Dominican resorts on the Caribbean Sea. Caribbean Islands Review - How to Travel Cheaply in One of the World's Most Expensive Regions

  • 30.09.2019

In this article we will help you navigate the Dominican Republic: we will tell you where the Caribbean Sea is in the Dominican Republic, which side it is washed by the ocean, where which resorts are located, and what are their main differences.

The Dominican Republic is located in the eastern part of the island of Haiti. This island belongs to the Greater Antilles, which are located in Central America. The southern coast of the island is washed by the Caribbean Sea, and the northern coast by the Atlantic Ocean.

The most popular and largest resort in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana, is located in the eastern part of the island, which is washed by the Atlantic. However, resort guests have an excellent opportunity to travel a little further south and appreciate the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

After all, just not far from Punta Cana is the Eastern National Reserve, and its pearl is the island of Saona, which attracts tourists year after year with its magnificent pristine beaches. The island of Saone is already the Caribbean Sea.

Between Saona and the coast of the Dominican Republic is the Catuana Strait - it is believed that this is where the waters of the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea connect.

There are hotels on the Caribbean Sea, but there are not so many of them compared to the Atlantic coast.

This is due to the fact that there are very few sandy beaches on the southern side of the island. As a rule, the coast is a shallow coral reef, or mangroves extend along the coast.

Resorts on the Caribbean Sea:

  • Barahona
  • Boca Chica
  • Juan Dolio
  • La Romana
  • Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is also located on the southern coast. But beach lovers have nothing to do there. Although there are, of course, decent city-type hotels in the capital (for example, Hilton). But the nearest beaches are located outside the city limits - in the small settlements of Juan Dolio and Boca Chica.

The resorts of the Caribbean Sea are distinguished by the presence of not very large and comfortable hotels, clean beaches, and there are rarely such strong waves as on the Atlantic. There are good places for snorkeling and diving. Another bonus for aesthetes is the magical sunsets! Well, proximity to the capital, of course, will be a plus for many.

Resorts on the Atlantic

There are much more resorts on the Atlantic; we will list the most famous and popular:

  • Punta Cana (Bavaro)
  • Puerto Plata
  • Sosua
  • Cabarete
  • Samana
  • Las Terrenas

Of course, the largest resort on this list is Punta Cana. It is famous for its beautiful beaches and excellent all-inclusive hotels. This is a real tourist paradise. Here you can find entertainment for every age, taste, and budget.


You can get detailed information about tours and special offers for holidays on the Caribbean coast of Panama at the office of the Na Otdykh company by phone in Moscow: (495) 228-78-57 (multi-channel), (499) 973-09-58, (499) 978-61-36, (499) 972-07-21.

Tours to are a journey into the world of magnificent exotic nature, relaxation on wonderful snow-white beaches, the diversity of local flora and fauna, excellent diving, rafting, ecotourism and much more.

Unlike many Caribbean countries, Panama is not prone to hurricanes or major earthquakes. The pleasant climate, luxurious beaches, warm clear coastal waters, and the historical heritage of the pre-Columbian and colonial eras attract tourists and vacationers from America and Europe.

A beach holiday in Panama is also attractive because of the opportunity, without spending a lot of time moving, to visit two coasts - the Caribbean and the Pacific.
For a relaxing pastime, the Caribbean resorts of Panama are more suitable, while the Pacific coast, with its waves, is more of a haven for surfers and water sports fans.

The Caribbean coast, the Bocas del Toro archipelago, is recognized as an ideal place for diving and snorkeling in Panama. The main diving centers are located on the island of Colon and in the area of ​​the National Marine Park. The offshore reefs are impressive with their stunning coral walls and gardens, underwater tunnels and cave grottoes. You can see sunken ships near the San Blas archipelago and in the Portobelo Nature Reserve. Many artifacts lie at the bottom of the sea from the time of pirate attacks.

Diving is good all year round, but the best periods are March-May and August-November, at which time visibility in the water is optimal.

The coastal water temperature does not drop below +27..+28 degrees all year round, and at depth it stays around +24. Visibility ranges from 15 to 30 meters. And although fishing tours are organized on all coasts of Panama, the most impressive fishing awaits tourists on the Bocas Del Toro islands.

A holiday on the Caribbean Sea in Panama also means getting to know the unusual culture of Indian tribes who still live according to the customs of their ancestors.

The hotel base is represented by hotels, wooden houses, boarding houses, hotels on the water, and the private sector.

The most popular Panamanian resorts in the Caribbean

Bocas Del Toro

The archipelago is located in the northeastern part of Panama.

It includes nine large islands, fifty-two small ones, and many tiny, almost reefs. This is one of Panama's popular tourist regions with shady palm forests, miles of sandy beaches, vibrant corals and clear, clear water.

It is also famous for the fact that the filming of the show “The Last Hero” for different countries of the world took place here. There are both untouched natural spaces and quite modern resorts here. Regardless of the time of year, lovers of sea fishing and diving constantly come here. The largest island is Colon, the city of the same name is the capital of the archipelago.

The best beaches are Bluff Beach, Bocas del Drago, Punch Beach (Colon Island), Red Frog Beach and Playas Larga on Bastimientos Island.

Excellent diving spots include Punta Juan, Coral Key, Hospital Point and the Garden area near Cayo Nancy.

It has some of the best reefs on earth, with lobsters, rays, different types of crabs and a huge variety of tropical fish. Bastimientos National Park, which unites several southern islands, is home to endangered sea turtles.

Hotels are mainly represented by houses standing directly on the water on stilts.

Colon

In addition to being Panama's famous Caribbean resort, Colon is also the second duty-free zone in the Western Hemisphere after Hong Kong. Therefore, those who like to “shop” between sunbathing, snorkeling or diving should visit here.

The city of Colon is the second largest city in the country, as well as its main port and transport and economic center. It is located at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal; it takes about an hour to get here from the capital by car. The city attracts history buffs with a large number of preserved ancient buildings.

Isla Grande

Translated, the name Isla Grande means Big Island. There are many coral reefs here, so the places are ideal for diving, surfing, and snorkeling. The island is also popular among the local population, for whom the palm trees and white sandy beaches of Isla Grande have become an escape from the bustle of the city. It’s convenient to get here - just a couple of hours by car from Panama City or five minutes by water taxi.

On the island you can visit a typical Caribbean village, visit restaurants and bars, and visit street markets.

A New Year's holiday in Panama would be a great idea - after all, the locals celebrate this holiday very brightly, noisily and cheerfully. And in the literal sense: bells are ringing, cars are honking, the chimneys of ships are honking, and people are trying to shout as loudly as possible, clap their hands, stomp their feet, in general, make as much noise as possible.

This is also done in order to celebrate the holiday cheerfully and at the same time drive away evil spirits, “not letting them in” next year. Christmas is celebrated no less colorfully - with burning garlands, fireworks, cheerful festivities, and a traditional feast.

Portobelo

A small town located 50 km east of Colon, one of the oldest cities in the country, founded by Columbus himself. It is located next to the remains of three large forts. Among the attractions, the Battery of Santiago, the Church of San Felipe, Fort Santiago de la Gloria, Fort Battery of San Fernando, Fort Battery of San Geronimo, etc. are well preserved. Old forts stretch along the coast from San Lorenzo to Portobelo.

In addition to these places, the excellent beaches of the Maria Chiquita tour center, the equally beautiful shores of Playas Langosta, and the colorful and original village of Nombre de Dios are worthy of attention.

San Blas

The islands of this archipelago are located along the Caribbean coast of the country from the Gulf of San Blas to the Colombian borders.

The archipelago is home to the Guna Yala Indian tribe, whose settlements are united into an autonomous province. The archipelago consists of 378 islands, but only 49 of them have populations.

After visiting an Indian village, you can buy “molas” as a souvenir - very beautiful fabric appliqués made by hand by the women of the tribe. On Ikodub Island you can go snorkeling, try local cuisine and famous rum, sunbathe and swim while admiring the life of the coral reef.

The road to the Indian port of Karti will take about 2.5 hours. From there, canoes leave for the various San Blas Islands.

Entry into the territory of the Guna Yala Autonomy (translated as “land of the Indians”) is permitted only in off-road vehicles, in small groups accompanied by an Indian.

There are no hotels here in the generally accepted sense of the word, so if this is not a one-day tour, then the newly-made Robinsons will have to spend the night in a real Indian hut, with amenities on the street.

Attractions:

- Boxing Arena

Ancient railway station

Neo-Gothic Cathedral

Old New Washington Hotel (1850)

Fort San Lorenzo

The wonderful Costa Arriba

Isla Grande resort island

Welcome to Paradise! Here are the top ten Caribbean resorts with crystal clear waters, soft warm beaches and world-class luxury accommodations.

These hot Caribbean destinations, selected by travelchannel.com, are among the richest and most lavish resorts in the world. The unique natural features of the Caribbean islands, their natural beauty, beautiful beaches, endless opportunities for recreation and entertainment, impeccable service and traditional hospitality will make your holiday unforgettable.

Top 10 Caribbean Resorts

1. Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino, Aruba

The small island state of Aruba is located 25 kilometers off the coast of Venezuela. Spanish, Dutch and Caribbean cultures merge here very elegantly. Hyatt Regency is one of the best resorts in the region. Its staff will be happy to introduce you to many local traditions and surround you with care and comfort.

2. Caneel Bay Resort, Saint John

St. John's Island is a treasure trove of tropical jungles that is uniquely remote and pristine. At the beginning of the last century, Lawrence Rockefeller, a member of the third generation of the famous family, fell in love with these places. Today the island offers 166 discreetly luxurious rooms, 3 restaurants, 6,000 square meters of SPA and many tennis courts.

View prices: Caneel Bay

3. Parrot Cay Resort & Spa, Turks and Caicos

Located 925 kilometers from Miami, the British Overseas Territory of Turks and Caicos consists of several dozen sun-drenched tropical islands. Stars such as Paul McCartney, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis and David Copperfield have purchased exclusive villas here. Unlike other mega affordable resorts, the exclusive five-star Parrot Cay Resort & Spa is only accessible by boat.

View prices: Parrot Cay

4. Rosewood Little Dix Bay Villas Virgin Gorda

Located 145 kilometers off the coast of Puerto Rico, Virgin Gorda is an area of ​​lush tropical greenery and stunning crescent-shaped sandy bays. This Caribbean paradise offers plenty of scenic hiking trails and amazing scuba diving opportunities.

5. Beaches Turks & Caicos, Turks and Caicos

Visiting these beautiful islands will cost you a pretty penny unless you choose Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa. This popular resort, opened in 1997, operates on an all-inclusive basis.

6. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Saint Thomas, St. Thomas Island

St. Thomas is part of the US Virgin Islands, located east of Puerto Rico. The combination of Old World colonial charm with a tropical setting gives this place its special flavor. Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is a 152 stunning guestroom property located on 15 immaculately landscaped acres. Blessed with breathtaking views, it's no wonder this island attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.

7. Four Seasons Resort Nevis, Nevis Island

The round volcanic island of Nevis is located 80 kilometers west of Antigua and approximately 350 kilometers southeast of Puerto Rico. Here you can feel completely detached from the outside world. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Four Seasons Resort is that it has achieved a AAA Five Diamond Award rating. Obtaining a five diamond rating is quite a difficult matter; the presence of such status at the Four Seasons Resort indicates its highest global level.

8. Atlantis, Bahamas

Atlantis Paradise Island is a mega-resort and water park based on the mythical city that disappeared without a trace 11 thousand years ago. For couples, families with children and fun groups, everything you need - restaurants, entertainment and accommodation options - Atlantis provides in abundance.

When you think about the Caribbean islands, thoughts of sun, sea and sand immediately come to mind. The relaxed pace of life allows you to enjoy a glass or two of your favorite cocktail, sitting under a coconut tree and feeling the light breath of the ocean breeze on your face. It is likely that this place is a branch of heaven on earth.And since you are already in paradise, it’s time to enjoy your vacation to the fullest by choosing a chic, first-class resort for this. Naturally, this will cost a pretty penny, but why risk ruining your vacation by staying in a cheap, run-down hotel? Below is a list of the ten most luxurious resorts on the Caribbean coast.

10. Sandy Lane, St. James, Fr. Barbados

Stars and other famous people consider Sandy Lane their safe haven. The resort offers more than a hundred hotel rooms and a five-room villa. Very close to the coast there is a coral reef of wonderful beauty called “Little Sandy Lane”. The main representatives of marine fauna in this part of the Caribbean Sea are barracudas and lobsters.

The hotel owns three golf courses - this is probably what prompted Tiger Woods, the famous American golfer, to rent the entire resort to spend his honeymoon here with Elin Nordegren. Unfortunately, the couple didn't visit this place often enough. But the stylish and romantic atmosphere of Sandy Lane could help save their marriage.

9. Hotel Maroma, Mexico

Vacation in Mexico. Surely, you will immediately think of Acapulco or Cancun. And about the crowds of tourists who scurry through their streets day and night. But just 50 kilometers from here is the quiet and cozy town of Maroma. The hotel of the same name offers 36 rooms, which means it is never too crowded.

8. Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas resort in the Virgin Islands is located on 60.7 thousand square meters. m of superbly landscaped land, and the island of St. Thomas itself offers stunning scenery. Due to the elegance and sophistication of this place, the hotel's 152 rooms are in high demand. Staying in the luxurious surroundings of a superbly appointed hotel will bring you much closer to nature.

7. "Atlantis", o. Paradise, Bahamas

They say that about 11 thousand years ago the majestic city of Atlantis disappeared into the depths of the sea, leaving no trace of its existence. The same name was taken by one of the resorts in the Bahamas, which boasts beautiful sandy beaches and offers all the conditions for practicing any kind of water sports. Here you can also take a “leap into the unknown” - go down an 18-meter-high water slide directly into the resort’s main pool. The resort is located on Paradise Island, which in itself speaks of the wonder of this place.

6. Turks and Caicos Resort, o. Providencials

Turks and Caicos is a string of eight islands in the Caribbean archipelago, located approximately 600 miles off the coast of Miami and surrounded by numerous coral reefs. This place is very popular with celebrities, so don't be surprised if you accidentally bump into someone very famous. Go to o. Providencials and book a room in Turks and Caicos - your vacation is guaranteed to be enjoyable and full of fun.

5. "Caneel Bay", o. Saint John, US Virgin Islands

The elitism of this island is off the charts. It is worth mentioning that even the Rockefellers loved to spend weekends here with the whole family. The island is covered with lush greenery, a real tropical jungle. With Caneel Bay, your stay on the island will be an unforgettable experience. The hotel features 166 charming rooms, a huge relaxation and wellness complex and three restaurants. Tennis fans will be delighted with the modern courts offered by the resort.

4. Parrot Cay Resort on the island of the same name

There are simply resorts, and there are resorts that allow guests to relax in privacy. The Caribbean is home to many outstanding holiday destinations, each offering top-notch amenities and luxury. Sometimes the only way for a hotel to distinguish itself is to provide guests with exclusive service and privacy, as Parrot Cay does. Its exclusivity knows no bounds. A small boat is the only way to reach the luxury five-star resort. Only a few people can visit this place at the same time. Luxurious, secluded, unique - that's what Parrot Cay Resort is all about.

3. "Little Dix Bay", o. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Not far from the coast of Puerto Rico is located the island. Virgin Gorda has an area of ​​just over 20 square meters. km. The island is surrounded by lush greenery, offering stunning views of the bay. At the center of this riot is Little Dix Bay, a huge resort offering the best entertainment of the mountain and underwater worlds. The resort has hiking trails of varying levels of difficulty that are suitable for everyone - from beginners to experienced hikers. If diving is more your thing, there are some wonderful diving spots here.

2. "Hayat Regency", Fr. Aruba, Netherlands Antilles

The island of Aruba is located off the coast of Venezuela (South America). Its peculiarity is a unique combination of Dutch, Spanish and Caribbean culture. The Hyatt Regency Casino Resort will immerse you in a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere with 24-hour entertainment and the courteous service of a knowledgeable staff.

1. Four Seasons Resort, o. Nevis, West Indies

10 Best Resorts in the Caribbean

Varadero, Cuba

Holidays in Cuba will be of interest both to lovers of beach activities (parasailing, diving, sailing, snorkeling) and to lovers of nature, which is simply fabulous here. In addition to enjoying the beautiful beaches and sunny weather, you can walk through the colorful old Havana, visit tobacco and coffee plantations, and breathe in freedom deeply.

How to get there: Direct flights from Moscow to Havana, travel time from 12 hours, or with a transfer in Paris, Frankfurt or Amsterdam – travel time from 16 hours.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

There are a number of resorts in the Dominican Republic that will appeal to scuba diving enthusiasts, because here you can see picturesque coral reefs, many different types of exotic fish, and sometimes even wrecks of sunken ships. In addition, the Dominican Republic is very popular for organizing beach weddings and holidays for newlyweds.

How to get there: Direct flights from Moscow to Punta Cana, travel time from 13 hours.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is recognized as one of the best resorts in Mexico and is now gaining popularity among tourists from Russia. Cancun is famous for its stunning white beaches, clear water and developed infrastructure. Also in Mexico you can see waterfalls, cenotes, and Mayan pyramids of extraordinary beauty - Chichen Itza, Palenque.

How to get there: Direct flights from Moscow to Cancun, travel time from 13 hours.

Bahamas

The Bahamas are synonymous with the concept of luxury vacation. The archipelago of the Bahamas includes about 700 islands, only 30 of which are inhabited. There are beautiful beaches, developed hotel infrastructure, and exotic nature. One of the best beaches in the Bahamas is Pink Sand Beach, the sand of which is an unusually beautiful shade of pink.

How to get there: Freeport International Airport, Nassau. There are no direct flights. You can fly with a transfer in London or the USA, travel time is from 13 hours.

Jamaica

Every year more and more tourists visit Jamaica to see exotic nature, gorgeous beaches, cane fields, listen to live reggae...Jamaica will also appeal to lovers of pirate stories, museums and monuments. Here you can snorkel and even hunt sharks.

How to get there: Kingston and Montego Bay International Airports. There are no direct flights from Russia; transfers are made in London and Frankfurt. Flight time is approximately 16 hours.

Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay Beach, located on the island of St. John in the Virgin Islands, is recognized by the National Geographic Community as the best beach in the Caribbean. Coral reefs and a rich underwater world attract hundreds of tourists from all over the world to the Virgin Islands. The water near the islands is so clear that visibility is 40 m deep.

How to get there: St. Croix and St. Thomas International Airports. There are no direct flights; you can get there with a transfer to the USA or Puerto Rico.

Antigua and Barbuda

On the islands of Antigua and Barbuda you can find both pristine nature and a variety of tourist attractions in the form of yacht clubs, bars, hotels and casinos. There are many cozy bays that are protected from storms by coral reefs, and snow-white beaches – of which there are as many as 365 on the island of Antigua.

How to get there: St. John's International Airport. There are no direct flights from Russia, only with transfers in London or Frankfurt.

Barbados

Since Barbados was once a British colony, some English traditions are still preserved here - for example, the game of cricket is widespread, and golf competitions are held. In addition, Barbados will delight vacationers with beautiful nature, excellent beaches and many modern hotels. Holidays here in English are measured and relaxed, so not all hotels accept families with children.

How to get there: Bridgetown International Airport. Transfer in London or Frankfurt, journey from 14 hours.

Cayman islands

The Cayman Islands will be ideal for those who want to take a break from the metropolis and crowds and feel like they are on a desert island - here you can find many beautiful secluded beaches. There is a variety of flora and fauna here.

How to get there: Grand Cayman Island International Airport. Transfer in London or Miami, journey from 20 hours.

Costa Rica

The sand on the beaches of Costa Rica comes in a variety of colors and shades: white, gold, silver and even volcanic black. At the resorts, in addition to sunbathing, you can go surfing, diving, sport fishing, and watch sea turtles lay eggs. In addition to all this, there are exotic fruits, national parks, mountains and volcanoes.

How to get there: San Jose International Airport. Flight – there are no direct flights, only connections in Madrid, Frankfurt, Havana are possible. On the way from 13. hours

It is difficult to say which of the Caribbean islands or resorts is the best. Despite the long, expensive and often indirect flight, a visit to one of the above resorts is a must. Holidays in the Caribbean are available almost all year round; visa requirements have recently been simplified and more and more direct flights are appearing. Kilometers of snow-white beaches with fine hot sand, green palm trees bending over the water, exotic fruits, nature and an intoxicating sense of freedom will remain in the memory for a long time.

Photo: thinkstockphotos.com, flickr.com

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Plavaju v more 10 let, rabotaju na lainerah V Karibskom more. Ochen" hochu vsem skazat", what to, what vi vidite na kartinkah myagko skazat" ne sovsem pravda. People zhivjot ochen" bedno i gryazno, pristajut s chem nibud "kupit", vihodit" strashno odnoi posle 7, when darkneet. U nashi gostei i ekekipazha bili neprijatnie situazii, napadali,grabili, odnogo na ulize podstrelili v plecho. Pravil"no govoryat, horosho there, where nas net.

Varadero, Cuba, amazing, just from there. In Cuba there is socialism: no hungry people, no beggars, although they live modestly. The streets are safe both day and night, not like in the Dominican Republic, for example. Among the world's branded chain hotels, Spanish ones are well represented, but the food there cannot be compared with Europe - it is many times better. It's the same with animation))). Don't listen to anyone: Cuba-Varadero-Cai Largo - Paradise!

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