3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in the Dominican Republic

  • Day 1: Los Tres Ojos
    20 minutes (11.4 km) from Santo Domingo

    Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes) is a series of ancient limestone caves with crystal-clear blue-green water. Perfect for a family adventure, visitors can explore the caves by boat and swim in the serene waters. There is also a botanical garden on the property with many different types of plants and trees.

  • Day 2: Bavaro Beach
    2 hours (188 km) from Santo Domingo

    Bavaro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Dominican Republic, and for good reason. With its stunning turquoise waters and white sand, it's a perfect spot for a family beach day. There are many different water sports and activities available for rent, such as kayaks and parasailing.

  • Day 3: Manati Park
    25 minutes (22 km) from Bavaro Beach

    Manati Park is a fun-filled adventure park that both kids and adults will enjoy. The park features shows with dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, as well as interactive experiences with tropical birds, reptiles, and other animals. Additionally, there is a beautiful botanical garden that showcases many local plant species.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Los Tres Ojos (1-2 hours, $5 per person)
  • Bavaro Beach (full day, free)
  • Manati Park (3-4 hours, $30 per adult, $20 per child)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $85 per adult, $70 per child

Transportation

For travel between locations, renting a car is recommended for convenience and flexibility. The cost is approximately $50-80 per day. There are also many local taxis available, with fares varying based on distance and location.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of historical and cultural significance. For a shorter trip, consider skipping Manati Park and spending more time at the beach.

Airports

The main international airport in the Dominican Republic is Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), located in Punta Cana. It is approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes from Santo Domingo by car. Other airports include Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and Gregorio Luperon International Airport (POP) in Puerto Plata.

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