Dominican Republic Beaches

Arena Gorda Beach is a wide, palm-shaded expanse of white sand stretching along the Punta Cana hotel zone. Its name means "thick sand" in Spanish, a nod to the generous breadth of shoreline that gives each resort guest plenty of room to spread out.

Widely regarded as the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, Bahía de las Águilas stretches 8 kilometers of pristine, completely undeveloped white sand along the Jaragua National Park coastline. Accessible only by boat from Cabo Rojo, this remote paradise rewards travelers with turquoise water of staggering clarity and a sense of total isolation.

Bávaro Beach is one of the most celebrated stretches of coastline in the Caribbean, renowned for its powdery white sand, swaying coconut palms, and warm turquoise waters. This iconic beach anchors the Punta Cana resort corridor and consistently ranks among the world's best.

Bayahíbe Beach is a charming fishing-village beach with calm turquoise waters, colorful wooden boats, and easy access to the renowned Parque Nacional del Este. It is the departure point for day trips to Isla Saona and Isla Catalina.

Boca Chica Beach is a lively, reef-protected lagoon beach just 30 minutes from Santo Domingo. Its shallow, bathtub-warm waters and energetic Dominican atmosphere make it one of the most popular weekend destinations for locals from the capital.

The undisputed world capital of kitesurfing and windsurfing, Cabarete Beach is a vibrant stretch of golden sand where consistent Atlantic trade winds meet a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Beach bars, international restaurants, and surf shops line the shore, creating an energetic atmosphere that draws water-sports enthusiasts and digital nomads from around the globe.

Cabeza de Toro Beach is a calm, sheltered cove at the southern end of the Bávaro coast where mangroves meet the Caribbean Sea. Its exceptionally tranquil waters and gentle sandy bottom make it one of the safest and most family-friendly beaches in the Punta Cana area.

Cabo Rojo Beach is the scenic departure point for Bahía de las Águilas, but it is a destination in its own right. Its distinctive reddish-tinged sand, dramatic coastal bluffs, and panoramic views of the Jaragua National Park coastline make it a striking spot for photography and exploration.

A tiny white sandbar island surrounded by pristine coral reef in the middle of the ocean — the Dominican Republic's ultimate snorkeling destination, accessible only by boat from Punta Rucia.

Known worldwide as "Bacardi Island" after the famous rum advertisement, Cayo Levantado is a lush tropical islet in Samana Bay with powdery white-sand beaches, warm turquoise water, and iconic palm-tree scenery straight out of a fantasy.

Dominicus Beach is a long, resort-lined stretch of fine white sand just east of Bayahíbe village. Known for its clear, shallow waters and excellent snorkeling conditions, it blends all-inclusive comfort with easy access to the natural wonders of the southeast coast.

Guayacanes Beach is a quiet, locally loved stretch of golden sand just west of Juan Dolio. Popular with Dominican families for its calm waters and shady sea-grape trees, it offers an authentic coastal experience away from the tourist trail.

Isla Catalina is a small uninhabited island off the coast of La Romana, prized for its world-class snorkeling and diving along vibrant coral walls. Its white-sand beach and crystal-clear water make it a favorite stop for cruise-ship excursions and diving enthusiasts.

Isla Saona is a protected island paradise within Parque Nacional del Este, famed for its pristine white-sand beaches, natural swimming pools, and swaying palm trees. It is the single most popular day-trip destination in the Dominican Republic.

Juan Dolio Beach is a relaxed, palm-fringed stretch of coastline popular with Dominican weekenders and expats. Located midway between Santo Domingo and La Romana, it offers a laid-back Caribbean vibe with affordable dining, calm waters, and a growing condo scene.

Juanillo Beach is a pristine, palm-fringed crescent of white sand located inside the exclusive Cap Cana development. Often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic, its calm turquoise lagoon and photogenic setting make it a top choice for destination weddings and luxury travelers.

Located just west of Cabarete center, Kite Beach is the dedicated launch zone for kitesurfers and the heartbeat of the global kite community. Perfect side-onshore winds, a sandy bottom, and a wide launch area make it the go-to spot for riders of all levels.

Las Salinas Beach sits beside the historic salt flats of Baní, offering a unique windswept landscape where salt-harvesting traditions meet Caribbean coastline. Its firm golden sand and steady breezes have also made it a growing destination for kitesurfers.

An extended stretch of sand just west of the Playa Dorada resort complex, Long Beach offers a quieter, more local experience. The waves are slightly bigger here, making it popular for boogie boarding and long walks.

Macao Beach is one of the last unspoiled public beaches in the Punta Cana area, beloved for its golden sand, powerful surf breaks, and laid-back atmosphere far removed from the all-inclusive corridor. It is a favorite of surfers, buggy-tour groups, and travelers seeking authenticity.

A newer, well-maintained beach just west of the main Sosua Bay, Playa Alicia offers cleaner sand, fewer crowds, and the same calm turquoise waters. It is quickly becoming the preferred choice for visitors seeking a more relaxed alternative to bustling Sosua Beach.

Playa Blanca is a secluded white-sand beach at the very southern tip of the Punta Cana coastline, offering a quieter alternative to the bustling resort strips further north. Its calm, shallow waters and intimate scale make it feel like a private Caribbean hideaway.

Living up to its name, Playa Bonita is a gorgeous golden-sand beach fringed with tall coconut palms just west of Las Terrenas, offering calm turquoise waters and a laid-back atmosphere that draws sun-seekers and romantics alike.

Remote kiteboarding mecca with perfectly flat turquoise water and consistent trade winds, attracting advanced kitesurfers from around the world to this authentic fishing village.

A small, secluded cove beach tucked within the Cabo Frances Viejo coastal park near Rio San Juan. The protected waters and intimate setting make it a peaceful escape from the more popular beaches of the region.

A family-friendly beach set in a calm bay near Ocean World adventure park, Playa Cofresi offers gentle waves, a fishing-village atmosphere, and easy access to dolphin encounters and marine activities.

A sweeping 3-kilometer stretch of golden sand between Las Terrenas and El Portillo, Playa Coson is a surfer favorite with powerful Atlantic waves, dramatic palm-studded scenery, and a wild, untamed energy that sets it apart from the calmer town beaches.

A breathtaking hidden beach at the base of towering sea cliffs near Cabrera, Playa Diamante is accessed by a stairway carved into the rock face. The effort is rewarded with pristine sand, emerald water, and an unforgettable sense of seclusion.

Puerto Plata's flagship resort beach, Playa Dorada is a long stretch of golden sand backed by a complex of all-inclusive hotels, a championship golf course, and a lively commercial plaza. It is the most popular beach destination in the Puerto Plata province.

Dramatic beach at the base of El Morro, the iconic flat-topped mesa of Montecristi, where mangrove channels meet the open sea in a landscape unlike anywhere else in the DR.

A wild and windswept surfer paradise on the Samana Peninsula coast, Playa El Valle is a vast sweep of golden sand backed by green hills and a traditional fishing village — raw, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful.

The premier surfing destination on the Dominican Republic's North Coast, Playa Encuentro features multiple reef breaks that cater to beginners and experienced surfers alike. Less commercial than Cabarete, this beach offers an authentic surf culture surrounded by lush tropical scenery.

Quiet sheltered cove near Punta Rucia with exceptionally shallow turquoise water, perfect for families with young children and beginning snorkelers.

Playa Esmeralda is a stunning, largely undeveloped beach near Miches on the northeastern coast, named for the vivid emerald color of its waters. Backed by lush jungle-covered hills, it offers an off-the-beaten-path experience that feels worlds away from the tourist hubs.

Tucked beneath dramatic 90-meter marble cliffs on the far northeastern tip of the Samana Peninsula, Playa Fronton is a jaw-dropping hidden beach accessible only by boat or a challenging jungle hike — the ultimate reward for adventurous travelers.

Consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Grande is a breathtaking one-kilometer crescent of golden sand framed by dramatic jungle-covered cliffs. Powerful Atlantic waves make it a thrilling spot for experienced surfers and body boarders.

Long golden beach outside the harbor town of Luperón with gentle waves, coconut palms, and a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the tourist crowds of the eastern coast.

A charming smaller beach near the center of Las Terrenas, Playa Jackson offers calm protected water ideal for snorkeling and swimming in a relaxed setting with local flavor and easy town access.

The main town beach of Montecristi with panoramic views of El Morro mesa and the distant Haitian border mountains, a gathering place for locals and a window into authentic Dominican coastal life.

Playa La Ciénaga is a dark-sand beach in a quiet fishing village along the Barahona coastal highway. Surrounded by lush vegetation and backed by steep green mountains, it offers an authentic glimpse of Dominican coastal life far from the tourist trail.

A local beach near Nagua where the Rio Boba meets the Atlantic Ocean, Playa La Entrada features dark volcanic sand, a river estuary, and an authentic Dominican coastal atmosphere far from the tourist trail.

Sheltered beach inside the protected harbor of Luperón, popular with visiting sailors and cruisers who anchor in one of the Caribbean's safest hurricane holes.

Named for the humpback whales visible offshore during winter, Playa Las Ballenas is a tranquil eastern extension of the Las Terrenas coastline with golden sand, gentle waves, and a relaxed residential atmosphere.

The vibrant main beach of Las Terrenas stretches along the heart of town, offering a lively mix of beach bars, restaurants, water sports, and local color right at your doorstep — the social hub of the Samana Peninsula.

Playa Limón is a breathtaking 3-kilometer wild beach near Miches, framed by dramatic cliffs, coconut groves, and the freshwater Limón lagoon. It is one of the most spectacular and least visited beaches in the Dominican Republic.

Often cited as the smallest beach in the Caribbean, Playa Los Patos sits at the mouth of the world's shortest river. Cold, crystal-clear freshwater rushes from the Sierra de Bahoruco and meets turquoise Caribbean waves, creating a striking two-temperature swimming experience.

A quiet beach in the sheltered harbor town of Luperon, popular with the Caribbean sailing community. The calm bay, mangrove-fringed shores, and small-town hospitality make it a serene and off-the-radar coastal retreat.

A tiny hidden cove reached by a 20-minute jungle trail from Las Galeras, Playa Madama is a pocket-sized paradise of white sand, crystal-clear water, and absolute tranquility surrounded by lush tropical forest.

Playa Najayo is a favorite weekend escape for residents of Santo Domingo, located just an hour from the capital. Its dark volcanic sand, lively seafood restaurants, and animated atmosphere make it one of the liveliest local beaches on the south coast.

Playa Nizao is a wild, windswept beach near the famous Dunas de Baní with minimal development and powerful waves. It appeals to adventurous travelers seeking untamed coastline and dramatic sand-dune scenery.

Playa Palenque is a secluded beach south of San Cristóbal, prized for its calm turquoise waters, coconut palm groves, and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the busier beaches nearby.

Living up to its name—"Paradise Beach"—Playa Paraíso features a pebble-and-sand shore lapped by crystalline turquoise water, set against the verdant backdrop of the Sierra de Bahoruco. It is a serene stop along the famous Barahona coastal highway.

A secluded beach with golden sands and dramatic views of El Morro mountain in the distance.

Anchoring the eastern end of the Las Terrenas coastline, Playa Portillo is a serene crescent of soft sand with calm, protected waters, luxury resorts, and a peaceful ambiance that feels miles from the bustle of town.

The premier kitesurfing and watersports hub of Las Terrenas, Playa Punta Popy combines consistent trade winds, shallow turquoise water, and a vibrant beach-bar scene into one energetic, sun-drenched package.

Gateway beach to Cayo Arena (Paradise Island) with calm turquoise waters, mangrove-lined shores, and a laid-back fishing village atmosphere on the remote northwest coast.

Playa Quemaíto is a tranquil rocky beach just south of Barahona city, beloved by locals for its calm, crystal-clear water and relaxed atmosphere. Its rocky shoreline forms natural wading pools that are ideal for families and snorkelers.

Consistently ranked among the top beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Rincon is a breathtaking 3-kilometer crescent of powdery white sand backed by swaying coconut palms and lush green mountains on the remote northeastern tip of the Samana Peninsula.

Playa Saladilla is a long stretch of golden sand south of Barahona city, backed by the towering Sierra de Bahoruco mountains. Its dramatic mountain-meets-sea landscape and uncrowded shoreline make it a perfect introduction to the wild beauty of the southwest coast.

Playa San Rafael is a breathtaking natural wonder where a freshwater river tumbles over smooth rocks into the Caribbean Sea, forming a series of crystal-clear swimming pools. Located along the scenic Barahona coastal highway, it is one of the most photographed spots on the southwest coast.

Nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay with calm, crystal-clear waters, Sosua Beach is one of the best snorkeling spots on the North Coast. The sheltered cove features golden sand, colorful reef fish just offshore, and a lively strip of restaurants and vendors.

Uvero Alto Beach is a secluded stretch of golden coastline north of Punta Cana, lined with luxury resorts and tall coconut palms. Its peaceful setting and powerful waves offer a more exclusive, romantic escape from the busier resort zones to the south.