The Dominican Republic is an amazing place to visit. With its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and friendly people, it’s no wonder that the DR is a popular tourist destination.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, the island has something for everyone. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the 15 best beaches in Dominican Republic.
From secluded coves to world-famous surfing spots, these beaches have it all. So what are you waiting for? Pack your sunscreen and your best beachwear, and get ready for a vacation of a lifetime!
The 15 best beaches in the Dominican Republic
1. Playa Grande — Rio San Juan
Playa Grande is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic to visit for a great time in the sun. It has a rustic charm with a one-mile stretch of powdery sand, lush greenery, and pool-like water.
It’s usually less crowded than the bigger beach towns like Punta Cana, so it’s perfect for a peaceful escape. The beach is conveniently situated between the towns of Río San Juan and Cabrera in the province of María Trinidad, making it easily accessible for day trips from Cabarete or Puerto Plata.
At Playa Grande, you can find every beach day convenience like showers and bathrooms for changing and a picnic area. It also offers several water activities, as well as restaurants, chair and umbrella rentals, so you can make the most out of your day. If you want to venture around, you can take short excursions to nearby attractions like Gri-Gri Lagoon, a bird sanctuary, and the Cueva de las Golondrinas.
If you are looking for resorts nearby, the Amanera and The Balaji Palace at Playa Grande are great choices.
2. Playa Rincón — Samana Peninsula
Playa Rincón is a great beach in the Dominican Republic due to its stunning natural beauty and seclusion. Located on the Samana Peninsula, the beach is easily accessed by boat from the nearby town of Las Galeras, just a 30-minute journey away. The two-mile-long beach is made up of soft, powdery white sand and dotted with leaning coconut trees.
The aquamarine waters are calm and inviting, perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and snorkeling. The atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil, and the secluded nature makes it a great spot to relax without any distractions.
The protected cove also offers a great swimming spot with consistently calm waters. There is a restaurant and several food stands near the beach, as well as chair rentals. Playa Rincón is an idyllic Caribbean beach with lots of activities to do, and its remote location makes it the perfect place to escape the crowds.
3. Bahía de Las Aguilas — Pedernales
Located near the town of Pedernales on the Caribbean coast, Bahía de Las Aguilas is a great beach because of its unique location, stunning beauty, and abundance of wildlife.
This five-mile-long stretch of sugar-like white sand and crystal-clear blue waters is part of Jaragua National Park, a UNESCO-designated natural reserve. It is one of the least crowded beaches in the Dominican Republic, making it perfect for those looking for a peaceful, relaxing experience.
The beach also offers beautiful views and activities for everyone. The waters are calm and perfect for swimming, and the coral reefs are home to an array of vibrant sea life. You can also explore the cliffs and giant boulders dotting the shore or take in the spectacular scenery of the park.
For a truly unique experience, take a boat tour from Cabo Rojo and explore the remote Bahía de Las Aguilas.
4. Juan Dolio Beach
Juan Dolio Beach is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic for its vibrant and lively atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for those seeking an exciting and entertaining beach vacation.
Located between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, it has a 6-mile-long stretch of golden sand surrounded by coconut palms, offering a perfect spot to sunbathe and look out to the turquoise waves. You will find tourists and locals alike taking advantage of the numerous amenities, such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and beach bars.
The beach is great for active people, offering fun activities such as snorkeling, beach volleyball, and banana boating. Lastly, the nearby coral reef provides a great opportunity to explore the underwater world.
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5. Playa Cabarete
The ideal spot for watersports lovers looking for an adrenaline rush, Playa Cabarete offers a variety of activities for everyone. You can try kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and paddle boarding here.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the beach also offers plenty of loungers, umbrellas for shade, and a spacious parking lot.
If you want to explore nearby attractions, try the Parque Nacional El Choco and Las Cuevas de Cabarete, where you can hike, bike, and swim in the lagoons.
The beach is also surrounded by a vibrant village full of restaurants serving delicious Dominican food and lively bars and clubs.
6. Playa Dorada — Puerto Plata
Situated on the Amber Coast, offering stunning views of the mountains, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters, Playa Dorada is one of my favorites in Puerto Plata. It is located near the city center and is easily accessible.
The beach provides an array of recreational activities, such as diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and golf. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of restaurants and beach bars serving up local fare and refreshing drinks.
This is a family-friendly beach, with its calm waters and smaller resorts that provide a relaxed atmosphere.
7. Bavaro Beach — Punta Cana
Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana is one of the most popular beaches in the Dominican Republic for its soft, white sand and crystal clear and turquoise waters.
It’s 25 miles long, making it the longest beach in Punta Cana, and it welcomes close to one million people each year. With its sandy shore being ideal for couples and families, it is no wonder why it is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic.
The waters of Bavaro Beach are calm and inviting, perfect for swimming and enjoying various water activities like parasailing and boat rides. There is also a protected reef area for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Aside from the beach, Bavaro Beach is also surrounded by shopping venues and different-styled restaurants, making it a great destination for foodies. It is also conveniently located only 20 minutes away from the Punta Cana airport.
Bavaro Beach provides plenty of luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts to choose from. It is the perfect destination for resort lovers and luxury travelers.
Also check out my extensive list of Things to do in Punta Cana.
8. Playa Boca Chica
Located just 20 miles from the capital city of Santo Domingo, Playa Boca Chica is easily accessible and offers plenty of amenities. The waters are very calm due to a huge crescent-shaped coral reef, making it perfect for families with small children.
Swimming, sailing, and beach volleyball tournaments are popular activities, and there are plenty of opportunities to rent chairs and umbrellas, as well as enjoy local restaurants and food stands.
In addition, the beach is usually less crowded during the weekdays and can provide a peaceful and serene experience.
9. La Playita Beach — Las Galeras
La Playita Beach in Las Galeras is a great beach to visit in the Dominican Republic due to its diamond-white shores, sparkling sapphire water, and stunning panoramic views.
The entire beachfront area is graced by huge coconut palms, and the shallow beaches radiate a range of turquoise, green, and blue shades that are unparalleled. You can find calm waters, perfect for swimming, and rent chairs and palapas from beachside vendors.
10. Punta Rucia
Punta Rucia is a great beach because of its peaceful atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of activities.
The white sand beach is surrounded by mountain landscapes and is protected from the wind, making it a great spot for all kinds of beach activities. Snorkeling and diving around Cayo Arena are especially popular activities for visitors wanting to explore the nearby coral reef.
The beach is also close to the Estero Hondo Marine Mammal Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of birds. For those wanting more adventure, Punta Rucia is just a short boat ride away from Paradise Island, a popular destination for kiteboarders.
There are not a lot of rentals here, but this helps keep the beach uncrowded, allowing visitors to enjoy the serenity of the area.
11. Kite Beach — Cabarete
As its name suggests, Kite Beach is the perfect place for both experienced and beginner kitesurfers. It offers a wide sandy shoreline and sapphire blue waters, making it a great destination for those looking for an adventure in the Dominican Republic.
For those more competitive, the annual Master of the Ocean world championship, held in late February, is a great place to show off your skills. The atmosphere is friendly, and newcomers to the sport of kiting are always welcome, with several kiteboarding schools offering lessons.
In the mornings, the waves are relatively gentler, and the wind isn’t too strong, making it a great time to visit with kids or beginners.
12. Playa Fronton
Offering a secluded and private experience for beachgoers, Playa Fronton is a great place to keep in mind when planning your trip to the Dominican Republic.
Crystal clear waters, a sandy shoreline lined with lush palm trees, and dramatic black cliffs that frame the horizon make it an amazing place to relax and snap some pics for Instagram. The beach is only accessible by boat, or if you feel adventurous, a two-hour hike from Las Galeras. It’s not the easiest beach to get to, but one of the best.
The beach has been a set location for the Pirates of the Caribbean, making it a must-visit destination.
13. Playa Bahoruco — Barahona
Bahoruco Beach is the perfect destination for beachgoers looking for a fun and thrilling experience. The beach is located on the southern coast of Barahona and is fronted by the Barceló Bahoruco Resort.
The palm-fringed shoreline is remarkable, and the aquamarine waters are perfect for surfing. The lack of any residential or commercial buildings ensures the coast remains pristine, giving the beach its untouched vibe.
If you want to adventure in the waves, make sure you are a strong swimmer because it has strong undercurrents. Playa Bahoruco is also a great spot for those specifically looking to surf, as it is known to be one of the top surfing destinations on the island.
The beach is well-equipped for other activities as well, such as boating, kite surfing, ziplining, and outdoor activities at nearby Casa Bonita.
14. Playa Sosúa
Playa Sosúa is an incredible beach located in the north of the Dominican Republic, and it offers a wide variety of activities and amenities. Its crescent-shaped coastline, golden sand, and sparkling cerulean waters make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to get away and experience a bit of paradise.
This beach is approximately twenty minutes east of Puerto Plata and is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, bodyboarding, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, catamaran sailing, and banana boating.
The beach also features plush seaside resorts, open-air bars, restaurants, and tourist-oriented shops, giving visitors plenty to do. Additionally, breathtaking sunsets make for the perfect backdrop for visitors to take in the majestic beauty of the beach.
15. Macao Beach — Punta Cana
Macao Beach is located close to Punta Cana and is one of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic for its stunning natural beauty, powdery white sand, and towering coconut trees. Its pristine azure waters provide a picturesque backdrop for activities like surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
The moderate swell provides a perfect opportunity for beginner and intermediate surfers, who can take classes from the Macao Surf Camp. There is a beachfront restaurant that serves delicious Dominican cuisine like shellfish stew and paella.
The beach is a UNESCO site, and its undisturbed natural beauty is in stark contrast to the urban developments in the area. The beach’s immaculate white sand and lush palm trees provide a sense of tranquility and peace, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.
My Top Tips for a memorable beach experience in the Dominican Republic
Visit one of the country's most popular beaches
A must-visit, Playa Bávaro is the most popular beach in the Dominican Republic. It has been a set location for the popular television show Survivor, and it is a great destination for family vacations.
Located in the Punta Cana region, this beautiful shoreline has crystal-clear water that is the perfect temperature for all kinds of water activities.
Along with swimming, you can enjoy activities such as beach volleyball, soccer, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, boating, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and more. There are also many resorts nearby, offering great amenities and stunning views.
Enjoy some water sports
Visiting the Dominican Republic is a great opportunity to experience some of the most amazing beaches in the world and take part in some of the most exciting water sports activities. Some of my favorite water activities are:
- Kitesurfing on Kite Beach,
- Sailing around the island on a catamaran from Bavaro Beach,
- Surfing waves on Playa Cabarete,
- Boogie boarding on Playa Bahoruco,
- Jet skiing on Playa Fronton,
- Kayaking on Playa Dorada,
- And snorkeling pretty much on every beach, they all have amazing reefs.
Go to the beach in the evening
Most people go to the beach in the morning and afternoon, but it’s the evening when the beaches come alive! Magnificent sunsets, music, dancing, and amazing food and drinks are what you should expect.
Whether you want to watch the waves, sip on a tasty drink, or dance to the music, the beaches of the Dominican Republic come alive in the evening.
Relax and take a stroll on the beach
Just what the doctor ordered, taking a stroll along the shoreline, admiring the beautiful scenery of the Dominican Republic.
You can stop at various points along the beach to take in the majestic views, listen to the sound of the waves, and feel the refreshing breeze.
Enjoy the local cuisine
The Dominican Republic is well known for its amazing Caribbean food. Visit one of the many oceanfront restaurants and try some of the local fish and seafood. Explore the local cuisine by trying dishes that are combinations of Taino, Spanish, and African influences.
And don’t forget the specialty cocktails like Mamajuana and Ponche Crema. Each place makes it slightly different, so try it in multiple locations.
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FAQ
Which part of Dominican Republic has the best beaches?
In my opinion, the best beaches in the Dominican Republic can be found on the east side, around Punta Cana.
The major tourist areas are Puerto Plata, La Romana, and Punta Cana, with each region offering a unique beach experience. The north side of the Dominican Republic is full of soft white sand beaches, perfect for the water sports enthusiast, while the south side is home to both white sand and pebbled beaches.
The far east of the island, in and around Punta Cana, where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean Sea, has the best beaches and is full of luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts.
What activities can I do on the beach in Dominican Republic?
You can find pretty much every water activity imaginable in the Dominican Republic:
- At Playa Bahia de Las Águilas, activities include swimming, snorkeling, boating, sunbathing, and creating oceanfront picnics.
- At Playa Rincón, you can relax on beach loungers, work on your tan, and go bodysurfing, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
- For those looking for a family-friendly beach, Juanillo Beach offers beach volleyball, soccer, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, catamaran sailing, and more.
- Kite Beach is a top spot for water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, SUP, and surfing.
Are there any resorts near the beach in Dominican Republic?
Absolutely, you can find beach-front resorts pretty much everywhere around the island. If you are looking for a resort-style experience while enjoying the beauty of the Dominican Republic beaches, you should consider Playa Dorada, Playa Bavaro, and Playa Grande.
- Playa Dorada is known for its mountain views, soft sand, and sparkling waters.
- Playa Bavaro boasts 25 miles of coastline and is a great spot for families and adults.
- Playa Grande is a private beach area with two main resort hotels, spas, a golf course, beach clubs, and clear blue waters for snorkeling and scuba diving.
What are the amenities on the beach in Dominican Republic?
The amenities on the beaches in the Dominican Republic vary from beach to beach, but most of them offer:
- Showers and restrooms
- Tables and chairs
- Beach loungers and umbrellas
- Gear Rentals
Is there a suitable beach for kitesurfing in Dominican Republic?
Yes, the Dominican Republic has beautiful beaches for kitesurfing, in fact, one of the most popular ones is Kite Beach in Cabarete.
Kite Beach is one of the top kitesurfing destinations in the world and is home to the Master of the Ocean watersports championship. Not only is the area perfect for kitesurfing, but it is also suitable for surfing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
With the most consistent surf in the eastern half of Hispaniola, beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels of riders can all enjoy the fun. The coast of Kite Beach is quite long, and there are several restaurants and bars in front of the beach.
Playa Encuentro, another popular beach for watersports, is located just 20 minutes away from Kite Beach. There are multiple offshore breaks at Playa Encuentro, which provide a variety of difficulties and perfect conditions for kitesurfing between September and April.
Are there any beach rentals available in Dominican Republic?
Yes, many companies in the Dominican Republic’s beaches offer beach rentals such as lounge chairs, umbrellas, and tables. If you are staying in a resort, they usually have everything you need for the beach on site.
When it comes to activities, you can find kayaks, SUPs, and jet skis available for rent pretty much everywhere.
Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of when visiting the beach in Dominican Republic?
In general, the Dominican Republic is safe for tourists, just use common sense while visiting. I recommended staying at a resort, traveling within a group of two or more people, and letting others know your plans in advance.
As far as the water, some of the beaches can experience undercurrents and rip tides from time to time, which take you out to sea. If you ever find yourself caught in one, keep calm and swim sideways, not against the current towards the shore. Once you are out of the rip tide, swim back to the shore. Most places have lifeguards on duty, so you will be safe.
For more details, also read my Dominican Republic Travel Tips.
Are there any beachfront restaurants or bars in Dominican Republic?
Yes, there are several beachfront restaurants and bars in the Dominican Republic.
- Juanillo Beach has a restaurant called Little John, which serves Caribbean cuisine and drinks.
- Sosua Beach has several seaside restaurants and beach bars where you can sample local cuisine, such as Pollo Guisado and tostones.
- At Juan Dolio Beach, enjoy a wide array of delicious Caribbean dishes and fresh seafood.
Which are the beaches in the Dominican Republic without seaweed?
The best beaches in the Dominican Republic that do not have seaweed during the seaweed season are those located around Cabarete and La Romana.
Clean-up crews comb the beaches each morning to ensure they are free of seaweed. Some of the beaches around these areas include Playa Encuentro and Punta Popy Beach in Cabarete, La Playita Beach, and Caleta Beach in La Romana.
Which part of the Dominican Republic has calm beaches?
The Dominican Republic’s calmest beaches can be found on the southern shores, particularly in Boca Chica, La Romana, and Bayahibe because they are located in coves and protected from the surf by coral reefs. Great places for families with little ones.
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The Best Beaches in the Dominican Republic
So, there you have it! The 15 best beaches in the Dominican Republic in 2025. I hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun.
Before traveling to the Dominican Republic, make sure to also check my Complete Packing List.
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. And, if you know of a great beach that we missed, be sure to let me know so I can add it to the list!
