Published January 10, 2026
In 2026, the Dominican Republic continues to captivate British travelers looking for a diverse and fulfilling holiday. From world-famous beaches and luxury resorts to rich cultural heritage and untouched natural beauty, this Caribbean destination has something for everyone. Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, Samana, La Romana, Boca Chica, and Jarabacoa have emerged as must-see destinations in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re a beach lover, history buff, adventure buff, or ecotourism enthusiast, the Dominican Republic is a haven for unforgettable experiences.
Here’s why these seven special destinations should be at the top of UK travelers’ lists for 2026.
Punta Cana – the ultimate beach paradise for sun seekers
Punta Cana needs no introduction. For decades it has been the crown jewel of Dominican tourism, offering everything a beach lover could dream of. This idyllic region is best known for its vast white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, making it a haven for sunbathers and watersports enthusiasts.
What truly sets Punta Cana apart is its wide selection of luxury all-inclusive resorts that cater to all types of travelers, from families and honeymoons to solo travelers and groups of friends. Guests can enjoy delicious meals, poolside cocktails, beach activities, and luxury amenities all without leaving the resort. This stress-free experience makes Punta Cana a top choice for UK travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.
What’s more, Punta Cana offers plenty of activities beyond just a day at the beach. Take a dip at Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, snorkel at Bavaro Beach, or get your heart pumping on an ATV tour through lush tropical landscapes. Plus, it’s close to Punta Cana International Airport, making it very accessible for British holidaymakers looking for a quick getaway.
Santo Domingo – Exploring its history and culture
For UK travelers interested in experiencing rich history and culture, Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a must-see. Known as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into its past, with stunning examples of colonial architecture, historic monuments, and museums.
The city’s Colonial Zone is a great starting point, with landmarks like Colon Alcazar, the American Cathedral, and Plaza de la Cultura, giving travelers a deep dive into the Dominican Republic’s colonial history. But Santo Domingo is about more than just history. A vibrant art scene, bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cuisine make it a dynamic city for travelers of all interests.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets, enjoying a rooftop drink with panoramic views of the city, or shopping in the vibrant markets, Santo Domingo’s blend of old world charm and modern sophistication keeps British travelers coming back.
Puerto Plata – adventure meets tradition
Located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is an exhilarating destination that combines adventure, heritage, and beautiful beaches. Famous for Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic Spanish fortress dating back to the 16th century, Puerto Plata is the gateway to some of the most beautiful scenery the island has to offer.
For adventure-seeking British travelers, Puerto Plata is home to a variety of activities that set it apart from other destinations in the Caribbean. The cable car ride up Mount Isabel de Torres offers stunning views of the city and coastline. Nature lovers will be charmed by Damajagua Falls, where they can enjoy thrilling hikes and dive into natural pools. The town of Sosua also offers a vibrant beach culture, and Cabarete is famous for its windsurfing and kitesurfing scenes.
Puerto Plata is also a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts. For anyone interested in the region’s rich geological history, a visit to the Amber Museum is a must. Nearby Los Aitises National Park offers great opportunities to explore mangrove forests and caves.
Samana – a hidden gem for nature lovers and whale watchers
Located in the northeast of the country, Samana is a breathtaking peninsula known for its pristine beaches, dense tropical forests, and abundant wildlife. Samana is a true haven for nature lovers, with lush landscapes, diverse fauna, and great opportunities to witness the annual whale migration.
From January to March, Samana Bay is one of the best places in the world to watch humpback whales as they migrate to the warmer Caribbean Sea to mate. This amazing natural phenomenon attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for UK travelers interested in marine life.
In addition to whale watching, Samana offers many ecotourism adventures, including trips to El Limón Falls, which can be reached by horse or foot. The region is also home to Los Aitises National Park, a timeless and stunning protected area with mangrove forests, caves, and secluded beaches.
La Romana – luxury and culture on the southeast coast
La Romana, on the south-east coast of the Dominican Republic, offers a combination of luxury resorts and cultural attractions, attracting UK travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment. One of the area’s highlights is the Casa de Campo Resort, a vast luxury complex with luxury accommodations, a private beach, and a world-class golf course.
But La Romana isn’t just for those seeking luxury. A short distance from the resort area, Altos de Chavón, a reconstructed 16th-century Mediterranean village, is a picturesque spot with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and galleries showcasing Dominican art. For travelers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and luxury, La Romana is a destination worth considering.
Additionally, La Romana is an ideal base for exploring nearby islands, including Catalina Island, which offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the country.
Boca Chica – A convenient and relaxing beach vacation
A short drive from Santo Domingo, Boca Chica is a popular beach for British travelers looking for a relaxing and convenient getaway. Known for its calm, shallow waters, Boca Chica is perfect for families with children, swimming, and snorkeling looking to enjoy a day in the sun without the crowds.
While the beaches themselves are Boca Chica’s biggest draw, it’s also a great place to immerse yourself in Dominican culture. The town has a lively atmosphere, with many local seafood restaurants and beachside bars where you can experience authentic Dominican cuisine and listen to merengue and bachata music.
Boca Chica’s proximity to the capital makes it an easy choice for those who want to combine a relaxing day at the beach with the hustle and bustle of city life.
Jarabacoa – a cool escape for ecotourism and adventure
In contrast to the sunny beaches of the Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa’s location in the central mountain range offers a cool climate and stunning views of the island’s lush landscape. Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Jarabacoa is a hub of ecotourism and attracts British travelers looking for an active holiday in nature.
Jarabacoa offers a variety of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting on the Yaque del Norte River, hiking to the top of Pico Duarte (the highest mountain in the Caribbean), and visiting the spectacular Baiguate Falls. The region is also known for its coffee plantations, and visitors can learn about the production of one of the Dominican Republic’s most famous exports.
For UK travelers looking to explore the country’s natural beauty beyond the beaches, Jarabacoa is the ideal destination.
Destination highlight table
Why UK travelers will choose the Dominican Republic in 2026
The Dominican Republic offers an unparalleled variety of experiences and will be a top destination for UK travelers in 2026. From the pristine beaches of Punta Cana to the eco-adventures of Samana and Jarabacoa, the country offers a comprehensive vacation experience that combines relaxation, adventure, culture and nature. Whether you’re looking for luxury, history, or the thrill of whale watching, the Dominican Republic ensures that every traveler has a curated selection of truly unforgettable experiences.
Ease of access, vibrant local culture, and diverse activities are making the Dominican Republic an increasingly attractive option for those looking to experience the best of the Caribbean in 2020.
