Punta Cana

Punta Cana, on the easternmost edge of the D.R., is famous for its 40-mile stretch of sugar-white beach dotted with sweeping palm trees and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Home to some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, Punta Cana boasts nearly 20 professionally designed courses offering unforgettable experiences and a view of the Caribbean from the greens. Many resorts offer special packages that include discounted or free greens fees, club and cart rentals. Punta Cana and the surrounding areas have 32 casinos, more than any other island in the Caribbean. Most of this area’s resorts are conveniently located within 30 minutes of Punta Cana International Airport.

PUERTO PLATA

Puerto Plata, on the Dominican Republic’s northern Amber Coast, is a two-mile crescent of powdery amber sands along the sparkling waters of the Atlantic. Within the gated resort area of Playa Dorada is an 18-hole golf course along more than two miles of shoreline. Nearby Cabarete is a cool, hip coastal village known as the world’s kiteboarding and windsurfing capital. Puerto Plata is home to one of the world’s newest cruise terminals, Amber Cove, served by cruise lines including Carnival, Cunard, and Holland America, among others.

SANTO DOMINGO

Santo Domingo is the D.R.’s capital city, and its Colonial Zone includes the Caribbean’s highest concentration of museums and the oldest cathedral in North America, dating from the early 1500s. While it’s located near the sea on the island’s southern coast, most people stay in the capital for proximity to its historic treasures.

LA ROMANA

La Romana is home to luxurious resorts, eco-friendly beaches, and unspoiled natural beauty. While in La Romana, visit the spectacular artist enclave of Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village with cobblestone paths leading to shops featuring traditional Dominican crafts and jewelry, excellent restaurants, and exciting nightlife. La Romana’s a little further from Plata Cana International Airport, about 60 minutes away.

SAMANÁ

Samaná, in the northeastern area of the island, is surrounded by lush mountains, towering forests, secluded beaches, and the world’s largest coconut plantation. Each year from January to March, visitors flock to the region to watch the migration of humpback whales. The charming seaside promenade (known as the Malecón) is lined with fine hotels and welcoming outdoor cafés where you can watch windsurfers and soak in the local flavor.