The Dominican Republic is more than just Punta Cana. But knowing where to go — and where to stay — is another matter.
That’s because the country is filled with mini-destinations, from the antique charm of Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone to the raw paradise of the Samana peninsula and everything in between.
There are different kind of Dominican Republic hotels for every kind of traveler: boutique urban stays, adults-only retreats, foodie havens and even luxury shopping vacations.
Looking for your next hotel in the Dominican Republic? Try one of these five unique places to stay.
Casa Colonial Long the best-kept secret in the Dominican Republic, this is the country’s coolest hotel, an adults-only jewel in the heart of all-inclusive-heavy Puerto Plata. From design by the renowned Sarah Garcia to a spectacular rooftop pool, this is the cutting edge of Dominican hospitality.
Casas del XVI Santo Domingo is quietly becoming a magnet for intrepid travelers to the Caribbean drawn to the Colonial Zone, the oldest city in the new world. The 500-year-old city is filled with art galleries, cafes, up-and-coming eateries and some seriously cool boutique hotels, none more intoxicating than this, a mix of luxury “casas” and traditional rooms in the heart of centuries-old buildings in the old city.
Peninsula House Samana is still very much off the map for most travelers, but that’s beginning to change, as more and more people begin to see the lush beauty of the peninsula. But heading to a more untouched part of the country doesn’t mean you have to compromise. Enter the Peninsula House, an old-school luxury plantation-style guest house with world-class food led by the hotel’s The Beach restaurant.
JW Marriott Santo Domingo In many ways, there are two Santo Domingos: the aforementioned Colonial Zone and the bustling modern Caribbean metropolis. If you’re looking to experience the latter, this is the spot: the JW Marriott, a sleekly-designed high-rise hotel set above the city’s leading luxury shopping mall. The rooms are crisply appointed, the food is outstanding and the glass-floor rooftop bar (above) is the height of Santo Domingo hip.
Natura Cabana The surf town of Cabarete is the Dominican Republic’s most bohemian enclave, a mix of kitesurfers and beach-lovers with a cosmopolitan feel. And it’s signature place to stay is a hotel that fits in with its more laid-back ambience: the Natura Cabana, an eco-hotel with 12 cabanas that’s all about experiencing — and cherishing — the destination’s beautiful natural environment. That also comes with an impressive wellness offering that includes meditation, yoga and a remarkable spa that’s among the best of all Dominican Republic hotels.