Dominican Republic Travel Guide

Surfing

Both the Atlantic and Caribbean coasts see some decent waves, and with warm temperatures like these, you can leave your wetsuit at home. The north coast trumps the south coast when it comes to reliable waves – with beach breaks, points and reefs alike. Winter months (November to March) generally see the biggest swell, while the rest of the year tends to be a little tamer.

Near Puerto Plata, Cabarete on the Amber Coast has evolved from diddy fishing village to a buzzing surfer’s hub, with surf schools and beach shacks galore. Ten minutes out of town, Playa Encuentro is nicknamed the DR’s surfing capital and probably one of the best surfing spots in the Caribbean, with a number of peaks suited to different levels (they host the Master of the Ocean competition here around February).

On the east coast at Punta Cana, Macao beach is a hot spot, with beach breaks (left and right-handers), clear waters and lines of palms ahead of you as you ride back to the shore. Caligula’s popular with experienced surfers for its outer reef break and powerful barrels.

The Caribbean Sea on the south coast might be better known for its still waters, but that’s not to say you can’t find a good wave – Paraiso and San Rafael are two of Barahona’s most popular surf spots, while Haina’s Manresa and Chinchorro are good for advanced riders.

Windsurfing & kitesurfing

While Cabarete and the beaches on the north coast are brilliant for experts (Cabarete often hosts the world cup), Punta Cana’s calmer breezes are excellent if you want to learn to windsurf or work on technique (Macao beach is a favourite). January, February, July and August traditionally see the best conditions, though you can usually find good winds throughout the year.

One beach trumps all others in this department, and to avoid confusion they’ve sensibly named it Kite beach. Over in Cabarete, this place is worth a visit if only for the sight of the bright blue sky dotted with all colours as kiters take to the waters. If you’re itching to have a go, the surf shacks on the beachfront offer rental and lessons.

The MaiTai Global freestyle competition takes place here every year (part of the World Kiteboarding League), with pro kiters doing what they do best. If you’re in the area when it’s on (usually around July) it’s a sight to behold and the atmosphere’s amazing.

Sailing

The Dominican coastline is dotted with marinas, and some of the all-inclusive resorts put on sailing lessons for guests, with schools available for children and adults. There are also a gaggle of independent sailing centres providing classes, clinics and charter. The north coast’s Puerto Plata area has some cracking spots, especially over in surfy Cabarete, where they host the Caribbean Laser Regatta. In Samana, there are some excellent sailing centres where you can charter sailboats and tour the peninsular. Punta Cana and La Romana’s sailing scene is more focussed on crewed excursions for sunset tours and trips to Saona Island – perfect if you want to experience the area from the deck but prefer someone else at the helm.

Fishing

There’s some incredible fishing to be had off the Dominican coast, with shared and private charters putting you in the best spots for a catch on nearshore, offshore and deep-sea fishing trips. Popular Punta Cana deep sea catches include barracuda, wahoo, white marlin and tuna, while La Romana and Bayahibe’s bright blue waters are perfect for catches of big game fish like king mackerel and mahi-mahi. Fishing in Samana comes with the added chance of whale spotting for the ultimate marine life experience. Inland, there’s lake fishing at Lago Hatillo.

Canoeing & kayaking

From the handcrafted canoes of the indigenous Taino tribes to today’s high-performance kayaks, paddling has always been a super way to explore the Dominican Republic. Some beach resorts have a fleet of sea kayaks for guests, otherwise you’ll find local companies providing lessons, rental and tours. Pootle around the headland and discover hidden coves, stopping to snorkel and sunbathe on a sea kayak trip. Inland, embark on river tours through tropical forests and mangroves, stopping off for rope swings and waterfalls. The prospect of white-water kayaking has created several excursions to Jarabacoa, and there are also more family-friendly rapids in the Cordillera Septentrional.

Cycling & mountain biking in Dominican Republic

When a nation is mainly covered in mountains, you can be sure to find some spectacular MTB trails – and you don’t always have to stay inland to enjoy them. There are some terrific day trips into the Cordillera Septentrional and El Choco National Park from Puerto Plata. Serious road biking isn’t catered for here, but for a more leisurely bike ride, Punta Cana’s rugged paths around Cabeza de Toro and Cap Cana are a cracking way to enjoy the region on two wheels.

Walking & hiking in Dominican Republic

From beach walks and coastal paths to serious hikes up Pico Duarte (the Caribbean’s highest mountain) – this might not be the first activity that springs to mind when you think of the Dom Rep, but there are tons of trails to get your feet stuck into. Popular excursions take you on jungle treks, or into the countryside to meet coffee and cacao growers. There’s no end of day trails from Puerto Plata, the National Park del Este and Samana (we love the 2.5km trek to the El Limon Waterfall).