TRAVEL
The Dominican Republic
Travel Guide
January 22, 2026
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, sip, and shop in the Dominican Republic according to Tuckernuck.
The DR Look
Laid-back, casual, and bohemian—think relaxed Caribbean vibes. It’s hot and humid, so keep it easy, unfussy, and never too fancy. Pack lightweight dresses, sandals, and lots of linen and swimwear.
Getting There
Fly into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) or Santo Domingo (SDQ). It’s an easy car ride to the coast, and the scenery only gets better as the sea comes into view. You don’t need to overthink logistics once you arrive—most resorts arrange transfers.
Lounge at Playa Grande Beach
Spend the day at this public beach lined with local food huts. Order fresh fish, sip something cold, and enjoy the views.
Swim at La Piscina Natural
Calm, clear, glass-blue water makes this spot feel like nature’s own swimming pool.
Explore Cabarete
Take a day trip to this lively beach town about 45 minutes from Playa Grande, known for kite surfing, cafés, and laid-back surfer town energy.
Visit Río San Juan
Explore the nearby town and don’t miss Laguna Gri Gri, where mangroves, boats, and crystal-clear water feel straight out of a movie.
Island hideaways, glamorous resorts,
and design-lover favorites.
Playa Grande Beach Club
Designed by Celerie Kemble, this private boutique resort feels like stepping into a colorful Caribbean storybook. Playful pastels, whitewashed bungalows, and total barefoot luxury.
Casa Las Olas
A sister property to Playa Grande, this 11-bedroom villa is great for big families or friend groups who want privacy, space, and that tucked-away feeling.
Amanera
Perched on the cliffs overlooking Playa Grande, Amanera is pure serenity—sweeping views, modern design, and that signature Aman tranquility.
Casa de Campo
Iconic, sprawling, and full of things to do, from golf to beaches to a full cultural village, Casa de Campo is great for families, groups, and adventure seekers.
Fresh fish, beachside bites,
and plantains for days.
Playa Grande Beach Vendors
Like an open-air food court, local vendors serve up DR favorites right on the beach, from fresh fish and grilled meats to fruits, drinks, and all the plantains.
Playa Grande Beach Club
If you’re staying here, the airy on-property restaurant is exceptional—fresh, flavorful, and exactly what you want after a day in the sun.
SBG
Chic and buzzy, SBG delivers a night out with cocktails, live music, and candlelit tables by the water—come for dinner, stay for dancing.
Chilango Taquería
Chilango Taquería keeps things fun and unfussy with amazing tacos, icy margaritas, and a lively crowd. It’s a favorite casual stop.
Minitas Beach Club
A go-to “long lunch that turns into sunset cocktails” spot, where the food is delicious and the service is easygoing.
Limoncello
Overlooking the Casa de Campo marina, Limoncello dishes out classic Italian in a breezy, romantic setting that makes you want to linger.
La Yola
Punta Cana’s La Yola feels like dining on a chic sailboat—open-air deck, fresh seafood, and glowing lanterns made for date night.
Pat’e Palo
Set in the historic Colonial Zone, Pat’e Palo is a European-style bistro with Caribbean flair. Go for great people-watching and live music nearby.
For nightcaps or all-nighters,
whatever you choose.
SBG
This is where we go to make a night of it at Casa de Campo. The music is always good, the crowd is dressed up, and the vibe gets better as the evening progresses.
Genesis
If you still have energy after dinner, head to Genesis. It turns into a real late-night scene with a DJ and that “we’re not going home yet” vibe.
Onno’s
Right on the sand, Onno’s is the spot for a casual night of beach-bar cocktails, people-watching, and music that keeps you ordering just one more.
Riva Bar
This cocktail bar at Eden Roc Cap Cana serves elevated drinks in a breezy, stylish setting—an easy first stop for the evening.
Island treasures, artisan pieces,
and a few truly special finds.
Altos de Chavón
Perched above the river, this replica 16th-century Mediterranean village is a must for art collectors, with contemporary Caribbean works and handcrafted sculptures throughout.
Jenny Polanco
A Dominican fashion icon known for timeless resort staples, her boutique is a must for effortless Caribbean glamour.
Larimar Jewelry
Found only in the DR, this pale-blue gemstone is as stunning as the ocean. Look for locally made earrings, pendants, and one-of-a-kind keepsakes.
Casa Alfarera Santo Domingo
The ceramics at Casa Alfarera are thrown, glazed, and fired in-house, so each piece feels personal and collected.
A little adventure, a little relaxation—the ideal island mix.
Donkey Polo
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like, and it’s absolutely worth seeing. It’s chaotic, hilarious, and very “only-in-the-DR.” Even if you don’t play, watching is half the fun.
Iconic Golf Courses
Playing Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo is bucket-list level. The ocean winds, the cliffside holes—it’s one of those rounds you talk about long after the trip ends.
Kids’ Camps & Family Fun
Many resorts, including Casa de Campo, offer fully supervised, play-all-day kids’ programs, so adults can sneak off for the spa, beach, or a long lunch.
Beach Hopping
Start at Playa Grande for that iconic sand and food huts, then head to Minitas Beach for calm and lounging. If you’re up for a day trip, Bahía de las Águilas is worth the journey.
We hope this inspires you
to book a trip, pack your bags,
and plan your itinerary!