WHY THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FOR A SURF HOLIDAY

The Dominican Republic is more than just a spot for a lazy beach holiday. It’s a paradise for those seeking adventure, especially if you’re into surfing. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, the Dominican Republic offers a unique experience that stands out from other popular surfing destinations like Costa Rica.

Key Takeaways

The Dominican Republic has a rich and vibrant culture with unique cuisine, music, and festivals.
Top surfing spots include Cabarete Beach, Encuentro Beach, and Macao Beach.
You can enjoy unique experiences like whale watching, exploring waterfalls, and cultural immersion.
Costa Rica’s surfing scene is often crowded and more expensive compared to the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is known for its warm hospitality, friendly locals, and a welcoming surfing community.

THE VIBRANT CULTURE OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Local Cuisine

The Dominican Republic offers a delightful mix of Latin, Spanish, and African flavors. Popular dishes include sancocho, a hearty meat stew, and arroz blanco, which is white rice served with stewed beans and braised chicken or beef. Don’t miss the chance to try these local favourites!

Traditional Music

Music is a big part of life in the Dominican Republic. Merengue and bachata are the most popular genres, and you’ll often hear them playing in the streets and local clubs. The lively beats and rhythms will make you want to dance!

Colorful Festivals

The Dominican Republic is home to many vibrant festivals throughout the year. From Carnival to the Merengue Festival, these events are filled with colorful costumes, lively music, and dancing. They offer a fantastic way to experience the local culture and have a great time.

SURFING SPOTS IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Cabarete Beach

Cabarete Beach is a must-visit for any surf holiday in the Dominican Republic. Known for its consistent waves, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers. The beach is also famous for its vibrant nightlife and numerous surf schools, making it a great spot to learn and have fun.

Encuentro Beach

Encuentro Beach is one of the most popular surf spots on the North Coast. It’s ideal for surfers of all levels, offering a variety of waves that cater to both beginners and experts. The beach is less crowded, providing a more relaxed and authentic surfing experience.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Whale Watching

One of the most magical experiences you can have in the Dominican Republic is whale watching. Every year, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Samaná Bay. Seeing these majestic creatures up close is unforgettable. You can take a boat tour to witness their acrobatics and hear their songs.

Exploring Waterfalls

The Dominican Republic is home to some stunning waterfalls. One of the most famous is El Limón, a 130-foot cascade in the Samaná Peninsula. You can hike or ride a horse through lush forests to reach it. Once there, you can swim in the cool, refreshing pool at the base of the falls.

Cultural Immersion

To truly understand the Dominican Republic, you need to immerse yourself in its culture. Visit the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see historic buildings and learn about the country’s history. You can also attend local festivals, where you’ll experience traditional music, dance, and food. This is a great way to connect with the friendly locals and understand their way of life.

THE DR COMPARED TO COSTA RICA’S SURFING SCENE

Crowded Beaches

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, but they can get very crowded, especially in popular spots like Tamarindo. This can make it hard to find a quiet place to surf. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you might find the crowds overwhelming.

(Crowded beaches in Costa Rica)

Less Authentic Experience

Many of Costa Rica’s surfing spots are highly commercialized. This means you’ll find lots of surf schools and touristy bars, which can take away from the authentic feel of the place. If you’re looking for a genuine cultural experience, Costa Rica might not be the best choice.

Higher Costs

Surfing in Costa Rica can be expensive. From accommodation to food and surf lessons, the costs can add up quickly. Accommodation, food and surf lessons in Costa Rica are priced on par or more expensive than in the USA And Canada. In comparison, a surf holiday in the Dominican Republic can be much more affordable, making it a better option for budget-conscious travellers.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC’S WARM HOSPITALITY

Friendly Locals

The people in the Dominican Republic are known for their friendliness and warmth. They welcome visitors with open arms and make you feel at home. Their genuine smiles and helpful nature make your stay even more enjoyable.

Welcoming Surfing Community

The surfing community in the Dominican Republic is very welcoming. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find people ready to share tips and stories. The camaraderie among surfers here is something special.

Safe Environment

Unlike in Costa Rica, There are no crocodiles sightings in the Dominican Republic. No shark sightings in the DR either.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Protecting Marine Life

The Dominican Republic is dedicated to protecting its marine life. Efforts include creating marine protected areas and enforcing fishing regulations. These actions help keep the ocean’s ecosystem healthy and thriving.

Sustainable Tourism Practices

Sustainable tourism is a big deal in the Dominican Republic. Many hotels and tour operators follow eco-friendly practices. They use solar energy, recycle waste, and support local communities. This way, tourists can enjoy their stay without harming the environment.

Preserving Natural Beauty

The country works hard to keep its natural beauty intact. National parks and reserves are well-maintained. Visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to minimize their impact. This ensures that the stunning landscapes remain unspoiled for future generations.

ADVENTURE BEYOND SURFING

Zip-lining in the Rainforest

Imagine soaring through the lush green canopy of a tropical rainforest. Zip-lining in the Dominican Republic offers an exhilarating experience that lets you see the island from a whole new perspective. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide above the treetops, taking in breathtaking views of the landscape below.

Hiking to Hidden Caves

For those who love to explore, hiking to hidden caves is a must-do activity. The Dominican Republic is home to numerous caves, each with its unique features. Some caves even have ancient drawings on their walls, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich history. Make sure to bring a flashlight and a sense of adventure!

Exploring Colonial Architecture

Step back in time by exploring the colonial architecture of the Dominican Republic. The island boasts a variety of well-preserved buildings from the colonial era, each telling a story of its own. Wander through cobblestone streets and marvel at the intricate designs of these historical structures. It’s a perfect way to combine adventure with a bit of education.

LOCAL ARTISAN MARKETS AND HANDICRAFTS

Unique Souvenirs

Cabarete is a treasure trove of boutique shops. Here, you can find locally made and imported clothes and beachwear for everyone in the family. The north coast is famous for its amber deposits, making artisan jewellery stores a must-visit for unique pieces.

Supporting Local Artists

When you shop at these markets, you’re not just buying a souvenir; you’re supporting local artists and their families. Many shops offer handmade items that reflect the rich culture and traditions of the Dominican Republic.

Colourful Market Atmosphere

The markets are vibrant and full of life. Strolling through them, you’ll experience a lively atmosphere filled with colours, sounds, and the friendly chatter of vendors. It’s a shopping paradise by the beach, where every corner has something new to discover.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Yoga and Meditation Centers

The Dominican Republic is home to many yoga and meditation centres where you can find peace and relaxation. These centres offer classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Imagine starting your day with a sunrise yoga session on a beautiful beach. It’s a perfect way to connect with nature and yourself.

Organic Farm-to-Table Dining

Eating healthy is easy in the Dominican Republic. Many retreats offer organic farm-to-table dining experiences. You can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce. This not only supports local farmers but also ensures you are eating the freshest and healthiest food possible. At Swell, we try to produce our breakfasts and dinner with local fresh & organic produce.

Holistic Spa Treatments

Pamper yourself with holistic spa treatments available at many wellness retreats. From massages to facials, these treatments use natural ingredients to help you relax and rejuvenate. A spa day can be the perfect way to unwind after a long day of surfing or exploring.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the Dominican Republic for your next surfing holiday is a decision you won’t regret. With its vibrant culture, stunning surfing spots, and unique experiences, it offers something for everyone. Unlike Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic provides a more authentic and affordable adventure. You’ll be welcomed by friendly locals and a warm surfing community, all while enjoying a safe environment. Plus, the country’s commitment to environmental conservation ensures that its natural beauty remains unspoiled. Beyond surfing, there’s a world of adventure waiting, from zip-lining in the rainforest to exploring colonial architecture. Don’t miss out on the colourful local markets and health and wellness retreats. The Dominican Republic truly is a paradise for those seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Dominican Republic a great place for a surfing holiday?

The Dominican Republic offers beautiful scenery, warm waters, and great waves almost all year round. It’s also less crowded than other popular surfing spots.

Is it only surfing that is on offer?

Aother aspect that makes the Dominican Republic such a great surf holiday destination is that it’s one of the few places in the world where you can combine surfing with several other exciting watersports. Sports like Kitesurfing, Windsurfing, sailing and the new sport of wingfoiling are all on offer right in Cabarete bay

What are the best beaches to surf in the Dominican Republic?

Some of the top surfing beaches are Playa Encuentro, Cabarete’s surrounding beaches and Playa Preciosa next to Playa Grande. More info on surfing in the Dominican republic can be found here

Is it expensive to surf in the Dominican Republic?

No, it’s generally cheaper than places like Costa Rica. You can find affordable accommodations, meals, and surf lessons. For example, at Swell we have a package with a learn-to-surf holiday for around $1,900 USD pp/pw A similar package in at a Costa Rica surf camp will cost $3,500 and up. (some Costa Rican Surf resorts charge over$6,000 USD pp/pw)

When is the best time to go surfing in the Dominican Republic?

You can surf almost any time of the year. There are about 350 surfable days annually, and there’s no distinct rainy season to worry about.

Is the Dominican Republic safe for tourists?

Yes, the Dominican Republic is known for its warm hospitality and safe environment, especially in popular tourist areas.

What other adventure activities can I do besides surfing?

Plenty of other adventures include whale watching, exploring waterfalls, zip-lining, and hiking to hidden caves. Bsides those exciting adventure day trips, there’s sports like, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, diving and Wingfoiling

How is the local culture in the Dominican Republic?

The local culture is vibrant and welcoming. You can enjoy delicious local cuisine, traditional music, and colourful festivals.

About

At Swell we have been teaching people to surf, using our own unique method of teaching to get our guests to make quick, safe progress in a fun way. Interested in learning to surf? Or Improving your surfing skills? Have a look at the different surf holiday packages we offer and join us in the caribbean for a week of sun, surf and good vibes

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December 29, 2019January 23, 2020

ACTIVE FAMILY SUMMER HOLIDAY

Moms and Dads, tasked with planning family vacations, have so much to consider; Safety, Travel, Boredom, Fun, Food, Sleep, Cost; they all come into play when you try to plan the perfect active family summer holiday.

We don’t envy you the stress of the planning, but we do think we have just the answer to give you and your family the ultimate family, action-adventure summer vacation. We understand the magic ingredient on a family vacation; happy kids = happy parents!

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HAS IT ALL

The Dominican Republic is a large Caribbean island with so much to offer. It has a really interesting history and strong culture dating back centuries and is the most beautiful and mountainous of all the Caribbean islands, topped with Pico Duarte, the region’s highest mountain (which even keeps snow on its peak during summer months!). It’s a water-sport, eco-touristic, adventure playground with such dramatic scenery and stunning beaches, you won’t believe your eyes!

We’ve put together a suggested itinerary for what we hope you will agree is the perfect active vacation below, with something to suit everyone.

This 7-night itinerary is just a guide and you can stay for longer or shorter, take rest days and add even more adventures to suit. We think that at least some or all of the suggestions below will add up to a perfect family summer vacation. Most suggestions are suitable for May to early September vacations and for kids aged 8 and up.

Swell is ideally set up for families; Mom does not need to cook (or clean up!), so it’s a well-earned vacation for her and dad too. Food on offer at the camp is loved by kids and adults alike and when we are not cooking at Swell, we are surrounded by great food alternatives to suit all diets.

Kids can enjoy our pool, the garden, our foosball table and the pool table at the camp. Swell is a small, secure environment with a permanently closed main door, so there’s no need to worry about keeping an eye on your kids. Medical facilities are good and close by.

OUR SUGGESTION FOR A WEEK-LONG ACTIVE FAMILY SUMMER HOLIDAY

Day One; Fly into Puerto Plata airport (airport code POP) or Santiago Los Cabelleros (airport code STI), or even Santo Domingo (airport code SDQ). POP airport pick up and drop off costs are included in our packages. STI, journey time 1hr 45m is +$160 USD per private taxi and includes pick up and drop off. SDQ, journey time 2hr 45m, adds + $360 USD per private taxi, including pick up and drop off).

Arrive at Swell surf camp and check into your room(s). As most flights arrive in the afternoon, you can wander 5 minutes level walk to the beach for a late afternoon beach-side drink and a bite to eat. If you arrive on a Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday, dinner is at the camp.

Mom (and dad) can relax and perhaps do some Yoga at Swell on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday at sunset. Start to get to know your fellow guests around a huge dining table, shoot some pool, play cards, Jenga or any of the other fun games and activities we’ve got in the camp.

Day two; up with the lark and off to the beach for your first surf lesson (surf lessons costs are included in our packages). Its light at 6 am so we make the best of these beautiful, warm sunrise mornings.

You will all surf together in warm, shallow Caribbean water, so nothing to fear for anyone who’s not a good swimmer as you can just stand up at any time.

You’ll come back to Swell at 9.30 am for a delicious breakfast (yes, we make food that kids love too!).

After breakfast, it’s back to the beach for another surf lesson, or if you need some rest, you can skip the 2nd surf of the day and lie by the pool or in one of our hammocks, or retire to your room to catch up on a bit of sleep.

The 2nd surf session returns at around 12.30 pm, so once you are showered and changed, perhaps it’s off to Gordito’s (great Mexican food, 150m from Swell) for fresh mahi-mahi fish, chicken, beef or pork tacos (tacos cost approximately $6 USD each).

The afternoon is spent on the beach at Cabarete Bay across the road from us, swimming and sunbathing, or trying a kite surfing lesson (kite lessons start at $72 USD per person per hour with one IKO kite instructor per student).

Mom can enjoy a massage or beauty treatment at a charming spa closeby. Finish the day with either a dinner at Swell, or at a beach-side restaurant outing organized by Swell staff on your behalf (prices vary, depending on the kind of restaurant you want to visit) or you can also just wander across to the beach to choose your own dining experience, from fish BBQ’s to pizzas, it’s all on offer in Cabarete.

Day three; Surf as per day two, but the 2nd surf session is replaced by an amazing Canyoning experience. Transport will take you an hour from Swell, deep into the canyon to begin the adventure of a lifetime: This is no lightweight sightseeing tour; you’ll be fully briefed by the trained safety crew and wearing helmets, harnesses and safety vests as you ascend through canyons and waterfalls to finally reach the Magic Mushroom, a true geological wonder of the World.

You will be jumping, rapelling and swimming though most spectacular scenery. You’ll need lightweight sneakers which can get wet; wet-suits are provided (cost is $89 USD per person).

Dine at Swell in the evening if there is dinner at the camp, or head out to the beach to eat beneath the pam trees.

Day four; Day off from surfing as you will be heading to the stunning Laguna Gri Gri for a charming boat ride through the mangroves to the ocean.

The color of the water here is something to behold.

After your boat trip, you will be taken to Playa Grande, a stunning white sand beach for a BBQ lunch on the beach and a swim in the sea (approximate cost of this trip is $55 USD per person + drinks, but prices will vary slightly depending on taxi-occupation).

Day five; Surf as per day one. Head to the beach for more kite lessons, or just relax for the afternoon, or go on a horse riding trip along the beach or through the hills and rivers (horse riding trips are $45 USD per person and are organized for you by Swell staff including pick up and drop off).

Day six; Surf as per day one. After returning to Swell at lunchtime, you’ll be picked up by TSM, a professional dive school and taken to Sosua where you will go out in the stunning azure water to snorkel and feed the many fish in the bay ($45 USD per person).

This snorkel trip lasts around 2 to 3 hours. You can enjoy the beach at Sosua with easy swimming and lots of dining on offer.

Dine at Swell in the evening if there is dinner at the camp or head to the beach.

Day seven; Surf as per day one. After lunch, off to the Monkey Jungle (15 minutes from Swell by taxi) to zipline through the forest and see/play with the squirrel and capuchin monkeys.

The Monkey Jungle is a well-run charity and your visit is not only fun but will also help provide medical and dental facilities for those who are unable to afford this kind of care.

Approx cost is $55 USD per adult and $35 per child for ziplining.

Entry to the Jungle without ziplining is $28/$20 USD. A taxi for 4 people costs $20 USD each way.

Day eight; Surf as per day one. Your flight will probably leave mid-afternoon, so generally speaking, our guests skip the 2nd surf session and head straight to the airport.

PRICING GUIDE FOR THIS ACTIVE FAMILY SUMMER HOLIDAY

A rough guide for this 7-night Active Family Summer Vacation, based on two adults and two kids sharing one of our dorm-style rooms with A/C (two beds on the upper level and a king, or two single beds below, en-suite shower and WC) is $3876 USD + any of the activities undertaken, food (outside of Swell) and drinks.

In two rooms next door to each other, the cost would be $4596 USD + any of the activities undertaken, food (outside of Swell) and drinks.

Please contact us for an exact quotation based on your ideal accommodation and itinerary.

Here are some more suggestions for you for other activities either to add to your active family vacation or to replace some of the suggested adventures above.

FISHING TRIPS

Swell can organize a wonderful big game deep sea fishing trip for you where you can try to catch your own Mahi Mahi, Marlin or other large fish species (if you are successful, we’ll even prepare it for you at the camp so you can enjoy it on a dinner night at Swell)! Prices vary depending on how many guests go on the fishing trip.

CAMPING/TREKKING ON PICO DUARTE

If you would like to head away from the beach for a few days, you can break up your beach vacation with a trip to go hiking around the Cordillera Central, commonly referred to as the Dominican Alps, a mountainous, green and cool region of the country.

The Cordillera Central stretches the entire length of the island. The Jose Armando Bermudez National Park here is home to the prestigious and magnificent Pico Duarte, soaring at over 3,000 meters (10,000+ feet) in height. One of the best-known hiking trails is la Ruta Cienega, which is approximately 23km and takes 3 days; this trip can be with or without the help of mules and is a great adventure for those who are looking for some real tranquility in the peaks and valleys. Prices vary.

WHALE WATCHING IN SAMANA

Late December through March sees the yearly migration of the humpback whales as they reach their breeding grounds off the coast of Samana, in the East of the Dominican Republic.

The whales are regularly seen off the coast of Cabarete as they pass us by, but organized boat trips to visit the breeding grounds are possible during those months. Please note that our minimum age at Swell during Winter months (December to April, is 13). Prices vary.

VISIT THE HISTORIC ZONA COLONIAL

This area of the island’s capital, Santo Domingo, is where Christopher Columbus first arrived in the Dominican Republic.

The Zona Colonial is a vibrant area of stunning old buildings steeped in history and culture. Known for a busy street/cafe dining and music scene, it’s well worth spending a night in this area to experience the ‘real’ history of this beautiful island.

We recommend staying at a place like the Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando, close to all the bars and restaurants and itself a historic building dating back to 1502. Santo Domingo has excellent shopping too!

VISIT THE ANCIENT PORT OF PUERTO PLATA

Only 30 minutes from Swell is the historic town of Puerto Plata, a fort/harbor town, dating back in parts as far as the 16th century. Puerto Plata’s charming timber buildings are host to many shops and restaurants and the Malecon is a charming beachside stroll.

PLAY GOLF

Here in the Dominican Republic, we have some of the Caribbean’s finest golf courses. Playa Grande and Playa Dorada are both quite close to Swell. Playa Grande, a Robert Trent Jones course, is widely thought to be one of the best links courses on the island; it’s only an hour’s drive from us.

Playa Dorada, also a Robert Trent Jones course, is just 20 minutes from Swell. Further afield, in La Romana, you can find Pete Dye’s ‘The Teeth of the Dog’ a world-famous links course. Perhaps combine a round there with a visit to the Zona Colonial for the night?

SO MUCH TO DO, SO LITTLE TIME TO DO IT!

We hope that with this information on your ideal family vacation, you can see the Dominican Republic really does have it all to offer. We haven’t even mentioned so far some of the other activities people love to do here, like mountain biking, sailing, windsurfing, trail biking, go-karting (yes there’s a really fun go-kart place with 3 different tracks, only 20 minutes from Swell).

We also have a delightful Ocean World at Puerto Plata where you can actually swim through tanks with some amazing fish, watch a hilarious sea lion show and swim with dolphins. Our own mini-mountain, Isabel de Torres with a cable car and a botanical garden at the top, watches down on it all.

IS YOUR FAMILY UP FOR AN ADVENTURE HOLIDAY?

The only problem you may face with your family vacation to Swell is trying to fit everything in: We’d love to show you our beautiful, unspoiled Caribbean playground; please do send us a message and we will help you organize your ideal, active family summer holiday.

We hope to welcome you and your family to Swell for a unique active family summer holiday

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