From Cliff Top Ocean Views To Tropical Forest Hues: The Best Eco-Chic Hotels In The Dominican Republic

In a country where beaches are bountiful and luxury resorts line the shore, the toughest choice you’ll have to make is where to stay. And from there, it’s plain sailing. Spend your mornings exploring fairytale forests, cascading waterfalls or diving into the turquoise ocean. While lounging by the sun-kissed pools, cocktails in hand remain on our afternoon itinerary. And deciding between ceviche or lobster as the sun sets becomes a routine pass time. 

Renowned for its rum, cigars and caffeine kicks, the Dominican Republic is rich in culture. And our top boutique hotels ensure that you don’t miss out on any of it. Watch the whales migrate from the comfort of your private deck. Or immerse yourself in the local flavors and Caribbean cuisine in between revitalizing spa treatments and relaxing retreats. Make time for yourself as the children become captivated by endless activities at the Kids Club. And allow nature to recharge your soul as you slow down and appreciate undisturbed surroundings. 

Hotels such as Casa Del VXI pay homage to the country’s historical significance through restored colonial houses. The panoramic views at Amanera leave the sweeping Atlantic Ocean to do the talking. And Casa Bonita embodies rustic romanticism through boho chic architecture and elegant finesse. 

Whatever your pick, be prepared to extend your stay. These Dominican resorts are likely to steal your heart.

The 13 best boutique hotels in the Dominican Republic

1. Amanera
2. Sublime Samana
3. Saman
4. Michès Playa Esmeralda
5. Casa Del xvi
6. Casa Bonita
7. Casa Colonial
8. Dreams
9. Ki Ra Holistic Living
10. Zoetry Agua
11. Tortuga Bay Hotel
12. Eden Roc
13. Playa Grande Beach Club

Amanera

Perched on a clifftop, Amanera enjoys panoramic views of the sweeping Atlantic ocean from the front and a whimsical jungle from the back. The casitas flaunt contemporary chic interiors with vibrant pops of color and clean lines. They all feature private decks and glass-encased bathrooms—ready to watch the sunrise and sunset, be it from the bath or balcony. While an upgrade will see you in your private pool from noon to night. 

As one of our top luxury resorts, Amanera’s dining options show off the Carribean cuisine by combining culinary exceptionalism with local flavors. Plus, activities such as tennis, golf and the wellness center will keep you hungry—for adventure and the food. 

Best for: Climatic clifftop occasions. 

Address: Highway 5, Cabrera Rio San Juan 33300, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$$
Website: www.aman.com/resorts/amanera

Sublime Samana

It’s impossible not to want to extend your stay when you see the sunset reflected in Sublime Samana’s cascading pools. And your toughest choice of the day is likely to be how to make the most of the kid’s club. Whether it’s lounging in sun-doused beds, recharging at the spa or dining on ceviche and lobster, you’ll know you’ve reached a parent’s paradise. 

Sublime Samana is also one of Dominican’s top luxury eco resorts as it continues to educate against the use of plastic and only use natural products in their rejuvenating bathrooms and spas—amongst other green initiatives. You can consider your guilt-free stay a move towards eco vacations and sustainability. Whilst sun-kissed experiences take care of your soul. 

Best for: Sublime, surreal and sustainable—the total package. 

Address: Bahía de Coson, Ramal Viva, Las Terrenas 32000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $
Website: www.sublimesamana.com/

Saman

Named after the majestic saman tree, this boutique hotel pays tribute to its natural surroundings by bringing them into the interior. And with exotic plants decorating the room walls, you’ll feel grounded in nature but with the luxury of snuggling into sustainably sourced high thread count sheets. 

Saman’s appreciation for its surroundings extends beyond the decor and into the gastronomy and slow philosophy. Expect to be awed by organic produce combined in a mouthwatering manner. While pops of color, imagery and words tell a story of the history of this luxury hotel and its cultural link to Samana. 

Best for: Slowing down and taking the scenic (root). 

Address: Av. Abra Grande 7, Las Terrenas 32000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $
Website: www.samanboutiquehotel.com/en/

Miches Playa Esmeralda

If we could spend the rest of our lives at Miches Playa Esmeralda, we would. The all inclusive eco resort is marked by its untouched beauty and conscious approach to sustainability. The surreal setting is dotted with soaring palm groves as lounging next to pristine pools becomes a daily routine. 

Local experiences such as whale watching tours promise to excite the entire family. While the renowned Club Med Kids Club provides tired parents with a much needed reprieve to make the most of an eco chic spa, standup paddle activities and gourmet restaurants. As we said, Miches Play Esmeralda is difficult to leave.

Best for: An eco chic escape. 

Address: Miches 24000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$
Website: www.clubmed.ca/r/miches-playa-esmeralda/y?departure_city=YUL

Casa Del XVI

This collection of exquisitely restored colonial houses pays homage to the history of the Old City of Santo Domingo. Many of the most significant buildings in the country are within walking distance of Casa Del XVI, bringing cultural intrigue into your escape from laundry. 

Expect atmospheric streets outside the gates and a cocoon of comfort inside. Every room is a culmination of colonial class and traditional Taino touches. Brick faced walls whisper tones of timeless sophistication and effortless elegance. And private chefs promise to exceed your highest expectations with any dish you dream up. Casa Del XVI, you have our hearts. 

Best for: Historical hideaway.

Address: C. Padre Billini No. 252, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$
Website: www.casasdelxvi.net/

Casa Bonita

Idyllic, natural and elegant—Casa Bonita manifests rustic romanticism in every corner. Think of whimsical fairy lights swooning over wooden decks. Fantasize about revitalizing back rubs amongst ethereal forest trees. And imagine a lazy afternoon spent by the pool or exploring untouched surroundings. That should give you a broad idea of what to expect when setting foot in this eco-friendly resort. Not to mention the tantalizing menu featuring a fusion of international favorites and local flavors. 

Between yoga meditations and zip lining adrenaline rushes, it’s impossible not to feel like your best self at Casa Bonita. And if you’re looking for a honeymoon destination or couples retreat, this boho chic luxury lodge is sure to keep your flame alight.

Best for: Boho chic meets luxury living.

Address: Km. 17 Carretera de la Costa, Bahoruco, Barahona, Barahona, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$
Website: casabonitadr.com/renacer/

Casa Colonial

You’re likely to return from Casa Colonia raving about a few things. But the conch paella is hard not to mention. While the traditional Caribbean architecture brings the hotel to life through its past. 

Expect large rooms with marble floors and a private outdoor space that peeks through twisted grape trees onto the sea. The Casa Colonial spa featuring saunas, steam rooms, massage cabanas and a rooftop sunning area is not to be passed up on. And the tennis courts and golf course promise to work up an appetite. 

Best for: Colonial classics speak to superlative service.

Address: Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$
Website: www.casacolonialhotel.com/

Dreams

This is a dream you won’t want to wake up from. The eco-friendly all inclusive resort encapsulates what it means to be on vacation with endless facilities, kids activities and superlative service. The contemporary decor speaks to the coastal setting with blue hues and clean lines. While private pools and furnished terraces make space for intimate moments and unforgettable memories. 

The boutique resort offers a spectrum of dining options—from authentic Mexican to Asian to freshly caught seafood, you’ll want to make time to try them all. While the Dreams theme nights and Spanish dance classes fuse fun and culture into your retreat. 

Best for: Sweet dreams are made of these. 

Address: Playa, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$
Website: www.amrcollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/dreams/dominican-republic/macao-beach-punta-cana/

Ki Ra Holistic Living

Ki Ra is a biodiverse paradise for birds, wildlife and people. Remote and secluded, you’ll be sharing the space with exotic birds, dancing butterflies and fragrant trees as the turquoise Caribbean sea poses as the backdrop for instagrammable moments. 

Ki Ra is translated to “birthplace of the earth spirit” in native Taino. And the family run eco lodge is committed to preserving its natural beauty through green initiatives and sustainable practices. Whether you’re joining one of their holistic retreats or simply realigning your rhythms through reflection in the lotus position, expect to leave relaxed and revived. 

Best for: Feeding your spirit—naturally. 

Address: 94W5+GV4, Carr. a Boca de Chavón, 23000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$
Website: www.ki-ra.com/

Zoetry Agua

When a private helicopter transfer sets the tone for your stay, you know you’re in for a treat. From the eco-friendly architecture to unspoiled beachfronts, Zoetry Agua delivers time and time again, making it one of the top all inclusive hotels in The Dominican Republic. 

The environmentally friendly resort is committed to redefining luxury through uniquely customized experiences, authentic gourmet cuisine and unparalleled personal service. And with your well-being at the center of every decision, you can expect to be blown away by Zoetry Agua’s impeccable attention to detail. 

Best for: Redefining luxury through unexpected details. 

Address: Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$
Website: www.amrcollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/zoetry/dominican-republic/agua-punta-cana/

Tortuga Bay Hotel

Designed by Oscar De La Renta, Tortuga Bay Hotel exudes the Dominican fashion designer’s eye for classic chic finesse. Each room is inspired by the indigenous culture with exotic patterns and marble embellished bathrooms. And furnished terraces tantalize with decadent ocean views.

With a deep respect for its natural resources, this eco resort is a front runner in sustainable development within The Dominican Republic. And their eco tours, watersport excursions and golf course are just a few of the ways to soak in the picturesque environment. End your day with filete de salmon by the sea. And it’s enough to book your next visit before you leave. 

Best for: Designer details.

Address: Punta Cana Resort & Golf Club, Higüey 23000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$$
Website: tortugabayhotel.com/

Eden Roc

Prioritizing privacy and intimacy, Eden Roc is in a class of its own. Each villa comes with its own pool, garden and rechargeable golf cart. And whilst the Jack Nicklaus signature course and Natura Bisse spa entice, impossibly high thread count sheets and iconic interior tempt you to lie in for a few extra minutes. 

The activity-dense kids club makes Eden Roc one of the best hotels in Dominican Republic for families. And we recommend that you take advantage of it with a mesmerizing massage surrounded by whimsical waterfalls. Best believe, you’ll feel like a different person when you emerge back into the real world. 

Best for: Permitting the forbidden fruit. 

Address: Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Provincia La Altagracia, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$$
Website: www.edenroccapcana.com/

Playa Grande Beach Club

Situated in Rio San Juan, this luxury hotel is a fairytale escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday normalities. Quaint, gingerbread cottages surround a communal dining area. And each room has a unique character as custom creeping vine trellis’ and exotic graphics decorate the space. 

Playa Grande Beach Club is so much more than just a retreat for tourists. The philanthropic destination contributes towards public education, cultural initiatives and community health. So if you’re looking for an excuse to book a trip, we couldn’t think of a better one. 

Best for: Fairytale vacations give back to the community. 

Address: 5 Aut, 33000, Dominican Republic
Price range: $$$$
Website: www.playagrandebeachclub.com/

Frequently asked questions about hotels in the Dominican Republic