Places in the Dominican Republic, the top 10 for 2026

We’ve prepared the definitive ranking of the Top 10 places in the Dominican Republic that should be on your travel bucket list. We’ll also give you key tips on where to stay in the most popular destination, Punta Cana, and how to plan your itinerary strategically so your adventure is truly perfect.

2026 is the ideal year to discover the Caribbean like never before, and the Dominican Republic remains the #1 destination thanks to its unbeatable combination of beaches, history, and adventure. While it’s easy to be tempted by the comfort of a resort, the country hides a world of beauty that ranges from mountain peaks to remote, untouched beaches. It’s time to leave behind the idea that there’s nothing more to see than white sand.

For the forward-thinking traveler already planning a 2026 vacation, the key is diversification. You need a curated list that blends must-see classics — like the historic capital — with emerging ecotourism gems. This way, you can experience the country’s cultural richness and its striking geographic diversity in a single trip.

The top 10 places in the Dominican Republic for 2026

This is the essential destination list, designed to help you experience the island’s diversity:

Punta Cana: The undisputed king and the country’s main tourism hub. Famous for its endless beaches (Bávaro Beach) and extensive hotel infrastructure. It’s also the adventure capital of the east, home to La Hacienda Park, the most complete adventure experience in the country (ziplines, buggies, safari, and more).
Santo Domingo (Colonial Zone): The oldest city in the Americas. A must for immersing yourself in colonial history, with cobblestone streets, museums, and the Primatial Cathedral. It’s the cultural and gastronomic heart of the country.
Bahía de las Águilas (Pedernales): The untouched jewel of the deep south and a major ecotourism trend for 2026. Its 8 kilometers of pristine, undeveloped coastline are ideal for travelers seeking total disconnection and unexplored beaches.
Samaná (Peninsula): The destination for wild nature. Essential for humpback whale watching (January to March) and for visiting El Limón Waterfall, an impressive cascade hidden in the jungle.
Puerto Plata: A city with historic charm. Its main attraction is the cable car that ascends Mount Isabel de Torres, along with its Victorian architecture and Fort San Felipe.
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua: Adventure and natural canyons. The perfect spot for adrenaline seekers who want to slide down natural rock formations and jump into freshwater pools, guided by expert locals.
Saona Island: A postcard-perfect paradise. Accessible via excursion from Punta Cana, this pristine island is famous for its palm trees, shallow turquoise waters, and the iconic natural swimming pool.
Jarabacoa: The “Alps of the Caribbean.” Located in the center of the country, it offers mountain tourism, powerful rivers ideal for rafting, and a cooler climate — perfect for escaping the tropical heat.
Cayo Arena: A tiny sandbank surrounded by turquoise water. It’s the ultimate snorkeling paradise, with abundant marine life and spectacular photo opportunities.
Los Haitises: A national park of dramatic beauty, known for its mangroves, rocky islets (mogotes), and caves with Taíno rock art. It has also served as the setting for several Hollywood films.

Places in the Dominican Republic: Punta Cana as a base of operations (logistics strategy)

For travelers planning to visit several points on the Dominican Republic tourist map, Punta Cana stands out as the best logistical base. Thanks to its unbeatable connectivity through Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), it’s the easiest entry and exit point in the country. Its location also makes it possible to take full-day organized excursions to some of the most sought-after destinations on the list, such as Saona Island, Santo Domingo, and even Samaná.

How to find the best hotel deals in the best places in the Dominican Republic

If your 2026 trip focuses on the most popular destination, follow these tips to secure the best accommodation rates and maximize your budget for things to do in Punta Cana:

Book in advance: For 2026 travel, booking 4 to 6 months ahead ensures better rates, especially during high season (Christmas and Easter).
Smart seasons: Look for travel during low seasons, such as May or September to November, when demand drops and prices are significantly lower than in winter.
Look for packages: “Flight + Hotel” deals often offer better overall value than booking each component separately.

Plan your adventure itinerary

Choosing the destination isn’t enough — you also need to book the experiences that make it unforgettable. If you choose Punta Cana (number 1 on the list), remember that the best way to complement beach relaxation is with a full day of action. Make sure to include an adventure tour in Punta Cana, like the one offered by La Hacienda Park, with an all-inclusive package of ziplines and buggies that delivers the best value for your money.