For all those warm-weather vibes this winter, head to the Dominican Republic. This Caribbean country is the next “it” travel destination.
By Leslie K. Hughes
If you’re anything like us, winter sends chills up your spine, and it’s not just because of the cold temps. We are die-hard sun babies, so when winter hits and that craving for vacay strikes, we look to destinations with a non-winter vibe where we can swap our beanies out for bathing suits and have some fun in the sun.
And this winter we are heading to the Dominican Republic — Punta Cana, specifically.
This Caribbean country is the next “it” travel destination with everything you could ever want in a vacation, and we are here to fill you in on all the must-see things so you can truly live the dream this winter.
So grab your sunscreen, your tiniest bathing suit, and get ready for some serious adventure.
PLAYA MACAO
There is certainly no shortage of beaches in this country, and while there are some truly fab ones to choose from, if you’re looking to step away from the playas littered with resort guests and people trying to sell you trinkets, we suggest heading to Playa Macao.
This beach is a bit of a drive, but a rental car will set you back as little as $30 per day, and it is well worth it. Or you can opt for one of the many taxis here, though that’ll cost a bit more.
Wide open spaces are the name of the game here at Playa Macao, and a great way to explore the splendor of this space is via an ATV. Rentals are available, and racing down this stunning beach on four wheels is something you’ll never regret doing.
If you aren’t feeling quite that adventurous, there is plenty of beach to relax on, where you’ll feel as if you’ve parked yourself on your own private beach. And the nooks and crannies along this 3 miles of beach offer up some unique photo opps that will leave you with some great memories.
OJOS INDIGENAS
Feel all the mermaid vibes by heading to Ojos Indigenas. This ecological park and nature reserve is home to over 12 freshwater lagoons, and one of them is particularly stunning.
There are hiking trails that take you through terrain that’ll have you believing you’re in Jurassic Park and a T-Rex may pop out at any moment. But you can’t be bothered, because it’s just too damn stunning.
Upon arriving to the swimmable lagoon, you’ll want to get into your birthday suit and dive right in. This lagoon’s waters are so crisp and clear that you can see straight to the bottom, and the diving platform is a great way to get there.
COCO BONGO
If a wild night out is what you’re looking for, than a trip to Coco Bongo is just what the doctor ordered. While a night at Coco Bongo is filled with the typical debauchery of drinking and dancing, it goes far beyond that. Imagine this: drink in hand, music blasting in your ears, but add to that stadium seating, confetti flying all over, and dancers emerging from every direction — and yes, we are talking the ceiling too.
Coco Bongo is more than just a bar, it is a club that literally explodes with life when the clock strikes midnight, and is unlike anything you’ll ever experience elsewhere. Just trust us on this one: do not miss out on a night at Coco Bongo.
PUNTA ESPADA GOLF COURSE
Even if you aren’t a golfer, you will die over the views at Punta Espada Golf Course. Find someone who does golf to tag along, or play yourself because you don’t want to miss the stunning vistas and peaceful vibes of this golf course.
Punta Espada is continuously recognized as one of the top golf courses in the world and when you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself so moved and inspired by the dramatic cliffside holes that you decide a career in golf is the thing for you.
CASA DE CAMPO RESORT
When it’s time to lay your head down, drive a bit further down the road to Casa de Campo Resort.
The best part about this place (in our honest opinion) is that upon check-in, you get your own personal golf cart to explore the property’s 7,000 acres however you want, whenever you want.
The “wherever you want” on this property covers almost everything. From horseback riding to donkey polo; from one of the top golf courses in the Caribbean to a top-rated shooting range, and beyond, Casa de Campo is the casa where all your vacation dreams come true.
And if your vacation dreams are filled with sitting on the beach with a drink in hand, then this is also the place for you.
Think of Casa de Campo as your one-stop-shop for everything you need to round out your perfect non-winter winter vacay.
