Activities in the Dominican Republic

A great vacation in the Dominican Republic can be anything you want it to be, from a few days of blissful relaxation, to an itinerary-packed site-seeing tour.  However active you choose to be, no matter the time of day, there is something for you in the Dominican Republic.

Water Sports

There is more to do in the waters of the Dominican Republic than swim, that's for sure.  Water sports are a great way to spend your beach-going days.  Many resorts include equipment for various water sports in the price of the room, such as kayaks, snorkeling equipment, boogie boards, and sometimes even water or jet skis.  It is also possible to hire a local dive company to train and license you, then take you for a day of diving amid the brightly colored tropical fish, coral reefs, and shipwrecks.  Surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing, and stand up paddeling are also popular water activities.

If you would rather catch tropical fish than swim with them, a day of fishing and sailing might be a better choice for you. Consider hiring a captain to take you out on a fishing tour of some of the best known spots for big game fishing.  Many packages include equipment, tackle, meals, and drinks.

Sports

The active traveler won't have to hang up his athletic shoes before heading to the Dominican Republic, because there are plenty of opportunities to get that heart rate up.  Many resorts offer fully equipped gymnasiums, sand volleyball courts, lap pools, and tennis courts.  Don't discount the amount of work it takes to do a bit of site-seeing or hike a trail.  Golf is another popular activity on the islands, and there are over a dozen courses available for you to get in a round or two, even on your vacation. Read more about golf by clicking here .

If you prefer to watch sports rather than participate in them, this can certainly be done in the Dominican Republic.  Baseball is especially popular, and visitors can check out the  Dominican Winter Baseball League between the months of October and January, when it is baseball season on the island.  Vacationers will also be able to catch basketball and soccer games, as well as boxing matches if they travel to the islands during that particular sports season.

Shopping

There is a long list of goods that the Dominican Republic specializes in, and foreign shoppers are known to purchase them in abundance due to their low prices.  Faceless dolls, locally produced artwork, jewelry, mamajuana, herbs and spices, alcohol, and coffee are all a part of this list.  While you are shopping , be on the lookout for the best deals so you can stun your friends and family with top-of-the line souvenirs. 

Events and Festivals

The people of the Dominican Republic are a celebratory people, proud to honor their culture and heritage with numerous events throughout the year.  Visitors will find that these events and festivals are a great way to learn about the country's traditional music, dance, and crafts, as well as sample local fare and mingle with the people. 

Nightlife

Don't think that your day is over just because the sun has begun to sink into the Caribbean  Sea.  If there is one thing the people in the Dominican Republic are good at, it's partying, and the nightlife in the country outshines many of the other Caribbean nations.  Everything from live music venues to all-night dance clubs to quiet, intimate pubs exist here, so everyone can find somewhere to spend their nights. 

The fun doesn't stop here.  Your explorations of the Dominican Republic will likely introduce you to many more activities that you can participate in.  Get out of your comfort zone, and give something new a try; it's a great way to make a memory on your Dominican Republic vacation.