Luxury Activities in the Dominican Republic

As one of the most varied destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is home to some truly unforgettable luxury experiences that you simply can’t get elsewhere. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or prefer to spend your days relaxing at the spa, there is a luxury experience in the DR to suit every taste. Below are some of the luxury activities that our guests enjoy most when visiting the Dominican.

Teeth of the Dog Golf Course

Located in Casa de Campo, Teeth of the Dog is the #1 rated golf course in the Caribbean and the signature design of famous golf course architect Pete Dye. The course features dramatic ocean views, especially on the 7 ocean front holes, and has enough challenge and natural beauty to satisfy golfers of any level. Playing a round is a must for any golf lover.

Bahia de las Aguilas

Located within the protected Jaragua National Park and bordered by a dramatic karst landscape, Bahia de la Aguilas is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the DR. Reachable only by boat or ATV, it stretches out over 5 miles with not a single shop, hotel, or restaurant in sight, resulting in perfect, powdery, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. A private tour is the best way to enjoy the peace and serenity of Bahia de la Aguilas.

Five Star Dining

The DR is home to several incredible 5-star dining experiences. Don Pepe in Santo Domingo is an institution, serving up authentic Spanish fine dining in an ambiance that rivals some of the most stylish restaurants in Madrid. Or, for something completely different, experience El Meson de la Cava, also in Santo Domingo and featuring a large dining room located entirely within a cave.  Punta Cana’s La Yola, meanwhile, is known for its impeccable service and stunning oceanfront location, making it an ideal choice for a romantic evening. 

Barcelo Rum Distillery Tour

Ron Barcelo is considered one of the best rum brands in the world, and their factory tour is one of the top attractions in Punta Cana. Go for the Imperial tour for a true luxury experience and enjoy a side of rum you may not have known existed. 

Shop Fine Cigars

The Dominican Republic is right up there with Cuba and Nicaragua when it comes to quality cigars. Brands like Arturo Fuente, La Flor Dominicana, Don Lucas, and E.P. Carillo are all celebrated by cigar aficionados, with each having different lines suited to different tastes. The Dominican is home to plenty of fine cigar shops where you can find the best the country has to offer, and you can even enjoy a Don Lucas factory tour in Punta Cana or visit the Arturo Fuente Cigar Club in Santo Domingo. 

Charter a Yacht

It’s hard to get any more luxurious than a private yacht. That’s especially so in the DR, since there are so many beautiful spots that are only accessible by boat. That includes Saona and Catalina Islands, both of which are protected nature reserves off the southeast coast that feature pristine landscapes and the best snorkeling in the DR, as well as virgin beaches like Pamilla Beach. Depending on what you want to do and see, your Rental Escapes concierge can arrange the perfect private yacht tour for you.

Snorkeling in Coral Reefs

On that note, the islands of Saona, Catalina, and Catalina really do offer suburb snorkeling thanks to their remote location, as they feature vibrant and colorful coral reefs. Other great snorkeling spots include the Parque Nactional Submarino La Caleta near Santo Domingo and Playa Sosua on the northern coast. 

Take a Private Waterfall Tour

Though the interior of the DR does not get as much love as the coast, it is home to some quant mountain towns, stunning landscapes, and the country’s best waterfalls. For a truly luxurious waterfall experience, book a private tour of the 27 Waterfalls Park of Damajagua. This gorgeous park features unique rock formations and natural pools that you can slide down and jump into, making for an unforgettable experience. Though it does see more tourists than other waterfalls in the area, a private tour will give you a chance to see the best of the park with minimal crowds.

Explore Salinas Salt Mine and Beach

Located near the southern coast, the Salt Mines of Salinas are famous for the beautiful pink, yellow and blue tones of the water of its lake thanks to the large salt deposits underneath. The beach, meanwhile, features a mountainous backdrop that make for beautiful landscapes. Renting a car (or hiring a private driver) to explore and visit both is recommended. 

Visit the Six Senses Spa

Six Senses Spas are internationally regarded as some of the very best. The Sixth Senses Spa in the Punta Cana resort is the only one in the Caribbean, and one of the few that are located outside of the brand’s own resorts. The spa offers a wide variety of massages, facials, body treatments, beauty treatments, fitness treatments, and ritual treatments, with the latter corresponding to their most holistic (and luxurious) packages. The staff is also impeccable and really go above and beyond to make every guest feel special. 

Horseback Riding on the Beach

It’s not easy to get tired of walking up and down Punta Cana’s beautiful beaches, but if you want to experience the beach in a while new way, a horseback ride is a great way to do it. There are several ranches around Punta Cana with beautiful horses available, and sunset riding tours are especially popular. 

Whale Watching in Samana

Samana Bay is home to thousands of humpback whales during mating season in the winter, making it an ideal spot for whale watching. Board a private catamaran and visit the whale sanctuary to enjoy an amazing show! The whales are not shy and routinely swim up right up to the boats.

Helicopter Ride around Punta Cana

To get a whole new perspective on the DR’s coast, book a private helicopter ride. Depending on the length of the ride, your pilot will take you to see some of the area’s top beaches, islands, and sites, and you can even see the exact spot where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Where to Stay while Visiting the Dominican Republic

If you want luxury accommodation to go along with your luxury activites, nothing beats booking a Dominican villa. From a 14 bedroom estate on its own peninsula in Cabrera to 2, 3, or 4 bedroom villas that are perfect for families in Punta Cana, all the way to romantic 1-bedroom suites for couples in Cap Cana, Rental Escapes is sure to have the perfect Dominican villa for you and your travel group. And no matter the size, every Rental Escapes villa reservation includes concierge service, so your concierge can help arrange any of the luxury experiences listed here and more. Contact us today to start planning your perfect Dominican getaway!