The Dominican Republic remains a popular honeymoon destination because of all that the beautiful island can offer at a reasonable price. Whether you’re looking for adventurous activities and exploration, long days lounging by the ocean, or a mixture of both, honeymooners will find it in the DR.
With its sandy picturesque beaches, a multitude of affordable resorts, and breathtaking natural beauty, the DR is a honeymooner’s paradise. Looking for a honeymoon that’s removed, tropical, and full of activity and relaxation? This is the one.
Dominican Republic Honeymoon Quick Picks
- Best Spa Experience in Dominican Republic: Casa Bonita Santo Domingo
- Best All-Inclusive Resort in Dominican Republic: Majestic Elegance Punta Cana
- Best Adult-Only Resort in Dominican Republic: Sanctuary Cap Cana
- Is it safe to honeymoon in the Dominican Republic: Yes!
Our Booking Tips
Best Honeymoon Resorts in Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has great accommodations. You can find everything from luxury camping areas to luxury resorts. Depending on what type of stay you’re looking for, you can find the perfect fit.
Santo Domingo
The Historic Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel that offers honeymooners the perfect home base as they explore Santo Domingo. The beautiful property is tranquil and houses 92 rooms.
Their delicious restaurant is well-praised and the property is actually comprised of three stone houses built in 1502 and is the restored 16th century home of the city’s founder, Nicolás de Ovando, the first governor of the Americas.
Casa Bonita Santo Domingo
This beautiful all-inclusive property is perfect for honeymooners who want adventure and relaxation. Casa Bonita offers a relaxing and romantic spa, a beautiful infinity pool, a hot tub, rooms with rain showers and a beautiful view of the Caribbean.
Their great amenities also include wifi, breakfast, ziplining, horseback riding, snorkeling, and bike rentals. The beautiful scenery of the hotel is a great spot for honeymooners to feel romantic while all of their inclusive activities are guaranteed to get honeymooners out of their room and into some fun.
Puntacana Resort & Club
This is a luxurious destination located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic where couples can escape for a romantic beachfront getaway. The Puntacana Resort & Club is more than just a resort and club. This luxury hotel is made up of 13 beachfront secluded villas that are designed for honeymooners.
In addition, honeymooners can enjoy a serene and peaceful day at the Six Senses Spa, the only location within the Americas, that provides an array of different treatments, specifically for couples such as the Romance Journey ritual, including a full body massage and facial specifically formulated for each individual.
For honeymooners who are looking for something more active, enjoy the two 18-hole golf courses located within the resort, Corales Golf Course, home to the only PGA tour stop in the Dominican Republic. Honeymooners can also enjoy dinner at one of the nine restaurants located within the resort, including two AAA Diamond Award-winning eateries.
Majestic Elegance Punta Cana
This impressive oceanfront resort is one of Punta Cana’s newest and most luxurious all-inclusive resorts. The 600-room property has a giant pool, a beautiful white-sand beach, seven restaurants, and a name-brand liquor at no extra charge.
If you’re looking for intimacy and sophistication on your honeymoon, the Majestic Elegance Punta Cana is the place to stay. The resort has an adult-only section that has access to private pool areas, oceanfront rooftop bars, VIP lounges, 24-hour room service, an in-room bar selection, and 13 bars located throughout the property.
Sanctuary Cap Cana, Punta Cana
This beautiful resort just went through a multimillion-dollar renovation. The adult-only property has brand new, luxury suites fit for queens and kings celebrating their marriage, including the Castle Island Suite that treats guests to the privacy of access to their own island.
With accommodations like sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea, date spots at the resort’s gourmet dining outlets, and a world-class spa with a number of romantic couples treatments and a new ZEN garden, shower paths, and hydrotherapeutic pools. The resort is based on a colonial Spanish feel and is on more than 20 acres with 2,100 feet of pristine ocean.
Honeymooners can relax in the gorgeous honeymoon suite, complete with a private pool. You’ll feel completely alone with your special someone while you gaze at the beauty and luxury of Sanctuary Cap Cana Resort. Prices start at $1,386 for this honeymoon package.
Casa de Campo
Located in the Dominican Republic, the Casa de Campo is a well-known destination for romance and honeymoons. Their gourmet food and wonderful wines, a 370-slip Marina & Yacht Club, Polo & Equestrian Club, La Terraza Tennis Center, and 245-acre Shooting Club are a few of the most impressive amenities.
Spanning 7,000 tropical acres on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, this luxury Caribbean. The entire property is a village modeled after a 16th-century Mediterranean city with boutique shops, museums, and a 5,000-seat Grecian-style amphitheater inaugurated by Frank Sinatra in August of 1982.
They also have a year-round “Romance is in the Air” package that includes Dominican-born Aphrodisiac – Mamajuana. This drink was once used as a vitality drink and was only available “underground.”
CHIC by Royalton
CHIC by Royalton: This property provides newlyweds with an All Exclusive™ with a great poolside atmosphere. From daytime parties to nightly-themed parties and entertaining performances, CHIC is a great honeymoon spot for couples who are ready to party. With 320 stylish suites on the property, six different restaurants, and multiple bars, honeymooners will have plenty of upscale luxury to keep them busy.
The honeymoon package includes a free hydrotherapy circuit at the Spa, a newlywed room upgrade, and a private dinner for two on the beach. For a truly elevated honeymoon experience, CHIC couples have the chance to upgrade to Diamond Club™ where they are able to check in to their own lobby, relax in their own lounge complete with complimentary snacks and top-shelf beverages, and enjoy indulgences such as personal butlers, a private mermaid pool and an exclusive beach area.
The ground floor of Diamond Club™ suites is adorned with personal plunge pools that serve as the perfect place to take in all the action poolside while relaxing waist-deep in cool waters away from the crowd.
Barceló Bávaro Beach: Punta Cana
This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is tucked along Bavaro Beach with 580 rooms, 11 restaurants, two bars, and a large swimming pool. Honeymooners will definitely have plenty to keep them entertained on this property.
The resort’s Premium Level Ocean Front Suite Room is great for honeymooners because it comes with a hot tub, a living room, and beautiful views of the Caribbean. Plus guests get a free round of golf per person and Premium Level perks (including concierge service, 24-hour room service, and complimentary daily use of the U-Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit).
The resort’s complimentary “In Love Package,” includes an upgrade to the next room category, priority check-in, late check-out, continental breakfast in the room on the first day, and a bottle of sparkling wine and Petit Fours delivered to the room. Aside from all these amenities, there’s also a nightclub, a casino, and a state-of-the-art health and wellness center. This romantic and adventurous property was made for honeymooners.
Zoetry Agua Punta Cana
With 96 luxurious suites, beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, four gourmet restaurants, three bars and lounges, room service, and free WiFi, this property has everything that honeymooners will need for a romantic getaway.
This is one of the top-rated hotels in Punta Cana because the elegant suites have hardwood floors, palapa roofs, large flat-screen TVs, and private terraces with great views of the gardens or the sea. The minibars are refreshed twice a day and Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is tailor-made for honeymooners who want luxury, relaxation, and romance.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
This Punta Cana adults-only all-inclusive resort is set within the gated community of Cap Cana along the wide white sands of Juanillo Beach. Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana offers an astonishing array of amenities, including a water park with a lazy river with water slides, infinity pools with swim-up bars, a full fitness center, and 25 restaurants and bars.
The stunning underground spa features a Himalayan Salt Lounge, a hydrotherapy pool with a waterfall and a skylight, and a quartz therapy table along with the usual spa services.
Spacious and sleek suites feature pops of bright color, ocean views, private balconies, and jetted tubs. There are swim-up suites available. Guests here enjoy a variety of activities including yoga classes, watersports, and nightly entertainment, as well as area excursions and nearby golf.
This adult-only resort is perfect for honeymooners who are looking for an upscale, intimate experience loaded with amenities. You’ll find something fun to do every day, all while still feeling disconnected and pampered.
Best Rustic Dominican Republic Accommodations
If you’re looking for something a little more rustic, then you might consider a stay in a modern (and luxurious) tent or beachside cottage. These areas are amazing for the couple who wants to experience a honeymoon unlike any other. You’ll experience some outdoor adventure just a few feet away from luxury amenities – like spa treatments and jacuzzi pools.
Check out these tent and cottage options.
Camp on Playa Rincon
These beautiful modern tents are tailor-made for honeymooners who are looking for a little adventure. The jacuzzis outside, the climate-proof structure, and the stunning decor will make sure that honeymooners not only relax and get in the romantic spirit but have a fun time doing it. There’s also spa treatment and onsite yoga. Sounds pretty perfect.
Heavenly Playa Rincon
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury camping getaway for two, then book a stay at Heavenly Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic. These beautiful glamping tents on the beach of Playa Rincon are perfect for honeymooners who are looking to be in nature, but not completely exposed to it. The jacuzzi pools and amenities that come along with the glamping tents are romantic and perfect for a honeymoon getaway.
Lovely Beachside Vacation Rental with a Jet Tub in Las Terrenas
This beautiful beachside cottage is great for honeymooners who are looking for plenty of room and privacy. The modern and luxurious amenities along with the relaxing villa will help honeymooners enjoy the property and each other.
Dominican Republic Honeymoon: When to Go
The best time of the year to visit the Dominican Republic is between March and May. The peak season rush will be dying down and the weather is still great. It stays warm year-round in the DR with highs that average about 80 degrees.
But, hurricane season is something to keep in mind. It lasts between June and November and the DR does have a history of experiencing some devastating tropical storms in the past, with September and October being the most active months.
Romantic Things to Do on a Dominican Republic Honeymoon
There is plenty to do on a Dominican Republic honeymoon. The country is full of culture, history, beautiful architecture, and adventures. If you’re honeymooning in the Dominican Republic you can find the perfect activity to fill your days.
Hike La Plaza
This gorgeous swimming area right outside of Punta Cana is a great place to hike. Their crystal-clear waters, numerous waterfalls, and fun adventures will make honeymooners feel like they’re in another world. Guided tours to hike La Plaza should be high on every honeymooner’s list.
Caribbean Water Sports Activities
There are so many fun things to do in the ocean. The DR offers a myriad of water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, scuba diving, catamaran sailing, and deep-sea fishing. In fact, the DR is famous for its deep sea and big game fishing. Try to catch a marlin, yellowfin tuna, or even a barracuda when you’re out on the water. Aside from there, there are plenty of colorful fish and underwater sea caves to explore as well.
Hit the Beach
Probably one of the biggest reasons that any honeymooners venture to the Dominican Republic is for their famous beaches. The cerulean blue water and white sandy beaches make a romantic paradise. Plus, there are plenty of beaches. The Punta Cana/Bavaro beaches are more than 20 miles long and on the Sama Peninsula, the famous Playa Rincon is one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet.
World Class Golf
The DR is a hot spot for golfers who love the game and its pretty courses. The weather year-round is wonderful and the changing topography of the island which includes hills, coastlines, and plenty of A+ courses is a draw to travelers and honeymooners from all over the world.
Horseback Riding
This is a longtime honeymoon favorite of couples visiting the Dominican Republic. Depending on where you are, there are plenty of schedules to choose from. Horseback riding on the beach at sunset sounds pretty romantic. Or if you don’t want to ride on sand, choose an interior trail alongside waterfalls, up and down mountains, or through the forest.
Whale Watching
Did you know aside from Hawaii, the Dominican Republic is considered one of the best places in the world to watch whales? Honeymooners who want to get out on the open water will love this activity because humpbacks actually migrate to the DR to mate and give birth so your chances of seeing one, depending on what time of the year you go, are high. Check out Samana Bay for booking opportunities.
Exploring Samana
Speaking of Samana, it has a lot more than whale watching to offer honeymooners. The Samana Peninsula juts out just east of the country and features hills that run down the middle, a shoreline on either side, and the beautiful seaside town of Samana. The water is actually warmer here and hiking remote, deserted beaches is also a great activity.
Dominican Republic Honeymoon: Where to Go
While the Dominican Republic is a small island nation, there are many places you should visit while honeymooning. If you’re looking for a sandy beach or a more urban area to explore, the Dominican Republic has it just for you.
Punta Cana
The infamous Punta Cana, one of the most popular spots for honeymooners to go in all of the Dominican Republic, lives up to the hype. The white sandy beaches are almost so pretty you wouldn’t think they’re real. It’ll be rare that honeymooners won’t want to be on the beach, but when they go back to their rooms, they’ll have plenty to choose from.
Punta Cana is an all-inclusive resort heaven and we’ve listed some of our favorites in the section below. Punta Cana remains a popular honeymoon destination because of its beautiful views, luxury resorts, and ability to help honeymooners relax.
Santo Domingo
This lively and thriving metropolis is the capital of the Dominican Republic and definitely worth exploring. It’s also one of the largest cities in the Caribbean by population. If you’re looking for a little nightlife, a whole lot of adventure, and somewhere new and exciting to explore, the capital city of Santo Domingo is perfect for your honeymoon.
There’s plenty to do, plenty to see, and plenty to eat. Fun activities like merengue dancing, romantic dinners, and cultural tours await the honeymooners who want to visit Santo Domingo.
La Romana
The beautiful coastside city of La Romana is perfect for honeymooners who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Their pristine beaches set against a Dominican Republic sunset one of the most romantic sights honeymooners can see. Plus, the population of the town is small, so if you’re looking for a rugged adventure across the shores and valleys of the Dominican Republic, La Romana is the place to be. Much to many husband’s delight.
It’s also a golfer’s paradise. World-famous golfers love to play at Casa De Campo. Beyond golfing, La Romana offers clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and interesting art museums and galleries for honeymooners who want to see the historical side of the city.
Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas is located on the northeast coast of the Samana Peninsula. The protected crystal blue inshore waters are a perfect place for honeymooners to relax and take a swim. Beyond that, their sandy beaches covered in palm trees with quaint fishing boats that are scattered along the coast look almost too picturesque to be real. Most of the year, this part of the island stays warm.
In fact, it only fluctuates about 20 degrees between summer and winter. The underrated, undeveloped, and scenic town of Las Terrenas is a great low-key spot for honeymooners to explore.
Is the Dominican Republic safe?
Yes. The Dominican Republic is safe to travel to. While the island’s name has occasionally frequented news outlets in reference to murder or theft, over the past several years, the country’s murder rate has dropped. In 2012, the rates were 22.1 per every 100,000 people and their rates have now lowered to 10.4 in 2018.
Like any type of travel, whether domestic or international, it’s always smart to stay safe. Below are a few tips to make sure you make it back home with your valuables in tow.
- Resort: Resorts across the DR are a dime a dozen and always have strong security. The chances of crime within a resort are very slim. These chances rise when tourists take to the city, especially alone and especially at night.
- Explore the city, but do it right: Go in a group or with another person to see all that the Dominican Republic has to offer outside the resort for honeymooners. And make sure not to be in isolated areas, like parks at night or alone.
- Travel light: When you’re in the city, make sure to keep your valuables and things you don’t want stolen back in the hotel safe.
- If there’s a problem: Call hotel security or the police to report the matter.
Not only is the Dominican Republic a safe place to travel, it’s also a highly-sought after honeymoon destination. You can find sprawling beaches, outdoor adventures, exciting wildlife encounters, and amazing resorts. If you need a beautiful honeymoon destination, then you might need to consider the Dominican Republic.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central American, South America and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.