Las Terrenas, where cosmopolitanism meets the ocean

Leaving the capital behind, the journey continues north to Las Terrenas, once a quiet fishing village and now a lively coastal resort where Dominican hospitality meets unmistakable European flair. Here, the coastline opens out onto Playa Bonita, a stretch of golden sand sheltered by coconut palms that slope gently down to a calm sea. For your stay, one of the ideal choices is the Sublime Samaná Hotel & Residences, a beachfront retreat featuring spacious suites and understated luxury, or the elegant Xëliter Balcones del Atlántico complex, surrounded by tropical gardens. For lunch or dinner, the dining experience is casual and authentic at Luis, a small beachside restaurant where you can enjoy the freshest fish and grilled lobsters with your feet in the sand, perhaps accompanied by a traditional pescado con coco, the peninsula’s speciality prepared with fresh coconut milk, or a plate of mangú de plátano, the national dish consisting of a velvety purée of boiled green plantains, flavoured with butter.