Punta Cana Airport transfer to Las Terrenas

Why choose CanaCar for your transfer from PUJ to Las Terrenas

Book Now, Pay on Arrival

What you see is what you pay

Local Company

No intermediaries

Best Price Guarantee

Safe and hassle-free

No Extra Fees

Tolls and tips included

New Vehicles

Mercedes and Toyota

20+ Years of Experience

in Punta Cana

Distance and route to reach Las Terrenas

~3h 45m

Travel time

186 miles

From PUJ Airport

$518

Starting price

The route:

Your private transfer from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to Las Terrenas is a fast and comfortable journey.

Traveling from the east coast to Las Terrenas is a journey of approximately 164 miles.

Under normal traffic conditions, the entire trip takes approximately 4 hours. You can simply sit back and enjoy the quick drive while your professional driver handles the road.

To ensure the fastest and safest arrival, we utilize the country’s most advanced toll roads:

1. Autopista del Coral (Highway 3):
Entrance: We depart Punta Cana Airport heading west toward La Romana.
Segment: This modern four-lane highway allows for high-speed travel across the island’s eastern coastline.

2. Circunvalación Santo Domingo (Highway 100):
The Bypass: To save over an hour of travel time, we exit the Autopista del Coral and take the Santo Domingo Beltway. This allows us to bypass the city’s heavy traffic and connect directly to the northern highway.

3. Autopista Juan Pablo II (Highway 7):
Entrance: After the bypass, we enter the “Samaná Highway.”
Segment: This world-class toll road cuts through the Los Haitises rainforest and offers spectacular views as you approach the peninsula.

4. Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico:
The Final Stretch: As we reach the peninsula, we take the turn-off toward Las Terrenas. This final segment features winding mountain roads and breathtaking ocean overlooks before descending into the town.

At Canacar.com, our private transfers turn this 4-hour expedition into a comfortable sightseeing experience, featuring modern vehicles and professional drivers who know every curve of the Samaná corridor.

The scenery:

The Great Samaná Expedition: The Scenic Drive from PUJ to Las Terrenas

The journey from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to the bohemian paradise of Las Terrenas is more than just a transfer—it’s a masterclass in Caribbean geography. Crossing from the eastern tip to the lush Samaná Peninsula, you’ll witness a dramatic transformation of the Dominican soul.

With Canacar.com, you won’t miss a single detail. Here is the vivid tapestry of landscapes that awaits you during this epic cross-country drive:

1. The Endless Savannahs of the East

As we exit the airport, the modern highway cuts through the vast plains of El Seibo. This is “cowboy country.” You’ll see rolling green pastures dotted with white cattle and giant Samán trees that look like nature’s umbrellas. The horizon is wide and open, offering a sense of freedom that only the Dominican countryside can provide.

2. The Majesty of Los Haitises and Samaná Bay

The real magic begins as we approach the northern coast. To your left, the enigmatic limestone karsts of Los Haitises National Park rise from the earth like emerald-green mushrooms. As we cross the bridge over Samaná Bay, the Atlantic Ocean meets the mountains. The water here is a deep, moody indigo, often dotted with local fishing boats—and if you travel between January and March, you might even catch a distant splash from a migrating Humpback whale.

3. The “Jurassic” Mountain Pass

Prepare for the most breathtaking part of the trip: the Samaná Mountains. As our driver ascends the winding roads toward the peninsula’s spine, the landscape turns into a dense, prehistoric rainforest. You’ll be surrounded by millions of coconut palms—literally millions—clinging to steep hillsides. The air becomes cooler, scented with damp earth and tropical blooms, offering panoramic “mirador” views of the turquoise ocean crashing against the cliffs far below.

4. The Descent into Beach Bliss

As we descend toward Las Terrenas, the wild jungle gives way to the charming, colorful rhythm of local life. You’ll pass through small “pueblos” where the smell of fresh coffee and “pan de coco” (coconut bread) fills the air. Finally, the road flattens out, and the iconic rows of leaning palm trees and pastel-colored boutiques appear, signaling your arrival at the most stylish beach town in the North.

Ready to book your transfer to Las Terrenas?

No payment until arrival. Free cancellation. 20+ years in Punta Cana.

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Our fleet for your transfer from Punta Cana Airport to Las Terrenas

All our vehicles are 2024-2025 models, fully inspected and equipped for long-distance journeys.

SUV / Private Van Most popular

Hyundai Staria – 2024-2025

Up to 6 passengers
Air conditioning
Wi-Fi on board
Extra-large trunk
Child seats available
Pre-chilled to 68ºF

Family Minivan

Toyota Hiace – 2024-2025

Up to 10 passengers
Air conditioning
Wi-Fi on board
Ideal for families
Child seats available
Ample cargo space

Private Coach Large groups

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 2024-2025

Up to 16 passengers
Air conditioning
Ideal for groups
Large cargo capacity
Full mechanical inspection
Spotless interior

Most popular hotels in Las Terrenas

We drop you off directly at your hotel’s entrance – no intermediate stops.

Hotel Enjoy

4★ Luxury

View transfer →

Condo Hotel Playa Ballenas

4★ Luxury

View transfer →

Hotel Coco Plaza

3★ Beautiful place

View transfer →

Takuma Boutique Hotel

3★ Beautiful place

View transfer →

CanaCar vs. other options: private, direct and no surprises

Fixed price, your name on a tablet as soon as you exit customs, and a direct route to Las Terrenas. No negotiations, no waiting, no charges you didn’t see coming.

✓ Fixed price from the start 0 minutes waiting Direct route to Las Terrenas

Feature	CanaCar private	Airport taxi	Shared shuttle
Waiting time	0 min	15-20 min	45-60 min
Price	Fixed & prepaid	Negotiable	Per person
Child seats	On request	Rarely	Not available
Route	Direct	Direct	Multiple stops
Flight tracking	Included	No	No

How to find your driver at the airport for your transfer to Las Terrenas?

The moment you land, your transfer is already underway. Follow these steps depending on your arrival terminal.

Terminal A

Exit through the glass doors and look for the “Pre-booked / Tour Operators” area. Your driver will be waiting with a digital tablet displaying your name.

Terminal B

Exit customs and follow the signs towards Transport / Taxi. Our uniformed driver will be near the café area, away from the taxi queues.

💬 Communication protocol: You’ll receive a WhatsApp message before departure and, upon landing, your driver’s name and real-time location.

What travelers say about their transfer to Las Terrenas?

Thousands of customers have trusted CanaCar to reach their destination.

4.8

32 Reviews

Google

Trustpilot

TripAdvisor

Sarah W

We used the service for our family vacation and it worked perfectly. The van had plenty of space for our bags, the AC was great, and the driver was very kind with our kids. Great start to our trip.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Michael Thompson

Excellent airport transfer. Clear communication before arrival, fair pricing, and no surprises. The driver was professional and drove safely. A solid option if you’re landing in Punta Cana and want everything arranged in advance.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Amanda Brooks

Good service overall. Booking was simple and the driver was friendly. We had a small delay leaving the airport because of traffic outside, but that was not their fault. I would use them again.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Jason Miller

Very reliable service. We booked round-trip transportation and both rides were right on time. The vehicle was clean, the driver was polite, and everything felt well organized from start to finish.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Emily Carter

Great transfer experience in Punta Cana. Our driver was waiting when we arrived, helped with the luggage, and the ride to the resort was smooth and comfortable. Much easier than trying to figure things out at the airport.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Valeria R.

El traslado estuvo muy bien organizado. Tardamos un poquito en encontrar al conductor al salir, pero nos respondieron rápido y enseguida lo solucionamos. El viaje al hotel fue cómodo y seguro.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Brandon L.

Nice and easy transfer from Punta Cana Airport. The car was clean and the driver was courteous. I would have liked a little more detail in the pickup instructions, but once we connected, everything went smoothly.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Carlos Méndez

Muy buena experiencia. Reservamos el traslado para la llegada y también para el regreso al aeropuerto. Fueron puntuales las dos veces y la comunicación por WhatsApp fue clara. Lo recomiendo para viajar tranquilo.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Jessica Morgan

Highly recommended. Fast confirmation, easy pickup, and a comfortable ride to our hotel. The return transfer was also punctual, which is always the most important part when going back to the airport.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Mariana López

Excelente servicio desde el aeropuerto de Punta Cana hasta nuestro hotel. El conductor nos estaba esperando con un cartel, fue muy amable y el vehículo estaba limpio y cómodo. Todo salió sin estrés después de un vuelo largo.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Juan Manuel J

Excellent Service. Andres the very respectful driver very nice and very responsible in his handling!! The car in perfect condition. Highly recommended 👌👌👌

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Jeannine

Excellent service.Willy Feliz arrived promptly to pick us up. He was friendly and professional! Definitely recommend.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Relax

The flight was delayed and they were waiting for us. The vehicle and its prime driver. Highly recommended the Pickup Service

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Mary G

Peňa was an amazing driver. Friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and safe! He knew a lot about the island and shared some interesting information.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Thomas B

Great service, on time and friendly! Great job Marino Zano! Made it to the air port with plenty of time to get through immigration with no stress.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Tripadvisor

Guest

The drivers were great and the communication was great also

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Ignacio Rivera Herrera

The driver Carlos was very kind and funny. The car was clean a very fresh specially for the sunny dayPd: the car has wifi

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Promize Simon

Carlos was my driver, we had a smooth safe ride, Vehicle was nice and clean, and he got us to our destination just in time!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Carlos was great. He picked us up ahead of time and with a smile. I would definitely use this service again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Tion Mattox

Carlos pick me up and transported me to the hotel. Ride was good and smooth. Car clean and he was very friendly and offered some good spots to check out. Thanks Carlos.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Elizabeth DeRobertis

Great smooth ride from the airport to our resort!! Arrived timely and very nice vehicle. Def recommend! Ask for Willy!!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Timbuktu Azul

I decided to give this company a try and I have not regretted it, on the contrary! I was very pleasantly surprised by the friendliness and professionalism of the drivers, a pure pleasure to be picked up from the airport like that! The return journey was also easy, the car was already waiting for us. We'll be booking again on our next visit to Punta Cana! Gracias!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Elias Burguera

Brand new vehicles and polite and timeñy drivers. Completely recommend.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Luis Torres

Great service! Our driver was Wilqui who was professional and helpful. Our reservation was roundtrip from the airport to the hotel. I would use them again in the future and highly recommend their shuttle service.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Matt Briggs

Carlos M Cuevas is a great driver. He was on time helpful and got us where we needed to be and on time and in a safe manner. The other staff member that brought us in the airport showed us exactly where to go and what to do. This made are time leaving that much smoother and stress free. I would recommend and use this service again.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Google

Rubén G.

Carlos was waiting for us at the airport holding a sign with our name on it. He was very punctual and friendly. Thank you so much for the impeccable service! We’ll definitely book with you again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Jaime Rodríguez

Best transfer company in Punta Cana. We have used them several times and we have always received a professional and friendly service.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Angel Ruiz

They were very punctual, very friendly, and the vehicle was in perfect condition. The ride to Miches was perfect.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

José Magallanes

I've just returned as I've done on previous occasions, after hiring them for the transfer from Miches to Punta Cana Airport. The service was perfect once again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Alejo

Great service. Our driver was Willy Feliz. He was very attentive and friendly.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Jevaughn Wright

He arrives on time loves his estarlin

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Milton Masaya

He's a great communicator and drives very carefully

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Frequently asked questions about the transfer from PUJ to Las Terrenas

Everything you need to know before booking your transfer from Punta Cana Airport.

About the transfer to Las Terrenas

Yes, it is possible to travel at night and many travelers choose this option when arriving on late international flights from the United States but we highly recommend pre-booking a certified private transfer for maximum safety. Driving across the country at night via the Autopista del Nordeste requires deep knowledge of the road, as visibility can decrease, and local highways lack the heavy lighting found in the US.Private airport transfers operate 24/7, providing safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation regardless of your arrival time. Our professional drivers are fully experienced in night navigation, utilizing modern, top-tier vehicles equipped with advanced safety features. This ensures you can sleep or relax comfortably during the late-night journey without worrying about navigating unfamiliar territory in the dark.For maximum convenience and peace of mind, many visitors prefer a pre-arranged private transfer from Punta Cana Airport to Las Terrenas when traveling at night.

The transfer does not drive through the congested city center of Santo Domingo; instead, it takes the most efficient route by skirting the outskirts of the capital. Your driver will take the Autopista del Coral and Circunvalación Santo Domingo, connecting directly to the Autopista Juan Pablo II (the Samaná Highway) heading north. This strategic route avoids heavy metropolitan traffic, minimizes your travel time, and takes you through scenic toll roads and beautiful national landscapes directly into the mountain passes of Samaná and down into Las Terrenas.This route is designed to provide the fastest, safest, and most efficient journey between Punta Cana and Las Terrenas while minimizing travel time.

Yes, absolutely. While a 4-hour drive might seem long, Las Terrenas is widely considered one of the most breathtaking, pristine, and rewarding destinations in the Caribbean. Known for its vibrant European-infused culinary scene, wild coconut-lined beaches (like Playa Bonita and Playa Cosón), and eco-adventures, it offers a secluded paradise completely different from the mega-resorts of Punta Cana. Las Terrenas offers a unique blend of natural beauty and authentic local cultureBooking a private transfer turns this long drive into a highly enjoyable, air-conditioned, and stress-free sightseeing tour across the Dominican Republic's stunning countryside.

Do you have more questions about your transfer to Las Terrenas?

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We'll answer all your questions before you even land.

WhatsApp

Contact form

+1(849) 7522-262

Discover Las Terrenas before you arrive: travel blog

Guides, tips and everything you need to know to make the most of your stay in Las Terrenas.

1. Why american travelers love Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas offers a unique combination of Caribbean beauty and modern convenience.

Visitors from the United States love the area because it provides:

Beautiful uncrowded beaches
Excellent dining options
Relaxed atmosphere
Outdoor adventures
Great nightlife
Eco-tourism opportunities
Walkable beach areas

Las Terrenas is especially popular among:

Couples
Families
Remote workers
Adventure travelers
Nature lovers
Long-stay visitors

The town’s international influence also makes it comfortable for first-time visitors to the Dominican Republic.

2. Best time to visit Las Terrenas

The Dominican Republic enjoys warm weather year-round, but some seasons are more comfortable depending on your travel goals.

Best season: December through April

This is the most popular period for American travelers because:
Temperatures are pleasant
Humidity is lower
Rainfall is reduced

Average temperatures: 75°F to 85°F

Perfect for:

Beach vacations
Water sports
Outdoor excursions
Whale watching
Dining outdoors

Because this is high season, booking transportation, accommodations, and excursions in advance is highly recommended.

Whale watching season

From January through March, travelers visiting Las Terrenas can enjoy whale watching excursions in nearby Samaná Bay.
Thousands of humpback whales migrate to the region every year, making it one of the best whale watching destinations in the Caribbean.

Whale watching tips

Book tours with licensed operators
Bring waterproof phone protection
Wear sunscreen and sunglasses
Morning tours usually offer calmer water conditions

3. Best beaches in Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas is famous for some of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beaches.

Playa Bonita

Playa Bonita is one of the area’s most iconic beaches.

Visitors love it because of:
Calm turquoise water
Palm tree scenery
Soft golden sand
Great swimming conditions

Perfect for:
Families
Paddleboarding
Swimming
Beachfront dining

Beach tips

Arrive early for quieter beach conditions
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Stay hydrated during long beach days

Playa Cosón

Playa Cosón offers a more peaceful and natural beach experience.

Travelers enjoy:
Wide open beaches
Fewer crowds
Beautiful sunsets
Long beach walks

This beach is ideal for:
Couples
Relaxation
Photography
Sunset viewing

Playa Punta Popy

Punta Popy is one of the best beaches for:

Kiteboarding
Water sports
Beach bars
Casual dining
It is especially popular among younger travelers and adventure enthusiasts.

Playa Las Ballenas: Located just a short distance from the town center, this beach offers exceptionally calm turquoise waters, making it perfect for families, paddleboarding, and watching the sunset.

Pueblo de los Pescadores: Originally the old village fishing shacks, this vibrant oceanfront strip has been beautifully rebuilt into a chic collection of trendy international restaurants, pizzerias, and cocktail bars sitting right on the sand.

Sun & heat protection: pro-tips for the Samaná sun

Las Terrenas enjoys a warm, tropical climate moderated by refreshing Atlantic sea breezes. While these winds keep you feeling cool and comfortable while lounging on the sand, they can be highly deceptive. The UV index here remains extreme, and the cool breeze often masks a sunburn until the damage is already done.

The Atlantic breeze rule: Never assume that because you feel cool, you aren’t burning. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen 20 minutes before heading out to the beach clubs, and reapply every two hours.

Protect your scalp and eyes: The bright, light-colored sands of Playa Bonita and Punta Popy reflect intense glare. Polarized sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes, and a lightweight sun hat is highly recommended.

Hydrate beyond the wine and rum: With an incredible selection of European-style beach clubs serving excellent wine and cocktails, it’s easy to forget your water intake. Balance every alcoholic beverage or espresso with a bottle of water. Remember: Tap water in Las Terrenas is not safe for tourists—always use bottled or filtered water.

Critical safety & eco-tips for Las Terrenas waters

Choose eco-friendly sunscreen: Help protect the beautiful reefs and marine sanctuaries of the Samaná Peninsula by using exclusively reef-safe, biodegradable mineral sunscreens.

Respect the undertow: While beaches like Las Ballenas are calm, open stretches like Playa Cosón can experience powerful Atlantic swells and sudden rip currents. Always look for local beach signs and exercise caution if you aren’t an experienced swimmer.

Pack sturdy footwear for water excursions: If you are taking a trail tour to El Limón Waterfall or boat-hopping to rocky cliffs, leave your flip-flops behind. Bring sturdy water shoes or sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy.

4. Best outdoor activities in Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas is one of the Dominican Republic’s top destinations for outdoor adventure and eco-tourism.

Visit El Limón Waterfall
One of the most popular excursions near Las Terrenas is El Limón Waterfall.

Visitors can:

Hike through tropical forests
Ride horses to the waterfall
Swim in natural pools
Enjoy jungle scenery

Helpful tip: Wear water shoes because trails can become muddy and slippery.

ATV and buggy tours

Adventure tours allow visitors to explore:
Jungle trails
Rural villages
Hidden beaches
Tropical landscapes
ATV excursions are perfect for travelers seeking off-road adventure experiences.

What to bring

Sunglasses
Waterproof bags
Lightweight clothing
Closed-toe shoes

Ziplining and Eco Parks

Eco-tourism parks near Las Terrenas offer:

Ziplining
Nature trails
River swimming
Tropical forest experiences
Morning tours are generally cooler and more comfortable.

5. Best water activities in Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas is one of the Dominican Republic’s best destinations for aquatic adventures.

Snorkeling

The area offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities thanks to:

Clear water
Coral formations
Tropical fish
Calm beach conditions

Snorkeling tips for american travelers

Use anti-fog spray on masks
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Avoid touching coral reefs
Bring waterproof phone cases

Morning snorkeling conditions usually provide:
Better visibility
Calmer water
Fewer crowds

Scuba diving

Las Terrenas is an excellent destination for scuba diving.

Divers can explore:

Coral reefs
Underwater rock formations
Tropical marine life

Dive centers offer:

Beginner lessons
Guided dives
Equipment rentals

Paddleboarding and kayaking

Calm beaches such as Playa Bonita are ideal for:

Paddleboarding
Kayaking
Relaxing water activities

Best time for paddleboarding

Early mornings usually offer:
Smoother water
Cooler temperatures
Better photo opportunities

Kiteboarding and windsurfing

Las Terrenas has become increasingly popular for:

Kiteboarding
Windsurfing
Sailing
The area’s coastal winds and beach conditions make it excellent for water sports enthusiasts.

Helpful tip: Beginners should book lessons with certified instructors.

Boat tours and Island excursions

Boat tours are one of the best ways to explore nearby beaches and islands.
Popular excursions include:
Cayo Levantado tours

Snorkeling trips

Hidden beach excursions
Whale watching tours

Many tours include:

Food and drinks
Guided experiences
Transportation

6. Food and dining in Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas is known for having one of the Dominican Republic’s best dining scenes.

Visitors can enjoy:

Dominican cuisine
Fresh seafood
Italian restaurants
French bakeries
International fusion dining
Must-try dominican foods
Fresh seafood

Popular dishes include:

Lobster
Red snapper
Shrimp
Octopus
Coconut-based recipes

The Samaná region is famous for dishes made with coconut milk and tropical flavors.

Travelers should also try:

Mangu
Sancocho
Fried plantains
Rice and beans

Tropical drinks and local favorites

Do not miss:
Fresh coconut water
Passion fruit juice
Dominican coffee
Rum-based cocktails

To truly maximize your stay in Las Terrenas, you should fully immerse yourself in its unique, laid-back “slow travel” lifestyle.

Indulge in the gastronomy: The dining scene here is legendary. Enjoy authentic Italian wood-fired pizza, French seafood carpaccio, or traditional

Dominican Pescado con Coco (fish in coconut sauce) right on the beach with your toes in the sand.

Money and currency: While established restaurants and boutique hotels readily accept US credit cards, cash is highly necessary for smaller local eateries, beach chair rentals, and tipping excursion guides. It is best to carry Dominican Pesos (DOP). You can find secure ATMs inside major banks at the plazas in the center of town.

Language tip: Spanish is the official language, but because of the large expat community, French and English are incredibly widely spoken throughout the main tourist areas and restaurants.

Nightlife in Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas offers a lively but relaxed nightlife atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy:

Beach bars
Live music
Cocktail lounges
Oceanfront restaurants
Dancing and local music
The town becomes especially active during weekends and holiday periods.

7. Safety tips for visiting Las Terrenas

Las Terrenas is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in busy tourist areas.

However, visitors should still follow common travel precautions.

Safety recommendations

Use official transportation services

Avoid displaying valuables

Confirm excursion operators before booking

Stay aware of surroundings at night

Carry cash for smaller businesses

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international travel.

8. Packing essentials for Las Terrenas

Before your trip, make sure to pack:

Lightweight summer clothing
Swimsuits
Water shoes or sandals
Waterproof sunscreen
Sunglasses
Portable charger
Waterproof phone pouch
Insect repellent

For adventure excursions, also bring:
Hiking sandals
Dry bags
Quick-dry clothing

9. Final tips to make the most of your stay in Las Terrenas

To fully enjoy your Caribbean vacation:

Book transportation and excursions early

Explore beaches beyond the main tourist areas

Plan outdoor activities during cooler hours

Stay hydrated in the tropical climate

Bring waterproof protection for electronics

Experience local Dominican cuisine and culture

Most importantly, take time to relax and enjoy the tropical beauty and laid-back atmosphere that make Las Terrenas one of the Dominican Republic’s most unforgettable destinations.