One of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, Santo Domingo is more than just fabulous beaches. Explore history dating back to the 1500s in the morning, sun on the beach at all-inclusive Santo Domingo resorts in the afternoon, and take in the vibrant nightlife after dark. From one of the outstanding hotels in Santo Domingo, a tour can take you through a range of settings in just one day.
Water Sports and Sand
The Dominican Republic has become world renowned as a destination for sparking sand, shimmering water, and fantastic water sports. Santo Domingo is a mixture of city and seaside fun, offering more than just a beach town. Boca Chica is close, and it offers a mix of tourists and locals. It's crowded and has numerous bars nearby for exploring the nightlife; as the main beach area for the city, Boca Chica is about 20 minutes from downtown, and hotels near Herrera International Airport will put you just a short drive away. A little further east are Juan Dolio Guayacanes and Playa Esmeralda, both featuring lovely palm-lined stretches of sand.
The Historic Capital
Built in 1502, Santo Domingo was the first Caribbean city laid out by European settlers. The colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with 116 blocks inside a walled area that seems almost transported through time. Catedral Primada de America was the first Christian church in the Western Hemisphere, and it is still well-maintained. Calle de Las Damas is a cobblestone street that dates back to 1502.
The Three Eyes National Park is another awe-inspiring attraction, and it's home to crystal-clear lagoons, caves, and beautiful vistas. The National Botanical Garden is a nice respite from the city when you'd like a natural break. Some of the best prices for cheap Santo Domingo hotels are in the northern part of town, too.
Travelocity can help you find great Santo Domingo beach hotels and plan your great adventure through the history, culture, and Caribbean shores of this enchanting city. It's a place of contrasts, from centuries-old avenues to upscale and bargain shopping, along with world-class nightlife.