón also houses a fascinating archaeological museum with thousands of artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures. For those interested in hands-on experiences, there are art studios offering pottery, weaving, and silkscreen workshops. The village is home to a prestigious design school affiliated with Parsons, making it a creative hub where you’re just as likely to meet students sketching as tourists exploring. On certain weekends, you might stumble upon a local artisan market, with live music and handcrafts adding even more charm to an already special visit. Concert nights bring the village to life, and if you plan ahead, attending a show at the amphitheater is an unforgettable highlight. Altos de Chavón isn’t just a tourist attraction. It’s a carefully crafted escape filled with beauty, history, and inspiration. Whether you’re drawn by the architecture, the art, the music, or the peaceful atmosphere, this hilltop village offers a glimpse into something truly timeless in the heart of the Dominican Republic.

Beautiful place to walk around and enjoy the views

Fantastic place, very scenic beach, turquoise water great for swimming. Scuba diving and snorkelling there was excellent due to healthy coral, abundance of marine life, and perfect visibility. We came there with a Scuba Caribe tour from Hilton La Romana and the tour was perfectly organized. Highly recommend when staying in Bayahibe arein the

What an amazing day! Some of the best snorkeling. We took a day trip that we booked with Dive Klub at our resort. The pickup was a little discombobulated, which made us nervous, but it worked out great. We had a traditional Dominican lunch that was delicious and we snorkeled for most of the day. We saw an octopus and so so many unique fish. We were well taken care of and returned to our resort safely. Take your own towel. They have everything else including all the drinks and food. Shout out to Naldo…thanks for so much fun and care.

One of my favorite places here, so, so, so beautiful island, and so clear water, color is perfect! 😍 everything is nice and beautiful, quiet place. I like because there are not too many people, it is more like a private island. there are a couple of bars also.

Beautiful island and probably the best place for snorkeling in the Dominican Republic. We took an excursion from Punta Cana and it was definitely worth it. It was a bumpy ride back because of the high waves but we had fun drinking and dancing. Blue crystal water with white beaches, palm trees, souvenir shops, and some restaurants. We saw some fishes and beautiful corals while snorkeling. Overall a great experience.

Island is beautiful. Fantastic place. Would get 5 stars but the best snorkeling was in a place where lots of boats come to drop people of. We'll worth a visit.

Some of the most pretty water in the world. Luckily each excursion has their own private areas. The beach chairs, food, and drinks come with the tour. (For us, for most i assume). Good place for snorkeling and swimming). No real privacy here, but the water is well worth it.

Water - BEAUTIFUL turquoise colour and so clean you could see the ground so clearly 😍 we saw dolphins on the way back too ❤️ but the beach 👎 I think the company (TORTUGA) paid for the cheapest spot on the Catalina island and they took us there . It’s NOTHING LIKE THE PICTURES THEY SHOW YOU or you can see on Google. That must be other part of the island. Not enough sun beds and the ALL INCLUSIVE was actually few drinks (rum and coke or rum and sprite ) that you can mix on the beach yourself. And ….. half of white sandwich with a tiny slice of cheese. Just awful. Also no catamaran only speedboat. Except of the dolphins 🐬, it wasn’t worth the money. Go with different company and go to SAONA I highly recommend 😍

Fantastic place, very scenic beach, turquoise water great for swimming. Scuba diving and snorkelling there was excellent due to healthy coral, abundance of marine life, and perfect visibility. We came there with a Scuba Caribe tour from Hilton La Romana and the tour was perfectly organized. Highly recommend when staying in Bayahibe arein the

What an amazing day! Some of the best snorkeling. We took a day trip that we booked with Dive Klub at our resort. The pickup was a little discombobulated, which made us nervous, but it worked out great. We had a traditional Dominican lunch that was delicious and we snorkeled for most of the day. We saw an octopus and so so many unique fish. We were well taken care of and returned to our resort safely. Take your own towel. They have everything else including all the drinks and food. Shout out to Naldo…thanks for so much fun and care.

One of my favorite places here, so, so, so beautiful island, and so clear water, color is perfect! 😍 everything is nice and beautiful, quiet place. I like because there are not too many people, it is more like a private island. there are a couple of bars also.

Beautiful island and probably the best place for snorkeling in the Dominican Republic. We took an excursion from Punta Cana and it was definitely worth it. It was a bumpy ride back because of the high waves but we had fun drinking and dancing. Blue crystal water with white beaches, palm trees, souvenir shops, and some restaurants. We saw some fishes and beautiful corals while snorkeling. Overall a great experience.

Island is beautiful. Fantastic place. Would get 5 stars but the best snorkeling was in a place where lots of boats come to drop people of. We'll worth a visit.

Some of the most pretty water in the world. Luckily each excursion has their own private areas. The beach chairs, food, and drinks come with the tour. (For us, for most i assume). Good place for snorkeling and swimming). No real privacy here, but the water is well worth it.

Water - BEAUTIFUL turquoise colour and so clean you could see the ground so clearly 😍 we saw dolphins on the way back too ❤️ but the beach 👎 I think the company (TORTUGA) paid for the cheapest spot on the Catalina island and they took us there . It’s NOTHING LIKE THE PICTURES THEY SHOW YOU or you can see on Google. That must be other part of the island. Not enough sun beds and the ALL INCLUSIVE was actually few drinks (rum and coke or rum and sprite ) that you can mix on the beach yourself. And ….. half of white sandwich with a tiny slice of cheese. Just awful. Also no catamaran only speedboat. Except of the dolphins 🐬, it wasn’t worth the money. Go with different company and go to SAONA I highly recommend 😍

First of all, I don’t like the fact that $ paying guests pay $10 for admission, while guests paying with DOP pay around $3. That’s discrimination. Other than that, the caves are amazing—very big and beautiful. The guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. Make sure to wear non-slip shoes if you’re visiting, as the stairs can be quite slippery. The iguanas are kept in a large enclosure, but they seem to fight a lot, which makes me question whether keeping them together for tourists' sake is a good idea. Overall, I can recommend this place.

We've been to a few of the caves around here and this one is really made up for visitors. You can see the sign from the highway easily, and there is plenty of parking (even in shade). For two of us it cost about USD $8 And that includes the guided tour. They take you on a stone walkway through some lovely landscaped gardens (watch out for iguanas) and then down into the cave which is a very large chamber. The path isn't steep and it's relatively smooth and easy to walk. The lights are well timed and there are bags in the holes in the ceiling. One section has Taino petroglyphs and there is one section with a pool. It's not the most impressive cave system I've seen but they've set it up nicely for visitors and it's a good tour. The acoustics are impressive and towards the end of the tour you are taken into one section that literally has marble floors--they used to hold concerts and have weddings there--which kind of blows your mind (what do they do when it rains and floods??) you aren't down too deep but there's a flight of stairs (maybe 50 steps?) to get out. They finish with a tour of the iguana exhibits and there are a lot of them. We liked it and thought it was a good deal for the money, definitely something fun to see.

I see why they call it La Cueva de las Maravillas.... this place truly lives up to its name! The cave is absolutely beautiful, and the history behind it and how it was discovered makes the visit even more fascinating. I definitely need to go back to explore El Laberinto (the maze) and try the Paseo a Caballo (horseback riding). Highly recommended for nature and history lovers!

This attraction is very close to the playa neuva development by Bahia Principle. As I was told that tours cannot be formed during low seasons, we hired a private taxi through our hotel in going there. Please make sure you are paying the driver for the return trip so that he/she waits for you while there. On this day we visited Nov 5, the cave was virtually vacant except ourselves. So, nice photos. This national park is closed on Mondays.

This place is amazing. Not only the caves are marvelous but you can ride horses and go into a built-in in tree maze on sight. Several iguanas which give the place a jungle Caribbean vibe adequate for it's purpose.

​The Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders) is a remarkable historical site and a highlight for any nature lover. The journey to the cave is a beautiful trek through a rocky, tropical landscape perfect for spotting iguanas. To enter, you descend a long flight of stairs into the massive and impressive cavern. ​Inside, you'll find incredible Taino pictograms, making it one of the most significant examples of Taino culture. The cave, which is believed to be over one million years old, was a vital part of Taino life, used for protection from hurricanes and as a place for burial rituals. ​While the cave is immense, only about 25% has been uncovered to avoid disturbing the native fauna, including the bats that have long called it home. Initially, locals illegally harvested bat guano from the cave to sell as a powerful fertilizer. ​The tour guide person was excellent, offering a detailed and fascinating look into the history and culture of the Taino people. This tour is highly recommended and an excellent value.

We were added to a 20-25 child school tour. we were unable to keep up especially at end due to health issues and age. Lots of stairs to exit cave and lost group. would love to go again on next trip and actually hear the guide. Beautiful sites and well worth admission.

This is a rustic attraction with incredible views over the countryside, the Atlantic coast and the opening of Samaná Bay. You can either hike up the mountain or ride in the back of a truck, which is what we have done both times we went. The truck ride is a hair-raising experience, as the climb is steep and the road is rough. Once your rattled bones get to the top, you will find a restaurant, an observation tower, sturdy swings you can use for impressive photos, hammocks, two different types of zip lines and other attractions. There are some typical small shops selling souvenirs as well. The views are spectacular, especially the turquoise waters near the coast and the hilly areas inland. You will also see two large lakes: Laguna Redonda to the left and Laguna Limón to the right. If you look closely near Laguna Limón you will see many fields of rice. Those large black and brown birds soaring in the air currents are turkey vultures. We enjoyed a beer, some fries and a quesadilla in the restaurant, while soaking in the incredible views. Once you make your way back down the hill, you will find a few small shops selling souvenirs as well as local fruits and vegetables. We selected a cocoa pod (you don’t see those for sale very often!) along with beautiful local avocados and a papaya. In summary, this is an attraction for those who love a fantastic view with a fun and adventurous ride to the top and back down.

Montaña Redonda in Miches is absolutely breathtaking! The 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains, ocean, and surrounding countryside are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the ride up the mountain added a fun bit of adventure to the visit. It’s a perfect spot for photos, peace, and connecting with nature. A must-visit destination if you’re anywhere near the area—truly magical!

Please note: you can't get up there by driving on your own unless you have a 4x4 and pay a fee. Otherwise, you have you park and walk the 2-3 km to the top, which is fairly steep, or pay 1150 pesos for them to drive you up there in the back of their trucks. They'll leave when the truck is full. Once at the top the views are pretty, but it is very touristy. There is a zip line and a weird tight rope with a bike you can ride. Giant swings for people who need Instagram, some public restrooms which are ok, not great, but ok (no toilet seats but there was paper), stalls selling stuff, and a restaurant. There is also a tower you can climb to get a higher view thought there was a wasp nest somewhere because it was thick with wasps. We had packed a lunch and there are covered picnic tables, which was very nice. The birds on the breezes were beautiful and the view was lovely but it's kind of an expensive tourist thing that I wouldn't do again or bring visitors to.

It was a very fun experience. I didn't come on a tour bus so I don't know what people who did paid. I paid 1800 pesos to get a ride up to the top of the mountain. Up top there is a restaurant, souvenir shop, and other activities. I paid $20 for the pipeline and I also enjoyed the swings and hammocks.

Today it was $12.50 per person to ride up - I guess that’s better than $18 but not as good as $5 which is what it should be imho. But once at top it’s lovely - swings and flying broom photos. The zip line &bikes looked great but it started raining. The restaurant was very good for lunch!

Beautiful place with 360 views. Excellent place to watch a sunset. Rocky road to the top but when you get to the top, the views are worth it. There is a restaurant, shops and washrooms available.

Really nice view from top but it’s ridiculous that if you want to good on top by foot you have to pay 600 pesos, maybe not worth it, there are other mountains with similar views that are free

It’s underrated! They made it sound mediocre but the sand, water and amenities are fantastic. Good water clarity with no waves, clean soft non rocky sand, many dining and lounging options, the high palm trees are beautiful, aaaand so close from SD

Cleaner, less crowded, and calmer than Boca chica. Best beach to just relax and enjoy the beach.

Beautiful stay make sure you bring food and drink there's nothing available there so don't go empty handed

The beach of my childhood. Always has a place in my heart.

No private beach, so there might be a little bit of dirt or rubish. A lot of nice places which protect you from the sun! You should probably wear swimmingshoes while going into the water

Very beautiful clean beach not crowded at all and get a table as long as you purchase something. The fish was good and I can't remember the name of the other dish but I later found out it was octopus and the funny thing is I don't like octopus but that dish was very delicious another bonus of la playa Juan dolio is you don't have to worry about solicitors evading your space every 5 minutes like some other Beaches. The people there was friendly and respectful

Very quiet and nice place, if you bring your food chairs and drinks only pay for parking

The park is located in the city which makes it easy to get to. The entry is $200peso which is reasonable. Be very careful when walking up and down the stairs, I slipped a couple of times. It's very humid and the stairs are wet naturally. The cenote are all close together. I took my time walking around slowly purposely and taking pictures and was done in an hour. This can easily be a 30 min in-and-out trip.

Beautiful park of four cenotes. I do think it's worth going to if you happen to be in Santo Domingo. This information was current as of my visit: - The Uber there from the zona colonial was 3-4 dollars, it was about a 20 minute ride. - The park opens at 8am and charges 200 pesos to extranjeros, credit card only. - There are 4 lakes. You go down a staircase to access 3 of them; a raft will take you to the 4th lake. - The raft starts running at 9(ish) and costs 50 pesos for an adult, cash only. - The whole thing does not take long to explore and you don't need a guide. One guide I saw was barely explaining anything to his group, while the other did a good job giving history and geographic knowledge, but it was all stuff you can read online yourself. - If your goal is to beat the crowds, I would recommend coming at around 8:30. Walk around the 4th lake from ground level (takes about 10 minutes), then descend into the cavern and visit all three lakes (15 minutes) before waiting at the third lake for the first boat. Add more time if you're a slow walker or the type to stop and take a lot of photos. After 9 you will see a lot more people, including groups of school kids and what not. - I'm not sure, but I suspect the lighting might be better later in to the day when more sunlight can get into the caves. If you're fine with crowds and midday heat, you might want to try around noon for more turquoise-y water. - There are a good nunber of stairs. It's fine for the average adult with no disabilities, but it's not an accessible site.

An interesting green area to visit in Santo Domingo, combining forest, underground passages, rock formations, and blue lakes. The infrastructure is quite massive and somewhat invasive, but this was the typical style for caves adapted for visitors between the 1950s and 1980s. Some guides lack technical training in karst geology and hydrogeology, so their explanations often mix facts with myths. The most disappointing part for me is the souvenir shop at the exit, where they sell handicrafts made from the very geological formations the park is supposed to protect. Despite these drawbacks, the park is still worth visiting to enjoy its lush greenery and unique subterranean scenery.

It's good to spend some time to take a look the three eyes cenote. No swimming allowed. You need to tell the ticket sales person which currency 💲 you would like to pay otherwise she will automatically deduct US dollars from your credit 💳 card. No cash accepted.

This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Santo Domingo. The park is easy to navigate. The staff is friendly. It is an amazing little slice of nature trapped in the chaotic bustle of one of the America’s oldest cities. There is a small pull along, underground raft to ride from one of the lakes to the fourth lake. It has a small fee, but is completely worth the extra, insignificant cost.

This place is very beautiful. The cenotes are big and impressive. The place is always crowded, but if you are visiting Santo Domingo, I will definitely add it to my to-do list. I highly recommend to NOT BUY a tour at your hotel. This place is within the city and only about 6 minutes drive from the Colonial section. We got offered a tour to visit this place for $ 60 US dollars per person, about $72,000 DM pesos. They make it sound very good, the said transportation is included, and they also included visiting other places in town that are within walking distance and free. Since i had a rental car, we decided to go in our own, and I'm felt very lucky to have done this because the place is very close by, the admission is only $50 pesos for locals and $200 for tourists, and then we hired a guide right there for $30 US dollars, $1800 DM pesos for the entire group, in this case my wife and I, but it could it be up to six people for the same price. The guide was very nice and helpful thru the entire way of our walk thru the cenotes for a total cost of $2,200 DM pesos in steady of the $72,000 the guide wanted at the hotel. Last, at the end of the trip, they will walk you thru this mini market were they offer a lot of jewelry and other local crafts.. DO NOT BUY ANYTHING HERE. The prices are completely out of control and the quality of the pieces are questionable. Our tour guide made us aware of this. We thank him a lot for that. Aside from this, you would love this place.

This place is absolutely beautiful, I loved seeing something so unique like this caves. Make sure to take comfortable shoes and take one of the guides so that they can tell you the history and make you laugh. Great experience!

The first European style street built in the Americas, Calle Las Damas [Ladies Street] in Santo Domingo. Once an upscale route, this site is now the perfect stop for a walking tour. The street received its name from the viceroy Maria de Toledo and her clique, the wealthiest noblewomen in Hispanola. The main street is closed for repair, but the sidewalks are still open.

The street is closed for maintenance in Sep 2023

The Streat of the lady's was the first that was build in the city and hosts most of the surviving old houses of the early 1500s. In the fort are guides employed by the state that will offer you a guided tour after their shift finished. Don't pay to much. Already 50usd for a group is plenty.

I like

Historical builders and museums

(Translated by Google) The first street in the Americas. Where it all began. As a fan of history and architecture, I found it incredible. A must-see for all history lovers! (Original) A primeira rua das Américas. Onde tudo começou. Como admirador de História e de Arquitetura, achei incrível. Indispensável à todos os amantes da história!

(Translated by Google) Follow me on my YouTube channel @viajaconmigord (Original) Sígueme en mi canal de YouTube @viajaconmigord

The first and the oldest standing church in the Americas is definitely worth a visit while you are in Santo Domingo. You will get an audio guide upon entry. Unfortunately, filming is not allowed, and you are limited to only taking photos.

This was definitely on my list of churches and cathedrals to visit since it is the first one in the Americas. Currently the fee is 80 Pesos for non Dominicans and free for Dominicans. If you’re in shorts or your outfit is too revealing, you may be provided a free cloth/ scarf. Definitely not as impressive as some European cathedrals I visited but still worth it because of the history.

This is a great place to visit while in the colonial zone of Santo Domingo. In a little bit off the beaten path, but well worth the trip. The church is beautifully restored, and while exploring the property, you can get some fairly nice views of the colonial zone from high at top of the hill at the old city wall.

A beautiful landmark in the heart of the Colonial Zone, it's something you should see if you have the chance to stroll through the area. Christopher Columbus Park is lovely and there are nice restaurants all around.

Incredible how this is the oldest cathedral in the Americas from 1540. Still standing and beautiful. It has a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles that gives an important historical and cultural feature to the city. We heard in the tour that Columbus remains are there, but they’re also in Sevilla. We started researching a lot online after learning about this…

Very cheap entry, around 2$ incl audio guide. Nice building but not as impressive as other old cathedrals. But in my eyes a must visit in Santo Domingo, since it is the oldest cathedral of Continents of Amerika.

Absolutely beautiful Gothic style church. The architecture was amazing, and the presentation within was mesmerizing. They do have audio selections for a multitude of languages allowing you know what you were visualizing.

I drove around as I missed the parking garage and couldn’t not find it again. I drove past slowly and couldn’t take photo. It was a lovely view. The whole of the town is picturesque. Cobbled streets and no parking signs everywhere! Some nice shops I wish o was able to get to visit. Large police station and police presence. I will definitely go back next time and walk around on foot.

Beautiful Old historical residential museum in the heart of Zona Colonial which was built by Diego Columbus. The ticket to enter was about $2/person. It comes with an audio device where you can learn about the history of the museum and each room. On the second floor, you can see a beautiful view of the river and the Colonial area. We spent about 30-45 minutes here and it's definitely worth visiting if you are in the colonial area. It was not crowded and the staffs were pleasant.

My bad luck, past 3 trips, I have encountered something like this every trip. Chicago- bean was under construction. Acadia, can’t see the sunset due to fog, and now this. The place was closed for renovation. Overlooking the Plaza de España and the Ozama River, the Alcázar de Colón (Columbus Palace) was built in the early 1500s as the governor’s residence. Once the home of Diego Colón, Christopher Columbus' son, this 16th-century viceregal palace (or residence of the governor/viceroy) was the nucleus of the Spanish court for more than 60 years. Explore 22 rooms over two stories inside the restored palace and museum, and see a collection of furniture, household items, artworks, tapestries, musical instruments, and weaponry, which offer a glimpse of life in Colonial Santo Domingo. A tour of the Alcázar de Colón is a must for anyone who wants to learn more about the city's rich history. And be sure to pick up some headphones to take advantage of the museum's self-guided audio tours Today, it’s one of the Colonial Zone’s most popular museums, and houses period furniture, artworks, and artifacts from the 16th century.

The Italian Renaissance inspired Alcazar de Colón [Castle of Columbus] is also called Palacio Virreinal de Diego Colón [Viceroy Palace of James Columbus]. This building was the first viceroy palace in the Americas, along with the home of Colón y Toledo. According to the sign on the outside of the palace, the family built the house by 1511 and lived in the house until 1577. Last restored in 1955, the building is now a historical museum with sporadic opening times. The museum was closed for maintenance during my visit.

We had a guided tour. It was facinating to learn about the history of these Spanish upper.class that came to live in Santo Domingo. Much of the furniture and decorations are original, even if the actual structure is not. Most notable was that Christopher Columbus son and his wife were the ones to occupy the palace. Really, quite exceptional to see

Museum is reasonably interesting but quite small with little description on the artifacts. Audioguides are given out at the entrance however I had a tour goide and don't believe I got as much out of it as I might have, since explanation was about little other than it being Christopher Columbus' house which was destroyed by Frances Drake. It's unfortunate the remainder of the building to give a truer idea of how the place functioned.

The place is well preserve with lots of history. Very detailed information from the old days of the Spanish high class. The audio gadget is a great help and nice way to get know about all things that are shown.

This Is an Adventure, Riding The Horses up to the extraction point was fun. But having to climb down the rocks to get there is a work out , specially climb all 387 steps back up, and make Sure its not going to Rain 🙏💯. ....

Gorgeous waterfall! The water was so refreshing to swim in after we arrived. Our kids ages 12-17 loved the adventure and the falls. We brought our own guide who grew up in the area. We paid $2 for parking and choose to walk to the falls. From the parking area it was approx. 3 miles round trip. The path was muddy but it was slit of embracing the experience, getting dirty and just enjoying the moment. The dirt and mud washes off and you’re left with amazing experiences. We choose not to ride the horses B/c we enjoy hiking. The horses looked like fun but just not our style. They have a little village set up as you descend the final 300 steps to the falls. They have vendors, a “fake” ticket booth with a “fake” security guard trying to enforce you buying tickets. I had read about this and also our local guide didn’t let them scam us. We were just polite and we walked in. This hike and experience is a must if you’re in the area. Enjoy!!

Hidden gem located in Samana province, DR. Gorgeous waterfall - serene and very picturesque. Bit hard to reach and the path is rocky, and steep at some places - you can hire a horse (30 min ride) that comes with a person who will guide the horse and will stay with you during the trip - about 3 hours in total or you can hike if you are in a good shape. The horse ride seems difficult at some points, but you are good if you can hold the saddle and trust the horse. It's definitely worth it and must see if you like nature and adventure. You can also swim in its cool refreshing water. The guide also took our group pictures. Please take water and some tipping cash with you. Horse rides and the tip support the local economy, too. Enjoyed the falls ... one of the best i have seen so far ..

If you are fit, you can and should enjoy this experience. You will be awwwwed after a guided horse ride to the mountain you will decent and then climb back up to ride horses back to base.

This was one of the main highlights of the Dominican Republic. We took an excursion from Punta Cana to Samana because it's hard to get to this place without renting a car. Beautiful waterfall but you have to either take a horse ride or walk through rough muddy terrain. We took the horse ride but we feel guilty doing so since the terrain is rough and the horses are not treated so well. They beat horses to speed up and get you as fast as possible. The horses and I almost slipped into a rock multiple times throughout the ride. The horse guide will be with you throughout the time. They were pretty nice and helpful. They carried our bags and even took our pictures at the waterfall which is beautiful. Make sure you carry a good amount of cash because they do expect a good tip. She was not so happy even though I tipped her generously. I would definitely rent some hiking boots and walk myself next time which not only saves you money but will be a hassle-free trip.

Wow it was amazing to walk those trails to arrive to those amazing waterfalls... You have the big one but there a smaller one down a few stairs ... For some people the water could be cold but good! make sure to have water shoes because of the rocks.... Go early to get good pictures before there too many peoples :) this is a very easy hike, you don't need any guides or horses, but if you have walking problems do no recommend but there is always the horses that I refuse to use cause they dont look in good shape. And don't forget to take your trash please!

If you love animals I would not recommend. I read some reviews saying the horses are treated well, however I found out the hard way they are not. The terrain the horses walk through can be steep at time or extremely downhill very rocky and muddy, my horse was breathing heavily as it was going uphill. Almost slipped twice I was telling my guide the horse was tired but he kept saying no. The waterfall itself is BEAUTIFUL so so gorgeous . However, I would not do this excursion again if I was in Punta Cana. It was a 2 hour car a ride, a speed boat, a safari ride, then a 30 min horseback ride to finally spend 40 mins at the waterfall. Im not sure of ways to visit the falls with out the horses but if you can go for it.

We come to Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo in Samaná every year. It’s a hidden paradise, perfect for those seeking exclusivity, tranquility, and a next-level experience. From the breathtaking landscapes to the crystal clear waters, this resort has everything you need for a dream vacation. And let me tell you something: you won’t need the pool, because with beaches like these, you simply don’t. What truly makes this place special isn’t just its beauty, it’s the people. We want to sincerely thank Karina from customer service, who always greets us with a smile, kindness, and great attention. She listens carefully to every request and makes sure everything goes perfectly. Her dedication and warmth make us feel right at home every time we return. The hotel is truly five stars: delicious food, comfortable rooms, a stunning environment, and excellent service. The natural beauty of Samaná, combined with the warmth of the staff, makes this place a true paradise. Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo is the perfect destination for those seeking quality time, a beautiful beach, and an unmatched atmosphere. We always leave feeling refreshed and already counting the days until we return.

The bar at Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo truly made our vacation unforgettable! The bartenders greeted us with big smiles, incredible energy, and even remembered our names and favorite drinks by the second day — it felt like family. Every cocktail was perfect — from refreshing mojitos to creamy piña coladas. The vibe was always fun and relaxed, with great music and amazing service from Yan Carlos Aka El Flacooo 10/10! Also from Jorge, Alba and Rosa ☺️👏 The staff go above and beyond — they don’t just make drinks, they create an experience. If you visit Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo, don’t miss the bar — it’s the heart of the resort and one of the best parts of the trip! 🍹✨

This is our 5th time to this resort what more can I say. The entertainment staff are so friendly, amazing, full of energy & most of all very entertaining. The beach is awesone with snorkling around a coral reef meteres from the shore. All the staff are friendly & take care of all your needs. The only draw back are the rooms. They need major renovations. The rooms have not been updated since my first stay. A paint job is not what they need, they need a full demolition & remodrling like their resorts in Punta Cana. Overall it was once again an awesome trip.

Nice Resort, compact in size, something that makes it very confortable with short walks from the rooms to the beach passing thru all the complex takes you no more than five minutes walking. Amazing beach with no other hotels or resorts on its sides, warm, clear and clean water with no Seaweeds. Main restaurant ( Breakfast / Lunch and Dinner buffets) Restaurante El limon with plenty of food options during seven days, waiter service is random but acceptable, nice furniture and plenty of places in and out. Rooms are basic, even Junior Suites, bathrooms outdated with plenty of details to talk about ... but were functional for their purpose. Swimingpool is really good but the sunshades ( big Umbrellas) are not, too small in diameter and do not protect against sun or heat. Beach is amazing, very clean, the sand is cleaned every morning. Unfortunately most of the guest reserve the shades before going to breakfast and the no reservation policy is a joke as no staff member takes care of it ... Good reception and guest relations service everytime we needed. Thematic restaurants with too cold temparatures and no big deal in food quality, they try to cause a good impression but the food quality is not on pair with the thematics ... All in all a nice place to be. The only reaaly bad thing are the rooms very close to the main road and the industrial facility, it is awfully noisy until at least 10:30 / 11:00 pm, no one could even use the room balcony due to the noise levels. Edit: The entertainment team is very good, nice people, fun and welcoming.

The entertainment staff was amazing specially Victor. The staff is what makes this hotel good to go to as there are amazing. The property in beautiful The beachbis amazing the pool is clean,the sports bar is great to relax and have drinks. But I will say the rooms are very outdated ac wasn't working in our 1st room and had a horrible odor .. our 2nd room was slightly better but had a bad sewer odor the bathroom was falling apart a bunch of rust fell from under the bathroom sink the toilet had a leak and there were roaches in the bathroom. But I will say the staff made it for it all as there so friendly and accommodating..

I visited this hotel at the beginning of October 2025 with my family. We upgraded our room to be closer to the pool and buffet restaurant, which I highly recommend for guests with reduced mobility. However, the air conditioning in the room was not very effective; it was quite hot and made it somewhat difficult to sleep at night. The buffet restaurant was excellent, offering a good variety of dishes every day, which is not always common in buffet-style dining. The hotel has a dedicated kids’ pool with water slides and a smaller pool area for children right next to the adult pool, which is very convenient. Unfortunately, the smaller kids’ pool was problematic because swim diapers were not mandatory, and some babies soiled the pool, forcing it to close regularly. Swim diapers should be mandatory to prevent this issue. All the bartenders and restaurant staff were very friendly, and the nightly shows were also very entertaining.

Beautiful resort with great food and friendly staff. The beach is amazing! The restaurants are delicious and the resort is super clean and Yohania was very helpful! Drinks are great too! Would definitely come back again

It's a perfect swimming spot for family to spend a whole day here. The 💦 water is crystal clear and clean. You are 🚫 not allowed to bring your own food 🥑 and 🍻 drinks here. But there is a restaurant inside, the only thing you need to do is to bring your credit 💳 card to go. I had lunch there and paid cash but no change for me, and the staffs only speak 🗣️ Spanish. The entry fee is DOP400 per person for swimming, zip line with a surcharge.

Bring your bathing suite and jump in the water. There's a cave you can walk into. You can jump off the ledge into the lagoon. 3 lagoons. One was closed off. Locals really like this place.

if you want to brighten up half a day with these beautiful lagoons, I advise you to come on weekdays and in the morning, otherwise there are a lot of people!) a beautiful place with a cool restaurant and slides for children, there is a cave with bats that fly right past you, in the lagoons there are fish and turtles, literally swimming with you!🥹

Top 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ favatorite places to go with the family. I love it♥️!

It's a beautiful park but do not drop off the zipline there it's way too dangerous and there is no coastguard, no near by hospital. Anyone could easily get really hurt or killed and there's no nursery room or paramedic in place either, you would be all on your own! Do not take the risk!!

A very beautiful park to visit. The cave is cool to see and visit. The lagoon was AMAZING to jump into. It will take your breath away it's so cold, but once you get in you won't want to leave! They do have 2 different lagoons to choose from to swim in.

Beautiful park with a couple of fabulous blue lagoons and lots of tropical fish. Zip line that they allow you to drop about 50ft into 75 ft perfectly clear water. Lots of children’s activities. Food was OK. President was perfect and almost frozen. Costs $400 dop per adult and $200.00 DOP for toddlers. To go from Sosua to here by Taxi cost $200usd. Makes for a great day trip.

You need to go in a small group to share the boat fee $50 USD but the experience is worth it. Everyone in DR are nice but wear sunscreen since the boat don’t have a cover.

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We absolutely loved this place. Take the motor boat through the mangroves and watch for the birds and wildlife that surrounds you. Then the boat will exit at sea and you will be amazed by the beauty of the clear blue waters and cliffs. Amazing experience for the whole family!

One of the most beautiful natural beauties of the DR. I highly recommend the boat tour across the lagoon and out to sea.

Wonderful visit to Laguna Gri Gri, a natural and must see in Río San Juan est of Puerto Plata in about 1:20 minutes ride enjoy it

It’s always a beautiful trip

Laguna in itself is not much to write home about. Boat trip may be worth it. Overall a good quick stopover.

Nice little beach with lots of shade. It's clean , popular on weekends. The bay is protected from big waves so it's nice even if the ocean is stormy. Food and drinks are available, friendly staff.

A charming, small beach with calm, clear waters. Perfect for families and those seeking tranquility. Limited amenities, so pack accordingly. Beautiful sunsets. Worth a visit for a relaxing beach day.

The beach is beautiful. There is an island in the middle which shelters it from the elements. So, the water is always calm and great for swimming. People are very nice on the beach. They will get you everything you need. The prices are much cheaper than playa Sosua. Do not go there for the weekend as it gets crowded, but Tue, Wed, Thur are perfect. A drive from Sosua is about an hour.

Been going to this beach now for almost 4 years, it’s a nice calm bay but again when we went it’s a little more wave than most days. It’s normally like a nice pool. There’s really only 1 vendors here and during a weekend or on a holiday it is packed!! But I do love the stillness of the waters on majority of the days

It is a very nice beach but the vendors miss you the day if you drink something and you want tables or chairs they will charge you even though you have consumed something although the drinks bill was not small.....above all, please inquire first what the fun costs

Playa Caleton is a wonderful small beach on the northern coast of DR. It’s a great spot to spend a few hours and experience the wonderful beaches of the area. The water is warm and clear and I love the fact that there are a few natural wave breakers in the distance that allows for calm waters.

It is a “little” secret beach about an hour drive from Cabarete. We really liked it, the staff was friendly and I could rent a snorkel and I found many shells. I recommend this place more than Playa Grande which is near to this place. It is perferct for rest, snorkel and just to have a good day in the Dominican Republic.

Gorgeous waterfall with a small pool but unfortunately you cannot swim or paddle there. You park at the barrier for 150 pesos, then walk a little way down the road then enter on the LHS. The path is a series of small flights of stairs up and down and you cross some hanging bridges to get to the lookout point. It's an easy walk unless you have trouble with stairs.

This is a great place to go on an easy hike, enjoy nature, or just chill at the river! If you want to enter the park, make sure you get there before 4. It’s about a 25 minute walk in and another 25 on the walk out so they don’t let visitors in. Also, right next to the entrance there’s another path (outside the park) that leads you down the river to some amazing views and small falls. I did it in flip flops, but you may want to wear more comfortable shoes, especially if it’s raining.

I really liked the experience of visiting this place, even though I was filled with a lot of fear on the bridges it was an incredible experience, the breeze, the atmosphere, I really liked it a lot. Seeing how nature is reflected in this area was incredible, what I liked most of all were the different points of green area it has and its beautiful waterfall.

Nice big waterfall. Like 15 min walk on some bridges with plants and the lake on the side/under. You wont get wet dont worry, and the road is built well. Thing is, you’re like 100 meters away from it and cant get in the water - but might be worth the small walk. For Americans, 100 meters is like a football field. After you exit the waterfall there is a nice walk in the woods you can take and sit on the river and even go in if you like - its cold!

The water was so refreshing 😊beautiful place to visit

A must see ,family fun good exercise and natural beauty

Amazing place, beautiful,I love it