Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: A Seaside Escape

The Dominican Republic, a Caribbean island nation in Central America, shares a border with Haiti and is surrounded by the sea on three sides, making it a popular destination for beach vacations. Besides the capital city of Santo Domingo, the most famous destination in the Dominican Republic is undoubtedly Punta Cana. Its long stretches of white sandy beaches meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, complemented by luxurious five-star hotels, creating a renowned island getaway. However, there's more to the Dominican Republic than just Punta Cana. The coastal highway from Santo Domingo to the airport offers breathtaking views of the azure sea, with varying depths creating a spectrum of blues in the incredibly clear water. Relaxing at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the breeze and watching seabirds, is a truly delightful experience. Bayahibe, a two-hour drive west of Santo Domingo, is another fantastic spot to enjoy pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. A two-hour drive north of Santo Domingo takes you to the less-crowded northern part of the Dominican Republic, where you can revel in entire stretches of beach to yourself, go horseback riding, and explore the deep jungle. Recommended seaside restaurant: Boca Marina (Picture 1), perfect for taking photos. Recommended hotel in the north: Hotel Alisei, not all-inclusive, small suites with kitchen and living room, a two-minute walk from the beach.