Dominican Republic With Kids

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest Caribbean island, known for its postcard-perfect beaches and mountainous interior. While it’s often linked to sprawling all-inclusive resorts, there are boutique hotels and luxury stays across the island that offer families a more authentic experience.

Why just stay on a pretty property when you can explore the island’s heart and soul?There’s no shortage of adventures for families. Swim in cenotes, hike to waterfalls, spot humpback whales in Samana Bay, snorkel in Sosúa, or stroll through Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone. For our favorite beach area, check out the wild beaches of Las Terranas.

In the Dominican Republic, you can experience nature, culture, and adventure all in one trip – plus, snack on tasty empanadas and tropical fruit along the way.

Mango Tree Memory

I stepped into one of our favorite hotels in the Dominican Republic for the first time, and immediately noticed the language barrier—the staff spoke little English, and my Spanish was rusty. But instead of being a challenge, it felt like a gift: a signal that we’d stepped beyond the usual tourist trail. This was the real Dominican Republic, unfiltered and authentic.

That afternoon, my daughter spent hours jumping in the waves, her laughter blending with the sound of the surf. Wild palm trees framed the scene, creating a perfect blend of off-the-grid adventure and effortless comfort. It was a reminder of why we travel—to discover the heart of a place, to connect with its people, and to embrace moments that matter. Every country has its secrets beyond the resorts, and the Dominican Republic is full of treasures waiting to be found.

– Lee, Founder of Mango Tree Travel 

Best For:

  • Families who want stunning natural beauty, a varied culture, and affordable luxury; 
  • The DR is so diverse that really there’s something for all families 

Not For:

  • Those who prefer quieter, smaller islands with fewer crowds
  • Travelers expecting widespread English-speaking outside tourist areas

Key Facts For

Your Dominican Republic Family Vacation

Known For

The Dominican Republic is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and large all-inclusive resorts. But the island offers so much more: snorkeling, walkable towns, whale-watching, and untamed nature.  

Language

Spanish is the official language, and Dominican Spanish has its own rhythm and quirks. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas but less so elsewhere, offering a great opportunity for Spanish immersion.

Currency

The Dominican peso (DOP) is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Size and Vibes

The Dominican Republic is one of the largest Caribbean islands, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, rainforests, and beaches. Its vibe varies widely—from the bustling, resort-filled Punta Cana to the laid-back charm of Las Terrenas and Puerto Plata.

Getting Around

Families can easily navigate the Dominican Republic by car, though private transfers and shuttles are common for resort stays. If you’re venturing into the more genuine pockets of the DR away from Punta Cana, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Where to Stay

Punta Cana is the place to go for large resorts but is quite light on culture. Since that’s not our normal vibe, we love sending families to Santo Domingo’s historic center and then to Las Terrenas on the Samana Peninsula for natural beachfront beauty and a relaxed town. Or choose Puerto Plata for a less-touristy beach experience than Punta Cana with a scenic mountain backdrop. 

When To Go

Peak Season: December to April; the weather is perfect, but resorts book up quickly. This is whale-watching season in the Samana Bay as well. 

Shoulder Season: May to July; great for families looking for fewer crowds and good deals.

No Go: September to early November; hurricane season brings a higher chance of rain.

How To Go

Direct flights to the Dominican Republic’s major airports (PUJ, SDQ, and POP) are available from many U.S. and Canadian cities. 

Why choose Dominican Republic for your family?

The Dominican Republic has several sides – and so the reasons to choose it for a family vacation really vary. Whether you’re looking to relax at a luxurious all-inclusive resort or explore hidden beaches and cultural treasures, this destination has it all.

  • Cultural experiences: From vibrant local markets to historic towns like Santo Domingo, there’s plenty to explore off the beach when you escape the all-inclusive resorts. 
  • Nature and animal encounters: Whale-watching in Samaná Bay is unforgettable, and so are some of the remote and hidden beaches of Las Terranas.
  • Affordable luxury: The DR is perhaps best known for its affordable all-inclusive resorts making Punta Cana a top choice for an easy fly-and-flop for a few days. But even outside of Punta Cana’s top hotels, you’ll find great value for boutique hotels offering a comfortable stay. 
Experience Dominican Republic ...

The Mango Tree Way

You could spend dozens of hours researching your trip. Or you could have a family travel expert curate your personalized itinerary. What’s stopping you?

Snag our FREE Caribbean Guide

Explore the islands with kids — and confidence! Our ultimate guide to the Caribbean for families offers specific destination and hotel recommendations for every age, from newborn to teen and everything in between.
Caribbean Island Guide For Families

Where to stay

Best Family Hotels in Dominican Republic

Sublime Samana Hotel With Family Suites Dominican Republic

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences

Las Terrenas,
Dominican Republic

Where to play

Best Activities for Families in Dominican Republic

Around Town
Activities in Dominican Republic
Explore the town of Las Terranas
Travelers constantly seek our advice on walkable towns in the Caribbean, and Las Terranas is a favorite.
On the Water
Activities in Dominican Republic
Visit Cayo Arena from Puerto Plata
Take a boat ride to a picture-perfect sandbar off the Dominican Republic's northern coast for turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs.
For the Kids
Dominican Republic with Kids
Horseback Riding in Punta Cana
Take in DR's epic beach views from a whole new perspective; a beach horseback ride is something we should all experience.

*Please note that some of the suggested actives are affiliate links. We only recommend activities that we know and trust.

What to bring

Favorite Travel Products for Dominican Republic

Travel Gear
ALOHA Collection Tote Bag - Packable Splash-Proof Beach Bag with Zipper Top. Washable Tote Bag for Pool, Beach & Travel
Aloha Collection Beach Bag
This is our go-to beach bag for island getaways: It comes in multiple cool patterns, is water resistant, folds down into a suitcase, and can fit tons of travel toys and snacks.
For Kids
Greatever Dry Snorkel Set,Panoramic Wide View,Anti-Fog Scuba Diving Mask,Professional Snorkeling Gear for Kids
Snorkel Set
If you want to get your kids comfortable snorkeling, getting them their own gear will get them excited, involved, and give them a practice in the pool.
For Kids
HIITAVE Kids Water Shoes Non-Slip Quick Dry Swim Barefoot Beach Aqua Pool Socks Shoes for Boys & Girls Toddler Mermaid/Scale 4-5 M US Toddler
Water Shoes
Give your kids extra confidence for ocean swimming, beach walks, and snorkeling with water shoes to keep them sure-footed. These low profiles shoes are easy to pack and come in lots of colors.
Travel Gear
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick Sunscreen | Broad Spectrum Sunblock with Vitamin E | Wet or Dry Skin Application | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free)| Travel Friendly 0.53 oz
Clear Sunscreen Face Stick
We've tried a lot of face sunscreens, and these clear sunscreen sticks are really the best no-tears solution. Goes on wet or dry, and reef safe too!
For Mom
One Piece Bathing Suit For Mom
Change of Scenery Swimsuit
There’s a new gem in the market for mom swimsuits! Change of Scenery, an accessible but luxurious resort wear and swimwear line, designed by Jamie Banks, working mom of three, will make you feel fantastic on your next beach trip.
For Babies
Dad wearing Integra Solar Baby Carrier
Integra Solar Baby Carrier
Our founder spent hundreds of hours researching the best lightweight, waterproof baby carrier with sun protection for her Caribbean travels, and this is the winner. Beach naps baby.

* Please note that some of these product links are affiliate links, but we only recommend products we would use on our own travels.

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Here, We dropped a pin (because no one likes asking for directions)

Rave Reviews

“We had a great time! The trip was a hit! The right speed for the kids. The hotel was great. Perfectly situated, good space for all of us. We got groceries and that worked out well with our picky eaters. The kids thought the excursions were great too. The boat trip to the virgin beaches was great. The waves were huge, so I did have a moment where I thought I was going to die by drowning in the sea but the kids thought it was perhaps the coolest adventure of their lives and weren’t scared at all. Definitely a travel-gold kind of moment seeing the joy on my son’s face as the boat hit what seemed like a 45 degree angle lol. The national park trip is essentially a speed boat ride around the coast of the national park. Was super cool. The crew was fabulous with the kids. We got to tour a few caves. Really a different vibe than the beach days, but in a good way. I always like getting out on the water. The food at the hotel was good, not great. Your restaurant recommendations were spot on thought- we had a taxi driver mario who drove us around. Finishing in santo domingo was perfect as well. Bike tour and chocolate factory were great-a hit with the kids. Only hiccup we had was our driver for the transfer back to santo domingo was somehow told to take us to Puerta plata and we didn’t figure it out till a good hour into the drive. I really appreciate all your work and just couldn’t be happier with everything you set up. We’ll definitely book with you again. I really feel like you ‘get it’.”
5/5
I can’t say enough about Lee at Mango Tree Travel and her expertise, which is the sole reason that my family took two incredible international trips before my second kiddo turned one. Never could I have imagined traveling so much with young children, but Lee gave me the confidence and allowed me to cut out any second-guessing I would have done in my destination choices otherwise. That’s because she took time to get to know our family, what activities we were hoping to do, what airlines we prefer, our comfort in driving ourselves — small details but all of them. Our most recent trip to a resort in the Dominican Republic was so off the beaten path that other guests traded notes with us on how we all had found such a hidden gem. I wish I had a Lee sitting on my shoulder to affirm all of the decisions I hesitate to make in my life. It would have taken me hours to navigate myself to the places we ended up in the most efficient, cheapest ways that Lee knew by heart. We couldn’t recommend her more as someone to lean on for family travel.
5/5

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