Spend a relaxing time in Samaná Bay in the Dominican Republic
Lying on the northeastern shore of the Dominican Republic, the Samaná Peninsula features palm-filled forests, hidden beaches and caves. In the past, pirates used to hide out here, and even today with modern connections, Samaná Bay is still relatively secluded. Here, a romantic getaway can include spending time on wild beaches, hiking the lush rainforests and visiting coconut plantations.Its mountains and valleys offer clear-water rivers inland, while off the shore, some 2,500 humpback whales visit each year to mate and give birth. Among its ecotourism adventures are exploring the caves in the Los Haitises National Park where many bird species can be spotted. Other activities include horseback riding or canyoning, or just spending quality time on the white-sand beaches.
Hiking or horseback riding to El Limon Waterfall
The Dominican Republic has many beautiful waterfalls, accessible on foot or horseback. Romantic couples can explore the hilly terrain through the glorious rainforests, where beautiful birds can be seen, including the broad-billed tody, the palmchat and the Hispaniolan woodpecker. Meanwhile, on arrival at El Limon waterfall, couples can cool off in the freshwater emerald pool beneath the falls.Hike the Parque Nacional del Este
This stunning national park is full of caves to explore on an adventurous hike. Along the way, birding fans can spot more than 300 species of bird and over 500 species of flora. Moreover, the park includes even more idyllic white-sand beaches to spend time on.Off those beautiful beaches are many snorkeling and scuba diving sites with beautiful and colorful coral reefs, teeming with marine life.
Head to Saona Island
For couples seeking a beautiful day out, a boat trip to Saona Island is the ideal option. Set 12 miles off the mainland, the island features idyllic beaches and protected nature. Here, coconut palms line the stretches of unspoiled sand.The best way to visit is by speedboat or catamaran, where exploring the coastline is a worthwhile option on its own. However, a stop at Palmilla, a beach with a natural pool, is the ideal place for a romantic picnic. Alternatively, visit Mano Juan, the only inhabited part of Saona Island to meet the locals.
Romantic evening in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the place to be when seeking excellent restaurants and lively nightlife. Most of the eateries can be found in the Poligono Central in the Winston Churchill and Gustavo Mejia Ricart avenues, Chinatown, Zona Colonial and Malecon areas of the city. The range of international cuisine is astounding, including local, Caribbean, Mexican, Latin, Scandinavian and Japanese restaurants. The choice is amazing, so be ready to visit Santo Domingo again in the future to try out some more.Whether just dating, newly married, or celebrating a wedding anniversary, make memories of a lifetime on a romantic getaway to the Dominican Republic this year. Read more about the country and its attractions on its official website.