Google Earth Dominican Republic
Whether you are planning a trip to Dominican Republic or just exploring the country virtually, Google Earth is a great tool to discover the top attractions, hidden gems, and natural wonders of this Caribbean paradise. In this travel guide, we will take you on a virtual tour of Dominican Republic and show you the best places to visit, eat, and play.
Top Attractions in Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions in the Caribbean. Here are some of the must-see attractions that you should add to your itinerary:
Punta Cana
Punta Cana is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dominican Republic, known for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top things to do in Punta Cana include swimming with dolphins, exploring the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, and taking a catamaran cruise.
Santo Domingo
As the capital city of Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo is a must-visit destination for history and culture lovers. The city is home to many historical landmarks, including the Alcazar de Colón, the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, and the National Pantheon.
Los Haitises National Park
If you are looking for a nature-filled adventure, Los Haitises National Park is the perfect destination. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including mangroves, caves, and limestone formations. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the park’s natural wonders.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
While Dominican Republic is known for its popular tourist destinations, there are also many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring. Here are some of our top picks:
Altos de Chavón
Located in La Romana, Altos de Chavón is a beautiful replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. The village is home to an amphitheater, an art gallery, and a museum, making it a great destination for art and history lovers.
Cabarete
Cabarete is a small beach town on the north coast of Dominican Republic that is known for its water sports and laid-back vibe. Visitors can enjoy kiteboarding, windsurfing, and surfing, as well as explore the town’s bars and restaurants.
Monte Cristi National Park
Monte Cristi National Park is a stunning natural reserve that is located on the northwest coast of Dominican Republic. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including beaches, mangroves, and mountains, making it a great destination for hiking and birdwatching.
Food Scene and Local Markets
Dominican Republic is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines and flavors to discover. Here are some of the top places to eat and shop for food in the country:
La Cocina de Doña Clara
Located in Santo Domingo, La Cocina de Doña Clara is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Dominican cuisine. Visitors can enjoy dishes like sancocho (a hearty stew), mofongo (a mashed plantain dish), and tostones (fried plantains).
Mercado Modelo
Mercado Modelo is a large indoor market in Santo Domingo that is known for its handicrafts, souvenirs, and local food. Visitors can shop for items like cigars, rum, and jewelry, as well as sample local delicacies like empanadas and pastelitos.
El Conuco
Located in Santiago, El Conuco is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Dominican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its grilled meats, seafood, and plantains, as well as its lively atmosphere and live music.
Outdoor Adventures and Adventure Sports
From water sports to hiking, Dominican Republic is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to try:
Whale Watching in Samaná Bay
Samaná Bay is a popular destination for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the bay from January to March. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the whales up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.
El Limón Waterfall
El Limón Waterfall is a stunning waterfall that is located near the town of Samaná. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and swim in the pool below, surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
Zip-lining in Jarabacoa
Jarabacoa is a mountainous region in the center of Dominican Republic that is known for its adventure sports, including zip-lining, rafting, and canyoning. Visitors can zip-line through the lush forests and admire the stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Family-Friendly Activities and Beaches
With its calm waters, white sand beaches, and kid-friendly attractions, Dominican Republic is a great destination for families. Here are some of the top family-friendly activities and beaches to enjoy:
Ocean World Adventure Park
Ocean World Adventure Park is a popular attraction in Puerto Plata that is perfect for families. The park features a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and sharks, as well as a water park and zip-lining course.
Bávaro Beach
Bávaro Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Dominican Republic, with calm waters and soft white sand. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and there are many restaurants and bars nearby.
Hoyo Azul
Hoyo Azul is a natural pool that is located in Scape Park, near Punta Cana. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear water and admire the stunning blue color of the pool, surrounded by lush vegetation and limestone cliffs.
Cultural Immersion and Art and Music Scene
Dominican Republic is a vibrant and diverse country, with a rich culture and art scene. Here are some of the top places to experience the local culture and music:
Amber Museum
The Amber Museum is located in Santo Domingo and showcases the history and significance of amber in Dominican Republic. Visitors can see a variety of amber pieces, including jewelry, sculptures, and fossils.
Carnaval de la Vega
The Carnaval de la Vega is a colorful and lively carnival that takes place in February in the town of La Vega. The carnival features music, dancing, costumes, and parades, and is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.
Altos de Chavón Amphitheater
The Altos de Chavón Amphitheater is a beautiful open-air venue that hosts concerts, festivals, and performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music and theater, as well as admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Walking Tours and Architectural Marvels
Dominican Republic is home to many beautiful and historic buildings and monuments, making it a great destination for walking tours and architectural exploration. Here are some of the top places to visit:
Fortaleza Ozama
Fortaleza Ozama is a historic fortress that is located in Santo Domingo. The fortress was built in the 16th century and is one of the oldest military structures in the Americas.
San Francisco Monastery
The San Francisco Monastery is a beautiful and historic building that is located in Santo Domingo. The monastery was built in the 16th century and features a beautiful courtyard, chapel, and museum.
Catedral Primada de América
The Catedral Primada de América is the oldest cathedral in the Americas, located in Santo Domingo. The cathedral was built in the 16th century and features a beautiful mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
Wellness Retreats and Natural Wonders
Dominican Republic is a great destination for those looking to relax and rejuvenate, with many wellness retreats and natural wonders to explore. Here are some of our top picks:
Bahia Principe Luxury Samaná
The Bahia Principe Luxury Samaná is a luxurious resort that is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. The resort features a spa, wellness center, and yoga classes, as well as stunning views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas is a small town on the northeast coast of Dominican Republic that is known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and wellness retreats. Visitors can enjoy yoga classes, meditation, and spa treatments, as well as explore the town’s shops and restaurants.
27 Charcos de Damajagua
The 27 Charcos de Damajagua is a series of waterfalls and natural pools that are