The Caribbean is one of the most reliable regions of the world to vacation for winter sun. No matter which island you jet off to you should expect gorgeous blue waters, warm weather and stunning beaches.
That being said, the Dominican Republic is one of the most popular vacation spots for just that. No box goes unchecked when traveling to this popular Caribbean destination.
While many choose the resort hub of Punta Cana, the D.R. offers so much more beyond lavish beach stays.
In fact, many different regions across the country are under development right now to attract even more tourists in the near future.
While some areas aren’t quite ready, taking trips to the D.R.’s islands has become more popular when visiting.
These 3 stunning islands are the most popular to visit in the Dominican Republic:
Cayo Levantado
Cayo Levantado not only makes you feel sexy saying it, it’s even more fun to visit. Far from the typical Dominican vacation, this island is set off the coast of Samana.
Samana itself is gorgeous in its own right, with quaint small-town charm and otherworldly natural attractions, like the postcard-worthy El Limòn waterfall.
All along the Dominican coast, there are pristine beaches and scattered beachfront stays, some more luxurious than others.
Visiting one of the top 3 islands will take your beach escapades to another level. Cayo Levantado can be easily reached by boat from Samana’s pier.
Some choose to make Samana their main stay with a day trip to Cayo Levantado, while others choose for a secluded dream vacation at the island’s only resort – the 5-star Cayo Levantado Resort.
Recent guests rave their stay was, “nothing short of amazing” and others love the tranquility of the Yubarta concept of immersing yourself in nature and meditation.
Pristine beaches surround the island, but the rightly named Playa Cayo Levantado is the most popular with Bacardi Beach just behind.
Catalina Island
We know what you’re thinking…
No, there is no Catalina Wine Mixer here, but that shouldn’t deter you from making a trip to one of the top islands in the D.R.
This speck on the map is less than 2 miles from the mainland. Visiting Catalina makes for an easy trip for a sun-soaked day in paradise.
Set outside of La Romana, one of the most popular beach getaways in the nation, you can level up by adding this jaw-dropping island to your itinerary.
Basking in the sun at any beach is perfectly acceptable, but Catalina is made for those who love exploring the water.
Unlike Caya Levantado, Catalina is uninhabited. There are no resorts; it’s just you, fellow beachgoers, and unspoiled nature.
Stunning beaches wrap around the island, and you can’t go wrong with any of them with picture-perfect white sand and turquoise waters.
Saona Island
Saona Island isn’t just a speck on the map, which is one of many reasons why it’s the most popular island in the Dominican Republic.
Vacationers can fly into both Punta Cana (PUJ) or the capital city of Santo Domingo (SDQ) as a gateway to this beautiful island with boat trips from the nearby tiny town of Bayahibe.
Since those two cities are the most popular in the country, it’s best to make either your base since you’re not allowed to stay overnight on the island.
Although it’s so pretty, you may be tempted to miss your boat ride back to the mainland on purpose, but let’s be real; that’s not the best idea.
Saona is about as exotic and gorgeous as a tropical beach escape can be, with palm tree-lined beaches along otherworldly blue waters.
It’s recommended by travelers to partake in a tour as this will give you the best overall experience and logistical convenience. Plus, many are under $100 with meals included.
Most trips take 2 hours or less, depending on whether you opt for the Catamaran or a speedboat. Like the other two popular islands, you really can’t go wrong with any beach you choose.
For Saona, however, it’s best to do a little digging ahead of time as the island is much larger in size.
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