As a Dominican, I’ve put together this exclusive list of the 14 Best Underrated Beaches & 5 Best Waterfalls in the Dominican Republic—handpicked by locals who know this country like the back of their hand. These spots may not be as well-known as the tourist hotspots, but they offer some of the most breathtaking natural beauty, along with unique experiences you won’t find in the guidebooks.
Most of these beaches are in remote areas, so you'll need to rent a car or hire a guide to reach them. Many tours visit multiple beaches in one trip, making them a more cost-effective option.
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Virgin Beach in the Pedernales Region
Bahía de las Águilas Beach
Location: Pedernales Province - Southwest DR. Barahona is the closest major city (3-hour drive), while Santo Domingo is 6 hours away. Samaná, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata are about 8 hours away.
Nearby Attractions: Jaragua National Park, Cabo Rojo
How to Get There: There are many tour options you can google that include transportation, a boat ride, and a guided experience to Bahía de las Águilas. Most visitors travel from Santo Domingo, taking a guagua (bus) to Barahona, the nearest city to Pedernales. From there, you drive to La Cueva, a starting point marked by a large open cave. You can either take a rough road to the beach or hire a boat, which can be arranged in advance or on-site.
Must-Do Activities: Wildlife spotting, stargazing, glamping. For things to do in Perdonales region check out my blog: Best Eco-Friendly Destinations in the Dominican Republic: Budget Tips, Stays, Safety, and Top Activities
First Tour is great if you're staying in Barahona. Second tour has pickup in Port Cabo Rojo:
Tips: Bring mosquito repellent and strong sun protection, since this it is an open national park. The area is remote with few restaurants, but La Cueva at the entrance offers good, affordable food.
Where to Stay: —its best stay overnight if glamping. For an unforgettable star-gazing experience, I highly recommend glamping at Eco del Mar.
Secluded & Scenic Beaches in Samaná
If you’re a beach lover and planning a trip to the Dominican Republic with beaches as your main focus, I highly recommend staying in Samaná. It’s home to seven stunning beaches and truly feels like the best of the DR all in one place. Average cost for boat rides are around RD$2000-3000 (20-50USD) round trip. Consider anything more a rip-off. I highly recommend staying in Las Galeras, as all of these beaches are easily accessible from the town.
Playa Frontón
Location: Samaná Peninsula
Nearby Attractions: Las Galeras, Playa Madama, El Limón Waterfall
How to Get There: The safest way is by boat from Las Galeras beach, you can arrange the tour same day or in advance at the beach. Another option is to drive to La Rancheta in Las Galeras and hike 4.5 km to the beach.
Tips: The beach gets full sun until noon, then is shaded by the ridge. Avoid hiking from Boca de Diablo—it’s dangerous. No facilities, so eat beforehand or bring snacks unless included in your boat tour.
Playa Rincón
Location: Samaná Peninsula
Nearby Attractions: Caño Frío, Badestelle, Parque Nacional Cabo Cabrón, Rincón Aventura Tropical
How to Get There: You can reach Playa Rincón by car or boat. Most visitors take a 20-minute boat ride from Las Galeras in the morning and return around 4 PM. The road to the beach is mostly paved, except for the last 3km, which can be rough after heavy rain.
Must-Do Activities: Kayaking, exploring the river, fresh seafood dining.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds.
Tips: There are two restaurants on the shore if you get hungry. Make sure to arrive early for a quieter experience, and bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards. Be prepared with sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend the day at the beach.
Playa Madama
Location: Santa Bárbara de Samaná
Nearby Beaches: Boca del Diablo, Cayo Levantado, Rincón, Bahía de Las Galeras, Javo Beach La Playita
How to Get There: The best way is to drive as far as possible and hike the last 10-20 minutes to the beach. The road is rough, so avoid taking a rental car—dirt bikes are a better option. You can also reach the beach by boat, with tours that include stops at Playa Frontón, Madama, and Bonita.
Must-Do Activities: Cave exploration, swimming, cliff jumping.
Tips: This is a secluded beach with caves to explore, including bats inside. The area isn’t great for snorkeling due to fewer fish, but water shoes are a must because of occasional sea urchins and sharp rocks. Bring plenty of water, food, and sunscreen, as there are no facilities. You might spot iguanas, snakes, and even horses on the hiking trail, adding to the adventure.
Playa de Amor
Location: Samaná Peninsula
Nearby Attractions: Playa Brenman, Playa Mercedes, Playa el Hermitaño, Playa Colorada
How to Get There: Best accessed by boat from Las Galeras. It’s recommended to go on a tour or with a local guide to avoid getting lost.
Tips: If you have a drone, this is the perfect spot for stunning aerial shots. Love Beach, a hidden gem deep in the jungle, isn’t on Google Maps. It’s a small, round beach—great for swimming in calm weather, but waves can be strong. Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no vendors.
Hidden Gems Near Rio San Juan
La Entrada Beach
Location: Cabrera, near Río San Juan
Nearby Attractions: Dudu Lagoon, Laguna El Dudú, Playa Grande
How to Get There: Playa Entrada is best reached by car, as it's in a more secluded area.
Why Visit: Playa Entrada is a stunning, uncrowded beach where a freshwater river meets the ocean, giving you the best of both worlds—calm, refreshing waters on one side and the open sea on the other. It is a local favourite perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or simply relaxing. There are also natural pools and areas for jumping and swimming.
Tips: Arrive early for fewer crowds, be mindful of ocean currents, and if you love dogs, bring treats for the many friendly strays. A few local vendors sell food and drinks, but bringing your own snacks and water is recommended.
Playa El Viejo Óscar
Location: Near Puerto Plata
Nearby Attractions: Playa Larga, Playa Chiquita
How to Get There: Accessible by car from Puerto Plata (about 1.5 hours), followed by a short hike on a dirt road. Taxis are not recommended after rain due to dirt roads, which can be impassable. Alternatively, a motoconcho offers direct access. Use an up-to-date GPS for less obvious beach entrances. Parking is generally available.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
Tips: You will likely have the beach to yourself. Pack light (snacks, water, sunscreen, cash) as there are no facilities nearby.
Playa Grande
Location: Río San Juan
Nearby Attractions: Playa Preciosa, Playa Diamante, Playa La Boca de Payita, Zona de Surfista, Dudú Lagoon
How to Get There: 15-minute drive from Río San Juan, 1.5 hours from Puerto Plata, or 1 hour from Cabarete.
Must-Do Activities: Surfing, seafood tasting, beachside massages.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for vibrant sunsets.
Tips: It's more of a public beach so more access to other amenities. If you're hungry, check out Rafael Restaurante 5 nearby for delicious seafood.
Hoyo Azul
Location: Río San Juan. Google Maps Link.
Nearby Attractions: Natural Pool, Piscina Natural Río San Juan, Playa Caletón, La Cueva de Las Golondrinas
How to Get There: Take a guide and access the area via boat. Alternatively, drive to ANI Resorts, then head left, passing a cement ledge and grass. Walk left on sharp rocks towards a big tree to reach the end of the cove.
Must-Do Activities: Swimming in turquoise water, cliff jumping.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful visit.
Tips: Avoid jumping into the hole unless you're an experienced swimmer. Wear sneakers for the sharp walk.
Where to Stay: Want to stay where JLo stayed? Consider ÀNI Dominican Republic.
Best Surrounding Islands in the Dominican Republic
Cayo Levantado Beach
Location: Samaná Bay, Bacardi Beach
Nearby Attractions: Samaná Town, Pedestrian bridge
How to Get There: Hire a boat service from Samaná Town, leaving from Simi Baez Pier. The journey usually takes about 15 minutes.
Tips: Arrive early to secure a spot on the smaller beach bays, as the "main beach" fills up quickly.
Must-Do Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, whale watching.
Check out a highly rated whale watching tour that includes a trip to the island & buffet:
Cayo Arena
Location: Off the coast of Puerto Plata, near Punta Rucia and Monte Cristi.
Nearby Attractions: Playa de los Cocos, Punta Rucia, Monte Cristi.
How to Get There: Take a 20-minute speedboat from Punta Rucia. From Puerto Plata, drive two hours to Punta Rucia or book a 10-hour guided tour—I recommend Sun Sand Spirit DR.
Where to Stay: Staying in or near Punta Rucia is ideal, but Puerto Plata is also an option. I recommend Punta Rucia Lodge, where you can take a speedboat directly to Cayo Arena in 20 minutes.
Must-Do Activities: Snorkeling, drone photography, underwater photography.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the clearest waters.
Tips: Pack a lunch for a beach picnic, visit the endangered Dominican mangroves, learn to dive in beginner-friendly waters, and swim in the clear waters of Las Piscinas Naturales nearby.
Most popular tour with pickup locations in Puerto Plata, Sosua, or Cabarete:
Isla Catalina
Location: Off the coast of La Romana
Nearby Attractions: Altos de Chavón, Bayahibe, Teeth of the Dog Golf Course, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
How to Get There: Your best bet is to take a boat from La Romana port (30-40 minutes). Day trips are available from Punta Cana, Santo Domingo also, often including food, drinks, and dance classes.
Must-Do Activities: Diving, snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for clear waters and fewer tourists.
Tips: No overnight stays; plan a day trip. Check out the local shops right on the beach.
Highly rated tours on the island, pickup in Punta Cana and Bavaro:
Saona Island
Location: Near Bayahibe and La Romana
Nearby Attractions: Penon, Playa Palmilla
How to Get There: Isla Saona is only accessible by boat, with day trips available from Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, La Romana, and Bayahibe. Group tours include hotel pickup, meals, and entertainment, while private tours allow more flexibility. From Punta Cana, excursions take 8-10 hours; from Santo Domingo, renting a car to Bayahibe is ideal for exploring nearby attractions. La Romana offers speedboat or catamaran options (45 min), while Bayahibe, the closest point, provides a quick 25-minute speedboat ride from any dock.
These tours has nearly 3000 positive reviews! It includes hotel/airbnb pickup, catamaran transportation, buffet and open bar:
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Tips: Stop at the colorful fishing village of Mano Juan, see the private island where Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed, swim with wild starfish at Las Piscinas Naturales, and enjoy an authentic Dominican lunch.
El Valle Beach
Location: El Valle, near Samaná and Las Galeras
Nearby Attractions: Los Haitises National Park, Samaná Zipline, Castaño Waterfall
How to Get There: A 24-minute drive from Samaná or 30-50 minutes from Las Galeras by car or motorcycle.
Must-Do Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, and exploring caves.
Tips: Bring cash, as there are no ATMs nearby. Pack insect repellent—mosquitoes can be intense in the jungle. Waves can be strong, so swim with caution. Local seafood shacks serve fresh, affordable meals—try the catch of the day! For a more peaceful visit, come on a weekday.
Where to Stay: Cool stays in El Valle are: Mountain Top Villa , Dominican Tree House Village, El Valle Lodge (which offers transportation).
Breathtaking Waterfalls to Visit in the DR
Now that we’ve covered the best hidden beaches, let’s quickly mention the waterfalls you can’t miss while exploring the Dominican Republic. These natural beauties offer refreshing swimming spots, lush forest, and insane views.
Salto de la Jalda
Location: Located in Miches. 2 hours from Punta Cana and 1.5 hours from La Romana.
How to Get There: It’s highly recommended to take a guided tour, with the most common route starting from Magua Community, where you can leave your vehicle and begin the 3-hour hike to Salto de La Jalda National Park. The 6.5-kilometer path takes you through Dominican Forest, passing cacao, coconut, and coffee plantations, as well as rivers.
Why Visit: The tallest waterfall in the DR, surrounded by thick jungle.
Tips: Bring proper hiking gear, sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, a swimsuit and towel for swimming, and learn about the local flora and fauna, while respecting the natural environment by not leaving any garbage behind.
Where to Stay in Miches:
Salto de Socoa
Location: Monte Plata, about 1.5 hours from Santo Domingo
How to Get There: The easiest way is by car—follow Google Maps. As you near the destination, slow down for the sudden entry off the highway. You'll see a steep dirt road; drive up to the gate where workers will open it for you to park. From there you will walk a short, well-maintained hiking trail (about 10 minutes) that leads to the waterfall.
Why Visit: It is a hidden gem indeed so its possible you will have it to yourself or with a few locals only.
Tips: Bring water shoes for the rocky areas, visit early for the best lighting and fewer crowds, and pack snacks and water as there are limited vendors nearby, although there are washrooms onsite. The water can be chilly, but it’s perfect on a hot day.
Damajagua 27 Waterfalls
Location: Puerto Plata
How to Get There: I highly recommend a guided tour from Puerto Plata that includes transportation, a guide, and all the necessary gear for exploring the waterfalls.
Why Visit: Perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, featuring a series of 27 waterfalls with natural slides and pools.
Tips: Buy a locker to store your belongings (trust me, it’s worth it). Wear water shoes for a comfortable experience.
Salto Baiguate Waterfall
Location: Jarabacoa
How to Get There: A short drive from Jarabacoa, followed by a short hike. To reach Salto Baiguate, search for "SALTO BAIGUATE" in Google, as other addresses lead to the wrong location; there are toilets at the entrance. The walk to the falls is scenic but requires some caution with steep, deep steps and a drop in certain areas; it's about a 10-minute walk, and asking locals for directions is recommended for the best experience.
Why Visit: A beautiful, easily accessible waterfall with a calm swimming area. Perfect for families and beginner hikers.
Tips: The water can be quite cold so be aware and make sure to have comfortable shoes for your walk there.
Where to Stay in Jarabacoa:
Aguas Blancas Waterfall
Location: Constanza, Juan Bautista Pérez Rancier National Park, known as Valle Nuevo, 20 kilometres from Constanza in the Vega area.
How to Get There: From Constanza, it takes about an hour to reach Salto de Aguas Blancas via a rough dirt road, which is best navigated in a 4x4, especially if the road is dry; the waterfall is a quick 5-minute walk, the water is freezing cold, and it's worth visiting for the stunning views and hike to the top.
Why Visit: One of the highest waterfalls in the Caribbean, featuring icy-cold waters.
Tips: Visit early for the best lighting and be sure to look around for wildlife, including native birds like the Ridgway’s hawk and rufous-collared sparrow.
Where To Stay:
El Limón Waterfall
Location: Samaná Peninsula
Things to Do Nearby: Ziplining, Playa Limon, Playa Puna Popy
How to Get To El Limon Waterfall:There are two routes to the waterfall: a muddy, slippery 1-hour horseriding route, which is harder for both you and the horses, and a faster, more walkable hiking route. To hike, reach the abandoned house at the top, then turn left toward the palms and grass instead of going straight. Move past the small fence, and the clear path will lead you to the waterfall in about 25 minutes.
Why Visit: A picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall with a deep blue pool.
Tips: If you plan to hike, go early (around 8:15 AM) with good shoes, water, and pesos for the small entry fee. You'll enjoy the waterfall with fewer people before the horseback tours start crowding the path.
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