Dominican Republic
Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic, April 1977, Slim Aarons
The Dominican Republic is known for its beaches, resorts, and golf. Its terrain comprises rainforest, savannah, and highlands, including Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s tallest mountain. Capital city Santo Domingo has Spanish landmarks like the Gothic Catedral Primada de America dating back 5 centuries in its Zona Colonial district. Here is our guide to the Dominican Republic.
STAY
CASA DE CAMPO Casa de Campo is more than a five-star resort, it’s an experience. From a marina and polo facilities to three championship golf courses (including the world-famous Teeth of the Dog), boutiques, an equestrian center, a skeet shooting range, and big-name entertainment venues (with regular concerts by the likes of Marc Anthony and J.Lo), this 7,000-acre island complex is a destination in itself. (Golf carts, provided for every room, help guests navigate it all.) Settle into one of the hotel rooms or villas (the latter look out onto the gardens or the ocean), then go exploring. A favorite onsite activity: a visit to Altos de Chavon, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village with an amphitheater right on the property that’s lined with galleries, working artisan studios, a church, and restaurants. Carretera La Romana - Higuey Hwy, La Romana; casadecampo.com.do
AMENERA The Aman brand is renowned for its signature minimalist luxury, and for opening properties in untapped (or lesser-known) destinations, which explains why a 2,170-acre swath on DR’s quiet northern shore was chosen for its 29th outpost. 24 freestanding casitas and one two-bedroom villa sit on 60-foot cliffs with perfect views of the sea and the mile-long Playa Grande below. Play a round at Aman’s first 18-hole golf course, go kayaking or kiteboarding, explore nearby fishing villages, or just relax on the property—ideally with a spa treatment inspired by the healing traditions of local shamans.
TORTUGA BAY A luxury boutique hotel in the larger Puntacana Resort & Club, set within a 1,500-acre ecological reserve. Tucked away in a private enclave are 13 beachfront villas with interiors by famed Dominican designer Oscar de la Renta, who also designed Tortuga Bay’s restaurants and public spaces. Guests also have access to Puntacana’s facilities— including the beach club, marina, and spa. Auto. 5. Carretera, Carretera, Rio San Juan; aman.com/resorts/amanera
PLAYA GRANDE BEACH CLUB On Dominican Republic’s slightly more wild north shore, interior designer Celerie Kemble and her financier husband wanted to create a low-key beach retreat that had the intimacy of a friend’s private home. Here, Kemble applies her playful aesthetic, a kind of Palm-Beach-meets-island-living-vibe to the immaculate grounds: there are high-back wicker chairs, ikat throw pillows, copper bathtubs, seagrass rugs, and cane furniture. Each white-washed bungalow has its own distinct feel and is lovingly curated with vintage pieces Kemble has hand-picked on her travels as well as those designed by local craftsmen. Cool lattice-framed cabanas dot the lap pool, should you tire of the views on the mile-long private beach. Come evening, much of the activity centers around the Beach Club, which serves up a Caribbean-inflected menu and, of course, strong cocktails and a lively atmosphere. MXHR+6R3, 33000, Dominican Republic; playagrandebeachclub.com
EDEN ROC AT CAP CANA The 30,000 acres that make up this secluded Relais & Châteaux in a gated community on the eastern tip of the country include both resort and residential areas as well as pristine beaches, a Jack Nicklaus golf course, a marina, and, at its center, an idyllic natural forest. Each of the 34 suites features a private pool and chic interiors by Milan-based designer Marina Nova. Though all four restaurants overlook the lagoon, some standouts are the BLUE Grill + Bar, which fuses Japanese and Peruvian flavors and techniques, and La Cava, where you can enjoy a private dinner surrounded by one of the best wine collections in the DR. Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Provincia La Altagracia, Punta Cana; edenroccapcana.com
CASAS DEL XVI Set in Santo Domingo and brimming with historic sites, restaurants, and galleries, the city’s charming colonial district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to Casas del XVI, a collection of boutique hotels set within a restored, 16th-century Spanish Colonial-style house. Each features a different layout and design—one might have a pool, another a garden—and all come with their own butler, concierge, and chef. The most recent home, Casa del Diseno, features a beautiful Royal Suite that can sleep up to four guests. C. Padre Billini No. 252, Santo Domingo; casasdelxvi.com
ST. REGIS CAP CANA The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort is a premier luxury waterfront property, featuring 200 opulent rooms, including swim-up suites and butler service. Situated beside the exclusive Punta Espada Golf Club, it offers nine dining/bar outlets, four pools, a spa, and signature rituals like champagne sabering. Alejandro Acebal of Acebal Canney Arquitectos & Asociados directed the project, featuring an asymmetrical design to mirror the nearby Jack Nicklaus golf course. Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic; marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pujxr-the-st-regis-cap-cana-resort
KIMPTON LAS MERCEDES Kimpton Las Mercedes Santo Domingo, located in the historic Colonial City, is a boutique hotel housed in a renovated 16th-century schoolhouse. It offers a luxury experience with modern amenities, including a rooftop pool, 24-hour fitness center, curated spa treatments, and on-site dining, including Zola restaurant. Calle Las Mercedes 155, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic; ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/us/en/las-mercedes-santo-domingo
DINE | DRINK
CASA LUCA Casa Luca in Santo Domingo is a chic, high-end restaurant in Ensanche Piantini specializing in eclectic international and Italian-influenced cuisine. Founded by the team behind La Cassina, it features spectacular, triple-height architecture, a vibrant bar, and a popular cozy terrace. C. P.º de los Locutores, Santo Domingo 10149, Dominican Republic
OAK ROOM The Oak Room in Santo Domingo is an exclusive, intimate wine bar and lounge known for its sophisticated atmosphere, high-quality cocktails, and curated music. Located within Casa Luca, it offers a refined, speakeasy-style experience featuring premium spirits, champagne, and upscale dining. Torre Corporativa Hábitat Center, Av. Winston Churchill, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
LA CASSINA La Cassina is a premier, sophisticated Mediterranean restaurant known for its elegant yet warm atmosphere, it features high-end à la carte dining, a renowned wine cellar, and a popular, intimate terrace. Av. Roberto Pastoriza 504, Santo Domingo 10147, Dominican Republic
MESÓN DE BARI Mesón de Bari, located in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone, is a renowned restaurant established in 1976, celebrated for authentic Dominican cuisine. It is famous for traditional dishes like oxtail, goat, sancocho, and cativias, offering a historic, art-filled dining atmosphere popular with locals and tourists. C. Hostos 302, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic; restaurantwebexpert.com/MesondeBari
SAN MARZANO San Marzano is a stylish, high-end Mediterranean restaurant located in Blue Mall, Santo Domingo, offering Italian, Spanish, and Arabic-influenced cuisine. Known for its elegant atmosphere featuring warm decor, it serves gourmet dishes like lasagna, risotto, and seafood, with a specialized delicatessen area. Av. Winston Churchill 95, Santo Domingo 10142, Dominican Republic
MYKA A popular frozen yogurt shop from Spain. C. Arzobispo Meriño 256, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
MARIA&MARIA María & María is a popular new bar, restaurant, and late-night dancing spot in Santo Domingo known for its vibrant atmosphere, designed for "tardeo" (afternoon drinks) and socializing. Located in the city, it features shared plates, signature cocktails, and dishes like grilled razor clams, salmon crudo, and slow-cooked lamb.C. Max Henriquez Ureña 22, Santo Domingo 10122, Dominican Republic
MAIALINO A contemporary Italian restaurant located in the heart of Santo Domingo's Ciudad Colonial (Colonial City) on Calle Arzobispo Meriño. It offers a modern, creative twist on traditional Italian cuisine—including signature pastas and thin-crust pizzas—within an intimate, stylish, and historic setting. C. Arzobispo Meriño 10210, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
BAR LUCÍA A Santo Domingo spot for traditional Dominican food. F4F7+GVH, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
KAHKOW A hands-on chocolate museum, factory, and shop where you can learn about the history and production of Dominican cacao. C. Las Damas 102, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic; cacaotour.com
IL BACARETO Il Bacareto in Santo Domingo (La Julia) is an authentic Italian restaurant offering traditional cuisine, fresh pasta, and a cozy atmosphere located on Plaza Juan Dauhajre. Plaza Juan Dauhajre, Av Simón Bolívar 219, Santo Domingo 10108, Dominican Republic
BAJAMAR A new restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. Dr Jacinto Ignacio Mañon 8, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 11202
LA BISTECCA La Bistecca in Santo Domingo, located in Jardines del Embajador, is a highly regarded restaurant specializing in wood-fired meats and Italian-inspired dishes. Known for its rustic atmosphere, popular menu items include Bistecca Fiorentina, Carpaccio Picaña, and artisan pastas. Entrada Hotel Embajador Marginal, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
ART | CULTURE | ACTIVITIES
CATHEDRAL OF SANTA MARÍA LA MENOR The Catedral Primada de América (Cathedral of Santa María la Menor) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is the oldest cathedral in the Americas, with construction beginning in 1512 or 1514 and concluding around 1540-1550. Consecrated in 1541, it represents the heart of early Spanish Catholicism in the New World, designated as a Basilica in 1920.
INDÓ MITA Indómita is a non-profit fashion and art gallery in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, dedicated to empowering local designers and artists. Located in Piantini, it functions as a boutique, showroom, and exhibition space that rotates collections every four months, featuring curated collaborations. C. Agustín Lara, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; galeriaindomita.com
LYLE O. REITZEL GALLERY Lyle O. Reitzel Gallery is the leading contemporary Art Gallery in the Dominican Republic. Torre Piantini, Suite 1 & 2 A, Gustavo Mejía Ricart, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana; lorgallery.com
LUCY GARCÍA GALLERY A contemporary art gallery in Sanot Domingo. Torre Altri Tempi, Av. Roberto Pastoriza 412, Santo Domingo 11005, Dominican Republic; lucygarciagallery.com
ALTOS DE CHAVON A replica of a medieval 16th-century Mediterranean village within Casa de Campo. The cobblestone streets lead to an amphitheater, Saint Stanislaus Church, boutiques, and restaurants. casadecampo.com.do/experiences/altos-de-chavon
EL MORRO El Morro rises 242 meters (794 feet) above sea level, gracing Montecristi’s coastal scenery with one of the most striking, unique views in the country— making it an excellent hike and spot at sunrise or sunset. The dry, subtropical forest landscape around El Morro is surrounded by extensive stands of mangroves that can be seen up close on foot, or by boat through a network of inland waterways and lagoons where you can enjoy a swim. Iguanas, as well as numerous bird species, reside amid the mangroves and forest of El Morro, such as frigatebirds, herons, egrets, the American oystercatcher, and waterfowls, including migratory species.
ALCAZAR DE COLON The first fortified Spanish palace built in the Americas, and part of the Ciudad Colonial UNESCO's World Heritage Site. It was built between 1511 and 1514 mostly in a Gothic and Renaissance style.
LAS TERRENAS Located on the north of the island, this little fishing village has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country (they are remote, too: most of them are mainly accessible by motorbike or ATV). Head over to Playa Coson or Playa Bonita for the perfect day out with miles of idyllic, white sand beach and almost no one there to crash your beach towel. Make time to stop at one of the many beach houses for fresh seafood straight out the sea. Following a 45-minute drive from Puerto Plata, you’ll be transported to one of the most famous water sport destinations in Latin America.
CABARETE Cabarete’s beaches are famous for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. Head over to La Boca, Bozo beach or Kite beach for huge waves and winds. This famous Caribbean surf town is also renowned for its lively nightlife where you can spend the night dancing away to the beats of reggaeton songs.
ISLA SAONA To reach this picture-perfect island, most people rent a catamaran. With crystal-clear and turquoise blue water, the island is picture-postcard perfect – the vision of the Caribbean you will have always dreamt of. The area is particularly renowned for the biggest starfishes you’ll ever see. Head over to Mano Juan, the nearby fishing town, for lunch before a nap under the palm trees.
SANTO DOMINGO OLD TOWN This colorful UNESCO world heritage city has a rich history and 16th-century monuments that are in mint condition. Go for a wander around the old town – watching Dominicans roll tobacco into big cigars in just a couple of minutes is particularly impressive – and visit the cathedral, palaces and art galleries.
BAHIA DE LA AGUILAS On the wild, west coast of the Dominican Republic, this eight kilometre-long beach is one of the most isolated and dreamy destinations on the island. Considered by many Dominicans as the most beautiful beach in the country, it has been preserved and kept completely as nature intended, with no restaurants, hotels or shops. Part of the Jaragua National Park, this UNESCO-protected destination even sees turtles coming to lay eggs. Accessible with a 4x4 or by boat, its remote location makes it an adventure just to reach – but the trip is worth it.
PUNTA CANA A popular destination in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean more broadly, Punta Cana is located at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean, on the east coast. With a coastline packed with luxurious hotels, it’s an ideal destination for a week of sea, sun and snorkelling.
SAMANA BAY Every year, from January all the way through to March, hundreds of humpback whales migrate from all over the north Atlantic and come to Samaná Bay to mate and birth calves. The Dominican government is naturally very protective of the whales, but you can still book a boat trip in the Bay, provided it’s with a licensed crew who will keep their distance, so as not to disturb these magnificent creatures.
JARAGUA NATIONAL PARK Located in the south west of the island, Jaragua National Park is renowned for its ecotourism, wildlife and indigenous history, with many caves full of Taíno pictograms, an original indigenous tribe that populated the region before colonisation. To explore thousand-year-old petroglyphs across the walls, head north, to Las Caritas, a cave facing the Enriquillo lake. The Park is also home to hundreds of endangered species of bird.
OJOS INDIGENAS Visit the Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve for a dip in the Inriri lagoon. puntacana.com/es/to-do/ojos-indigenas
SHOP
CASA ALFARERA Fine stoneware planters, lighting, and vases crafted in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, since 2014. C. Mercedes 161, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic; casaalfarera.com
LUXE BOHEME DR LU&BO (Luxe Bohème) is a Santo Domingo-based design project by Natalia and Claudia Ravelo, offering simple, functional, and delicate furniture and lighting. They specialize in rattan pieces, including lounge sofas, chairs, and teddy chairs, blending boho-chic styles for interior design. C. Agustín Lara 8, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
MONICA VARELA Monica Varela is a luxury jewelry designer based in Santo Domingo, known for creating artistic, anatomical, and evolving pieces often featuring Larimar and amber. Her brand, founded in 2017, combines a refined, Caribbean aesthetic with artistic heritage, focusing on sustainable and unique designs that represent Dominican identity. Edificio Progressus, Av. Abraham Lincoln, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; monicavarela.com
ALPARGATERIA La Alpargatería in Santo Domingo is a renowned workshop and store in the Colonial City (Calle Las Mercedes 103) that has crafted handmade, artisan espadrilles since 1905. They combine traditional techniques with modern styles, using natural materials like jute, leather, and cotton, and offer customization experiences. Calle Las Mercedes 103, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic; laalpargateria.com.do
BLUE MALL Choice shopping center offering designer clothing & accessories, plus a food hall, cafes & a cinema. Av. Winston Churchill 93, Santo Domingo 10501, Dominican Republic; bluemall.com.do
SILVIA TCHERASSI The Colombian designer has a boutique at the iconic Tortuga Bay Resort and Club, originally designed by Oscar de la Renta. Punta Cana Resort & Club Tortuga Bay, 23000, Dominican Republic; silviatcherassi.com
CAROLINA SOCIAS Carolina Socías is a Dominican - Colombian designer with a swimwear line based in the Dominican Republic, designed for the stylish, modern, tropical woman. Plaza Miranda, Av. Gustavo Mejía Ricart 31, Santo Domingo 10135, Dominican Republic; carolinasocias.com
ANA + MARIA A high-end resortwear brand, specializing in linen, based in the DR. C. Boy Scouts 09, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 10119; anamariastore.com
AFFAZES An accessories store in Blue Mall in Santo Domingo. Blue Mall, Av. Winston Churchill 80, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic