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The Dominican Republic is a top value Caribbean beach getaway marked by rich cultural influences that create a distinctive and fascinating history.  Not only do guests have the opportunity to embrace the astounding scenery on eco-vacations, but the Dominican Republic offers world-class resorts, an intriguing variety of eclectic cuisine, artistic and entertaining attractions, and as Christopher Columbus put it, the nation is “a beautiful island paradise” simply like no other.

The Dominican Republic consists of six major regions, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Within the soaring mountains and deep river valleys of the eastern two-thirds of Hispaniola (Haiti occupies the west coast), the "DR" as locals call it, provides a variety of unforgettable experiences for any type of traveler.  With an overwhelming amount of authentic attractions to experience, your only dilemma is how to fit them all in one vacation. Here's FTF's guide to a few of the most popular places to visit.

North Coast: Puerto Plata, Cabarete & More

With stretches of flawless beaches and azure waters, this region, considered the DR’s most “versatile playground,” features the popular beach resort towns of Puerto Plata, Cabarete and Sosua.

Ocean World
Barrio Playa Oeste
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
809/291-1000
This exceptional marine theme park emphasizes interaction with the fascinating underwater world of sea life, rather than having guests simply sit and observe. Ocean World offers interactive programs that allow you and your family to swim with dolphins, get up close and personal with sea lions, and wade in a pool inches from an actual shark. But no need to worry, Mom and Dad, your kids will be safe behind a protective glass that separates little ones from these exciting predators. Visitors will also have the opportunity to take a walk on the wild side and frolic through an authentic rainforest surrounded by waterfalls, beaches, lagoons and, of course, captivating wildlife.  General Admission is $40 for kids 4-12 and $55 from ages 13 and up. For more information in regards to deals and specials, please visit the website.

Amber Museum
Calle Durate 61
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
809/586-2848
This elegant two-story Victorian museum located in Puerto Plata captures the essence of the prehistoric time period. This museum features collections of well-preserved plants, insects and animals that are on display for all guests to discover. Not to mention this resplendent building houses the infamous amber mosquito featured in the box-office hit Jurassic Park. It's also a good place to learn about the gem stone, which is widely sold as jewelry around the island. For schedules and hours visit their website.

Playa Cofresi
Just a few minutes west of Puerto Plata, this breathtaking beach was named after the infamous pirate Captain Roberto Cofresi. Whether you and your family just want to bathe in this beach’s exotic sun, or prefer bodysurfing and boogie boarding in the crystal clear waters, La Playa Cofresi is a wonderful way to spend your day away from the busier city of Puerto Plata.  

Playa Grande is another spectacular beach known for its white soft sand and beautiful waters.

Aqua Center
Hotel Casa Marina Beach and Reef
Sosua, Dominican Republic
809/571-3690
Are you an avid scuba diver, or do you have a family member who has always wanted the thrill of submerging in deep waters and exploring how things look under the sea? Well the Aqua Center, a watersport and diving area, has instructors specially trained to fulfill the needs of all your scuba endeavors. Also, if parents are hesitant about letting their kids swim aimlessly in the sea without supervision, this prestigious organization offers a family package called The Discovery Scuba Program which allows families to explore the underwater world together, while an aqua professional takes momentous pictures to capture this unforgettable experience. Children must be at least 10-years-old to become a certified diver.

Outdoor Activities in Cabarete

Windsurfing
Over the past few years, the coastal resort of Cabarete has grown to achieve international fame, especially with a younger audience. The reason may be found on the town's beach, ranked as one of the world's top five kiteboarding and windsurfing destinations. So good are the conditions here, in fact, that Cabarete is regularly a stop in international competitions.  Families interested in trying to tackle the sport should visit the above website to learn more about outfitters and schools in the region, and to check on the seasonal weather conditions.

Horseback Riding
Whether you and your family care to gallop along the tranquil coastline or in the mountainous terrain, this family favorite is offered throughout the entire region. Also, many of the horse ranches offer “Creole horses” that are reputable for their trained tameness specifically to fit any kid’s riding needs.

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking
Home to the Caribbean’s highest mountains and longest rivers, the DR is a great place to take the family for some intrepid amusement. However, because of the DR’s rainy season, rafting is recommended during the fall and winter.  Located near the mountain resort of Jarabacoa, the Rio Yaque is the longest river in the Caribbean and offers both challenging and easy excursions. It includes entertaining features such as "Mike Tyson," a 12-foot vertical drop and "The Cemetery," a great stretch of rocks sticking up like tombstones, but also offers winding curves of calmer water for easy drifting. Colonial Tour Rafting is offered in a variety of locations all over the Dominican Republic. For more information please visit their website or call (809/688-5285). Prices range from day trips for rafting at $95/day, to excursions to see waterfalls at $45/day.

Mountain Biking
Mountain biking can be done all over the island, with the majority of rides taking place in the northern mountain range (Cordillera Septentrional) and the central mountain range (Cordillera Central). Trails vary from beginner to challenging with all-day or overnight advanced levels through rolling hills and rugged mountain areas. With its countless unpaved roads and mule trails, the country is a fantastic setting for mountain biking. Biking buffs will find that most of the larger cities in the country have a mountain biking club that welcomes foreigners for participation in their weekly rides. Regardless of the location on the island, a breathtaking setting is guaranteed.

Iguana Mama is one of the best companies providing all of the above daily adventure excursions. Please visit their website for more information or call 809/571-0908. If you’re already in the DR, you can visit their main office that is situated in the main street of Cabarete, opposite Scotiabank towards the Eastern end of town. They are open 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm.

Islabon Jungle River Tour
809/248-2818
Located about three miles east of Cabarete, the Islabon Jungle River Tour allows kids to explore the Islabon river area by boat.  Plus visitors get to walk through jungle trails to a mini zoo that includes native iguanas, snakes, turtles, ravens and North American crocodiles. The tour includes an informative chat about the nature found in the area.