The eastern part of the Dominican Republic is one of the most popular and visited by tourists, both national and international, due to its impressive beaches, luxury resorts, national parks, and a wide variety of activities. Some of the most outstanding destinations in this region include:
1. Punta Cana
It is probably the most famous tourist destination in the eastern area, known for its all-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. In Punta Cana, you can enjoy:
Playa Bávaro: One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, ideal for relaxing or practicing water sports.
Isla Saona: A tropical paradise in the Parque Nacional del Este, accessible by boat or catamaran. It is famous for its crystal-clear waters, palm trees and white sands.
Los Haitises: A national park with impressive landscapes of mangroves, caves and unique biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers.
2. Bayahibe
Bayahibe is a small fishing village that has become a very popular destination due to its proximity to some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
Isla Catalina: A nearby island famous for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular diving and snorkeling spot
Parque Nacional del Este: Home to diverse ecosystems, from mangroves to pristine beaches. Ideal for exploring tropical flora and fauna.
Cueva de las Maravillas: A complex of underground caverns containing Taino cave paintings and impressive geological formations.
3. La Romana
In addition to being a commercial city, La Romana is famous for its proximity to several important tourist destinations.
Altos de Chavón: A replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, located on the Chavón River. It is a cultural site with art galleries, shops, and an open-air amphitheater where concerts are held
Casa de Campo: A luxury resort offering world-class golf courses, marinas, exclusive restaurants, and various recreational activities.
4. Higüey
The city of Higüey is known primarily for its connection to the Santuario de la Altagracia, an important Catholic pilgrimage site. In addition, the city has several nearby attractions:
Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia: One of the most important religious sites in the country, where thousands of faithful visit each year.
5. Samaná
Although it is not strictly in the east zone, the Samaná peninsula, located in the northeast, is a very close destination that you cannot miss if you travel through this region. Samaná offers:
Samaná Bay: A place famous for being one of the best points in the world to see the migration of humpback whales (from January to March).
Las Terrenas: A coastal town that has quickly grown in popularity for its beautiful beaches, restaurants and relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended activities in the east zone:
Diving and snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters and coral reefs offer unforgettable experiences in places like Saona Island, Catalina Island and Bayahibe.
Catamaran or boat tours: Trips to nearby islands, such as Saona or Catalina, where you can enjoy a full day of sun, sea and exploration.
Ecotourism: Hiking trails, cave exploration, and boat rides through mangroves and rivers, especially in the Parque Nacional del Este and Los Haitises.
Golf: High-level golf courses in places such as Punta Cana, Casa de Campo, and Bávaro.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of the eastern part of the Dominican Republic reflects a mix of culinary traditions, indigenous, African, European, and, more recently, international tourism influences.
It is a cuisine rich in seafood, fresh fish, rice, tubers, and tropical fruits, all prepared with intense and natural flavors. Below, I share with you some of the most representative dishes of this region:
Fresh Fish and Seafood
Since the eastern area is bathed by the Caribbean Sea, seafood is an essential ingredient in local cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:
Fried Fish: It is usually served with accompaniments such as white rice, tostones (fried plantain), and salad. The fish can be Grouper, Snapper or Colorao
Lobster: A highly appreciated delicacy in places like Bayahibe and Punta Cana, lobster is usually prepared on the grill, with butter and garlic or with coconut sauce.
Ceviche: Ceviche is very common in the area, prepared with fresh fish or seafood, cured in lemon juice and accompanied by onion, cilantro and chili.
Sancocho: Sancocho is one of the most representative dishes of Dominican cuisine in general, but it has regional variants. In the east, it is given a special touch with fish or seafood, and is prepared with a mixture of tubers such as yuca, yam, sweet potato, cassava, and green plantain. It is a thick, tasty and nutrient-packed stew, ideal for sharing with the family.
Mangú de Plátano Although Mangú is more common in the northern area and in the capital, it is also a traditional dish in the east of the Dominican Republic. It is prepared with boiled green plantains, then mashed and accompanied with fried onions, eggs, salami or fried cheese. It is a delicious and energetic breakfast..
