9 Things The Dominican Republic Is Known For

Explore the Sights, Seas and Spice DR Is Known For


By Sascha Zuger | Published on February 27, 2026

 

Traveling to the Dominican Republic used to be focused on immersing yourself in an all-inclusive gated resort, to beach, drink and buffet the day away, with the only exposure to the beautiful local culture being a passing glimpse during an airport shuttle ride. While sun, sand and rum drinks do have their place in paradise, this rich culture has so much more to explore. Discover what the Dominican Republic is known for, from culture and beaches to history and food, and how to best experience all its unique vibes by visiting multiple regions throughout the island nation on a cruise.

1. Best Beaches To Bask In Dr’s Natural Beauty

The Dominican Republic is packed with adventurous activities and a strong culture that weaves its way through any visit. However, bestie-bonding and family memories are made in the shade of a palm tree overlooking aqua seas lapping at soft sand shorelines. Pick your port to pick the best beach to dig your toes into.

● Cabo Rojo: Baby Beach is the bomb if you have kids who crave less waves and more easy, breezy fun. Amenities such as the port’s lazy river are free. 
● Samaná: Disconnect to reconnect on a romantic beach date. Hit Playa Rincon’s 2.5 miles of white sand, turquoise seas with seafood shacks for lunch and drinks.
● La Romana: Bayahibe Beach is ideal for families looking for clear, calm, shallow water. Build sandcastles and lazy-day memories or join a snorkel trip to the reef.

2. An Island’s Islands: Immerse In Dominican Republic Nature

One thing makes a cruise vacation to a beautiful island nation better — more islands! These quaint, golden-shored beauties are perfect picks for sun-seekers looking to lose themself in luxurious shorelines away from the bustle of mainland hotspots. 

Cayo Levantado — Samaná

Sailing into Samaná sets cruisers up to visit a small, picturesque paradise whose white sand beaches and swaying palms inspired a classic spirits commercial and corresponding nickname of “Bacardi Island.” Boat taxis bring day trippers to beach barbecues with gear rentals from local vendors, while excursions to the island’s all-inclusive resort add nature activities and a private beach.

Catalina Island — La Romana

La Romana welcomes “las romanticas” to beautiful Isla Catalina, a protected nature and marine reserve just 1.5 miles off the mainland. The small uninhabited tropical trip-maker blends clear turquoise water and sugary sands with a vibrant coral reef — the perfect place for snorkelers and SCUBA fans to find their fun. History buffs can even snorkel the 17th-century pirate shipwreck of Captain Kidd.

Saona Island — Punta Cana

Punta Cana port stops slip a trip to stunning Saona Island into an itinerary. Part of the Cotubanama National Park, mangroves, coral reefs and a shallow natural swimming pool create habitat for wildlife. Visit a sea turtle sanctuary at colorful Mano Juan fishing village or book an excursion which includes park fees, refreshments and boat access.

3. Landmark Decisions: Which Dramatic Dr Dream To Explore

Nature makes its mark, especially in the Dominican Republic. Dramatic, striking, stunning, memory-maxing sights await your cruise vacation. 

● Puerta Plata: Isabel de Torres National Park and 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua.
● Samaná: El Limón waterfall.
● Cabo Rojo: Bahía de las Águilas/Cueva de las Águilas.
● La Romana: Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders).

4. Dominican Republic’s Sea Scene Will Float Your Boat

The Dominican Republic brings H2’whoa to every cruise vacation. Book an excursion with everything included for the easiest, breeziest way to experience the beautiful blue vistas at every port.

● Scuba Diving: La Romana’s access to Catalina Island is perfect for new or certified divers.
● Sailing: Punta Cana sets the sails for capturing breezes and Insta-worthy yacht moments.
● Whale Watches: Humpbacks make an impressive home of Samaná Bay every winter.
● Catamaran Snorkels: Max your mojo on Cabo Rojo’s snorkel tour to Bahía de las Águilas.

5. Adrenaline Action Achieved, Dominican-Style

Can you spend an entire Dominican Republic cruise vacation lifting nothing more than a frozen drink over the open novel on your lap or a sleepy, sandy kid ready for a nap? Of course! But cruise vacations let you do you — whether that means a little or a lot. If adrenaline fuels your fun, consider the many pulse-pounding ways to play in paradise: 

● Jet skis.
● Banana boats.
● Wave-tubing.
● Parasail tours.
● Ziplining tours.
● ATV and off-road buggy adventures.

6. Spice Up Your Time With A Taste Of Dr’s Delicacies

The Dominican Republic puts the spice of the islands in every aspect of its culture, but never more than in the food that brings families and friends together to celebrate big moments and small. Try a taste of the island in these treats, just a sampling of what’s in store for local specialties.

● La Bandera Dominicana: White rice, red beans, marinated grilled meat staple.
● Sancocho: A hearty meat and rich root vegetable stew.
● Pulpo a la Parilla: Caribbean reef octopus grilled with criollo garlic vinaigrette.
● Alcapurrias: Tasty meat-stuffed fritters made of taro and green plantains.

7. Culture Club, Dipping Into Dominican Dishes And Dance

Catch the rhythm of the Caribbean culture with island flavor and dance delights the DR has to offer.

● Cabo Rojo: Tambora Rhythms hands-on cooking and dance experience lets visitors settle in for a day in the vibrant community of Pedernales.
● Puerto Plata: Discover the traditions and tastes of local delicacies, from cigars to rum to chocolate, before an authentic Dominican lunch & seasonal tropical fruit.
● La Romana: Relax with a snorkel and white-sand barbecue, open bar, music and Latin dance lessons (merengue and bachata) on beautiful Catalina Island.

8. Help Yourself To History In The Dr

Travel back in time in style while wandering the many places of historical note in the Dominican Republic. 

● Puerto Plata: 16th-century San Felipe Fortress.
● La Romana: Medieval stone village of Altos de Chavón.
● Cabo Rojo: Jaragua National Park’s Taino Caves with ancient cave drawings.
● Santo Domingo: UNESCO colonial sites of many Caribbean firsts.

9. Perfect Ports To Peruse Paradise In The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a wonderland of natural and historical importance, with endless beaches, cultural activities and opportunities to connect for a meaningful and memorable time. The best way to make the most of a Dominican escape is not to get isolated on an all-inclusive property without the ability to wonder and wander, but to plan your perfect paradise and visit by cruise ship. The country’s full fabulous experience is on display through many convenient port stops that bring you close to the action.

From now through 2028, Royal Caribbean offers 13 ships and six home ports to take you to the beautiful Dominican Republic.

● Puerto Plata.
● Samaná.
● Cabo Rojo.
● Santo Domingo.
● La Romana.
● Punta Cana.

Plan Your Perfect Paradise Vacation

One of the best things about taking a Dominican Republic cruise is that so many of your travel details are taken care of for you. However, a little planning when it comes to timing for travel, what to pack and the best souvenirs to look for can make an already stress-free vacation even more relaxing. 

When To Go

Many sunseeking cruisers love visiting the Dominican Republic during the dry season from December to April. Shoulder season on either side can be better for the budget, although temps are likely toastier for beachgoing in May into early June. Whale lovers should plan for Mid-January to late March for peak humpback activity.

What To Bring

You’ll need some cash, as certain areas do not accept card or phone payments. Small US dollars are best for tipping and negotiating prices on goods and services, although hitting an ATM for local pesos (DOP) is the best bet, as exchange rates can be up to 20% lower.  If you’re uncomfortable using an ATM, you can change cash in a bank for the best rates.

What To Bring Home

The Dominican Republic has a strong semi-precious stone game — particularly for amber and larimar (a Dominican-specific volcanic blue pectolite). Ask on board for shopping advice and stores you can trust. Try Supermercado Nacional for the best prices on food souvenirs like coffee, rum, chocolate and local vanilla extract.

Book Your Best Dominican Republic Royal Caribbean Cruise

Cruising is the way to experience the best the DR has to offer. Royal Caribbean is leaning into this land of natural beauty, beaches, wildlife experiences, historical landmarks, rich culture, dance and dishes you’ll be dreaming of long after returning home. 
Explore cruises to the Dominican Republic.

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