Dominican Republic Villas & Luxury Vacation Rentals

Visitors from the US, Canada, Mexico, the EU, Russia, Japan, and more do not need a visa to enter the Dominican Republic. All that is needed is a passport that is valid throughout the stay. Upon purchase of airfare, or upon entry if traveling by ship, you are granted a tourist card, which allows you to enter the Dominican Republic. If you're staying for more than 30 days, an additional fee may be charged upon exit.

The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). However, US dollars are widely accepted in resorts, restaurants, and tourist areas. Credit cards are commonly used, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or tipping staff at your villa. ATMs are available in all major towns and resort areas.

The best destinations in the Dominican Republic depend on your travel style:

• Punta Cana: Ideal for beach lovers, golfers, and luxury villa stays
• Casa de Campo: Perfect for upscale travelers seeking golf, private beaches, and marina access
• Cap Cana: An exclusive enclave with modern luxury, beach clubs, and nature activities
• Santo Domingo: Great for culture, colonial history, and local flavor
• Cabarete: Adventure hubs with watersports, ecotourism, and a more laid-back vibe

The best time to visit the Dominican Republic depends on your travel priorities. The peak season, from December to March, offers the best weather with warm, dry, and sunny days, and a lively atmosphere as resorts and attractions are in full swing.
If you prefer fewer crowds and better rates on flights, dining, and villa rentals, the shoulder seasons in November to early December and April to June are excellent options. The weather is still pleasant, with only slightly higher chances of afternoon showers.
Budget-conscious travelers may enjoy visiting in July and August, when prices are lower despite the start of the wet season. It’s still a great time to visit, as long as you’re prepared for some humidity and occasional rain.

The Dominican Republic benefits from a tropical climate, and really only has two seasons: a dry season and a wet season.
Dry season runs from December to June and sees average temperatures of 29°C (84°F) in January, and 27°C (81°F) in April. This balmy time of year sees low precipitation, lots of sunshine, and warm water temperatures near 27°C (81°F).
The wet season, meanwhile, sees a much higher chance of precipitation, especially in the afternoon, as well as somewhat higher temperatures. Average highs go up to about 32°C (90°F) in August, while water temperatures also rise to 29°C (84°F). The highest likelihood of a tropical storm is in September, though the odds of a tropical storm hitting remain quite low.

The official hurricane season in the Dominican Republic runs from June 1 to November 30, with September being the month with the highest risk of tropical storms. While the chance of a direct hit is relatively low, this period sees more frequent rainfall and humidity.

The country has 7 international airports, making it easy to reach from North America and Europe. Main hubs include:

• Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) – Best for Punta Cana, Cap Cana, and Casa de Campo
• Las Américas International (SDQ) – Serves Santo Domingo and the surrounding areas
• Puerto Plata International (POP) – Ideal for Cabarete and the North Coast

The Dominican Republic offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. In the capital, Santo Domingo, you can explore the historic Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with centuries-old architecture, museums, and vibrant local life.
Along the eastern coast, Punta Cana and La Romana boast some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beachside dining.
For adventure seekers, the north coast around Cabarete and Puerto Plata is ideal for surfing, kitesurfing, hiking to waterfalls, zip-lining, and exploring natural wonders like the Dudu Lagoon.

The food in the Dominican Republic is excellent, especially in the major resorts like Puntacana, Cap Cana, and Casa de Campo. You can find most types of international cuisine and plenty of fusion cooking, and private chefs at villas can work with you to develop a meal plan that is suited to your diet and tastes.
Traditional Dominican cuisine, meanwhile, has a whole host of influences, including Spanish, African, Mediterranean, and more. Some typical dishes include pollo guisado (braised chicken), sancocho (7-meat stew), pescado frito (fried fish), and chicharrón (fried pork belly).
There's also plenty of fresh seafood to enjoy, including its famous spiny lobster (though be aware there is a ban on fishing these lobsters from March 1- June 30).