5 Tranquil Spots in the Dominican Republic
There are a number of holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic that are completely overrun by tourists. In fact, many people believe these are the only “safe” places for a vacation. This is not true at all, as there are quite a few beautiful places outside Punta Cana or La Romana where you can enjoy a peaceful and stunning time. We’d love to show you some of the most beautiful and quiet places in the Dominican Republic.
Bahía de Las Águilas
Pearly white sand and an azure sea with not a crowded tourist hotel in sight—this is Bahía de Las Águilas. Although it takes some effort to reach this remote beach in Parque Nacional Jaragua, via the fishing village of Las Cuevas, it is so beautiful that the journey is well worth it.
Due to its remote location in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic, Bahía de Las Águilas remains free of all-inclusive hotels, restaurants, and bars. It looks much the same as it did decades ago, before tourism took off in the Dominican Republic.
While its remote location contributes to Bahía de Las Águilas' unspoiled charm and beauty, it also makes the beach difficult to reach. Bahía de Las Águilas is more than three hundred kilometers (186 miles) from the capital, Santo Domingo. The town of Pedernales, the capital of the province of the same name, is 25 kilometers (16 miles) away.
From Pedernales, you can drive towards Las Cuevas. From this fishing village, there are two ways to reach Bahía de Las Águilas: by 4WD or by boat. If you choose to drive, be prepared for narrow, steep roads through dense forests. By boat, you will sail along steep cliffs towards the secluded beach.
Samaná Peninsula - Playa Rincón
Samaná is a peninsula in the northeastern part of the Dominican Republic. With its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, tropical hills, and pristine natural areas, it’s no surprise that it’s popular with tourists. You can relax on the long promenade or take a tour to admire the whales.
Like many coastal towns in the Dominican Republic, you’ll find many resorts in Samaná, or Península de Samaná as it’s officially called. Fortunately, it is much more relaxed here than in other well-known coastal areas.
This is because most people visit not to lie on the beach, but come to spot humpback whales. In the past, pirates would hide in the dense forests, secluded beaches, and caves while European troops entered the country.
Playa Rincón is a picture-perfect beach. It may be the most beautiful beach in the country, but it remains undeveloped and remote to this day. Its perfectly white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and towering palm trees make it truly stunning.
Constanza
There is a saying in the Dominican Republic: "God is everywhere, but He lives in Constanza." Located in a fertile valley at 1,300 meters (4,265 ft) and surrounded by high mountains, Constanza is the agricultural heart of the country. The valley is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering some of the best trails in the Dominican Republic.
Constanza is even closer to Pico Duarte than Jarabacoa and is therefore also a great base for climbing the highest mountain in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, this beautiful mountain town is a popular destination due to its proximity to the Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve. Here, you can hike through lush nature or take a dip in the river.
The cooler mountain climate also attracts Dominicans from lower-lying towns on weekends. Nearby, you’ll find Aguas Blancas, the highest waterfall in the Greater Antilles. Reaching it by car is quite a journey, but the reward is again worth it. For those brave enough to take a dip, be warned: the water is ice cold!
Parque Nacional Los Haitises
Parque Nacional Los Haitises is a national park in the bay surrounding Samaná. It’s known for its impressive forestland, mangroves, and ancient pirate caves. The name “Haitises” means “mountainous land,” and when you’re here, you’ll immediately see why. 
Picture by wikipedia
Parque Nacional Los Haitises is a beautiful natural area and is also easy to visit since it’s close to the popular Samaná Peninsula. You can easily book a day trip to explore this area.
Los Haitises is best known for its overgrown mountains that seem to rise out of the sea. The landscape is very similar to Halong Bay in Vietnam if you’ve ever been there.
Saona Island
Isla Saona, as the island is officially called, is part of Parque Nacional del Este and is located on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic. Its location in the Caribbean Sea gives the water here an even bluer hue than in, say, Punta Cana, which lies on the Atlantic Ocean.
Besides being surrounded by beautiful blue water, the 110 km² island offers even more delights, such as its pristine, snow-white beaches. And you’ll share them with far fewer people than you would at a resort.
You’ll certainly find peace and quiet here, as only 300 people live on the island. Most of them reside in the village of Mano Juan, one of Saona's two villages.