Caribbean

Dominican Republic: Travel Advice

September 24, 2025Alexandra Ryan

With over 1,000 white Caribbean beaches, surfable Atlantic swells, a warm climate all year round, lush green mountains and charming towns featuring Spanish architecture, the Dominican Republic appeals to a diverse range of travellers. If it’s your first visit and you’re looking for Dominican Republic travel advice, then look no further. We’ve compiled the best Dominican Republic travel tips to prepare you for your trip.

Useful Dominican Republic travel advice: Make sure you have at least one blank page in your passport for the entry and exit stamps!

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Is the Dominican Republic good for families?

Absolutely. There are plenty of calm beaches with shallow seas for the little ones to splash in, and the snorkelling is fantastic, with corals and bright fish guaranteed. If you’re more inclined to explore away from the beach, then families can rent kayaks – Los Haitises National Park has guided kayak tours through noiseless mangroves. To increase the adrenaline further, try the zip line above the forest canopy in Scape Park, explore the park’s caves or go rafting or hiking in Jarabacoa and Constanza. If the kids love animals, take a whale-watching tour or explore some of the many eco parks. 

Just 15 minutes from the airport is the Dreams Cap Cana resort in Punta Cana, which is ideal if travelling with children. Right next to the soft sands of Juanillo Beach, it has a kids’ club and 10 varied restaurants to satisfy even the most finicky eaters. With an impressive array of sports, from pickleball and beach volleyball to fishing and windsurfing, everyone in the family will be fully entertained. 

Is the Dominican Republic good for a romantic break?

It’s perfect for romance. With more than 1,000 miles of coastline, couples can find secluded beaches for bathing, sunset cocktails and dining under the stars. Most resorts offer spas, a range of high-end dining options, excursions such as horse riding along the beach and sunset cruises. 

Several hotels and resorts cater specifically for adults-only, honeymooners and even offer weddings. Here’s our pick of the most romantic stays:

TRS Turquesa in Punta Cana is a five-star all-inclusive, adult-only resort with the bonus that guests can also use all facilities at three additional resorts. Its award-winning spa is just the ticket for day-long pampering and preening. The resort also organises weddings and offers several photographic locations, from the pristine beach to flower-laden pergolas and charming courtyard settings.

Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa in La Romana offers its trademark ‘unlimited luxury’ infused in every aspect of the resort. There are 14 restaurants, bars and lounges serving cuisine from across the globe, and even a lazy river and water park on site. The resort is just steps from the best beach in Bayahibe, and many deluxe rooms have swim-out pool access. Couples with energy to spare can even take dance lessons.

Couples wanting lots of entertainment options should stay at Grand Palladium Palace Resort Spa & Casino in Punta Cana. This five-star, all-inclusive resort is set in tropical gardens right next to the sea. Keep yourself busy with mini golf, volleyball and padel, or windsurfing, banana boat rides or high-sea fishing. Craving more activities? How about bachata and merengue dance classes, learning how to cook local cuisine or becoming a mixology whiz? Feeling lucky? Then there’s the casino.

How long is a flight from the UK to the Dominican Republic?

You can fly to the Dominican Republic from the UK in just over 9 hours. Flights go direct from the UK’s main airports in London and Manchester. The main airlines operating the route are TUI and British Airways, and there are approximately 22 flights weekly. Flights arrive at Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), in the most eastern part of the country.

Entry requirements for the Dominican Republic

Most visitors – including those from the UK – don’t need a visa to enter the Dominican Republic. Entry requirements for the Dominican Republic include a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months and proof of onward travel. Before arrival, you should complete an entry form that will give you an e-ticket, which you need to enter the country. You may be given a tourist card on arrival.

Best time of year to travel to the Dominican Republic

If you’re a sun-seeker, then visit the Dominican Republic from December to April and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of sunshine, temperatures in the upper 30s, a very low chance of rain, plus the chance to see humpback whales! This is peak season, so there’ll also be more tourists and higher prices. 

Here’s a Dominican Republic local travel tip for you: If you want maximum sun but more affordable prices and fewer crowds, travel in early August. It’s the hottest month, and while there are rain showers, they tend to clear quickly. The wet season is from June to the end of November. January is a little cooler, with temperatures in the high 20s. The Dominican Republic does experience hurricanes every few years, usually from late August to the end of October.

There are activities year-round to enjoy on a Dominican Republic holiday, whatever the weather.

Is the Dominican Republic safe for tourists?

Generally, yes. Areas with tourist accommodation are well-policed and well-lit, and there are always lots of fellow travellers – and staff – around, so you don’t need to worry about safety. Our best Dominican Republic travel advice regarding safety is just to use common sense. Avoid remote, unlit areas at night, don’t display valuables, be aware of pickpockets and keep your bag near you and use reputable local transport. Petty crimes do occur, but just stay vigilant if you adventure off the beaten path. 

Call our Dominican Republic advisors

If you want more in-depth Dominican Republic local travel tips, contact one of our country experts. Our advisors have intimate knowledge of the country and the resorts, and they can tailor a trip just for you. 

Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic