As my very first time visiting Dominican Republic, I don’t think I could have experienced this dreamy Caribbean destination in a better way than spending 6 days here with some of the best gals – celebrating a bride-to-be! Visiting with the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism was the warmest welcome to this lovely country.

Situated just two hours south of Miami (my hometown), I had been wanting to visit Dominican Republic for the longest! But really, the only place I had in mind was Punta Cana (given how often it is visited). My perspective quickly changed as I got the opportunity to explore the beautiful North Coast – a great destination for family vacations, a romantic getaway, a bachelorette (wink wink) or even a WEDDING. Such a fun vibe for any kind of occasion.

Although the weather is warm year-round, the best time to visit is from March to May (avoiding rainy season). We went in April & the weather was absolutely gorgeous.

From experiencing the lush beauty and eco-adventure of Samaná, Cabarete and Puerto Plata, I’m sharing all you need to know (where we stayed, explored + ate!).

Samaná

Where we stayed

The Bannister Hotel – with such a gorgeous vista at sundown in their infinity pool (pictured above) and located right between the mountains and the sea, this was such a sweet retreat. It has a very Caribbean-chic feel to it. Each room has a balcony + fully equipped kitchen (almost felt like I was in the penthouse!).

Where we explored

Dominican Tree House Village – a MUST visit! and probably one of the many reasons why I’d love to come back to Dominican Republic. You literally get to sleep in a treehouse in the middle of a jungle. There are rope bridges and meandering paths connecting the tree house cabins to lagoons + pools…something out of a dream. The best part is they are committed to sustainability and ecotourism. Although we didn’t get to spend a night here, we spent a good chunk of our day exploring the gorgeous lush greens and even tried cacao pods.
Fronton Beach – we took a small boat out from Las Galeras to Playa Fronton (about a 20-25 minute ride). If you do this, make sure you cover your belongings really well – it’s a BUMPY ride. Once you get there, it’s paradise. You’re suddenly on a secluded island filled with palm trees, cliffs and fresh coconuts!
Samaná Bridge – known as the “bridge to nowhere” (google this-so interesting!), it’s built between two small islands. A great spot for gazing across the beautiful bay.

Where we ate

La Terrasse – a gorgeous spot to eat right next to the ocean (highly recommend outdoor seating). The food was delicious and they had the yummiest passion fruit juice.

**Trying cacao pods for the very first time! If you’re a chocolate lover, give it a taste! Fun fact: Dominican Republic is one of the world’s largest producer of organic sustainable cocoa.**

cabarete

Such a sweet tropical vacation spot on the northern shore of Dominican Republic. It’s the perfect balance between serene and adventurous – pretty much catering to any type of vacation mood you’re into.

Where we stayed

Sea Horse Ranch – an oceanfront villa resort (aka paradise) with a seaside pool (pictured above), lush terrain everywhere and a secluded beach all to yourself. It’s located only 20 minutes away from the international airport in Puerto Plata.

My favorite part of staying here was having the option of booking a massage at the villa, a morning yoga session, a private chef and even a private beach dinner! You can easily inquire about any of these requests with the property’s concierge team.

Where we explored

Seaside Horseback Riding – the Equestrian Center offers tours (you don’t have to be experienced) and they even have ponies for the little ones. Their horses are the sweetest and it’s so nice just riding along the beach and through some lush greenery – it almost felt therapeutic.
Catamaran tour of Sosúa Bay with Tip Top Catamaran – we spent half of our day on the boat listening to music, tanning, snorkeling and just enjoying the warm breeze. Lunch is provided onboard, but you can also lunch around Sosúa Bay which is known for all its local bars and restaurants.

Where we ate

Fresh Fresh Cafe – all I have to say is this little spot is DELICIOUS. It serves homegrown produce from local farms, fresh juices, all kinds of smoothies and the most nutritious salads & bowls (all vegan + veggie friendly).
The Beach Club – I love seaside anything! And this lunch/dinner spot offers some of the most gorgeous beach views. I highly recommend you go for dinner around sundown – it’s magical. The menu offers great Middle Eastern and Mediterranean options and lots of flavors from Asia and the Caribbean.
Los Tres Cocos – A Caribbean cuisine sent from heaven. Located near Puerto Plata, but still very close to Cabarete. This spot is so homey and the staff was extremely friendly (makes the whole experience that much better). Recommend going for dinner!

Puerto Plata

Aside from it’s gorgeous beaches, Downtown Puerto Plata is where you can find all the historic colorful buildings, yummy restaurants, cute shops & nightlife – pretty much all the entertainment and culture you can imagine. We can’t forget, this is where tourism was born in the Dominican Republic!

Exploring the old town with these angels. So much fun creating content together! @francesjaidi, @nicoleisaacs, @tourdelust, @dianadusomething, @elonatheexplorer. — **Exploring the old town with these angels. So much fun creating content together!** **@francesjaidi**, **@nicoleisaacs**, **@tourdelust**, **@dianadusomething**, **@elonatheexplorer**.

Celebrating in the North Coast of Dominican Republic

Samaná

Where we stayed

Where we explored

Where we ate

cabarete

Where we stayed

Where we explored

Where we ate

Puerto Plata